The Clackamas County Fair Is More Than a Tradition

By State Representative Matt Bunch

Every August, families from across Clackamas County gather in Canby for one of my favorite events of the year: the Clackamas County Fair and Canby Rodeo.

For many people, it’s a chance to enjoy great food, carnival rides, live entertainment, and a rodeo. But to me, and to so many others who have been involved over the years, the fair represents something much bigger. It celebrates the people, values, and traditions that make our communities strong.

I’ve been fortunate to be involved with the Clackamas County Fair for many years, and I’ve seen firsthand the countless volunteers, board members, exhibitors, and families who work year-round to make it a success. It doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because people care deeply about preserving our agricultural heritage and creating opportunities for the next generation.

The Clackamas County Fair has been bringing people together since 1907, growing from a local agricultural exhibition into one of Oregon’s premier county fairs while never losing sight of its roots. Agriculture, education, youth development, and community remain at the heart of everything it does. 

One of the things I appreciate most is the role the fair plays in supporting FFA and 4-H. These programs teach far more than livestock care or showmanship. They teach responsibility, leadership, teamwork, and the value of hard work. Young people learn what it means to set goals, solve problems, and see a project through from beginning to end. Those lessons stay with them long after the fair ribbons have been handed out.

Agriculture is one of the cornerstones of our local economy. Farmers, ranchers, nurseries, and producers help feed our families, create jobs, and preserve the rural character that makes Clackamas County such a special place to live. The fair gives us an opportunity to recognize their contributions while helping people better understand where their food comes from and the work that goes into producing it.

The fair is also an important economic driver. Local businesses, vendors, nonprofits, and community organizations all benefit from the thousands of visitors who come through the gates each year. It’s a reminder that when we support local events, we’re also supporting local jobs and local families.

As your State Representative, I will continue to support agriculture, FFA, 4-H, and the rural communities that are such an important part of House District 51. These aren’t just traditions worth remembering - they’re investments in Oregon’s future.

I hope you’ll join me August 18–22 at the Clackamas County Fair and Canby Rodeo. Whether you’re cheering on a young exhibitor, enjoying the rodeo, visiting the livestock barns, or simply spending time with family and friends, you’ll be participating in a tradition that has helped define our community for well over a century.