09/07/2026
2026 Saline County Fair Rodeo Coming Soon!
🌙The Show Will Go On Under the Benton Night Sky!
In just a little over a week, the sound of rodeo will return to the Thomas Arena at the Saline County Fairgrounds!
Following the devastating January ice storm, this year’s rodeo may look a little different than it has in years past—but we couldn’t be more excited to welcome everyone back, continue a longtime Saline County tradition, and make some new memories along the
way.
The 2026 Saline County Fair Rodeos will be held Friday and Saturday, September 11 & 12, at 8:00 p.m. The always-popular Mutton Bustin’ will kick off the excitement at 6:30 p.m. each evening, prior to the rodeo.
🐎Rodeo Sponsorships Still Available
We are still seeking sponsors for individual rodeo events. Sponsorships help cover the expenses associated with producing our annual rodeo while also supporting the Fair Association’s ongoing rebuilding efforts.
Sponsors will be recognized during the rodeo each night. If you, your family, or your business would like to make a tax-deductible contribution and sponsor an event, please reach out to the Saline County Fair Association. We would be proud to recognize your
support!
🐄A Different Arena, But the Same Rodeo Tradition
Those who have attended our rodeos in the past will notice several changes around the arena.
The biggest difference is easy to spot—the roof is gone. But that certainly doesn’t mean the show can’t go on! This year, we’ll enjoy rodeo action under the beautiful night sky in Benton, Arkansas.
Our announcer’s stand will also look a little different. The new permanent stand could not be completed in time for this year’s fair, so temporary facilities will be in place to keep everything running smoothly.
There is also one exciting improvement to the Thomas Arena. The arena has been widened by approximately 20 feet, providing more room to better accommodate rodeo events and competitors.
💪Getting the arena reopened in time for the 2026 Saline County Fair has truly been a community effort. Members of the Saline County Fair Association, personnel from the Saline County Judge’s Office, and several local companies have worked together, pooling their time, labor, equipment, and resources to make this possible.
🙏We sincerely appreciate every individual, business, volunteer, and organization that has contributed in one way or another. Without your support and generosity, reopening the arena this year would not have been possible.
👏👏👏Now it’s time to fill the stands, cheer on the contestants, and celebrate the return of rodeo to the Saline County Fairgrounds!
2026 Saline County Fair Rodeo
📆Friday & Saturday • September 11 & 12
🐑Mutton Bustin’ • 6:30 p.m.
🐎Rodeo • 8:00 p.m.
🎟️Admission: $15 per person for ages 11 and older
👩🏻👦Children ages 10 and under: FREE
Make plans to join us as the rodeo returns to the Thomas Arena.
The arena may look a little different this year, but the tradition, excitement, and community spirit are stronger than ever!
🤠Eden Hollis Vansandt to Perform Each Night of the Rodeo!
Get ready for an unforgettable performance as Eden Hollis Vansandt, an 18-year-old professional trick rider and mounted archer from Alexander, Arkansas, takes center stage each night of the Saline County Fair Rodeo!
🏹Known as the “Rodeo Archer,” Eden has performed before thousands of spectators across the country, sharing the arena with some of the rodeo industry’s premier entertainers.
Her one-of-a-kind act combines the excitement of trick riding and mounted archery in a high-energy performance featuring multiple horses, impressive riding maneuvers, precision archery, and pyrotechnics. It’s an action-packed show that is sure to keep rodeo
fans on the edge of their seats!
Recently featured on the cover of Rodeo Life magazine, Eden continues to make a name for herself as her story unfolds in rodeo arenas across the country.
Don’t miss the “Rodeo Archer,” Eden Hollis Vansandt, performing each night of the Saline County Fair Rodeo!
