Events

The Prairie Roots Homesteading Summit will be a dynamic and enriching two-day event where self-sufficiency enthusiasts and newcomers alike gather and explore the art of sustainable living.

Our mission is to inspire, educate, and connect people through the exchange of knowledge and skills in self-sufficiency, soil health, food production and preservation, conservation, community building, healthy living and traditional skills.

With speakers such as Justin & Rebekah Rhodes and Tim & Sophia Eng, hands-on demonstrations, engaging informational talks, and a wide variety of exhibitors, attendees will have the chance to gain skills and insights into cultivating a self-sufficient lifestyle.

Whether you're a seasoned homesteader or simply curious about sustainable practices, this summit promises to connect attendees with ways to build sustainable, resilient, and thriving lives.

Step into the spotlight and represent the heart of western tradition at the 2026 McKenzie County Ag Expo Queen Contest 🤠✨

This prestigious program celebrates young women who embody leadership, confidence, and a passion for agriculture and rodeo culture. The 2026 Queen will receive an incredible prize package including a saddle, buckle, sash, traveling crown, traveling chaps, and a $2,500 scholarship, along with additional prizes.

Contest Categories:
• Speech & Modeling
• Horsemanship
• Appearance
• Personality
• Written Test
• Photogenics
• Congeniality

Eligibility:
Contestants must be 16–24 years old as of September 1, 2026

Important Dates:
• Applications Due: May 1, 2026
• Contest Date: May 16, 2026 (times TBD)
• Coronation & Rodeo: May 22–23, 2026

If you’re ready to grow your confidence, build lifelong connections, and represent McKenzie County with pride, this is your moment. Apply today and take your place in the arena 👑

For more information please reach out to the director Charlce Trevena at 701-580-6698 or Sarah Aaker the assistant director at 701-430-9292.

Kick off your summer with a true western tradition at the PRCA Rodeo, happening May 22–23, 2026, at the McKenzie County Ag Expo! Watch professional cowboys and cowgirls compete in thrilling events like bull riding, bronc riding, barrel racing, and more as the best of the best go head-to-head in the arena.

Bring the whole family for two unforgettable nights of high-energy rodeo entertainment, patriotic spirit, and small-town excitement as we honor our country and those who serve this Memorial Day weekend. From edge-of-your-seat rides to classic rodeo fun, the PRCA Rodeo at the McKenzie County Ag Expo is the place to be!

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Hailing from the heartland of small town South Dakota, Elizabeth Jo's music is infused with the authenticity and storytelling traditions of classic country, while also incorporating modern influences to create a sound that in uniquely her own.

Elizabeth was inspired by country music at a very young age as she helped on her family farm. The old country ballads and twangy guitars spoke to her as the lyrics rang true to her everyday life on the farm. She picked up a guitar at the age of 12 starting songwriting and dreamed of what "music city" would be like.

Elizabeth won the South Dakota State Fair talent competition at the age of 18 with and original song, encouraging her that music was what she was meant to do. Fast forward to 2022 Elizabeth made the big jump to Nashville with hopes of sharing her music with the world, and making an impact in country music and much as it has impacted her.

Experience the power, precision, and tradition of draft horses at the Olaf Leiseth Memorial Draft Horse Event during the McKenzie County Fair 🐴🌾

Join us on June 17, 2026 at 6 PM at the McKenzie County Ag Expo in Watford City, ND for an evening showcasing the strength and skill of these incredible teams. From crowd-favorite competitions like obstacle course and pole bending to the fast-paced excitement of the swamper race and corn cultivating, this event is a true celebration of agricultural heritage.

Free admission makes it the perfect family-friendly event to enjoy during Fair Week. Whether you’re a longtime fan or experiencing draft horses for the first time, you won’t want to miss this unique and action-packed showcase.

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Get ready for high-impact action at the McKenzie County Fair Demolition Derby! Join us Friday, June 19th, 2026 at 6 PM at the McKenzie County Ag Expo for an adrenaline-filled night of metal-crunching excitement. Featuring Stock Class and Limited Weld (Dodge & Ox) Class with over $30,000 in purse payouts. Check-in runs from 12–5 PM, with pit meeting and heat draw to follow. Don’t miss one of the biggest derby nights of the fair!

Get in on the action with our Derby Car Raffle—your chance to win big and be part of the excitement at the Demolition Derby!

Tickets are just $20 each, and every ticket gives you a shot at multiple cash prizes and a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The drawing will take place during the Demolition Derby on June 19, 2026, with winners announced throughout the event between heats.

