The Great Darke County Fair Open Horse Show

06/30/2026

Thank you for your patience as we finalized this year’s showbill. We had a few updates to make and were hoping for some last‑minute sponsor support before posting. We completely understand that not everyone can donate to every event, and we appreciate all who support the local horse community in any way.

If you’d like to help one of the area’s oldest and longest‑running horse shows continue to grow, we would be grateful. Sponsorships directly increase paybacks, which in turn increase participation and keep this show thriving.

Over the past seven years, we’ve worked hard to expand classes, improve payouts, and make this show worth the trip. Your support helps us continue that mission.

If you’re thinking about sponsoring a class, send us a message. Every contribution makes a difference.

***If you would like a pdf or doc of the show bill sent to you, send us a pm!

04/14/2026

The behind the scenes crew has been working hard and we're really excited to announce that our Contesting judge for the 2026 show is Kacey Stollar !
We hope you can all join us for the 2026 show!

01/11/2026

If you are interested in being a sponsor for our 2026 show, but prefer a gift type of item, we are looking for a sponsor for the cinch bags we normally award the lead line riders, as well as the candy and gifts that we put in those bags. For more info, send us a pm.
As always, our sponsors names are announced during the day of the show, on a poster board at the entry booth and on social media.
Thanks to ALL who have sponsored in the past and continue to do so! Our show IS what it is today because of YOU!!

01/11/2026

SAVE THE DATE!!! Sun Aug 23rd: The Great Darke County Fair Open Horse Show!
It's now 2026 and time to start planning for the 2026 Great Darke County Fair Open Horse Show!
We are SO excited to announce that the judge for the pleasure portion of the show will be Terry Myers Training Center - Ride-N-Sync Horsemanship !!
We're working on the contesting judge, so stay tuned for that announcement! (We may have one but they are checking schedules first)
And back again to announce the Pleasure portion of our show is the one and only Jason Moore and for the Contesting portion, we welcome back Amy Rismiller !
And our awesome ringmaster since 2020: Jill Brook Marie Artz !
Please join us in thanking them for making this truly a GREAT show!!
**Interested in being a sponsor? Please send us a pm. We welcome any and all support from our community!
***Showbill coming soon so stay tuned!

01/06/2026

Remembering Christoph Keller

We share with heavy hearts the news of the passing of Christoph Keller, a true pillar of support within our Equine Family. Christoph, alongside his beloved wife Tonya, dedicated countless hours and energy to all things Fair-related, with a special passion for our horse community.

His enthusiasm and commitment have profoundly impacted us all, making our Fair a more vibrant and welcoming place. Christoph’s love for horses and unwavering support for the equine events were truly inspiring, reflecting his deep connection to this cherished tradition.

Let us honor Christoph’s lasting legacy and spirit, extending our deepest condolences to Tonya Keller and their family. As we remember him, may we continue to uphold the values and joy he brought to our community.

Statement from the Darke County Agricultural Society
on the Passing of Board Member Christoph Keller

It is with deep sadness and heavy hearts that the Darke County Agricultural Society announces the passing of our fellow board member and friend, Christoph Keller.

Christoph was more than a director on our board — he was a true champion for agriculture, the Darke County Fair, and the community he loved so dearly. His passion for the fair, youth programs, and the future of agriculture was evident in everything he did. Whether it was supporting exhibitors, offering thoughtful guidance in board discussions, or quietly helping wherever he was needed, Christoph served with integrity, humility, and heart.

He believed deeply in the mission of the fair — that it is not just a week-long event, but a place where values are taught, traditions are preserved, and future generations are shaped. His steady presence, kind spirit, and unwavering dedication made our organization stronger and our community better.

Beyond the fairgrounds, Christoph was a devoted husband, father, and family man. He loved his wife Tonya and his children, Sierra Lavy and Landon Keller, with all his heart and was immensely proud of them. To many of us, he was not only a colleague, but a trusted friend.

We ask the community to keep Tonya, Sierra, Landon, and the entire Keller family in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time.

As we remember Christoph, we hold fast to the words of Isaiah 41:10:
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.”

Christoph, you are not alone — and you will never be forgotten.

On behalf of the Darke County Agricultural Society, we extend our deepest sympathies and gratitude for a life lived in service, kindness, and love.

If you have a story or a picture you would like to share please drop it in the comments