Big things are coming to Westfair! The campaign to modernize and improve the 80-acre fairgrounds and amphitheater kicked off in January with a $2.5 million boost from the Iowa West Foundation—an early and generous step toward Westfair’s $34 million goal. Most recently, the Community Foundation for Western Iowa committed $100,000 in support of the campaign and its bold vision.
Big news for The Spirit of Westfair!
- The Iowa West Foundation has issued a $2 MILLION matching grant
- The campaign has already reached the halfway point of Phase I with $5.1 MILLION raised
Now through September 2026, every gift toward The Spirit of Westfair campaign will be matched dollar-for-dollar (up to $2 million)—doubling your impact. Westfair has always been a place for connection, tradition, and opportunity—and its future will be built by those who believe in it. If you’ve been waiting for the right time to give… this is it.
Since 1974, Westfair has hosted fairs, concerts, tractor pulls, and more just outside Council Bluffs. Now, with growing community support, Westfair is gearing up for the next 50 years as a vibrant destination for ag education, live entertainment, and outdoor fun.
Westfair's Renovation Plan:
Phase 1:
Phase 1 of Westfair’s transformation focuses on building a versatile, 65,000-square-foot livestock facility designed for both comfort and connection. This new space will bring together show arenas, stalling, classrooms, and climate-controlled areas—making it a year-round destination for everything from breed shows and rodeos to educational programs and small conferences. Designed to host cattle, swine, goats, and sheep all under one roof, the facility will serve as a hub where local youth, ag professionals, and regional guests can gather, learn, and compete.
Phase 2:
The reimagined arena will bring new energy to Westfair’s outdoor event offerings. While longtime favorites like tractor pulls and Figure 8 races will continue, the updated space is designed to welcome new events such as equestrian competitions and outdoor rodeos. With improved amenities like VIP suites, a press box, ADA-compliant features, and a full concourse, the arena will offer a more comfortable and inclusive experience for every guest.
Phase 3:
Plans for the amphitheater include major upgrades to enhance the experience for both performers and fans. Artists will benefit from improvements to the stage, backstage spaces, dressing rooms, and loading areas, while guests can look forward to built-in seating, designated VIP zones, ADA-accessible areas, and smoother entry and exit for crowds of up to 12,000.
Support the Future of Westfair:
Westfair has always been more than a fairground—it’s a place where memories are made, skills are sharpened, and communities come together. Now, with a bold vision and a growing coalition of support, this transformational campaign is creating space for the next generation of agriculture, entertainment, and outdoor experiences in Southwest Iowa.
Every contribution moves them closer to realizing a vibrant, year-round destination that serves youth, families, performers, and fans across the region. Whether you give $50 or $5,000, your support helps fuel the future of Westfair. Join the movement—and be part of what’s next. Email [email protected] to get involved!
The Future of Westfair:
The future of Westfair is defined by remarkable growth and impact—their goal is to increase its annual economic impact from $2.8 million to $27 million, to expanding participation among 4-H and FFA members from 375 to 600. The number of annual events is set to rise from 40 to 100, while concert attendance is projected to grow from 20,000 to 100,000. Overall, total annual attendance is expected to more than double, climbing from 67,000 to 150,000—positioning Westfair as a premier destination for agriculture, entertainment, and community connection.
Ways to Support
- Multi-Year Giving: Spreading your commitment over time makes a larger gift possible—and it’s one of the most popular ways supporters are investing in Westfair’s future.
- Gifts of Grain: A tax-smart option for farmers. Simple, meaningful, and rooted in the land that sustains Westfair.
- Gifts of Stock: Turn appreciated assets into impact. Donating stock may provide tax advantages while helping build opportunities for generations to come.
- Estate Gifts & Endowment Support: Leave a legacy by including Westfair in your estate planning, or invest in the endowment at the Community Foundation for Western Iowa to ensure lasting impact. The Friends of Westfair team is available to help guide you through the process.
- Donor-Advised Fund Contributions: If you have a donor-advised fund (DAF), you can direct a gift to The Spirit of Westfair campaign or its endowment—making giving simple and strategic.
