Fresh attractions await at the Weber County Fair

Scene at the Weber County Fair in a previous year. Provided

The Weber County Fair kicks off Aug. 5-8, bringing vendors, food, talent, and entertainment to the Golden Spike Event Center. 

The Weber County Fair first started in 1988 and has grown to cover over 140 acres of land, featuring a race car track, four barns, six buildings, and more. One of this year’s major attractions is the Monster Truck Insanity Tour, which will happen Thursday, Aug. 6, at the fair’s grandstands.

Ashton Wilson, the Weber County Fair director, said she tries to bring fresh entertainment each year while also keeping the classics on rotation. This year’s fair will also feature the Spokes Equestrian Odyssey Horse Show, performed by a stunt horse group that has traveled from Florida. Also debuting this year are a percussion dance group, foam party, paintball, and puppy pals. 

Then, there are a variety of new food vendors around the fair grounds. Between shopping vendors and food vendors, there is something for everyone. 

Wilson first started working for the Golden Spike Event Center in 2018 but was appointed fair director in 2019, making 2026 her eighth year in the role. Wilson said that they have run into roadblocks in previous years, whether it be COVID or construction in Weber County, but this year has run smoothly. 

“I owe that success to our team and the many hours they put into planning, along with the support of our volunteers,” Wilson said. 

A change made to this year’s fair is free admission before 2 p.m. from Wednesday to Friday. Wilson has also asked that the food vendors offer a “deal of the day,” all so the fair can be more accessible. 

“After reviewing ticket sales from other events at the facility, we could see the impact the economy is having on families. … We hope the community takes full advantage of these opportunities,” Wilson said. 

One thing that the Weber County Fair recognizes is how diverse the county is. Wilson wants the fair to be welcoming and exciting for everyone, which is why the fair aims to have a wide variety of events that fairgoers can participate in. 

“No matter where you’re from, we want you to come experience all of it. At the end of the day, I see the fair as one big countywide celebration and something people can look forward to every year,” Wilson said.

Wilson believes that community connection can be built through the fair; she met a friend and her husband while working at the fair. Wilson also said she has known members of the community, a young girl and an older woman, who passed away but both mentioned the Weber County Fair in their obituaries.

“That really meant a lot to me and really put into perspective how important this celebration is to people. … I’m proud to be a part of that,” Wilson said. 

For more information or to buy tickets, visit Webercountyfair.gov.