Cowboy Ball brings in over $100K for North Idaho fair foundation
This year's Cowboy Ball, held April 18, brought in over $100,000 to support the North Idaho Fair and Rodeo Foundation. From left: Kim Weatherford, Christine Planalp, Mercedes McComb, Jessica McLean, Dorine Souther, Hayley Pflasterer, Serena Caples and Rachel Peters.
Photo by Lacey Green Photography
Heels were kicked up, hats were tipped and generosity was abundant April 18 during the 14th annual Cowboy Ball, which raised over $100,000 for the nonprofit North Idaho Fair and Rodeo Foundation.
Although it wasn't a hallmark year like when it raised $222,000 in 2022, the 2025 Cowboy Ball was a lively evening that brought together community members who support their local fair and fairgrounds.
“It is something that is super special to see people who are still wanting to support the fair," North Idaho Fair and Rodeo Foundation Development Director Serena Caples said Tuesday. "We had a lot of new people and new businesses this year that came and joined our community, so that was really, really exciting."
The annual event helps pay for capital improvements at the Kootenai County Fairgrounds as well as provide funding for scholarships and educational opportunities for local youth. Caples said this year the foundation has supported the fairgrounds with $60,000 of electrical and grandstands work, which will continue with event proceeds.
"The grandstands are super cool for people because most people have been there at one time or another," Caples said.
She said the foundation is grateful to the community, the sponsors and everyone who came out to make this year's event a success.
“The support we received helps us make real investments in our fairgrounds and in the future of local youth," she said.
She shared that the foundation will be launching a new event that will coincide with the Josh Turner concert during this year's fair.
"We haven’t put out information on that yet, but that should be coming in the next month or so," she said.
Info: kcfairgrounds.com