Great Jones County Fair 5K

Get ready to lace up your running shoes for the Great Jones County Fair 5K, a truly unique "Race Around the Fair" experience on July 25, 2026, in Monticello, IA. This 5K event offers runners and walkers alike an exclusive early morning tour through the heart of the iconic Great Jones County Fairgrounds. The one-of-a-kind course winds past lively livestock barns, along the fair's track, and continues through the scenic Monticello Golf Course and Riverside Gardens, providing a picturesque and engaging run. Typical race day conditions in late July feature highs around 83F and lows around 63F, with a modest 15% chance of precipitation, making for a potentially warm but enjoyable summer run.

What truly sets the Great Jones County Fair 5K apart is its immersive atmosphere, offering a sneak peek at the excitement before the fair officially opens for the day. This race, in collaboration with Monticello Parks and Recreation, is quickly becoming a cherished tradition, contributing directly to adult programming and events within the community. Participants receive a complimentary fair entry ticket, extending the fun beyond the finish line into "the five best days of summer" that the Great Jones County Fair is renowned for.

Whether you're pushing for a personal best with chip timing provided by B & W Racing or simply soaking in the vibrant fair atmosphere, this 5K promises a memorable experience for all. The flat to gently rolling terrain through the fairgrounds and local scenery offers an accessible course, and the satisfaction of supporting community initiatives while kicking off a day at a historic Iowa fair is unparalleled. Join us in Monticello for a festive 5K that blends fitness with quintessential summer fair fun.