Colorado State Fair 2025
Dates, Tickets, Rides, Concerts & Rodeo Guide

CO State Fair 2025 – Quick Navigation

🎡 Welcome to the Colorado State Fair 2025

Get ready for one of Colorado’s biggest and most beloved summer traditions. The Colorado State Fair 2025 returns to Pueblo from August 22 through September 1, promising 11 days of music, rodeo action, agriculture, art, and incredible fair food. Whether you’re coming for the PRCA Rodeo, live concerts, 4-H competitions, or just the unbeatable combo of deep-fried food and neon-lit rides, there’s something here for everyone.

Held annually at the Colorado State Fairgrounds in Pueblo, this statewide celebration draws visitors from every corner of Colorado—and beyond. More than a midway, it’s a showcase of Colorado’s agricultural heritage, local arts, and the community spirit that makes the Centennial State shine.

Over the course of 11 packed days, you can expect:

Nationally known musicians & comedians
Thrilling PRCA rodeo performances and livestock events
Showcases of 4-H youth projects and FFA programs
Award-winning exhibitions in fine arts, crafts, brewing, and agriculture
Dozens of food vendors, carnival rides, and games for all ages

If you’ve never been, this is the year to make it happen. And if it’s already a family tradition? You’ll find plenty of new reasons to come back.

Below, we’ve broken down everything you need to know—from ticket prices and headline performers to parking & accessibility tips and how far Pueblo is from Denver and Colorado Springs. Use the quick-nav above to skip ahead, or keep scrolling to plan your 2025 visit.

📅 Colorado State Fair 2025 – Dates, Times & Location

The Colorado State Fair 2025 will take place from Friday, August 22 through Monday, September 1, 2025. This 11-day celebration of Colorado’s agricultural heritage, entertainment, and community spirit offers daily attractions, concerts, rodeos, livestock shows, and carnival rides. The fairgrounds will operate with varying hours depending on the day:

Monday–Thursday: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Friday–Sunday & Labor Day: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Carnival Midway: Typically opens 1–2 hours after gates and may remain open past 11:00 PM — see the official daily schedule for exact ride hours.
Livestock barns and exhibit halls generally close earlier than the midway; times vary by event.

All festivities are held at the historic Colorado State Fairgrounds in Pueblo, which has been the home of the fair since 1872. The grounds feature multiple arenas, exhibition halls, barns, and an expansive carnival area.

Event Location:

Colorado State Fairgrounds
1001 Beulah Ave
Pueblo, CO 81004

Pueblo is centrally located in southern Colorado and is easily accessible by I-25 and U.S. Highways 50 and 87. Parking is available in designated lots surrounding the fairgrounds (see our Parking & Accessibility section for details). For visitors arriving from out of town, Pueblo offers a range of lodging options, and the fairgrounds are a short drive from downtown dining and attractions.

🚗 Approximate Driving Distances

Denver: ~115 miles (~2 hours via I-25 S)
Colorado Springs: ~45 miles (~50 minutes via I-25 S)
Cañon City: ~38 miles (~40 minutes via CO-96 E)
Trinidad: ~80 miles (~1 hour 15 minutes via I-25 N)
La Junta: ~60 miles (~1 hour via US-50 W)

For GPS directions and gate locations, use the maps & directions page on the official site before you travel.

🎤 Colorado State Fair 2025 – Concerts, Rodeo & Entertainment

The Colorado State Fair’s 2025 entertainment lineup is one of the most diverse in the event’s 150+ year history. From national headliners at the Big R Arena and Southwest Motors Events Center to the high-energy PRCA Rodeo and free community performances, there’s something for every music, comedy, and rodeo fan.

🎟️ Headline Concerts – Dates, Times & Venues

Cooper Alan – Fri, Aug 22 @ 7:00 PM, Big R Arena (after PRCA Rodeo)
Lee Brice – Sat, Aug 23 @ 7:00 PM, Big R Arena (after PRCA Rodeo)
Clay Walker – Sun, Aug 24 @ 7:00 PM, Big R Arena (after PRCA Rodeo)
Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias – Sun, Aug 24 @ 8:00 PM, Southwest Motors Events Center
My Generation Tour – Thu, Aug 28 @ 7:00 PM, Big R Arena
Flo Rida + Chamillionaire – Fri, Aug 29 @ 7:00 PM, Big R Arena
Russell Dickerson + Drew Green – Sat, Aug 30 @ 7:00 PM, Big R Arena
Cheap Trick – Sun, Aug 31 @ 7:00 PM, Big R Arena
Los Huracanes del Norte – Sun, Aug 31 @ 8:00 PM, Southwest Motors Events Center

All Big R Arena concerts follow PRCA rodeo performances (except as noted). Tickets for concerts are sold separately from fair admission unless part of a promotional bundle.

