The Brown County Fair

🪵 Throwback Thursday: Did you know West Hill Campground wasn't always a campground? 🪵

Long before the campers rolled in, this area was home to historic barns! Back then, the Jim River Riders were a staple of the fair, riding horseback through the busy lots to help visitors find the perfect parking spot. When the old barns were torn down in the early 2000s, losing that adequate stalling space lead to an end of an era for the riders' parking assistance.

Looking at these old photos brings back so many memories. Who remembers walking through the West Hill barns, or getting a helping hand from the Jim River Riders on horseback? 🐴✨

From washing golf carts as a kid...to helping manage the fair. ❤🎡

This photo of our Assistant Manager, McKenzie, is a perfect reminder of how powerful youth involvement can be. Long before she worked in the fair office, she was just a fair kid pitching in where she could, growing up through 4-H, and making memories on the fairgrounds.

Over the years, McKenzie has worn many hats at the fair: 4-H exhibitor, summer intern, Administrative Assistant, and now Assistant Manager. Her story shows that getting involved as a young person can open doors, build confidence, create lifelong connections, and even shape a career.

We're proud to celebrate not only McKenzie's journey, but all the youth who volunteer, exhibit, work, and grow through the fair each year. You never know where those experiences might take you. 🌟

Investing in youth today helps build the future of our fair tomorrow.

🎡 Help Us Bring the Fair to Life! 🎪
As we gear up and get into full swing preparing for the 2026 Brown County Fair, our team is hard at work putting together an unforgettable week. But to make the magic happen, we need a little help from our amazing community!

If you have any of the items listed in the graphic sitting in your garage, barn, or closet and are willing to part with them, we would absolutely love to give them a second life! ♻️✨

Drop-Off Info: If you have something to donate, please send us a direct message or drop it off at the Fair Office [400 24th Ave. NW Aberdeen, SD 57401, Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM].

Every little bit helps us make this year's fair the best one yet. Thank you for always supporting us—we truly have the best community around! ❤️

Foam Party Fun! This fun event was new in 2025 and will be back again this year in the Avera Kids' Zone. Get ready to dance, laugh, and play in the mountains of foam. Kids can cool off and burn off some energy in this bubbly experience that's sure to become a fair favorite.

A huge THANK YOU to the Columbia Fire Department for this awesome new attraction! 🚒👏🏻

Bring the kids and get ready for some foamy fun at the fair! Find this attraction Thursday and Saturday of Fair Week from 1pm-3pm.