Looking for things to do this coming month or searching for things to do this summer? The Washington State Fair in Puyallup is back for its 125th anniversary in 2025—and it’s bigger, brighter, and more fun than ever. Whether you’re in Pierce County, Thurston County, or beyond, this fair is by far one you don’t want to miss!

Dates & Overview

• When: August 29 – September 21, 2025.

  • Closed on Tuesdays and Wednesday, September 3.

• Where: Washington State Fair Events Center, 110 9th Avenue SW, Puyallup, WA

• History: Established in 1900 as the Puyallup Valley Fair, it’s now the largest state fair in Washington and one of the largest in the U.S.

• 2025 Theme: A grand 125th-anniversary celebration, expecting well over a million guests.

Opening Weekend Kickoff & Specials

• Opening Friday, August 29: Includes a stunning drone and fireworks spectacular, plus KOMO’s Opening Day Food Drive—bring a non-perishable item and earn free admission.

• Aug 29–Sept 1 (Labor Day Weekend):

  • Free kids’ admission (18 and under) courtesy of BECU

  • Free admission for military personnel and dependents on September 1

Concerts & Live Entertainment

• Aug 29: Kickoff show featuring Toto, Christopher Cross, and Men At Work

• Other announced acts:

  • T‑Pain brings the hits and energy

  • Riley Green with Josh Ross

  • Meghan Trainor

  • Corey Kent

  • Joel McHale performs live comedy

  • And MORE!

• Expect more country, pop, R&B, indie-pop, and comedic surprises throughout this 20-day fest.

  Concerts and Entertainment

Rodeo & Dancin’ in the Dirt

Thrills continue with the legendary rodeo:

• September 4–7: PRCA Cinch Playoff Rodeo with five high-octane performances.

• Evening shows (Sept 4–6) include access to “Dancin’ in the Dirt” concerts—an unforgettable post-rodeo dance party under the stars

Rodeo and Dancin in the Dirt

Rides, Exhibits & Exhibitions

Expect a full sensory experience:

• 75+ rides ranging from gentle family fun to adrenaline-pumping thrills.

• Agricultural Exhibits: Celebrate “Our Food, Our Farms, Our Washington” with hands-on exhibits that highlight Washington’s farming heritage.

• Arts & Crafts: Quilts, freshly baked pies, stylized décor, fashion, and creative table scaping fill the halls.

• The Farm at SillyVille: A whimsical, farming-themed interactive zone for kids.

• Self-Guided Walking Tours App: Six curated themes like history, sweets, foodie, murals, family-friendly, and trends with GPS and audio narration.

Food & Vendors Highlights

Indulge your taste buds and browse among dozens of local vendors:

• The 1900 Food Hall & Rooftop Bar: A new culinary highlight, crafted by Chef Mitch Mayers—grab something fresh and enjoy panoramic views.

• Endless food options ranging from classic fair staples to artisanal bites and global flavors.

• Don’t miss local vendors, arts, crafts, and specialty sweets—it’s a perfect things to do this weekend fix for foodies and shoppers alikeThe.

Community Impact & Local Love

• Fairgoers donated 37,000 pounds of food, filled 35 bins with school supplies supporting local students, and distributed complementary tickets to 700,000 students and 127,000 educators—a true Pierce County community celebration.

Wrap-Up: Why You Should “Do the Puyallup”

• Location: Centrally located near Tacoma and within reach of Thurston County, perfect for things to do in Washington or things to do in Pierce County

• Diverse attractions: From concerts and rodeo to family rides, farms, art, food, and community outreach

• Anniversary excitement: The 125th year makes this a milestone celebration worth attending

• Weekend-ready: Late August through Labor Day, full of weekend offerings and fun—for locals and visitors alike

• Final Tips:

  • Plan early: Buy tickets online for early‑bird pricing before August 21 Buy Tickets here

  • Weekday visits (Mon, Wed, Thu) can be less crowded, great for families or laid-back exploring

  • Combine with local gems: Explore downtown Puyallup’s antiques district or the Meeker Mansion before or after the fair.

  Make it an unforgettable one—Do the Puyallup and enjoy a rich mix of thrilling rides, live music, food, community spirit, and summer fun in Washington

  The Washington State Fair 2025 is more than just a fair—it’s a celebration of community, tradition, and unforgettable summer fun in Washington. From thrilling concerts and rodeo action to delicious food, unique vendors, and family-friendly attractions, it’s the perfect way to make lasting memories. Whether you’re local to Pierce County or traveling from Thurston County and beyond, this year’s 125th anniversary promises to be one for the books. So grab your tickets, gather your friends and family, and get ready to Do the Puyallup—because this is one event you won’t want to miss!