The Friends of the Fairgrounds Advisory Board met on July 16, 2026, at the Golden Spike Event Center Conference Room to discuss upcoming events and facility improvements. The meeting, led by Chair Connie Robinson, focused on recent successes at the event center and the upcoming Weber County Fair.
Duncan Olsen provided an update on recent and upcoming events at the Golden Spike Event Center, noting that the Union Moto Rally is returning for its second year in the Outdoor Stadium. Several events were scheduled for July, including Moto Jam, Miss Rodeo Utah, and Team Penning. Olsen also reviewed the Muddy Dash, which was held at the center for the first time this year using the Cross Country Course and Race Track.
Discussing economic impact, Visit Ogden reported using credit card purchase information to track attendee geographic origins and local economic contributions. Todd Ferrario noted that the new data collection process identifies where attendees travel from without collecting personal information. Olsen mentioned that events like the Muddy Dash attract visitors from throughout the country, contributing to the local economy through purchases at local businesses.
Ongoing facility improvements at the Event Center include upgrading lighting throughout the facility and installing additional lighting on the infield. Renovations are also underway for the concessions stands and kitchen in the Golden Spike Arena. Additionally, Todd Ferrario secured state funding for paving and asphalt improvements to property roadways, and a cleanup project was completed near the rear of the property.
Regarding the Weber County Fair, Ashton Wilson reported that the event is approximately 20 days away. Marketing efforts for the fair include television advertising on Paramount+ and Hulu, as well as electronic billboards, YouTube, and radio. While sponsorship revenue is approximately $6,500 lower than last year, ticket sales for the Derby and Monster Truck Races are performing well.
New attractions for the upcoming Weber County Fair include Bumper Boats, a Foam Party, Ice Age Encounters, and a T-Rex Obstacle Course. The T-Rex Obstacle Course and Montana Action Paintball in Barn D will both be free to attendees this year. Other scheduled attractions include the Puppy Pals Dog Show, a 360 Photo Booth, and a performance by the percussive dance group Power House.
The meeting concluded at 1:06 p.m. with no further business. Board members were encouraged to attend the Weber County Fair and provide feedback through morning meetings held on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday during the fair.
