Spirit of America: WSF announces participation in the National Great American Fair Initiative
The Wyoming State Fair (WSF) is honored to announce its participation in the National Great American Fair initiative, a national campaign launched by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States of America.
This effort invites all 50 state fairs in a year-long celebration of patriotism, community and the American way of life, starting in 2025 and building toward the nation’s official semiquincentennial in 2026.
“Fifty percent of the militia who launched the American Revolution had backgrounds in agriculture,” Gov. Mark Gordon noted. “I think this speaks to the character of this country and the importance of American agriculture and its critical place in the fabric of our country.”
“Designating the 2025 WSF as a Great American State Fair is a meaningful way to recognize the values and traditions which have long defined our state,” said Nick Neylon, a member of the Governor’s Semiquincentennial Task Force and a WSF Board member. “As our country marks its 250th anniversary, this designation celebrates Wyoming’s unique heritage and our contributions to the American story. It’s a great time to reflect on our past, celebrate the present and look ahead to a promising future.”
The WSF, now celebrating 120 years of honoring agriculture, youth and Western heritage, is proud to help kick off this monumental celebration. As the official fair of Wyoming and a longstanding symbol of rural tradition, the fair aligns naturally with the spirit of America.
“At the WSF, we’re all about celebrating Western heritage,” said Shawn Steffen, president of the WSF Board. “And let’s be honest, nothing says America like the Wyoming way of life.”
Rooted in the traditions that built the country – agriculture, hard work, resilience and a strong sense of community – state fairs have long served as a unifying space where people of all walks of life come together.
This legacy continues in Wyoming, where patriotism and pride run deep.
“Most Wyoming citizens are very patriotic, and fairs are a celebration of the heritage and legacy of their regions,” said Laurie Boner, Converse County representative on the WSF Board. “The WSF aligns well with the mission of America 250 – any time we can celebrate patriotism and the dedication of our military, both past and present, is an opportunity we are honored to participate in.”
Through exhibits, grandstand events and fairground festivities, the 2025 WSF will highlight the people and industries that power not just the state, but the nation – agriculture, education, natural resources and service.
“At the WSF, we love the fair industry, and we love our country,” said Courtny Hinds, WSF general manager. “America was built on agricultural roots and the very values we champion every day – agriculture, education, youth and Western lifestyle. This is why we’re excited to participate in the Great American Fair Initiative and showcase the best of Wyoming while celebrating everything that makes our nation truly great.”
The 2025 WSF will take place Aug. 12-16 in Douglas and promises a patriotic showcase of the Cowboy State’s culture, traditions and people.
Fairgoers can expect a mix of entertainment, educational exhibits and community celebrations that tie directly into the Great American Fair Initiative.
Kota Provence is the WSF marketing and communications liaison. For more information, visit wystatefair.com.
