Yakima County Fairgrounds (State Fair Park) | Yakima

Yakima County Fairgrounds, formally known as State Fair Park, is a major multi-purpose event complex and cultural hub located at 1301 S. Fair Avenue, Yakima, WA 98901. Spanning over 120 acres, it is one of the most dynamic and historically significant public venues in Central Washington. The fairgrounds serve as home to the Central Washington State Fair, Yakima Valley SunDome, Yakima County Stadium, and numerous year-round events involving agriculture, sports, music, trade, and community gatherings.

🏛️ Historical Overview

Established in the late 1800s, the fairgrounds have long been associated with agricultural exhibitions and community celebrations. The Central Washington State Fair first opened in 1892, marking over a century of continuous operation. Throughout the decades, the site expanded to include livestock barns, exhibit halls, a stadium, and eventually the modern SunDome, solidifying its role as a year-round event venue.

Many structures still standing today, such as the Horticultural (Ag) Building, date back to the early 20th century and reflect the area’s agricultural heritage and craftsmanship.

🏟️ Key Facilities

1. Yakima Valley SunDome

Built in 1990, the SunDome is a massive multi-event indoor arena capable of seating:

6,200 for sports events

Up to 8,300 for concerts

Known for its distinctive concrete dome architecture, it was one of the first of its kind in the country.

Hosts high school sports championships, concerts, trade shows, graduations, conventions, and indoor rodeos.

The circular layout ensures excellent visibility from all angles.

2. Yakima County Stadium

A 2,800-seat outdoor baseball stadium, opened in 1993.

Current home of the Yakima Valley Pippins, a collegiate summer baseball team in the West Coast League.

Offers shaded seating, concessions, a press box, and a fan-friendly, intimate game atmosphere.

Also used for local and regional high school tournaments and baseball clinics.

3. Fairgrounds Complex

Includes a large network of event spaces, exhibit buildings, and outdoor staging areas:

Modern Living Building – Used for expos, crafts, banquets, and lifestyle showcases.

Pioneer Hall – A popular site for weddings, antique shows, and seminars.

State Fair Room – A meeting hall for conferences and community events.

Livestock Barns & Wilco Arena – Essential facilities for livestock competitions, 4-H animal shows, and equestrian activities.

Grandstands – Used during the fair and rodeos, seating thousands.

🎡 Annual Events & Festivities

Central Washington State Fair

Held annually in late September, spanning 10 days.

Features include:

Carnival rides, food vendors, agricultural displays

Livestock judging, 4-H and FFA competitions

Live music concerts and rodeo nights

Horticulture, quilting, and craft exhibits

Attendance often exceeds 300,000, making it the largest event in Yakima County.

Yakima Valley SunDome Events

Hosts a broad spectrum of activities such as:

WIAA high school basketball and volleyball championships

Regional job fairs, sports expos, home & garden shows

Concerts by touring national and international acts

Indoor football, martial arts tournaments, and cheerleading competitions

Other Seasonal & Specialty Events

Holiday Light Festival – Winter lights displayed throughout the park.

Dozer Day – Kids get to operate real construction equipment in a supervised environment.

Auto Shows, Dog Shows, Gem & Mineral Fairs, and Western Art Exhibits are scheduled throughout the year.

Community markets, flea markets, and cultural festivals bring diversity and vibrancy to the site.

🚗 Accessibility & Visitor Services

Parking Capacity: Over 2,000 spaces divided across multiple lots, including ADA-accessible parking. Event-specific parking fees may apply.

Main Access Route: Just off I-82, via Exit 34 (Nob Hill Blvd/Fair Avenue)-convenient for both local and out-of-town visitors.

RV Camping is often available during major events, including electrical hookups and basic amenities.

Food & Beverage: Onsite concessions and food courts offer classic fair treats, ethnic foods, and beverages during large events.

Restrooms are located throughout the grounds, with permanent and portable units added for capacity during larger functions.

🔧 Facility Rental & Community Use

The fairgrounds' facilities are available for public and private rental, with flexible layouts that accommodate:

Weddings and receptions

Trade shows and vendor markets

Corporate retreats and fundraisers

Animal expos and 4-H events

Bookings can be made for individual rooms or the entire complex, depending on the nature and size of the event.

📅 Hours of Operation

Open daily during major events

Facility hours vary by event; typically open to the public from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM

Office and scheduling departments operate Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

🧭 Cultural and Economic Role

Beyond being a venue, the Yakima County Fairgrounds is an economic driver for the region. The Central Washington State Fair alone brings in millions of dollars to the local economy through tourism, vendor sales, and temporary employment. It also serves as a cultural touchstone for generations of families who’ve grown up attending the fair or participating in agricultural showcases.

It represents Yakima’s deep-rooted agricultural heritage, strong community values, and ongoing investment in family-friendly entertainment and civic pride.