Challenges in a Changing World

While county fairs remain beloved traditions in many communities, they are not immune to the sweeping changes affecting rural life and agriculture. Across the country, fair boards, volunteers, and supporters are grappling with a host of challenges that threaten both participation and the long-term sustainability of these cherished events.

Shifting Demographics

Rural populations are aging, and many young families have moved to urban or suburban areas, drawn by broader job opportunities. This demographic shift means fewer children are growing up on farms or participating in programs like 4-H and FFA. The traditional pipeline of youth exhibitors is shrinking in many regions.

Economic Pressures

County fairs often rely on a mix of public funding, sponsorships, and volunteer labor. Rising costs for insurance, facility maintenance, and event operations strain already-tight budgets. In some areas, county governments have reduced or eliminated funding for fairs, leaving organizers scrambling to cover basic expenses.

Regulatory and Liability Concerns

Modern regulations related to animal welfare, biosecurity, food safety, and public liability can be complex and costly to navigate. While these rules are often well-intentioned, they add a layer of difficulty for small fairs run largely by volunteers. Livestock exhibitions, in particular, face increasing scrutiny and logistical hurdles.

Cultural and Technological Shifts

In today’s fast-paced, digital world, traditional events like county fairs can struggle to capture attention—especially among younger generations accustomed to online entertainment and social media-driven experiences. Competing with sports leagues, vacations, and virtual activities adds another layer of challenge.

In response, some breed associations and youth groups have begun hosting online livestock shows. The KuneKune Pig Society, for example, has held virtual competitions to maintain engagement while reducing the logistical burdens and risks associated with in-person events. View the AKKPS Sanctioned Shows

Preserving Purpose and Relevance

Despite these obstacles, many fair communities are adapting with creativity and resilience. New exhibit categories that reflect modern agriculture—such as hydroponics, beekeeping, regenerative farming, and agri-tech—help keep fairs relevant to today’s youth and food systems. Integrating educational workshops, cooking demos, heritage crafts, and local food tastings can broaden the fair’s appeal beyond traditional farm families.

Equally important is intentional outreach to diverse communities and new generations of fairgoers. By embracing inclusion and celebrating the many ways people engage with agriculture today—whether through urban gardens, farmers markets, homesteading, or technology—county fairs can remain vital community hubs.

Looking Ahead

In the next chapter of this series, we’ll explore how visionary communities are reimagining the county fair for the 21st century—blending tradition with innovation to inspire future generations.