🤠 PRCA Rodeo Schedule

Fri, Aug 22: 5:00 PM – Big R Arena
Sat, Aug 23: 5:00 PM – Big R Arena
Sun, Aug 24: 5:00 PM – Big R Arena
Mon, Aug 25: PRCA Xtreme Bulls – 7:00 PM – Big R Arena
Finals & specialty events – see official rodeo page

🎵 Free Stage Entertainment

Beyond the ticketed shows, the fair features multiple free stages with live music, cultural dance performances, and local talent. These performances are included with gate admission and run throughout the day. Popular attractions often include:

Regional country, rock, and Tejano bands
School and community choirs
Dance troupes and cultural showcases
Comedy and variety acts

🎫 Ticket Information

Purchase tickets through the official fair website or Etix
Concert ticket prices typically range from $25 – $80+, depending on seating and artist
VIP packages, pit passes, and meet-and-greet options may be available for select artists
Gate admission is required in addition to event tickets unless otherwise stated

For updates, last-minute lineup changes, and venue policies, check the Colorado State Fair official site before attending. Whether you’re here for chart-topping hits, rodeo thrills, or community entertainment, the 2025 fair offers a packed schedule you won’t want to miss.

🤠 Colorado State Fair 2025 – PRCA Rodeo & Western Heritage Events

The Colorado State Fair PRCA Rodeo is one of the premier rodeo events in the Rocky Mountain region, sanctioned by the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA). Every August, the Big R Arena in Pueblo transforms into a showcase of grit, skill, and true Western spirit, attracting world-class competitors and thousands of fans. Rodeo week is a centerpiece of the fair, combining fast-paced action with live entertainment, theme nights, and family-friendly fun.

This isn’t just a rodeo—it’s a multi-day celebration of cowboy heritage. Spectators can expect edge-of-your-seat moments as top-ranked cowboys and cowgirls compete for points, prize money, and a shot at the National Finals Rodeo. Events are run under strict PRCA guidelines to ensure fairness, animal safety, and competitive integrity.

📅 2025 PRCA Rodeo Schedule – Big R Arena

Fri, Aug 22 – 5:00 PM: Opening Night PRCA Rodeo (Cooper Alan concert follows at 7:00 PM)
Sat, Aug 23 – 5:00 PM: PRCA Rodeo (Lee Brice concert follows at 7:00 PM)
Sun, Aug 24 – 5:00 PM: PRCA Rodeo (Clay Walker concert follows at 7:00 PM)
Mon, Aug 25 – 7:00 PM: PRCA Xtreme Bulls – Featuring some of the rankest bulls and toughest riders in the sport
Wed, Aug 27 – 7:00 PM: Colorado’s Own Ranch Rodeo & Concert with Ned LeDoux
Sat, Aug 30 – 5:00 PM: Finals Night PRCA Rodeo (Russell Dickerson concert follows at 7:00 PM)

🐂 Rodeo Events You’ll See

Each performance features a mix of timed events and roughstock competition, testing speed, control, and strength:

Bull Riding: The sport’s most iconic and dangerous event—8 seconds has never felt longer
Saddle Bronc Riding: A true test of cowboy style and skill
Bareback Riding: Intense, high-scoring rides on powerful bucking horses
Steer Wrestling: Also called bulldogging, a showcase of strength and precision
Team Roping: Two riders working in perfect sync to rope a steer
Tie-Down Roping: Speed, accuracy, and horsemanship combined
Barrel Racing: High-speed turns and horsepower from the WPRA’s top female athletes

🎟️ Tickets & Seating

Rodeo tickets are sold separately from fair admission unless purchased in a bundle
Available through the official rodeo page or Etix
Prices typically range from $20 – $45 depending on performance and seat location
Military discounts available with valid ID
Senior discounts may also apply

Whether you’re drawn by the heart-pounding action of bull riding, the tradition of ranch skills, or the family-friendly atmosphere, the Colorado State Fair PRCA Rodeo is a must-see. Arrive early to grab your seat, enjoy pre-show festivities, and experience the sunset over Big R Arena before the chutes burst open. For real-time updates, weather alerts, and arena policies, visit the Colorado State Fair Rodeo page or the PRCA website.

