Saddle Up for the 2025 Linn County Fair and Rodeo: A Kansas Tradition
When the dust kicks up and the summer sun beats down on the rolling plains of eastern Kansas, you know it's time for one of the Prairie Circuit's most anticipated events—the Linn County Fair and Rodeo. Set for August 8-9, 2025, in the charming community of Mound City, this PRCA-sanctioned event promises two unforgettable days of world-class rodeo action, family entertainment, and the rich traditions that have made county fairs the heartbeat of rural America.
A Storied Tradition in the Heartland
The fairgrounds in Mound City transform each August into a celebration of both agricultural heritage and contemporary western sports. While the fairgrounds may seem quiet most of the year, come rodeo weekend, the grounds pulse with energy as stock trailers roll in, vendors set up shop, and competitors prepare for their moment in the arena.
"There's something special about competing in these community rodeos," says one regular Prairie Circuit competitor. "The crowds are knowledgeable, passionate, and they really appreciate good rodeo. Mound City always brings out the best in us."
The Linn County Fair and Rodeo has established itself as more than just a stop on the PRCA circuit—it's a community gathering that celebrates the region's western heritage while providing a crucial opportunity for cowboys and cowgirls to earn their share of the impressive $15,000 purse as they chase their championship dreams.
World-Class Competition in the Prairie Circuit
As a sanctioned PRCA event in the Prairie Circuit (covering Kansas, Oklahoma, and Nebraska), the Linn County Rodeo attracts top talent from across the region and beyond. Competitors know that every point counts on the road to circuit finals and, ultimately, the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas.
Each evening's performance will showcase the full slate of classic rodeo events:
Bareback Riding: Where man meets beast in one of rodeo's most physically demanding events
Steer Wrestling: The ultimate test of timing, strength, and precision
Team Roping: A showcase of partnership between ropers and their horses
Saddle Bronc Riding: Rodeo's classic event, often called "the ballet of western sports"
Tie-Down Roping: A demonstration of skill, speed, and cowboy precision
Barrel Racing: Where the women of rodeo showcase speed and horsemanship in a race against the clock
Bull Riding: The "most dangerous eight seconds in sports" caps off each performance
The stock for the 2025 edition promises to be exceptional, with proven bucking horses and bulls that give competitors a fair chance at a winning score—if they can stay aboard for the required eight seconds.
More Than Just Rodeo
While the rodeo performances serve as the centerpiece of the weekend, the Linn County Fair offers a complete fair experience that has something for everyone in the family.
The fairgrounds come alive with:
Agricultural Exhibits: Showcasing the best livestock, crops, and handiwork from local producers
Carnival Midway: Featuring rides and games for thrill-seekers of all ages
Vendor Marketplace: Where local artisans and businesses display their wares
Concessions: Offering everything from classic fair food to local specialties
Live Entertainment: Including music and performances throughout the weekend
One of the highlights of the 2025 fair will be the "Tough Enough to Wear Pink" night, where the rodeo community comes together to raise awareness and funds for breast cancer research. The arena transforms into a sea of pink as competitors, staff, and fans show their support for this important cause.
Planning Your Rodeo Weekend
When and Where
Dates: August 8-9, 2025
Location: Linn County Fairgrounds, Mound City, Kansas
Performances: Nightly at 7:30 PM, with slack competitions (preliminary rounds) scheduled as needed
Ticket Information
Tickets for the 2025 Linn County Fair and Rodeo will go on sale June 8, 2025—exactly two months before the event. Mark your calendars, as popular seating sections tend to sell quickly!
Several ticket options will be available:
General Admission: Perfect for families and groups who want flexibility
Reserved Seating: Guaranteeing you a specific seat for your chosen performance
VIP Packages: Including premium seating and additional perks
Family Packages: Making it affordable to bring the whole crew
Tickets will be available for purchase directly through this website when sales open. For those who prefer the traditional approach, tickets will also be available at the fairgrounds box office during regular business hours starting in June.
Special discounts will be offered for:
Make It a Weekend
For visitors coming from outside Linn County, consider making a weekend of it. The area offers several accommodation options, from hotels in nearby larger communities to camping opportunities at the fairgrounds (reservations recommended).
The fairgrounds open to the public at noon each day, giving you plenty of time to explore the exhibits, enjoy the midway, and sample the food before the evening's rodeo performance. Come early to secure parking, as spaces closest to the arena fill quickly.
The Cowboy Experience
There's something magical about a summer rodeo that can't be replicated anywhere else. Perhaps it's the anticipation that builds as you find your seat in the grandstands, the smell of arena dirt mingling with barbecue smoke, or the electricity in the air when the grand entry begins.
"I've been coming to this rodeo since I was knee-high to a grasshopper," shares one local rancher. "Now I bring my grandkids. The fair's changed some over the years, but that feeling when the chute gate swings open—that never changes."
For first-time attendees, the Linn County Rodeo offers an authentic introduction to the sport. The announcers take time to explain the events, scoring, and traditions, ensuring everyone can appreciate the skill and courage on display. Veterans of the sport will appreciate the quality of competition and stock that have become hallmarks of this Prairie Circuit event.
Community Impact
The economic impact of the fair and rodeo extends far beyond the fairgrounds. Local businesses—from restaurants to retail shops—see a significant boost during the event weekend. The rodeo committee works year-round with local sponsors to ensure the event's success while keeping it accessible to families.
"This isn't just a sporting event," explains a committee member. "It's a celebration of who we are as a community. The fair and rodeo bring together generations of families, connect urban visitors with our agricultural roots, and showcase the best of Linn County."
A Tradition Worth Continuing
As the sun sets over the arena on the final night of competition, and the last bull rider nods for the gate, there's always a moment of reflection among the crowd. Another year of memories made, another chapter in the story of the Linn County Fair and Rodeo.
For some in attendance, it's been a chance to reconnect with friends and neighbors. For others, it's been an introduction to the thrilling world of professional rodeo. For the competitors, it's been another opportunity to test their mettle against the best stock and their peers.
And for everyone, it's been a reminder of why these traditions endure—because they speak to something essential about our shared heritage and values.
The 2025 Linn County Fair and Rodeo promises to continue this proud tradition. Whether you're a seasoned rodeo fan or considering your first visit, mark your calendars for August 8-9, 2025. The bucking chutes of Mound City are calling, and the next chapter of this Kansas tradition is waiting to be written.
Remember: Tickets go on sale June 8, 2025. Check back here for purchase options when sales begin. Don't miss your chance to be part of the excitement!