CEO’s Message – September 2025

Local Traditions Rooted in the Land

The phrase “older is better” does not apply to very many things, but around here, there are at least 2 local institutions that do seem to get better with age: wine grapes, and the Fair! “Old vine” grapes have deeper roots, are more resilient, and can be depended on to produce a high-quality product. Old vines are cherished not just for what they produce, but for what they represent: history, family, community, agricultural bounty, and economic opportunity. They hold a through-line that tells a story. And the same can certainly be said about our local community fairs!

Founded in 1866 (just a few years after the first grape vines, by the way), the Walla Walla Fair & Frontier Days is the oldest fair in Washington State. Originally launched by the Walla Walla Agricultural Society as a showcase for the region’s crops and farming innovations, the fair has grown into a 5-day celebration featuring rodeo, live music, the ever-popular demo derby, and the Parade. The fair now draws over 90,000 visitors annually…about 3 times the population of Walla Walla!

The Columbia County Fair in Dayton began in 1888 and remains a cherished 3-day festival. Held each September, the Columbia County Fair features a rodeo and demo derby, livestock shows, 4-H and FFA competitions, and the beloved Farmer Olympics (ever seen a sheep wearing overalls…?). The Columbia County Fair provides a vital platform for youth development, local artisans, and community engagement.

The economic impact of county fairs on small communities is profound. Washington’s agricultural fairs attract over 3.3 million attendees annually, engage 68,000 exhibitors, and rely on 5,600 volunteers, contributing 136,000 hours of service valued at $4.5 million. Fairs contribute to local economies through tourism, vendor sales, job creation, and, of course, the livestock auctions.

Columbia REA has been a proud sponsor of these great traditions for decades. We actively support the local youth livestock auctions (including the Benton-Franklin Fair), purchasing dozens of animals annually. We also sponsor the rodeo and other family-friendly events, such as the Fair parade.

Beyond economics, fairs foster leadership, education, and social cohesion. Our local kids gain life skills through 4-H and FFA, families reconnect, and communities celebrate shared values. Fairs are often the only large-scale event in rural areas that bring together diverse groups for a common cause and shared enjoyment of everything our region has to offer. These are all things that Columbia REA believes in deeply. The values and benefits on display at our local fairs and other community-wide celebrations are part of Columbia REA’s heritage as well, and we will always be there, both supporting our local kids and community and participating in all the fun!

We’ll see you at the Derby!

Scott Peters, CEO