🐄 Colorado State Fair 2025 – 4-H, FFA & Livestock Showcase

The 4-H and FFA programs are at the heart of the Colorado State Fair, highlighting Colorado’s agricultural heritage while showcasing the future of farming and ranching. For over a century, these programs have provided youth from all 64 counties an opportunity to demonstrate the results of a year’s worth of dedication—whether it’s raising a championship steer, training a show horse, or completing a prize-winning project. Backed by Colorado 4-H through CSU Extension and the National FFA Organization, participants learn leadership, responsibility, and life skills that extend far beyond the show ring.

The livestock shows are a culmination of months—often years—of preparation. Exhibitors start with animal selection, followed by daily feeding, exercise, grooming, veterinary care, and training to prepare their animals for competition. The result is an impressive display of animal handling, showmanship, and agricultural knowledge. Visitors can watch as young handlers lead their animals into the ring, respond to judges’ questions, and demonstrate skills honed through countless early mornings and late nights.

🐐 2025 Livestock Events & Competitions

Beef Cattle Shows – Market and breeding classes
Swine Competitions – Featuring top market hogs from across Colorado
Sheep & Goat Classes – Meat and dairy breeds
Poultry & Rabbit Judging – From heritage breeds to commercial lines
Equestrian Events – Including showmanship, horsemanship, and gymkhana
General Project Exhibits – Photography, woodworking, sewing, food preservation, and more

The Livestock Pavilion, horse stalls, and animal barns are open daily for public viewing. Many barns include educational signage explaining each breed, interactive displays for kids, and scheduled demonstrations such as milking, shearing, or grooming. Exhibitors are often available to answer questions, making it a great learning opportunity for all ages.

💰 Junior Livestock Sale

One of the most anticipated events each year is the Junior Livestock Sale, where the top market animals are sold to buyers—often local businesses, agricultural supporters, and community leaders. These sales not only reward the exhibitors’ hard work but also help fund their future goals, from college tuition to reinvestment in their herds or farms. Attending the sale is a great way for visitors to directly support the next generation of agricultural leaders.

📋 Participant Information

All entries must follow the official youth livestock competition rules
Animals must meet Colorado livestock health requirements, including vaccinations and veterinary inspection
Project resources and training materials are available via Colorado 4-H and FFA

Spectators are encouraged to be respectful in the barns—keep noise to a minimum, ask before touching animals, and follow posted biosecurity rules to help keep livestock healthy.

Whether you’re there to cheer on a young exhibitor, learn more about Colorado’s livestock industry, or simply enjoy the atmosphere, the 4-H and FFA programs at the Colorado State Fair offer an authentic look at the dedication, skill, and community spirit that define rural Colorado. For a full schedule of livestock events, visit the livestock events page.

🎡 Carnival & Food at the Colorado State Fair 2025

When the sun dips below the horizon in Pueblo, the Colorado State Fair carnival comes alive in a blaze of color, sound, and excitement. Operated by Butler Amusements, this is one of the largest and most popular midways in the state, offering dozens of rides, classic carnival games, and some of the best fair food you’ll find anywhere in Colorado. Whether you’re here for high-adrenaline thrills, family-friendly fun, or an evening of neon-lit nostalgia, the carnival is a can’t-miss part of fair week.

The midway layout is designed for easy navigation: larger thrill rides anchor the grandstand side, family rides and the kiddie area are grouped toward the west end, and food and game booths are scattered throughout. The entire area bursts to life at night with flashing lights, music, and the smell of fresh kettle corn drifting through the air.

🎠 Featured Rides & Attractions

Giant Ferris Wheel – Offering panoramic views of the fairgrounds and Pueblo’s night skyline.
Haunted House / Scare House – A walk-through with eerie lighting, themed rooms, and mild jump scares (family-friendly but spooky).
Zipper – A spinning, flipping thrill ride for adrenaline seekers.
Super Shot Drop Tower – A rapid-rise, free-fall experience that delivers a major rush.
Yo-Yo Swing Ride – Open-air swings that lift and spin riders high over the midway.
Bumper Cars – A timeless favorite for all ages.
Kiddie Ride Area – Includes a mini Ferris wheel, carousel, train rides, and pint-sized thrill rides for the youngest visitors.
Fun Slide – A giant slide perfect for kids and parents to race down together.

Ride tickets are available individually, but for the best value, consider purchasing an Unlimited Ride Wristband. These allow unlimited rides for the day and can easily pay for themselves if you plan to ride more than 4–5 attractions. Height requirements vary: most thrill rides require riders to be 48 inches or taller, while many kiddie rides allow children 36 inches and up to ride with an adult.

