Show Us What You’ve Got: Colorado State Fair Competitions Open for 2026

Artists, artisans and crafters from across the Centennial State are invited to compete for "Best in Show" at the 2026 Colorado State Fair.

The Colorado State Fair's General Entry and Fine Arts competitions feature a wide range of categories, for both amateurs and professionals, such as art, crafts, baking, canning, crocheting, dolls, agricultural mechanics, floriculture, needle arts, pantry, porcelain art, quilts, sewing, and farm and garden.

In addition, the fair offers Special Contests that invite broader participation and creativity, including poetry, coloring for all ages, and the always popular Pet Rock competition.

"Not only do these entries represent thousands of passions and hobbies, they also provide a way to remain connected to the heritage and legacy of the Colorado State Fair," said Andrea Wiesenmeyer, state fair general manager. "Each year, thousands of entries are submitted, creating strong competition and showcasing the best of Colorado."

This year, for the first time, the State Fair will host a live-judged Tablescaping Competition on Friday, September 4, featuring two-person teams competing under one of two themes: "Setting Colorado's Table: 150 Years of Agricultural Legacy" or the 2026 fair theme, "Fairitage" (Your Fair. Your Heritage. Celebrate Your Fairitage).

"The Colorado State Fair has a long tradition of showcasing creativity, tradition and community, and this new tablescaping competition brings all of those elements together in a fresh, visual way," Wiesenmeyer said. "This is a unique new contest that we're very excited about."

To recognize the talent among the fine arts submissions, the fair officially kicks off with a Fine Arts artists' reception on Thursday, August 27. The reception, which is open to the public, offers an opportunity to meet artists and celebrate work across a variety of mediums from around the state.

This exclusive preview grants attendees the first opportunity to purchase these exceptional works, allowing you to take home a piece of the Centennial State. Purchasing Colorado art helps directly champion the talented local creators who preserve our vibrant cultural legacy and keep Colorado's creative spirit thriving.

Each year, the Fair also hosts a hobby wine, craft beer, and homebrew competition. Those winners have just been announced at ColoradoStateFair.com.

Competitions are now open, with most entry deadlines set for July 22. Visit coloradostatefair.com/competitions for specific contest details.