From youth exhibits to diverse entertainment, along with all the Oaks Amusement Park rides, see why volunteers say this year’s County Fair offers something for every family …
Taking a ride on the Oaks Park Train – while planning for the 120th annual Multnomah County Fair – are Friends of Multnomah County Fair President Larry Smith, Secretary and Foods Exhibits Superintendent Deena Carl, and Fiber Arts Superintendent Kimberly Walters.
Story and photos by David F. Ashton
“The Multnomah County Fair is a time-honored tradition that continues to build community as we prepare to host our 120th season,” Friends of Multnomah County Fair President Larry Smith remarked, inviting everyone to join the celebration this Memorial Day weekend at historic, nonprofit Oaks Amusement Park.
The fair opens on Saturday, May 23 at noon, and runs for just three days – through Monday, May 25, when it comes to an end at 7:00 p.m. “During times like this, it is more important than ever to continue to bring people together and foster intercultural understanding,” Smith explained.
In the newly-remodeled Oaks Dance Pavilion, Multnomah County Fair VP of Logistics and Arts Superintendent Jeff Walters measures off the dimensions for setting up Creative Living Exhibition displays.
Back in the 1990s, when the Multnomah County Commission inexplicably decided to get out of the Fair business, it could easily have disappeared. “A small but determined group of community members recognized the value of this longstanding community event, and put in a lot of work to keep it going,” Smith recalled. “Today, the Friends of the Multnomah County Fair leadership team continues to be made up of dedicated volunteers.”
New fair layout this year
With construction beginning on the “Oaks Park Reimagining” project, fairgoers will notice a different layout this year. “Most of our entertainment and vendor offerings will be relocated to the south end of the grounds,” Smith pointed out, “and they’ll be connected to the community exhibits in the historic dance pavilion by traversing the river walk pathway.”
Look for the Creative Living Exhibition competition to return in the Dance Pavilion. Archive image
After a one-year absence, due to the extensive remodel of the historic Oaks Dance Pavilion, the popular Creative Living Exhibition competitions are back – including departments for Arts & Crafts, Floral, Photography, Needle Crafts, Foods, and more. “We’re placing additional emphasis on youth exhibits, created by kids up to age 18,” Smith said.
“You can enter your projects on Thursday, May 21st, from noon to 8 p.m., and you do not need to be a resident of Multnomah County to participate,” Smith encouraged. “Full details on categories and how to enter are available on our website,” he added – referring readers to https://multcofair.com/pageserver/exhibits.
Exciting, colorful entertainment is promised at this year’s fair. Archive image
“This year’s entertainment theme will again emphasize cultural diversity,” Smith announced, “featuring some of our most popular returning acts as well as additional local talent. As always, gate admission to the fair is free, and it includes entry to all acts performing on the stage. Just remember to pay for parking!”
Professional Lucha Libre wrestling returns to the fair this year. Archive image
Sunday, May 24 will be La Familia Day, highlighting Latino-based entertainment. “We will feature colorful Aztec dancers, Ballet Folklorico, mariachi, and more,” Smith emphasized. “We will once again offer Lucha Libre wrestling matches, which always draw a large and enthusiastic group of fans.”
It wouldn’t be a County Fair without rides, and Oaks Amusement Park has them. Archive image
“Whether you come for the exhibits, the food, the entertainment, or simply to see your neighbors, the Multnomah County Fair is meant to be a welcoming place for everyone,” Smith concluded. “It’s an opportunity to celebrate local creativity and culture in an atmosphere that is affordable, family-friendly, and deeply rooted in our county’s history.”
For the schedule of 2026 Multnomah County Fair events and more information: CLICK HERE.
© 2026 David F. Ashton ~ East Portland News™