🍗 Fair Food & Local Favorites

The carnival is also a hub for some of the most iconic fair foods in Colorado. Alongside national favorites like funnel cakes, cotton candy, and hand-dipped corn dogs, Pueblo brings its own local flavor to the table:

Pueblo Green Chile – Found on fries, burgers, burritos, and more, using locally roasted peppers.
Sloppers – A Pueblo original: an open-faced cheeseburger smothered in green chile sauce.
Fresh Roasted Chiles – Sold by the bushel during chile harvest season.
Fried Desserts – From Oreos and Twinkies to cheesecake-on-a-stick.
Specialty Lemonades – Flavors range from classic fresh-squeezed to blueberry, strawberry, and watermelon.

The fair also features vendors offering BBQ, pizza, street tacos, giant turkey legs, fresh-squeezed juices, and vegetarian-friendly options. Food trucks and pop-up vendors rotate throughout the week, so no two visits are exactly alike.

✔️ Food Safety & Vendor Standards

All food vendors are licensed and inspected by the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE).
Vendors must meet state food safety standards and maintain proper food-handling practices.
Handwashing stations and sanitizing stations are available throughout the fairgrounds.

Whether you’re chasing thrills on the drop tower, taking in the lights from the Ferris wheel, or savoring a Pueblo green chile burger, the carnival and food scene at the Colorado State Fair offers something for every taste and thrill level. Tip for first-timers: ride before you eat, and bring cash as some smaller vendors may not accept cards.

🎟️ Colorado State Fair 2025 – Tickets & Cost

Whether you’re planning a one-day visit, catching multiple concerts, or attending several rodeo nights, the Colorado State Fair ticket options are designed for flexibility. Along with standard gate admission, you can take advantage of discount days, early-purchase savings, and bundle packages that combine admission with ride wristbands or event tickets.

🎫 General Admission

Adults (Ages 13–64): $15.00 at the gate
Children (Ages 5–12): $7.00
Seniors (65+): $7.00
Kids 4 and under: Free
Buy tickets online via Etix to skip the gate line and sometimes access early-bird pricing

General admission includes access to the fairgrounds, free entertainment stages, livestock barns, art exhibits, and most static displays. Rides, arena events, and headline shows require separate tickets.

💸 Special Discounts & Free Days

Military Appreciation Day: Free gate admission for active duty service members, veterans, and immediate family (valid military ID required)
Senior Day: Reduced admission for guests 65+ on designated weekday(s)
SNAP/EBT Discount Program: Reduced gate admission for low-income families (present valid EBT card)
Free Kids Day: Children under 12 enter free on select dates — check the discount calendar for details
Additional promos may include $2 Tuesday admission or value coupon books for food and rides — announced closer to fair dates

🎟️ Event & Concert Tickets

Concerts, PRCA rodeos, and special arena events require separate tickets in addition to general admission. Pricing varies based on artist, seating location, and demand.

View concert schedule & prices — updated regularly
PRCA Rodeo ticket details — includes bull riding, barrel racing, and more
Purchase securely through Etix.com, the fair’s official ticket provider

🎫 Multi-Day, Group, & Bundle Options

Multi-day passes: Ideal for visitors attending multiple concerts or events
Ride & admission bundles: Save money by purchasing in advance online
Group rates: Available for schools, tour operators, and clubs — contact the fair office for arrangements
Season passes: Best value for locals planning to visit several times during the 11-day run

Always verify prices and promotions through the official tickets page before purchasing, as rates and offers can change.

🚗 Parking & Accessibility at the Colorado State Fair 2025

The Colorado State Fair in Pueblo draws tens of thousands of visitors during its 11-day celebration, and planning your arrival can make all the difference. Whether you’re driving from another county, arriving by public transit, or need ADA accommodations, knowing the layout and options ahead of time will save you stress and help you get to the fun faster. The fairgrounds and City of Pueblo work together to provide multiple parking, shuttle, and accessibility solutions to ensure everyone can enjoy the event.

🅿️ Parking Information

General Public Parking – Multiple paid lots surround the fairgrounds, all within a short walking distance of the main gates.
Rates are typically $10–$15 per vehicle. Most lots accept both cash and credit cards, but carrying small bills can speed up entry.
ADA Parking – Designated spots are located near the main entrances for vehicles with valid handicap placards or license plates. These spaces fill quickly—arriving before noon on peak days is recommended.
Overflow Lots & Shuttle Service – On high-traffic days (usually weekends and concert nights), overflow parking is activated with a free shuttle running to the gates. Shuttle stop maps and hours are posted in the Fair FAQs.
Bicycle Parking – Bike racks are available at primary entrances for guests arriving on two wheels. Bring a lock for security.
Drop-Off & Pick-Up Zones – Clearly marked passenger drop-off areas are located near the gates, ideal for rideshares or picking up family members.
On busy nights, expect traffic congestion on Northern Avenue and Prairie Avenue—local drivers recommend using side streets and following fair parking signs to avoid delays.

