This summer, we’re exploring Council Bluffs through firsthand adventures — one local gem at a time. Follow along as Emily Newby, an intern with the Council Bluffs CVB, shares authentic experiences from trails to treats, and everything in between.
Celebrating 50 Years of Fun at the West Pottawattamie County Fair
Westfair Fairgrounds and Amphitheater, located just east of Council Bluffs, is home to the annual West Pottawattamie County Fair—affectionately known as Westfair. This beloved local tradition takes place the last full week of July each year and includes the 4-H Fair, midway rides, arena events, and more. I visited the fairgrounds during this year’s milestone celebration—Westfair’s 50th anniversary—and found something fun for everyone.
When I arrived at the fairgrounds on opening night, people were bustling. Kids attended to their sheep, goats, cows, and more during check-in times. The gaga ball pit was set up in the middle of the grounds, and kids of all ages were playing. The goal is to roll the ball using only your hands to try to hit other players below the knees to get them out. I have tried it in prior years, but decided to let the kids have all the fun this year!
I came to Westfair to watch some of my friends participate in the Westfair Queen pageant. I was a contestant last year and was named Miss Citizenship. The pageant takes place in the show ring, and luckily, there was not a heat wave this year! The person named Queen then gets to represent West Pottawattamie County at the Iowa State Fair in August.
After the crowning, I looked around the 4-H exhibit building. I was a 4-Her for 11 years with the Crescent Innovators, so I really liked getting to look at everyone’s projects and especially my club’s booth. There were a wide variety of projects, from baked goods to welded sculptures to plants potted in “anything but a pot” (toilet, guitar, soccer ball).
There were many food stand options near the midway area. I grabbed a quick snack from Silos, a restaurant based out of Treynor. I opted for the cheese curds; as expected, greasy carnival food never disappoints! I then went to the back of the fairgrounds to the arena event area. The Tractor Pull event had packed stands. The following nights featured the Figure 8 races and the popular Demolition Derby.
Westfair Fairgrounds and Amphitheater also hosts concerts and events throughout the year at its outdoor venue. I’m excited to see what the future holds as the Spirit of Westfair Capital Campaign could bring incredible enhancements to this lively venue. The campaign aims to raise $34 million to support a 65,000 square foot livestock facility, a reimagined arena with improved amenities, and upgrades to the amphitheater, including built-in seating. The vision honors the fair’s legacy while investing in future generations.
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