About Cole Camp Fair in Cole Camp, MO

A Community Tradition Since 1916

The annual fair in Cole Camp is one of the community’s oldest and most cherished traditions, deeply tied to the town’s German heritage and small-town identity.

The Cole Camp Fair began in 1916, according to local historical records. Community leaders created the fair as a way to celebrate agriculture, local businesses, churches, schools, and civic pride. Over time it became one of the largest and longest-running fairs in central Missouri.

One of the most famous traditions of the fair is its parade floats. Local churches, organizations, businesses, and families spend weeks building elaborate handmade floats, many decorated with thousands of paper flowers. The floats in the parade became the signature attraction of the fair and are considered the highlight of the event today.

Many longtime residents describe the fair as a reunion as much as a festival. Former residents often return home during fair week, and generations of families participate in float building, parades, food stands, livestock events, music, and carnival activities.

Many residents describe the fair as “the world’s fair” and it is one of the strongest examples of community spirit in the area.