🚌 Public Transit & Rideshare

Pueblo Transit operates several bus routes with stops within walking distance of the fairgrounds. This option is affordable, avoids parking fees, and eliminates the need to navigate crowded lots. Schedules and route maps are updated regularly—check online before your visit to confirm evening and weekend hours.

Visitors traveling from outside Pueblo can use regional bus or shuttle services to downtown Pueblo, then transfer to a local Pueblo Transit bus for the last leg of the trip. Ride-share services such as Uber and Lyft are also available, though surge pricing and longer wait times may occur during peak evening hours.

♿ Accessibility Services

The fairgrounds are fully ADA-compliant with paved walkways, ramps, and accessible restrooms located throughout the venue.
Guests using mobility devices can review the official ADA guide for recommended gate entry points and drop-off locations.
Wheelchair and scooter rentals are available at select entrances on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early—rentals often sell out on busy days.
Service Animals are permitted under ADA guidelines but must remain on a leash or harness and under control at all times.
Guests with hearing or vision impairments can contact the fair office in advance to arrange special accommodations such as seating assistance or interpreter services.
Additional disability support resources are available through Colorado Disability Services.

Tip for visitors: If you have specific mobility needs, call the fair office a few days before your visit to confirm the best entry points and any available services. You can also download or print the official map showing ADA drop-off areas, parking zones, and paved routes to your favorite attractions.

✅ Before You Go: Final Tips for the Colorado State Fair 2025

The Colorado State Fair in Pueblo is one of Colorado’s largest and most celebrated annual events. Over 11 days, it offers a full spectrum of entertainment—PRCA rodeo performances, nationally recognized concerts, carnival rides, livestock shows, and award-winning food. Because the fair attracts large crowds and has events spread across multiple venues, a little preparation can help you avoid long lines, secure great seats, and make the most of your time.

🎟️ Tickets & Entry

Purchase general admission, concert, and rodeo tickets early through Etix, the fair’s official ticketing partner. Many headline events sell out before fair week.
Download mobile tickets in advance and take screenshots for backup in case of spotty cell service.
If you prefer physical tickets, print them beforehand—there are no on-site public printing services.
Review the entry policies for bag sizes, prohibited items, and security screening procedures.

🌤️ Weather & Comfort

Late August in Pueblo often means 85–95°F daytime highs and cool evenings in the 60s. Check the National Weather Service – Pueblo forecast before leaving.
Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a collapsible umbrella or light poncho—afternoon thunderstorms are common.
Wear supportive shoes; you may walk several miles between barns, arenas, and midway attractions.
Bring a light jacket or sweater for evening concerts and rodeos, especially if you plan to stay until closing.

🚗 Parking & Transportation

General parking costs $10–$15 per vehicle, payable by cash or card. Arrive early for the best spots near the main gates.
ADA parking is available close to entrances with a valid placard; see the fairgrounds map for exact locations.
On peak days, overflow lots and a free shuttle system are available—check the official FAQ for routes and times.
Pueblo Transit provides bus service to stops near the fair, a budget-friendly alternative to parking.

🛍️ What to Bring

A small backpack or crossbody bag for essentials, compliant with the bag policy.
Cash for small vendors; ATMs are on-site but may have long lines.
Refillable water bottle—free hydration stations are available throughout the grounds.
Ear protection for children at concerts, rodeos, and loud rides.

📅 Scheduling Your Day

Review the official daily schedule and mark must-see events before arriving.
Plan to arrive 30–45 minutes early for headline events like PRCA Rodeo, concerts, and the demolition derby to secure good seating.
Factor in walking time between events—some attractions are on opposite sides of the grounds.

⚠️ Rules & Safety

Only service animals are allowed; no pets. See the rules page for the full prohibited items list.
Follow all safety instructions from staff and security—especially in crowded areas or during emergencies.
Locate first aid stations on the map before you need them; staff are trained for both medical and lost-child assistance.

With a bit of planning—buying tickets early, checking the weather, mapping your must-sees—you’ll be ready to enjoy the Colorado State Fair 2025 to the fullest. From the heart-pounding excitement of the rodeo to the glow of the carnival midway at night, it’s a true celebration of Colorado’s heritage, talent, and community spirit. Whether it’s your first visit or your family’s annual tradition, come ready to explore, taste, cheer, and make lifelong memories. 🎡

Colorado State Fair 2025 Dates, Tickets, Rides, Concerts & Rodeo Guide