North Idaho Fair previews 2026 attractions, seeks to fill board seat after longtime member's death

Alexia Jordan, fair manager, told commissioners the 2026 fair theme will be "Fun in the Mix" and that the board has begun announcing concerts and attractions. Jordan said one early concert act was listed in the transcript as "Lee Bridal" and that tickets for that concert will go on sale to the fair’s fan club before the general public. "We just announced yesterday our first in the concert series, which is Lee Bridal," Jordan said. She added another major country artist will be announced on Feb. 1.

Jordan also announced that sea lions — last at the Coeur D'Alene fair in 2016 — will return for the 2026 fair, performing about three times a day and included with admission. "The sea lions, I am thrilled to have them back," she said.

Jordan said vendor space is open and the board is about 40% through planning for contests, livestock shows and other fair programming. Commissioners praised the board for making the fair largely self‑sustaining and applauded staff for execution.

Jordan reported the board has a vacancy following the recent loss of long‑time member Linda Ryder. She said several well‑qualified applications have been received and noted Chair Jerry Johnson had already submitted recommendations to commissioners. Jordan and commissioners discussed quickly filling the seat, elevating a long‑serving alternate and appointing an applicant to the alternate role; several participants suggested creating a plaque or other memorial to honor Ryder’s service to Kootenai County.

No formal appointment was made at the meeting; commissioners said they will review applications before acting.