Ag Experiences take center stage at the 2025 Nebraska State Fair

From thrilling rodeos and llama shows to milking demos and mac & cheese contests, the 2025 Nebraska State Fair offers an unforgettable lineup of agriculture-centered experiences that celebrate Nebraska’s heritage while inspiring the next generation.

“I have to laugh when folks say that state fairs shouldn’t spend so much time focusing on agriculture,” said Kourtney Lingeman, Competitive Exhibits Manager. ”Agriculture is the largest industry in our state — it’s the entirety of what state fairs were built on. A major portion of our jobs here in Nebraska revolve around ag. The food we eat, the household products we use.”

Lingeman said the Nebraska State Fair is about recognizing the hard work of county fairs, while providing opportunities for competition and showmanship on — how many refer to the State Fair — ‘the big stage.’ 

“So many families have exhibited here for generations,” said Lingeman. “What we do in all of our barns and buildings is honor that legacy while also creating new opportunities for today’s youth, their families and all of our guests to engage in meaningful ways with Nebraska agriculture.”

Noteworthy in 2025
-PRCA Ranch Rodeo: Making its debut as a nationally sanctioned event, this high-stakes competition highlights the skills real ranch teams use every day.
-Remarkable Rodeo: On Friday, August 29, youth 18 and under with mental or physical exceptionalities are invited to participate in simulated rodeo events — walkers and wheelchairs welcome.
-Branded Bonanza: See adopted wild horses compete in in-hand events; some may even be available for adoption.
-Hands-On Llama Show: Ever wanted to show a llama? Now’s your chance — no experience necessary.
-Live Foods Contests: Watch mac & cheese, smoothies, and King Arthur Flour creations judged live in the Foods Department.

Fan Favorites Return
-Avenue of Breeds and the Birthing Pavilion offer daily opportunities to meet animals up close, with early-morning Birthing Pavilion Before Hours experiences available on select days.
-Highland cattle, llama & alpaca costume contests, and the Calling All Male Cooks competition are longtime crowd-pleasers.
-Cattle Dog Trials return to the Thompson Foods Indoor Arena on Friday and Saturday, August 29-30.
-High School Rodeo, 4-H & FFA Fieldhouse demos, and the art-meets-faith performance God’s Gallery add to the daily mix.

“People come out year after year for the tractors, the rodeos, the livestock shows,” said Lingeman. “It’s about tradition. It’s about nostalgia. For so many of us, the Fair was something our whole extended family did together — and still does.”

Don’t Miss These Ag Highlights
(A small sampling—visit StateFair.org for a full schedule)
-Llama Yoga: Back by popular demand — $30 includes a commemorative yoga mat
-Case IH Combine Rides: Daily rides around the track in a Grand Island-made combine
-Moo-U Livestock Tours: Free guided barn tours, fun and educational for all ages
-Milking Parlor Demonstrations: Multiple times daily — see where milk really comes from
-Antique Tractor Games and Tractor Displays: Get your fill of vintage horsepower
-Draft Horse Pull, Extreme Trail Challenge, and Team Roping: Action-packed events that showcase grit, grace, and good horses

The 2025 Nebraska State Fair offers all fairgoers the chance to Showcase Your Fair Face, August 22 through September 1 at Fonner Park in Grand Island. The fair has drawn more than 4 million visitors to its home in Grand Island since 2010. More information about agricultural events and competitions, carnival entertainment, and other musical performances is available at www.StateFair.org.