It’s Almost Time for the 78th Best Week of Summer!

The Benton Franklin Fair is almost here, bringing five days of agriculture, entertainment, hometown traditions and community celebration to the Tri-Cities Aug. 25-29. From demolition derby and rodeo action to concerts, carnival rides, local food and youth exhibits, the Best Week of Summer offers something for every generation. Where else can you cheer racing pigs while eating an elephant ear and supporting two nonprofits in the process?



As an independent nonprofit, the Benton Franklin Fair exists to develop young leaders through hands-on agricultural experiences while creating opportunities for our community to come together. Every ticket purchased supports youth development, agricultural education, scholarships, and programs that benefit the region year-round.

Economic Advantages
The fair also delivers a significant economic impact, generating more than $30.5 million annually for Benton County. Visitors from more than 40 states travel here for the fair and the nationally recognized Horse Heaven Round-Up Rodeo, helping support local hotels, restaurants, retailers and other businesses.

At the heart of the fair are the hundreds of local youth who spend the year raising livestock, creating exhibits, and building lifelong skills. Their hard work is showcased through livestock shows, photography, baking, crafts, agriculture and more. The Market Stock Sale remains one of the fair’s proudest traditions, with exhibitors earning more than $1.5 million for their livestock projects in 2025 through the support of local buyers. The fair also awards $10,000 in scholarships each year to graduating high-school seniors.

Making the fair accessible for everyone remains a priority. Thanks to Central Plateau Cleanup Company, guests can ride the bus free from six Tri-Cities park-and-ride locations with service running until at least 11:30 p.m. Sensory kits and wheelchairs are available for loan at the Fair’s information booths, thanks to Tri-Cities Community Health.

Endless Fun
The excitement begins at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 22, with the Grand Parade presented by Gesa Credit Union, the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, and the Port of Kennewick. That evening, the Demolition Derby presented by Meyers Auto Tech takes over the arena with hard-hitting action, a Power Wheels Derby for kids, and plenty of fair food.

Beginning on Tuesday, August 25, the Horse Heaven Round-Up Rodeo returns nightly at 7 p.m., followed by the Hayden Homes Summer Concert Series on the ICCU Stage at 7:45 p.m.
General fair admission tickets include access to the concert lawn and bleacher seating, making live entertainment part of every fair visit.

Food lovers can enjoy one of fair week’s best deals from 2 to 6 p.m. on Thursday, Aug. 27, when every food vendor offers at least one item for just $3. Throughout fair week, several food booths will also provide value-meal options, clearly marked with special signage. The Hometown Marketplace will feature local makers, artists and entrepreneurs along with live demonstrations from a professional pumpkin carver, muralist and metal artist.

Wednesday, Aug. 26, is Educator Appreciation Day presented by STCU, with free admission for K-12 and college employees with valid identification. It’s also Pizza Hut Little Buckaroos Day, when children ages 6-12 receive admission for just $2.

The week wraps up on Saturday night with Dancin’ in the Dirt after the rodeo, featuring the band Stompin’ Ground performing live in the arena, bringing fair week to a fun and fitting close.

Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or visiting for the first time, the Benton Franklin Fair offers something for everyone. Plan your visit and purchase tickets at BentonFranklinFair.com or call (509) 222-3749 for more information.

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