The Jefferson County Fair & Rodeo will look a little different this summer — and for many families, that may be a welcome change. The Paul Maurer Shows Carnival, a longtime fixture of the annual event, will not return in 2026. In its place, fair organizers have partnered with 541 Bounce Party Rentals, a Bend-based company with deep roots right here in Jefferson County.
The owner of 541 Bounce Party Rentals is a Madras native who stepped forward to fill the entertainment gap, offering a fresh lineup of family-friendly attractions under the banner of the 541 Bounce Experience. It's a local success story tucked inside a county tradition.
What to Expect at the 541 Bounce Experience
The attraction runs at the Jefferson County Event Complex in Madras from July 22–25 — the full run of the fair. The lineup includes:
- Waterslides
- Bounce houses
- Themed obstacle courses
- A Jellyball Battle Arena
- Carnival games
- Outdoor movie screenings
Pre-sale passes go on sale Monday, July 13. Pricing details will be announced then. Admission to the broader Jefferson County Fair & Rodeo remains free to the public.
A Full Slate of Fair Entertainment
The bounce experience is just one piece of what promises to be a packed four days at the fairgrounds. This year's fair also features the NPRA Rodeo, Scales & Tails animal exhibits, the Children's Museum of Central Oregon, camel rides, Bungee Bounce, Walk on Water, Knockerballs, and axe throwing.
For live entertainment, the fair will host the Jefferson County's Got Talent Showcase alongside 11 live bands performing across the run of the event. Food of the World vendors round out the culinary experience.
A Hometown Answer to a Tricky Problem
Losing a carnival vendor with weeks to go before the fair would be a headache for any event organizer. The fact that a locally connected entrepreneur filled the gap — and built something arguably more kid-friendly in the process — says something about the community investment that keeps the Jefferson County Fair going year after year.
For families planning their summer: mark July 22–25 on the calendar and look for pre-sale pass details starting Monday at JCFair.fun, where the full schedule — including rodeo times and band lineups — is also posted.