Prizes include:
• Grand Prize: $1,000 and the opportunity to drive the derby car
• 2nd Place: $750
• 3rd Place: $500
• 4th Place: $250

Don’t miss your chance to be part of the thrill—grab your tickets, cheer on the action, and you just might leave a winner!

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Mark your calendars for an adrenaline-filled night at Bares, Broncs & Bulls on June 20, 2026 at 7:00 PM at the McKenzie County Ag Expo.

This high-energy rodeo event will feature some of the most exciting roughstock action in the sport, including bareback riding, saddle bronc riding, and bull riding. Competitors will be battling it out with $10,000 added to each event, bringing top talent and intense competition to the arena.

Whether you're a longtime rodeo fan or just looking for an unforgettable night of entertainment, Bares, Broncs & Bulls promises thrilling rides, big moments, and a great atmosphere for the whole community.

More details will be announced soon — stay tuned for updates.

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Get ready to keep the energy going after the rodeo with an unforgettable night of live music from Chancey Williams 🤠🎶

Taking the stage on June 20th during Fair Week, Chancey Williams will perform immediately following the Bares, Broncs & Bulls Rodeo, bringing his signature blend of classic country and western grit to McKenzie County. Known for his authentic sound and high-energy performances, Chancey has become a fan favorite across the rodeo and country music scene.

Stick around after the action in the arena and enjoy a night filled with great music, dancing, and celebration under the summer sky. It’s the perfect way to cap off an evening of rodeo excitement and Fair Week fun.

Don’t miss this can’t-miss performance—grab your friends, your boots, and get ready for a night to remember!

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Join us for the McKenzie County Annual Household Hazardous Waste, E-Waste, Ag Collection, and Cardboard Recycling Event on July 25 from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the McKenzie County Ag Expo.

This community event provides a safe and convenient way for residents to properly dispose of household hazardous materials, old electronics, agricultural chemicals, and recyclable cardboard. Items such as paints, cleaners, batteries, pesticides, computers, TVs, and other approved materials will be accepted.

Proper disposal helps protect our environment, reduce waste, and keep our community clean and safe. We encourage all residents to take advantage of this free opportunity to responsibly manage unwanted materials.

Please note that some restrictions may apply. Check event guidelines for a full list of accepted and non-accepted items before attending.

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Get ready for an adrenaline-pumping weekend as Throttle Monster roars into town August 21st, 22nd, and 23rd! This three-day event is bringing the heat with 8 powerful monster trucks battling it out in high-flying, car-crushing action that you won’t want to miss.

Feel the ground shake as these machines unleash raw horsepower, gravity-defying jumps, and head-to-head competition each night. Plus, experience the thrill of 406 FMX, delivering jaw-dropping freestyle motocross stunts that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or bringing the whole family for the first time, this is more than a show—it’s a full-throttle experience packed with excitement, energy, and unforgettable moments.

Mark your calendars and get ready—Throttle Monster is coming in loud this August!

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Get ready to run, climb, crawl, and hustle your way through the Bull & Heifer Hustle! This exciting 5K obstacle course is perfect for runners of all levels looking for a challenge and a whole lot of fun. For our younger athletes, the Jr. Obstacle Course offers a 1.5-mile course packed with adventure.

Every participant will receive a completion award and souvenir to celebrate crossing the finish line. After the race, refuel and relax with fresh doughnuts and cookies waiting for you at the finish!

Grab your running partner and come out to have fun — whether you’re racing for time, teamwork, or just a great memory, the Bull & Heifer Hustle is an event you won’t want to miss.

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The top competitors of the season will battle it out for championship titles, big payouts, and year-end honors in one of the most exciting rodeo events of the year.

With over $50,000 in added prize money, the stakes are higher than ever. Fans can also experience the excitement of our buckle ceremonies on Friday and Saturday, celebrating the athletes who’ve worked all season to earn their place in the finals.

Beyond the arena, the weekend offers plenty to explore. Enjoy the Art & Western Show, connect with vendors, and stick around after the action for live bands each night, bringing great music and a lively atmosphere to the Expo.

Event Schedule

• Friday, Sept. 25 – Rodeo starts at 6:00 PM
• Saturday, Sept. 26 – Rodeo starts at 6:00 PM
• Sunday, Sept. 27 – Rodeo starts at 1:00 PM

Whether you're a longtime rodeo fan or just looking for a fun weekend event, the NDRA Finals at the McKenzie County Ag Expo is the place to be.

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