State Fair Park

In 1892 the first fair was held in Yakima when a group of businessmen assumed the responsibility of putting on a fair in a downtown building.
Previous to this time the entire State of Washington, for a period of two years, had been in an uproar trying to decide on the location of the State Capitol. On February 16, 1892, the Legislature made its decision and Yakima received the nod for the State Fair and Olympia retained the title of Capitol City.The bill creating the State Agricultural Fair was passed on March 2, 1893, and $10,000 was set aside for work on the buildings. One hundred and twenty acres of land was purchased and by September 24, 1894, the following buildings, etc., had been erected: A grandstand large enough to seat 2,000 people, a racetrack, a mile track, an exhibit hall, 100 horse stalls, and a judges stand that was three stories high.

Agricultural exhibits started pouring in from all over the State, as well as livestock exhibits. They held Indian races, war dances, coyote hunts, harness races, and horse races. This type of fair continued and around 1915 the automobile was attracting a great deal of attention and many were on display at the Auto Show which was one of the main attractions. But horse racing, fruits and agriculture, and livestock still kept a predominant position in the Fair."The object and purpose for which this Association is formed is:

1. For the purpose of promoting, developing, and cultivating an interest in Agriculture and Horticulture in Central Washington.
2. To provide for a Central Washington Fair to be held in Yakima, Washington.
3. To stimulate the interest in boys and girls in farming and farming activities and to provide an opportunity for them to exhibit farm products.
4. To stimulate an interest in farming activities with citizens of the State of Washington regardless of age."

The annual Fair is truly a showcase of agriculture -- with the world-renowned Grange displays, all forms of livestock, horticultural displays, farm equipment -- and the fastest-growing agricultural commodity for the Yakima Valley -- wine and wine grapes.

Produce an annual agricultural fair and develop year-around use of facilities. With a commitment to:

• Preserve and develop our historic grounds and year-round multi-use facilities;
• Offer quality and diversity of entertainment, sports, and education;
• Provide a safe, friendly, and enjoyable environment;
• Acknowledge the involvement of dedicated people and groups;
• Build on the tradition of our first 100 years for future generations.

Explore Related Categories