Don't Miss the 2015 Hillsborough County Fair!

Release: Hillsborough County Fair

The annual Hillsborough County Fair is back! Due to last year’s success, the fair will be open two weekends in 2015. The fair opens Thursday, Oct. 22, and runs through Sunday, Oct. 25. It will reopen Thursday, Oct. 29, and run through Sunday, Nov. 1, at the County Fairgrounds just east of Brandon on Highway 60.

This year’s theme is “Blue Jeans & Country Dreams,” and there’s a long list of activities and events to go along with it.

Arena Events

This year’s fair will feature an action-packed schedule of excitement in the 1,800-seat outdoor arena. Tickets to all arena events are $10. If you buy your event tickets in advance, you get free admission to the fair on the day of the event.

Two nights of Extreme Ranch Rodeo will return at 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23, and Saturday, Oct. 24. Real Ranch hands compete in wild cow milking, bronc riding, branding, trailer loading and mutton busting for the children.

At 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, the Bulls and Barrels show will have you on the edge of your seat.

The following Friday and Saturday nights, Oct. 30-31, dirt will be flying in the arena when it hosts the Truck and Tractor Pull competition.

The fair wraps up with a “bang” Sunday, Nov. 1, with the Demolition Derby. Cars will crash and bash for cash. Last car moving wins!

Livestock Shows and More

Livestock shows are a staple at the fair and this year is no exception. Shows will feature dairy, beef, goats, sheep, swine, rabbits, horses and poultry. Home arts, canning, sewing, baking, fine art, photography and needlework is open to everyone, along with special “just for kids” competitions. The always interesting Recycled Yard Art competition returns.

Free shows include Robinson’s Racing Pigs running and swimming to the finish line, The Firefighter Show, and Herriot’s Family Fun Circus with horses, dogs and people performing to the delight of the crowds.

Our Hometown Hillsborough area is like a walk through yesteryear. This historical area continues to grow and will feature hay rides, scarecrow making, sugar cane grinding and syrup making. The art of charcoal making and blacksmithing will be demonstrated. The area will be rounded out with old engines and machinery.

Round bale decorating, bullwhip cracking, FFA/4-H Day, cooking contest and a horticulture show, and a coloring contest round out some of the youth competitions.

The 2015 Amateur Talent Show sponsored by Owens’ Air Conditioning and Heating will highlight Hillsborough County residents of all ages as they showcase their talents throughout the second weekend of the fair in the entertainment tent.

Arnold’s Amusements return with the spectacular family oriented ride midway. Wristband ride specials are available each day of the fair.

The Bay Area Bandits mounted shooters will perform in the arena on Saturday morning, Oct. 31. Come see the mounted shooting excitement of the Old West in action! It’s free!

Let’s not forget your favorite fair food! Sausage, fries, elephant ears, roasted corn, corn dogs and deep-fried Oreos just to name a few.

The Hillsborough County Fair is produced annually by hundreds of volunteers to preserve and promote the history, agriculture, education and culture of the county.

Visit hillsboroughcountyfair.com for more information about specific events and activities.