fair guide

The Eastern Idaho State Fair, in partnership with Butler Amusements, Inc., is excited to continue its support of local high school seniors by once again offering scholarships to students graduating in 2026. The Fair’s commitment to agricultural education and youth programs is demonstrated by the $126,000 in college scholarships awarded since the program’s inception.

This year, as the committee met to discuss the more-than-qualified applicants, Director Tom Barnes commented, “How do these kids find enough hours in the day for all these activities?” The committee was impressed not only by the wide variety of exhibits and competitions these Seniors have participated in at the Eastern Idaho State Fair, but also by the sheer number of activities they are involved in off the fairgrounds.

It was because of these applicants’ impressiveness that the committee decided not only to award the traditional six $1,500 scholarships, but also to approach the board requesting approval for two more honorary scholarships for applicants who exemplified the community of fair family beyond that of 4-H/FFA. This will be something the committee looks to bring forward in the future: an emphasis on hard work through fair participation, not limited to 4-H/FFA.

The scholarship winners and their families were invited to a special dinner hosted by the Eastern Idaho State Fair Board of Directors and staff on Thursday, May 14.

Looking ahead, the 2027 scholarship will be available to graduating seniors from the 16 surrounding counties. Students competing at the Eastern Idaho State Fair, especially those involved in 4H and FFA, are encouraged to apply. Applications will be available starting January 1, 2027.