The 2025 Mercer County Fair promises a week of excitement, tradition, and community connection as it returns to Aledo from July 7th through the 12th, with most of the action kicking off Tuesday the 8th. Mercer County Fair Board President Rita Williams joined WRMJ’s Focus program this week to preview all that’s new and returning.
Tuesday evening’s highlight is the always-popular Queen Pageant, featuring 51 contestants across the Little Miss, Junior Miss, and Miss Mercer County divisions. “Ledith Whitehall and her team do a fantastic job,” Williams said. “It’s a very fancy show, and it’s something people look forward to every year.”
A notable change comes on Wednesday, with RPM flat track motorcycle races now scheduled that evening. Riders reach speeds of up to 100 miles per hour on the newly improved half-mile track. Wednesday is also Kids’ Day, with $30 wristbands for unlimited carnival rides and a drawing for a boy’s and girl’s bike, sponsored by Walmart.
Thursday brings Senior Citizens and Democrat Day, complete with bingo, free meals, and country music entertainment. That evening also features the fan-favorite Night of Destruction, now with a twist—appliance races. In this new event, used appliances are strapped to four- and six-cylinder cars during a wild race that rewards the last vehicle standing with the most appliances still attached.
Republican Day follows on Friday, and it’s packed with 4-H events, carnival fun, and the much-anticipated Youth Livestock Auction at 6 p.m. Longtime auction emcee Mike Peterson says the auction plays a crucial role in supporting local youth. “It helps finance their projects and college education,” Peterson said. “Last year we broke another record, hitting approximately $73,000, thanks to the overwhelming support from our community.”
The fair concludes Saturday with the Demo Derby—always a packed crowd favorite. Throughout the week, visitors can enjoy a variety of food vendors, displays, and shuttle services to make parking and access easier. A new announcer’s booth will also make its debut this year as part of ongoing fairground improvements.
The 2025 Mercer County Fair is shaping up to be one of the best yet. WRMJ will be on hand to cover the Youth Livestock Auction and will feature interviews with the grand champions Saturday morning on-air. For now, mark your calendar and get ready for a week full of memories.