The heart of Arizona’s Rim Country is getting ready for a brand-new celebration of western heritage, music, rodeo, and community spirit. This October 1–3, the inaugural B.U.C.K.L.E. Festival & Northern Gila County Fair will bring visitors from across Arizona together for three unforgettable days of entertainment, tradition, and family fun in the pines of Payson.
The Buckle Festival & Northern Gila County Fair 2026
October 1–3, 2026
Payson, AZ
A New Tradition Built on Western Values
The Northern Gila County Fair has grown into the biggest community event of the year, and the B.U.C.K.L.E. Festival represents the foundation of this exciting new chapter:
B – Bull Riding
U – Unity
C – Culture
K – Kids Rodeo
L – Live Entertainment
E – Experience
More than an acronym, B.U.C.K.L.E. represents the values that have shaped Payson and Arizona’s western heritage for generations – community, tradition, family, and a shared love for the western way of life.
A Weekend Full of Western Excitement
The festival will bring together the Northern Gila County Fair, Payson Parks and Recreation, Cowboy Lifestyle Network, and Mazatzal Casino for a one-of-a-kind celebration showcasing the very best of western tradition, entertainment, and community spirit. Fairgoers can enjoy classic county fair favorites alongside exciting new experiences, creating a weekend filled with action, discovery, and family fun.
From championship rodeo events and professional bull riding presented by Cowboy Lifestyle Network to ranch rodeo, barrel racing, and state championship mutton busting, the festival will celebrate the heart of western competition. Guests can also experience the Arizona State Fiddle Championship, junior livestock auction, exhibits, demonstrations, kids’ activities, a mini carnival, western vendors, delicious food, and live entertainment throughout the weekend. There will be something for every generation to enjoy as the community comes together to celebrate the traditions and experiences that make Rim Country special.
Music, Memories, and the Spirit of the West
Music has always been part of Payson’s identity, and the B.U.C.K.L.E. Festival will continue that tradition with a lineup of live entertainment throughout the weekend.
Concert performances will feature talented artists including:
● Kristen Merlin from NBC’s The Voice
● Moonshine Mafia
● Western Fusion
● The Rim Country Band with special guest J Michael Harter
A special highlight of the festival will be the Arizona State Fiddle Championship, a longtime Rim Country tradition celebrating Arizona’s finest fiddlers. The championship finale will bring two finalists to the main festival stage for a memorable evening showdown where western music history meets today’s live entertainment.
“This is going to be an amazing weekend. Mark your calendars now. Let’s go!”
Patrick O’Doonnell
CEO & Founder
Cowboy Lifestyle Network
A Celebration for the Entire Community
Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a returning visitor, or discovering Payson for the first time, the B.U.C.K.L.E. Festival & Northern Gila County Fair invites everyone to experience the traditions, excitement, and hospitality of Arizona’s Rim Country.
For vendor information, volunteer opportunities, and additional festival updates, visit northerngilacountyfair.com.
Last Updated on 07/20/2026 by Carly Davidson
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