Safford Prepares for the 99th Annual Graham County Fair
Get your boots ready—exciting times are just around the corner. The historic 99th annual Graham County Fair kicks off today and runs through Sunday, October 12th, in Safford, Arizona. This festival is a much-anticipated tradition featuring a blend of family-oriented entertainment, thrilling livestock competitions, delicious food, and a fantastic array of music that will keep you dancing all night. Whether you’re a longtime resident or visiting for the first time, this year’s fair promises to be grander and more surprising, creating memories you’ll cherish for years to come.
Thursday, October 9th marks the start, with gates opening at 5 p.m. Visitors can explore stunning home economics displays, photography, art, and more in the exhibit building. For animal enthusiasts, there’s a market show beginning at 4:30 p.m. in the livestock arena, showcasing lambs, pigs, and steers. Kids and the young at heart won’t want to miss the interactive show, “Dinosaurs Take Over!” at 5:15 p.m. The evening lineup includes the Rising Star Competition at 5 p.m., performances by the Zaylee Windsor Band from 5:45 p.m. to 7:45 p.m., and the Jesse Lee Band from 8:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Carnival rides start at 6 p.m., and a beer tent opens at 5 p.m. Admission costs are $6 for adults, $5 for seniors, $2 for kids aged 5-10, while infants under 5 can enter for free.
On Friday, October 10th, activities commence at noon and run until 11 p.m. The day kicks off with a pig, lamb, and steer showmanship contest at 8 a.m. For those who love parades, one will begin at 10 a.m. on Main Street, showcasing colorful floats, lively bands, and the spirit of the community. Afternoon activities feature a Rising Star Competition in dance and gymnastics at 1 p.m., followed by shows from local performers. At 5 p.m., the dinosaurs will make another appearance, with more entertainment to follow, including a karate demo and live music from AZ/DZ, which begins at 5:45 p.m. Savannah Jack will perform later at 8:45 p.m. Carnival rides start at 1 p.m., with the beer tent opening just a bit earlier.
Saturday, October 11th showcases the festival’s peak, filled with both competition and relaxation from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. Early risers can join the Fair 5K or the disc golf tournament at 8 a.m. Family games start at 11 a.m., leading to the carnival opening at 1 p.m. Live entertainment kicks off with Savannah Jack at 1 p.m., followed by a variety of acts throughout the day, ensuring a lively atmosphere. The coronations of activities include a cornhole tournament at 5 p.m. in the beer tent, which will open at 10 a.m.
As the fair winds down, Sunday, October 12th will see a quieter close from noon to 5 p.m. Attendees can enjoy final exhibits, with rides set to start at 1 p.m. and three more dinosaur takeover shows at 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., and 4 p.m. It’s a chance for one last taste of fair fun before exhibits close at 4 p.m.
The fair operates on a cash-only basis at the gates (with ATMs on-site). It’s an opportunity to embrace community spirit, agriculture, and the joyous essence of Arizona. Mark your calendars, or better yet, head out now! The 99th Annual Graham County Fair awaits—where traditions thrive and exciting new adventures emerge.
Graham County Fair Parade
Don’t forget to catch the Graham County Fair Parade on Friday, October 10, starting at 10 a.m. This event brings the community together to celebrate the fair’s theme, featuring colorful floats, marching bands, and decorated vehicles parading down Main Street. Jim and Serinda Palmer will be the grand marshals for this festive occasion.
