Benton County announces winning logo design for 2026 Fair and Rodeo

Benton County has announced the winning design for the official 2026 Benton County Fair and Rodeo logo after strong community participation in the countywide “Design Rodeo” contest.

The selected winner is “Cow Tag”, created by Cassandra “CJ” Judd of Corvallis. Judd’s design will be the official look of the 2026 fair and will appear on posters, social media, merchandise and other promotional materials.

The contest ran from November through February and invited artists of all ages to submit original designs based on the theme Stars, Stripes and Summer Nights. After reviewing entries, the Benton County Fair Board and fair organizers selected four finalists. Voting was then opened to the public online and through community outreach, with combined results choosing the winner.

Because of the strong response, the Design Rodeo will become an annual contest. Organizers hope it will continue to involve the community in shaping and celebrating the fair each year.

“I approached the contest with the goal of creating something that felt true to the roots of the Benton County Fair and Rodeo while still being adaptable across everything from merchandise to signage,” Judd said. “The Cow Tag concept was designed as a recognizable, story-driven badge that brings together the full scope of the event—from livestock and rodeo to the energy of summer nights—while holding up across a range of applications. As someone deeply connected to the rodeo and agriculture communities, it’s incredibly rewarding to see it selected, and I’m excited to see it leave its mark across the county.”

Judd is an independent creative director based in Corvallis.

As the winning artist, Judd will receive a share of proceeds from commemorative merchandise along with an “Ultimate Fair Experience” package.

The Benton County Fair and Rodeo is held each year in Corvallis and brings thousands of visitors for agricultural exhibits, entertainment, carnival attractions and rodeo events. Ticket sales for the 2026 fair open May 15.