The Jefferson County Fair and Rodeo is just one week away, running July 22–25 at the Jefferson County Event Complex on Fairgrounds Road in the heart of Madras — and while this year's fair will look a little different without its traditional carnival, organizers and community volunteers are pulling together to make it a celebration worth attending.

Bounce Houses Step In for Canceled Carnival

Late last month, fair officials confirmed that carnival provider Paul Maurer Shows pulled out of the Jefferson County Fair due to a shortage of workers — a situation that has affected several county fairs across the region this summer. Rather than leave families without midway-style fun, the fair brought in a Madras native to fill the gap.

Trentyn Luther, owner of 541 Bounce House Experience and a Madras native now based in Bend, will be set up with an extensive inflatable attraction zone designed to handle summer heat and all ages.

"It's gonna be a hot week so we're gonna have waterslides, we're also gonna have dry slides, we're gonna have bounce houses, bounce houses with slides, bounce houses with slides and water. We're gonna have a toddler safe area just for the little guys four and under. We're gonna have stuff for adults and older, more daring kids as well," Luther said.

Full Lineup of Events and Activities

Even without traditional carnival rides and games, the 2026 fair is shaping up to be one of the most packed in recent memory. Here's what fairgoers can look forward to:

  • Livestock and 4-H/FFA exhibits — showcasing the agricultural heart of Jefferson County
  • Camel rides
  • Scales and Tails — a snakes and lizards exhibit
  • Axe throwing
  • Fair scavenger hunt
  • Live music throughout the weekend
  • Beer garden
  • Foods of the World vendors
  • Special events honoring veterans, kids, and first responders

Fair Basics

The Jefferson County Event Complex is located at 430 SW Fairgrounds Rd in Madras. Admission to the fair is free. The rodeo portion of the event will feature traditional competitive events including bull riding and barrel racing.

For the latest schedule and event details, visit jeffersoncountyor.gov/fairgrounds or the Jefferson County Fair and Rodeo Facebook page.

The fair is one of the premier community events of the year in Jefferson County, drawing attendees from Madras, Culver, Metolius, Crooked River Ranch, Warm Springs, and beyond. This year's event runs Tuesday through Saturday — mark your calendars.