Do the Puyallup: 125 Years of Extraordinary Stories

We’re thrilled to welcome back one of the most heartwarming and educational attractions at the Washington State Fair — the Cattle Birthing Exhibit! After debuting in 2024 with nearly than 33,000 visitors and two adorable calves born during the Fair, this fan-favorite experience returns Aug. 29 – Sept. 21.

This year, five local farms from Graham, Enumclaw, Monroe and Auburn will take part in this unique showcase of life on the farm — and we’re excited to introduce you to one of them: Schelbert Farm.

Schelbert Farm has been a family-run beef operation for more than 30 years and has partnered with the Washington State Fair Event Center since 2017, bringing their expertise and love for animals to our cattle exhibits. They’re bringing five pregnant cows to this year’s Cattle Birthing Exhibit — all due within the first week of the Fair!

Let’s meet the moms-to-be:

Lily — You might remember Lily from last year’s inaugural exhibit, where she gave birth to the very first calf, WooHoo! She’s back again this year and expecting another.

Daisy — Lily’s best friend and longtime sidekick, Daisy came for emotional “moo-ral” support last year. This time, she’s got a calf of her own on the way!

Aloha & Mahalo — These twin sisters are both pregnant and ready to welcome the next generation of farm babies together.

Penelope — Rounding out the group is Penelope, another mama-to-be joining the birthing barn.

Whether you’re hoping to witness a live birth, learn about the calving process or just want to see some adorable baby cows, the Cattle Birthing Exhibit is a must-visit.

Don’t miss this unforgettable experience at the 2025 Washington State Fair — it’s cute, it’s educational, and it’s a moo-st see!

Big changes are underway on 9th Ave SW—and they’re all about creating a more inviting, walkable experience connecting the Washington State Fair Event Center to Downtown Puyallup. In partnership with the City of Puyallup, we’re reimagining the stretch between S. Meridian and 5th St. SW into a pedestrian-friendly area that’s both beautiful and functional.

This project will transform 9th Ave. SW (between S. Meridian and 5th St. SW) into a pedestrian-friendly boulevard by removing the curb and providing an area that can be used when the road is closed. It will provide separation between pedestrians and vehicles by including benches, planters, delineators, bollards and other visual separation indicators. The sidewalk areas on both sides of 9th Ave. SW will be substantially increased in size and will provide facilities, such as benches, planters, planter pots and more. Other aesthetic project features will include decorative lighting, trees and shrubs.

To ensure a safer, more comfortable experience for everyone, the roadway is being narrowed to 24-feet-wide—helping to calm traffic and create visual separation from pedestrian areas using elements like bollards, planters, delineators and benches.

Construction began earlier this year, and we’re excited to share that the project is on track to be completed in time for the Washington State Fair.

Stay tuned for more updates as we near completion—and get ready to experience a more walkable, welcoming Puyallup this fall!

Partnering with the Seattle Metro Pickleball Association for an Unforgettable Tournament Experience

We’ve got some exciting news—pickleball is officially joining the party at The Taste NW!

We’re thrilled to announce the inaugural Puyallup Paddle Battle Pickleball Tournament, happening June 27–29, right in the heart of Washington’s ultimate summer get-together. Even better? We’re teaming up with the Seattle Metro Pickleball Association (SMPA), a powerhouse nonprofit known for growing the game across the Puget Sound region and building a vibrant, inclusive pickleball community.

Play the official state sport in the center of the action! The Puyallup Paddle Battle is a fun, competitive indoor tournament held inside the event center—surrounded by the sounds, smells and energy of a food and music festival in full swing.

Whether you’re aiming to medal, or just hit the court for fun, this tournament is your chance to paddle up with your pickleball partner and enjoy the thrill of the game in a one-of-a-kind setting.

Bring your crew! Invite your family and friends to cheer you on while they explore The Taste NW—with free festival admission, dozens of food vendors, live music, drinks, games and more, it’s a win-win day out for everyone.

Don’t miss your shot to be part of this exciting new tradition—where pickleball meets party. Places are limited—register now to secure your spot!