Ely, Nevada Celebrates 90 Years of Racing History at the White Pine County Fair and Horse Races
The 2024 event begins August 16, promising fun for all ages at the White Pine County Fair Grounds
Ely, Nevada is thrilled to announce the White Pine County Fair and Horse Races return to celebrate 90 years of racing history from Friday, August 16 through Sunday, August 18, 2024. As one of Nevada’s only horse racing events, the three-day festival features live music, barbecue, vendors, 4H exhibits, livestock auctions, and more.
Originally organized in 1934, the races were formed by local ranchers and business owners to help ease Great Depression blues. Now, the fair and races draw thousands of visitors from across the country for exciting, live-action racing of thoroughbreds and quarter horses complete with parimutuel (meaning there are no fixed odds) betting, concessions and the county fair. This year’s event will bring the biggest stakes in the race’s history with the return of the Governor Stakes race.
“The 90th anniversary of the White Pine County Fair and Horse Races is a testament to our deep-rooted history and spirit,” said Kyle Horvath, Director of Tourism for White Pine County. “We are incredibly proud to host the oldest horse racing event in Nevada, and we’re excited to welcome visitors for a milestone weekend of excitement, nostalgia and good old-fashioned fun.”
In addition to horse racing, attendees can check out the Ranch Hand Rodeo exclusively on Friday at the White Pine County Fair, where cowboys compete in events like bronc riding, barrel racing, roping and mutton busting. The fair will also feature a plethora of 4H and blue ribbon competitions throughout the weekend, as well as a free T-Rex/Mascot Shuffle Race on Sunday in which participants don their best inflatable T-Rex costume and sprint toward the race track’s finish line.
Admission is free on Friday with a post time of 3 p.m. On Saturday and Sunday, admission is $5 per person with post time at 1 p.m. All events take place at the White Pine County Fair Grounds. For more information on the White Pine County Fair & Horse Races, including a full schedule of events, please visit https://elynevada.net/white-pine-county-fair-and-horse-races/.
About Visit White Pine County
Immerse yourself in the captivating allure of White Pine County, centered around the remote mountain town of Ely, positioned on the eastern edge of “Nevada’s Loneliest Highway.” With a population of 4,000, Ely seamlessly integrates history, art, and outdoor adventure. Explore the wonders of the nearby Great Basin National Park, featuring the Lehman Cave system and the majestic Wheeler Peak. Wander through Ely’s downtown on the 11-block art walk, adorned with over 20 murals and sculptures depicting the town’s rich history. Don’t miss the Nevada Northern Railway, a National Historic Landmark showcasing the town’s rail heritage. Plan your visit to White Pine County at elynevada.net and discover the hidden gems that await in this destination.