American Tradition

By Patti Jo Brooks, Active Media

Clackamas County Fair and Canby Rodeo invite you to come out for “Pigs, Pies, & Patriotism” August 18-22 for five days of family fun! Carnival rides, live music, and the thrill of rodeo infuse the atmosphere with electrifying energy. Fairgrounds are open to the public between 10 a.m. and 11 p.m. each day for the price of admission. Theme days, discounts, and free admission guidelines are listed below and on the fair website, which includes additional details. 

 Canby Kiwanis Kiddie Capers Parade, a Clackamas County Fair tradition since 1948, kicks off the festivities Aug. 18, starting at Knight School at 10 a.m. and ending at the Clackamas County Fairgrounds. Come early and pick your spot along the route to cheer your kiddos on in this heart-warming community attraction.  

 “Pigs, Pies & Patriotism is the perfect recipe for this year’s fair - a little country, a little quirk, and a whole lot of community spirit. We’re mixing traditions with fun, and yes, there will be pie (and maybe some friendly pig racing) to prove it. Whether you’re here for the livestock, the rides, or just the memories, there’s something for everyone,” says Brian Crow, CEO Clackamas County Event Center.

 Treat yourself to a hand-dipped corn dog or a delicious elephant ear! Enjoy your favorite festival fare – BBQ, ice cream, tacos. and more – from over 25 vendors from around the West Coast. Visit livestock exhibits and agricultural displays where farmers and youth proudly showcase the results of their hard work. Stroll over to the Main Pavilion and check out what commercial vendors are offering. Next, head to the creative exhibits of the Hobby Hall, Photography, Quilts, and Textiles. If it’s the Art Gallery you’re looking for, seek out Clackamas Hall, where you’ll find compositions in oils, acrylics, watercolors, pastels, drawings, and sculptures. 

 Is there even such a thing as a fair without carnival rides? Rainier Amusement doesn’t think so. A family-owned business for over 60 years, Rainier Amusement operates rides from 1 p.m. to 11 p.m. daily. Purchase an Unlimited Ride Bracelet for unlimited fun – buy online today at clackamascountyfair.com and skip the lines!

 Experience one of the most exciting and thrilling attractions the fair has to offer – Canby Rodeo! Starting at 7:30 p.m. each night in the Canby Rodeo Arena, witness breathtaking world-class competition pitting rider against beast. An event you won’t want to miss, the PRCA-sanctioned Canby Rodeo holds a Top 40 standing out of 800 rodeos nationwide. 

 On the heels of the rodeo performances each night, starting at 9 p.m., the Main Stage presents foot-stomping, head bopping, live entertainment from some of your favorite local musicians: Aug 18 Lexi Tucker, country artist and songwriter from Silverton; Aug 19 Jesse Jones, composer, conductor and mandolinist; Aug 20 River Divide, crossover country, classic rock, and party music; Aug 21 Fighting Foos, high-energy tribute band; and wrapping up on Aug 22 Petty Fever, a tribute to Tom Petty. For a complete entertainment schedule including roaming acts, livestock showings, and small animal contests, visit clackamascountyfair.com.

 Presented by Clarios, “Building Batteries in Canby for over 50 years,” the 2026 Clackamas County Fair and Rodeo also features daily themes, including special discounts or free admission to select groups. Aug 18 Family Day: kids 12 and under are free with participation in the Kiwanis Kiddie Caper Parade. Aug 19 Senior Citizen Day: seniors 65-74 $2; age 75 and up free. Aug 20 First Responder Day: police, fire, and paramedics are free all day with ID. General public free until 3 p.m. Aug 21 Military Appreciation Day: Veterans and Armed Service members in uniform or showing service ID are free. Aug 22 Agriculture Day: Junior Livestock Auction luncheon 11 a.m., Junior Livestock Auction 12 p.m.

 “From the livestock barns to the roar of the Canby Rodeo arena, the Clackamas County Fair celebrates everything that makes our county special. We're committed to keeping this beloved tradition alive for families today and for generations to come.” – Brian Crow

 For the latest information and schedules, download the free Clackamas County Fair app on the App Store and Google Play. 

 Clackamas County Fairgrounds is located at 694 N.E. 4th Ave. in Canby. For more information, including ticket and carnival bracelet sales, visit clackamascountyfair.com.