Lincoln County Fair offers week of family entertainment

Lincoln County Fair offers week of family entertainment

Published 4:16 pm Tuesday, June 23, 2026

STANFORD, Ky. — From rodeo action and demolition derbies to monster trucks and fireworks, organizers say this year’s Lincoln County Fair will offer something for nearly everyone while continuing a tradition that celebrates the county’s agricultural heritage and community spirit.

The fair will take place June 30 through July 4 at the Lincoln County Fairgrounds, featuring a full slate of events that combine entertainment, competition and family activities.

According to Lincoln County Fair Board President Diane Poynter, visitors can expect a packed schedule throughout the week.

“This year’s Lincoln County Fair is packed with something for everyone,” Poynter said. “Visitors can look forward to fan-favorite events like the truck and tractor pulls, demolition derby, pageants, livestock shows, carnival rides and great fair food.”

Among the highlights is the arrival of Full Throttle Monster Trucks on July 4, an event that will also give children opportunities to meet drivers and take photos.

“Throughout the week, there will be plenty of family-friendly activities, exhibits and entertainment that celebrate the spirit of our community,” Poynter said. “Whether you’re coming for the competition, the agriculture, the rides or the fireworks, we’re working hard to make this one of the best fairs yet and create memories that will last long after fair week is over.”

The week begins June 30 with Bullwhip Rodeo at 7:30 p.m. Action continues July 1 with the Lincoln County Demolition Derby at 8 p.m. and the Lincoln County Fair Derby at 7 p.m. on July 2. A Truck and Tractor Pull is scheduled for 7 p.m. July 3, followed by Full Throttle Monster Trucks and a fireworks finale at 7 p.m. on Independence Day.

For Director of Motorsports Christian Poynter, the motorsports events stand out as some of the most anticipated attractions of the week.

“Truck pulls, tractor pulls, monster trucks and fireworks — now that’s how you celebrate America’s 250th,” Poynter said.

He said it was difficult to choose a single favorite event.

“I’m most excited for our truck and tractor pulls and the monster trucks,” he said. “I couldn’t narrow it down to just one. I believe we have a good set of classes coming to pull this year accompanied with the Street Diesel Class so our locals can take home bragging rights for a year.”

Poynter said the monster truck show should be especially popular with families.

“I believe the monster trucks will be a great show for our community,” he said. “There will be opportunities for the kids to interact with drivers and take pictures. Plus, what goes better with fireworks than monster trucks? That screams Happy 250th America.”

While the nightly attractions draw large crowds, fair officials say agriculture remains at the heart of the event.

“The Lincoln County Fair is about much more than rides and entertainment,” said Caty Curlis, director of pageants. “It’s a celebration of our agricultural roots, a showcase for our youth and a way to preserve the rural heritage that makes our community special.”

Curlis said livestock shows, exhibits and participation by local 4-H and FFA members provide opportunities for young people to develop leadership skills and demonstrate the results of their hard work.

“It also serves as a reminder of the importance of agriculture in Lincoln County while bringing generations together to celebrate the traditions that have shaped our county for years,” she said.

The event itself may last only a few days, but organizers say planning never really stops.

“The fair may last one week, but planning it takes all year,” said Lincoln County Fair Secretary Brett Curlis.

According to Curlis, directors begin preparing for the next fair shortly after the previous one concludes. Throughout the year, volunteers coordinate events, secure sponsors and entertainment, maintain the grounds and make preparations for fair week.

“While the fair lasts only a few days, its success is built on months of dedication and hard work behind the scenes year round,” he said.

For Director of Promotions Sadie Durham, the fair’s lasting importance comes from the role it plays in bringing the community together.

“The fair is more than an event. It’s a tradition, a celebration of our community and a reminder of what makes Lincoln County feel like home,” Durham said.

She said the fair continues to be a gathering place where families, friends and neighbors can celebrate agriculture, entertainment and hometown pride.

“For volunteers, it’s a labor of love — countless hours of work dedicated to creating lasting memories for the community,” Durham said. “More than just an event, the fair is a place where traditions are shared, memories are made and Lincoln County comes together.”