KENNEWICK, Wash. – The Benton Franklin Fair & Horse Heaven Round-Up wrapped up its spectacular 77th year in August, delivering stunning attendance figures, huge economic benefits, and unforgettable memories, reinforcing its role as an essential regional event.
REACH & IMPACT
- 123,333 people experienced the magic of the Fair over five incredible days.
- $20 million economic impact boosted Benton County's economy.
- Visitors traveled from 41 states to attend, showcasing the Fair's national appeal.
- Horse Heaven Round-Up rodeo broadcast live on The Cowboy Channel to 42million households.
RECORD-BREAKING COMMUNITY IMPACT
- $1.5 million generated at the Market Stock Auction – the largest grossing youth livestock auction in Washington State – setting yet another record.
- $10,000 in scholarships awarded to youth participants.
- $189,797 raised by nonprofits and community organizations for their programs.
- $2,852 donated to 2nd Harvest from opening day sales. The Fair has contributed the equivalent of 178,000 pounds of food over 17 years.
COMMUNITY CELEBRATION HIGHLIGHTS
- 87 free shows delighted families across the grounds, featuring mutton bustin’, pigracing and local musicians.
- Nine food vendors participated in the Value Meal program, providing delicious, family-friendly priced fair meals for only $9.99-$15.
- Delivered 85 participants for the Red Cross blood drive hosted by the Fair, exceeding the goal by 10 units of blood and drawing 19 first-time donors.
ACCESSIBILITY & INCLUSION
- 746 school employees received free admission courtesy of STCU – a perfect back-to-school treat.
- 30,641 FREE bus rides provided by Ben Franklin Transit, sponsored by CPPCo and the Fair.
- Benton County Therapeutic Court summer graduates received 80 complimentary Fair tickets.
- 124 young cowboys and cowgirls participated in Rascal Rodeo adaptive rodeo along with 96 enthusiastic volunteers.
- Created valuable workforce development with Columbia Ability Alliance through the daily Welcome Wagon partnership.
- Celebrated National Thrift Shop Day with Goodwill Industries of the Columbia, exceeding first year expectations with donations and outreach.
YOUTH DEVELOPMENT SUCCESS
- Two first-year livestock exhibitors who successfully completed their projects earned $1,100 GALE Grants.
- $2,250 awarded through the innovative Youth Livestock Video Contest, enhancing educational experiences.
- Provided Fair and Rodeo tickets valued at $31,250 to bring Boys & Girls Club and Big Bro Joe Foundation clients to the event through the Horse Heaven Round-Up’s My First Rodeo Initiative.
BY THE NUMBERS:
- 189 direct jobs created by the Fair, with hundreds more through vendors and contractors.
- 500+ volunteers made the magic happen.
- 6,719 elephant ears fried by the dedicated Rotary Club.
- 5 days of pure summer fun that created lasting memories for families.
The Benton Franklin Fair and Horse Heaven Round-Up are produced by a nonprofit 501c3 organization, and the Fair was honored as Nonprofit of the Year for its standout fiscal stewardship, exceptional community impact and volunteer engagement. The 78th annual event returns August 25-29, 2026. Mark your calendars for another unforgettable celebration of community, agriculture, and family fun!