07/25/2026
We will be at the parade with the 86 Pierce!! Hope to see you there!!
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Who likes a parade? And a fair? How about a celebration 100 years in the making? (HINT: WE ARE)
The Leavenworth County Fair Parade is a week from today, and we're looking forward to it.
The fair runs from July 28 to August 1, 2026, with the parade happening Tuesday evening, July 28. The fair is open from 11 am to 10 pm. If you have questions, you can call 913-775-1586.
Here's some history regarding the fair, courtesy of the Leavenworth County Historical Society:
Almost everyone who is or has been a resident of Leavenworth County is aware of the annual county fair--- and they should because the fair has been held in Tonganoxie for the past ninety plus years. Historically however, before Tonganoxie became the host town of this annual event, county fairs were held near the city of Leavenworth.
The first advertised “Agricultural Fair” held by the Leavenworth County Agricultural Society was in late October of 1865. The Civil War had ended and a need to come together as a community encouraged the participation of local trade and manufacturers. One of the fair board members, Ben Akers, offered 20 acres of his land with rolling hills and a stream running through it that had been the site for a Kansas State fair two years prior. The 1863 fair had actually been advertised as the first annual state fair under the direction of the Kansas State Agricultural Society, yet another “first” for Leavenworth. A highlight had been a ladies’ equestrian exhibition with the wife of Col. C.R. Jennison as one of the entries. Maj. Gen. Blunt and Hon. D.R. Anthony headed a committee for target shooting and Joseph Stayman was a major exhibitor of fruits, vegetables, and flowers.
Construction on the grounds for the 1865 county fair was overseen by a Mr. Foster to ensure there were stalls for cattle, a race course, two exhibit halls, a refreshment hall and other buildings. Officers of the society made arrangements with the railroads and steamboat lines to transport exhibits and livestock to the site at no charge and for persons visiting the fair at half-rate.
With the intention of showcasing the latest farming methods and breeds of livestock, local residents submitted entries for premiums. These included agricultural implements such as plows, cultivators and thrashing machines. Livestock entries were quarter and thoroughbred horses, jacks, jennets, and mules, ponies, swine, poultry, cattle and sheep. Women entered canned and preserved fruits, vegetables, wines, handiwork, and flowers. There were sewing and knitting machines on display along with furniture and household implements. Horse and mule races were scheduled as well as a Baby Show.
By 1907, sixty acres of shaded woodlands of the old Wells and Korman parks adjoining the southern limits of the city were purchased by the fair association. More recently known as Shrine Park in Leavenworth, the location was named the Leavenworth County Fair Association Park. Improvements were made to include a half-mile horse track, amphitheater seating 2000, a judge’s stand, stalls, floral hall and other buildings. Agricultural products, embroidery work, amateur photography and business exhibits were amply accommodated. A carnival area and boating on the lake completed the activities available to the public. The resultant fair afforded a week of instructive and entertaining amusements while advancing the agricultural and livestock interests in Leavenworth County.
The first 4-H Club in Leavenworth County was organized in 1914 in Kickapoo Township by Tom Cahill, principal of Junction School near Lowemont and who later served as the Leavenworth County Clerk for 24 years. Membership in 4-H is intended to “help young people and their families gain the skills needed to be proactive forces in their communities and develop ideas for a more innovative economy.” It easily followed that 4-Hers joined agricultural members as major players in county fairs.
The time-honored tradition of the county fair, showcasing the achievements of local citizens and promoting our youth in their individual talents has proven to be a success for the Leavenworth County community as a whole. Be sure to attend the fair and make it a tradition to look forward to every year.
