Just about everybody loves going to the fair. It is an event so full of excitement and fun and new things to see and do that you almost can’t help but love it! Most people have fair memories full of things like cotton candy, Ferris wheels, livestock shows, corndogs, concerts and more – and the Ozark Empire Fair, held annually in Springfield, Missouri, about an hour north of Branson, has all that and then some. If you happen to be visiting Branson during the fair season and are looking for something fun to do, you are in for a treat!
The Ozark Empire Fairgrounds are always a host site to a fun and interesting event – but the biggest and the best is, of course, the annual Ozark Empire Fair. For seventy-eight years, the fair has been bringing joy and excitement to the Ozarks community. Ozark Empire Fair (OEF) has grassroots beginnings in the early 1900s. What began as a traveling display of handwork and crafts that was always held somewhere in Springfield soon grew in popularity so that the fair needed a more permanent location. A location was found next to the grounds of the city zoo, and once it was approved, stock shares in the new endeavor were offered; thanks to the monetary funds from the stocks, along from many financial gifts from those in the community, construction was soon underway.
The first official Ozark Empire Fair held at the OEF Fairgrounds and Event center was held in October of 1937. The popularity of OEF continued to grow and today, the event attracts thousands through its gates each year. Visitors can enjoy a carnival put on by Wade Shows, where you can ride all those thrillers that only the fair can offer. Pig races, petting zoos and camel rides are also favorites – after all, who wouldn’t want to cheer on a pig or find out what it’s like to perch on a camel’s hump? Music, art displays, a local market, and plenty of kid activities are also on hand for your OEF enjoyment. Be sure to catch a livestock show while you are there – no fair is complete without seeing a few cute kids showing cows and sheep.
OEF is constantly adding new rides, exhibits and activities. You’ll want to come back year after year to continue making great fair memories with your family!
