Verde Valley Fair Makes a Grand Comeback in Cottonwood This Spring!

The Verde Valley Fair is set to return to the Verde Valley Fairgrounds in Cottonwood from April 30 to May 4, promising a variety of activities for attendees.

Opening day is scheduled for Wednesday, April 30, at 9 a.m. Livestock shows and arts and crafts will kick off, and amusement rides will operate from 4 to 10:30 p.m. The gate will close at 10 p.m. In honor of Senior Citizen Day, all seniors over age 60 will gain free admission.

On Thursday, May 1, gates will open at 10 a.m., featuring rides from noon to 10:30 p.m. This day is designated as Armed Forces Day, allowing free entry for those presenting a current military ID. Additionally, it’s Buddy Night; individuals purchasing one wristband between 2 and 7 p.m. can obtain a second at half price, provided their buddy is present during the purchase.

Friday, May 2, starts at 10 a.m. with rides available from 11 a.m. until 10:30 p.m. The fair will remain open until 11 p.m., coinciding with a closure of Cottonwood-area schools to encourage student attendance.

Saturday, May 3, will open at 9 a.m. with rides ready for fun from 10 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. The gates will close at 11 p.m.

Finally, Sunday, May 4, will see the fair opening at 10 a.m. and rides operational from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with the gates closing at 4 p.m. Known as Sunday Fun Day, attendees can enjoy entry and a ride pass for $20 at the ticket booth between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., although the Freak Out ride requires additional tokens.

Admission fees are structured at $5 on Wednesday and $10 from Thursday to Sunday. Children aged 5 and under are granted free access.

Advance purchase for unlimited ride wristbands is $35, while on-site prices rise to $45. These discounted wristbands can be found at local retailers including Safeway and Food City in Cottonwood and Bashas’ in Sedona and Camp Verde.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the fair. In 1965, Don Goddard and associates initiated the FFA Calf Sale, including 4-H members to minimize travel burdens. The event saw locations like the American Legion Hall and the Civic Center utilized for various exhibits, with Doc Pardee serving as the auctioneer.

By 1968, the fair transitioned to its current location after the purchase of land by Ersel Garrison. Crews constructed the Blue Exhibit Barn, now known as the Gyberg Barn, signaling a new era for the community event.