Madras is about to get a whole lot busier. The 2026 Jefferson County Fair and Rodeo is just two weeks away, running July 21 through 25 at the Jefferson County Event Complex on Fairgrounds Road. And if you need a warm-up, the Cowdeo — one of Jefferson County's most beloved traditions — is happening this Thursday, July 9, from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Show Barn.
About the Cowdeo
The Cowdeo originated in 1968 as a fundraiser for St. Patrick's Catholic Church and was taken over by the Jefferson County Event Complex in 2003. Kids ages 5 to 14 compete in age divisions — PeeWee (6-8), Junior (9-11), and Senior (12-14) — for belt buckles in a variety of events. It doubles as a fundraiser for the Event Complex and other local organizations. This Thursday's Cowdeo is a great preview of fair season and a classic Jefferson County experience for families.
The Fair: What to Expect
The Jefferson County Fair and Rodeo has been a cornerstone of summer in Madras for generations, drawing visitors from across Central Oregon each July. The five-day event at the 50-plus-acre Event Complex features:
- Livestock shows and judging
- 4-H and FFA exhibits and competitions
- Local vendors, food, and artisan booths
- Live entertainment and family-friendly activities
- Professional rodeo action
FFA showmanship training sessions are already underway at the fairgrounds — sessions were scheduled for Tuesday, July 7, and Thursday, July 9 — as youth competitors prepare their animals for the big show.
Building Up to Fair Week
The fairgrounds have been active all summer, with 4-H Boots N Hooves in the Show Barn this Thursday alongside the Cowdeo, and a Bright Wood picnic scheduled for Saturday, July 11. The pace will only pick up from there as fair week approaches.
The Jefferson County Event Complex is located at 430 SW Fairgrounds Road, Madras. For event information and the full calendar, call the fairgrounds at (541) 325-5050 or visit jeffersoncountyor.gov/fairgrounds.
Mark your calendars: July 21-25, 2026. Jefferson County Fair time is coming.