15mi from Waterloo · 250 sitesThe Jefferson County Fair Park stands out as a premier destination for a diverse range of events, showcasing the pride and commitment of the county to its community. This county-owned and operated facility plays a vital role in youth education by highlighting local achievements and fostering community identity through the annual County Fair.
The Fair Park's development began with a use study in 1994, where community groups collaborated to envision the future of the Fairgrounds. In 1995, 20 acres were acquired from John Spangler, expanding the venue's capacity. By 1996, infrastructure improvements were initiated, including the construction of North Jackson Avenue, which enhanced accessibility but also isolated several older buildings. A fair park architect/planner was engaged in 1997, leading to a comprehensive report presented to the County Board. This report resulted in a significant investment of $1,000,000 from the general fund and a bond of $2,780,000 for extensive upgrades.
Over the years, the Fair Park has seen numerous enhancements. New facilities, such as a dairy barn with a parlor and a horse barn featuring 94 stalls, were constructed, along with additional restrooms and a food building. The grounds were beautified with landscaping, including trees, benches, and picnic tables, ensuring comfort for
