The Kentucky State Fair Begins its 122nd Annual Celebration of Traditions and Agriculture

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (Aug. 20, 2026) – The Kentucky State Fair invites fairgoers from across the commonwealth and country to come together from Aug. 20 – 30 for a showcase of Kentucky traditions, agriculture and entertainment. The fair will highlight our essential agriculture industry and the hardworking Kentucky farmers who make it so special, crown the world’s most prestigious Saddlebreds and honor the commonwealth’s contribution to the American story.

“Team Kentucky is excited to welcome everyone to the 122nd Kentucky State Fair, a time when families from across the commonwealth and beyond come together to celebrate our culture, our values and our amazing farmers,” said Governor Andy Beshear. “Whether you’re cheering on our young exhibitors, enjoying live entertainment and food, or learning more about our strong agriculture industry, there is something for everyone.”

“There is no place quite like the Kentucky State Fair, where traditions from across the commonwealth are shared and celebrated,” said Mike E. Berry, interim president and CEO of Kentucky Venues, which owns and operates the Kentucky State Fair. “This year, we’re excited to celebrate America, create new memories, cheer on blue ribbon winners, enjoy great entertainment, taste the best fair food, and support the future of agriculture on the greens.”

From getting up close with livestock in the barns and browsing offerings from hundreds of vendors to whirling on a Thrill Ville ride and grabbing some tasty treats to cap off the day, the Kentucky State Fair offers a variety of activities for the whole family to enjoy. Freedom Hall will once again host the World’s Championship Horse Show, Aug. 22–29, featuring the nation’s top Saddlebreds. Outside of the show ring, several one-day-only events include the Largest Pumpkin and Watermelon Contest, Junior Dairy Cattle Costume Contest, and BEERFEST.

Beyond the rides, shows, and food, visitors can also discover all the ways Kentucky has contributed to our nation’s story through the new United We Stand at 250 exhibit in South Wing B. The exhibit will feature the Frazier History Museum’s interactive experience,120: Cool KY Counties, a collection of histories and traditions that have shaped the commonwealth. Kentuckians will also be competing in new America250 entry categories, including cake decorating, photography, windchimes, crop/seed art, decorated eggs, woodcarving, vegetable critters and more.

Hot Tips for 2026:

• Take advantage of special promo days for additional savings.
• Weekends are expected to be peak days at the fair. Fairgoers are encouraged to arrive early and be patient as the Kentucky State Fair team works quickly to get everyone parked. Rideshare is encouraged for arriving later in the day to help reduce parking congestion. Fairgoers can be dropped off just steps away from Gate 1 at the old Bowling Alley lot, then use the pedestrian entrance at Gate 1.
• As the largest indoor fair in the country, the fair offers fairgoers a way to beat the heat by strolling through the aisles of vendors in South Wing C or enjoying a family show on one of the indoor stages.
• Plan your trip ahead of time with the digital Daily Schedule or download the Kentucky State Fair App for a detailed map and info about food, shopping and concerts.
• Enjoy seven new family shows throughout the fair.
• On August 24, West Wing and Pavilion Barns are closed to be prepped for arriving animals. Goats will be available in West Hall, and there will be plenty of animals to see in Discovery Farm located in AgLand (South Wing A).
• Official Kentucky State Fair merch is available online and on-site in the North Wing Lobby.
• The Kentucky State Fair minor attendance policy is in effect every day of the fair. Hours vary; visit the link for details.

For more information on the Kentucky State Fair, including daily schedules, ticket pricing, and fair hours, visit kystatefair.org.