Community Spotlight: Boulder County Fair

Staff

July 1, 2026

Community Spotlight: Boulder County Fair

Not Your Grandpa’s County Fair: Honoring the Past While Looking to the Future

A star-studded, modern music festival energy is taking over the Boulder County Fair with 20+ bands and local brews!

When you hear the words “county fair,” your brain probably conjures up a very specific aesthetic. You picture carnival rides, and maybe a lone banjo player. If you think that’s all Colorado’s oldest fair has to offer, you haven’t been paying attention.

For the past few years, the Boulder County Fair has been on an absolute mission to battle those stereotypes and bring a stacked music lineup.

On the south side of the fairgrounds, the Stapp Toyota Fair Garden has cultivated a five-day music festival. With a massive lineup of over 20 artists spanning everything from heavy blues and indie pop to electronic turntable sets, there’s truly something for everyone.

Wednesday: The Party Starts

The performances kick off on Wednesday, August 5th at 5 p.m.

Blessing “Bled” Chimanga brings an infectious energy to the stage, leading straight into a massive set by renowned turntablist Chris Karns.

Because the organizers apparently love keeping us on our toes, Wednesday night closes out with a surprise set so tightly under wraps that even we couldn’t pry the information out of them.

Thursday: Rock Takes Over

On Thursday, you might want to consider clocking out of work early. Music starts at 2 p.m. and runs all the way until 11 p.m.

School of Rock sets the tone early, paving the way for an evening of gritty, guitar-driven madness. Texas-based Ronnie and the Redwoods bring their outlaw energy to the yard before local powerhouse Gasoline Lollipops take the stage.

Friday: Soul, Groove, and Big Voices

Friday keeps the momentum rolling into the weekend.

Early evening sets from Voodoo Lily and Taylor Shae create the perfect golden-hour mood before the Cass Clayton Band brings their signature smoky, soulful grooves.

Wrapping up Friday night’s party are the electric duo Aubrey Dale and Eli Rey.

Saturday: Country Takes Center Stage

Now, don’t panic, traditionalists. If you’re looking for some proper country, Saturday has you covered.

Eric Golden kicks things off at 3:30 p.m. with pure honky-tonk energy. The evening continues with rising talents Grayson Ratliff and Tristan Trincado, leading into yet another tantalizing cliffhanger surprise closer to cap off the night.

Sunday: A Grand Finale

Sunday rounds out the long weekend.

So far, organizers have confirmed the talented up-and-coming duo Eve and Josh, followed by Grant Sabin’s deep delta blues and California pop singer-songwriter Gabe James.

The Best Part? Every Show Is Free

Oh wait, we didn’t mention the best part—all of the music is free.

That means you can roll in and enjoy this massive 20+ band roster without spending a single dime. Inside the Stapp Toyota Fair Garden, you’ll find the entire music lineup alongside Boulder County’s elite food trucks, plus plenty of cold craft beer and margaritas flowing to wash it all down.

The wider fair features immersive art installations, a full carnival, tons of animals, and the legendary ticketed Grandstand events to anchor your summer nights:

August 7: CPRA Rodeo
August 8: Tractor Pull
August 9: Demolition Derby
August 10: Mexican Rodeo Fiesta

Don’t miss out on one of Colorado’s coolest traditions. Catch it all August 5th–9th in Longmont, Colorado.

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