116th National Cattle Congress Fair

National Cattle Congress Fair

September 24-27

Discover Iowa’s Deep Agricultural Roots & Modern Fair Fun!

National Cattle Congress Website

Every autumn, the historic National Cattle Congress (NCC) Grounds in Waterloo come alive with rich agricultural traditions, family-friendly fun, thrill rides, and live entertainment. Dating back to 1910, the National Cattle Congress Fair is a staple of the Cedar Valley’s history and one of the region’s premier annual events.

Whether you’re in town for dairy shows, rodeos, carnival rides, or live music, here is everything you need to know to plan your visit to Waterloo for the fair!

2026 Fair Highlights & Entertainment

Strolling Shows & Family Grounds Entertainment

  • Dangerous Feats of Comedy
  • Poppin' Penelope's Magic Show
  • Gizmo D Robot, Agri-Bot, Hillbilly Bob, and the Living Statue
  • Llama Limbo & Llama Shows in the South Anniversary Hall
  • 15+ Food Vendors serving fair classics (including famous Tom Thumb Donuts!)

Dairy Shows, Exhibitions & Contests

  • Supreme Champion Dairy Heifer Scholarship Show, along with Open and Youth Dairy Shows.
  • 100+ Exhibitors inside Estel Hall.
  • Horticulture, Home Arts & Contests: Quilting, baking challenges (including the Mayor's Cookie Jar and $100 Cinnamon Roll Challenge), Great Chili Cook-Off, Great Pumpkin Contest, and new Patriotic Red, White & Blue creative art categories.

Key Event Info & Admission

Location

National Cattle Congress Grounds, 257 Ansborough Ave, Waterloo, IA 50701

Fair Admission Options

General Admission: Available at the gate or online. (Children 8 & under receive FREE admission!)
SUPERPASS: Includes a 4-day admission pass plus a $5 food voucher.

Buy ticket

Carnival Hours

Thursday: 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Friday & Saturday: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Visitor Tip

A general fair admission ticket includes entry to all free grounds shows, free live pavilion music, agricultural exhibits, and over 100 indoor vendors in Estel Hall! Rodeo events are sold separately.

Fair Dates & Hours

Thursday, Sept. 24: 9 AM-11 PM
Friday, Sept. 25: 9 AM-11 PM
Saturday, Sept. 26: 9 AM-11 PM
Sunday, Sept. 27: 9 AM-6 PM