Enter to Win: What to Know About the 2026 National Cattle Congress Fair

The National Cattle Congress Fair is back in Waterloo for its 116th year, bringing four days of entertainment, contests, livestock shows, carnival rides, food, and so much more to the NCC Grounds. And guess what? We want to send you!

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The 2026 fair runs September 24th - 27th at the National Cattle Congress in Waterloo. This year’s theme is “Still Our Story. Rooted Here. Growing Forward.”

General admission is $15 for adults, while kids 8 and under get in free. Veterans and seniors can get discounted tickets at the gate. Discounted tickets are also available through the Cedar Bend Humane Society with a donation. I've got an even better idea.

Want to Win Tickets to the Fair?

Here’s your chance to head to the 116th National Cattle Congress Fair. Fill out the entry form below for your chance to win a pair of tickets.

There is plenty for you and a friend to see and do once you arrive. Fair admission includes free fairgrounds entertainment, live music, comedy acts, livestock shows, and exhibitor halls. There will also be free shows in Estel Hall and strolling entertainment throughout the fairgrounds.

Plus, music fans can catch Adam Calvert live Friday and Saturday at 8 PM. Those performances are included with fair admission.

There are also more than 50 contests taking place during the fair, along with dairy and llama shows, more than 100 exhibitors in Estel Hall, carnival rides and fair food, including Tom Thumb Donuts. Who doesn't love mini donuts!

If you are looking for something a little more western, the NCC Fair Ranch Broncs & Bull Riding Challenge is scheduled for Friday and Saturday in the Hippodrome. Tickets for the bull riding are separate from regular fair admission.

Midwest Carnival is also on hand with rides and games. Carnival hours are 3 PM to 11 PM Thursday, 11 AM to 11 PM Friday and Saturday, and 11 AM to 6 PM Sunday. Wrist bands are available for $35 with specific hours set aside.

Another option for tickets is the $30 SUPERPASS, which includes admission to the fair all four days plus a $5 food voucher. The voucher is valid once and can be redeemed at participating food vendors listed on the fair map. SUPERPASS tickets do not include carnival or Ranch Broncs & Bull Riding tickets. Tickets and additional fair information are available through the National Cattle Congress website.

Mark your calendars Thursday, September 24th through Sunday, September 27th and get ready for the 116th National Cattle Congress Fair in Waterloo.