Demolition derby planned for ‘Backstretch Action Zone’ at Cloverdale Rodeo Country Fair
Published 9:30 pm Thursday, April 23, 2026
Now that the barns have been torn down on the Fairgrounds, it’s opened up a lot of space. And while the rodeo won’t be using the area that the barns themselves occupied, they will be using the former parking lot on the backstretch.
Demolition Derby, a new attraction for the rodeo and fair this year, will be held in the former backstretch parking lot.
Rick Hugh, second vice president of the Cloverdale Rodeo and Exhibition Association, said he’s personally looking forward to seeing the derby.
“It’s going to be epic this year,” he said. “The reason we’re able to bring in demolition derby is because we’ve got a bigger footprint than we’ve had in the past.”
Along with the Demolition Derby, other events are moving into that space, which they’re calling the “Backstretch Action Zone.” The West Coast Lumberjack Show will move over there as will the Global FMX Freestyle Motocross Show, among several other events.
Hugh said rodeo- and fair-goers will be pleasantly surprised with the setup of the backstretch zone.
“We’ve used that space for a lot of things over the years, such as a test driving area, or parking for trailers. So, it’s a luxury that we get to use it for (these attractions). I think the public is going to be amazed with it.”
Attractions and shows set for the Backstretch Action Zone, which is located across the road and south of the Agriplex (Longhorn Saloon): demolition derby, freestyle motocross stunt show, West Coast Lumberjack Show, axe throwing, Outlaw Bar with three food trucks, and a climbing wall.
For more info, or to grab some tickets, visit cloverdalerodeo.com.