Lexie Ratterman, Author at Kentucky State Fair

Kentucky State Fair Wraps Up Its 120th Event

Posted on August 26, 2024

Great weather and even greater crowds contributed to a successful Kentucky State Fair The 120th Kentucky State Fair ends on a high note with great weather, big crowds, and unique activities. Throughout the 11-day event, which ran August 15-25, 2024, the fair saw several days of record-breaking participation. Sunday, August 18 through Thursday, August 22 shattered daily attendance records through at least 2019. The theme for this year’s event was “120 Years, 120 Counties” which highlighted the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the number of fairs to perfectly align with the number of counties across the Commonwealth. A special exhibit was created and displayed specifically for the theme, which showed a timeline of the fair and how every county, through the years, has participated. Additionally, the Pride of the Counties exhibit showcased nearly twice as many counties compared to last year, with 105 counties represented. “The Kentucky State Fair is special each year, but this year had an extra special energy about it,” said David S. Beck, President & CEO of Kentucky Venues. “Between the crowds, exhibits, and tens of thousands of entries at the fair, we again saw participation from all 120 counties, which reflects our mission of ensuring the fair is a statewide celebration.” Entries at the Kentucky State Fair have held strong throughout the last ten years, generating around 25,000 entries annually. In 2024, general exhibits had over 15,000 entries, with categories ranging from quilts to culinary and everything in between. Homemade beer and wine entries increased over last year with nearly 637 entries. Livestock competitors filled the West Wing, West Hall, and Pavilion with over 9,650 entries. FFA and 4-H participants also contributed another nearly 10,000 entries. 121st World’s Championship Horse Show Crowns World’s Grand Champions Held in conjunction with the Kentucky State Fair, the World’s Championship Horse Show is recognized as the most prestigious Saddlebred show in the world. Exhibitors competed in 236 classes for World’s Champion titles and over $1.5 million in awards. Trainers, owners, and riders from all fifty states, Germany, Canada, and South Africa descended upon Louisville for the annual event – over 150 were new participants. A mare named “Midd’s Delaney,” owned by Christine Broder of Shelbyville, KY, ridden and trained by Tiffany Wheeler of Shelbyville, KY, was crowned the 2024 Five-Gaited World’s Grand Champion. Commonwealth Celebration at the Forefront of the Fair Kentucky Venues Shares Renovation Concepts, Breaks Ground on Phase I & II Renovations at the Kentucky Exposition Center Surrounded by community stakeholders and state leaders, Kentucky Venues leadership proudly unveiled the visual concepts for the Kentucky Exposition Center’s Phase I and II renovations. The event marked the ceremonial groundbreaking, celebrating the launch of this multi-million-dollar project, which includes constructing a 350,000-square-foot multi-purpose building in Phase I and several additional enhancements to the facility. Record-Breaking Ham Sold For $10.5 Million For the fourth year in a row, it was a record-breaking auction at the 60th Annual Kentucky Country Ham Breakfast when the Grand Champion Ham was auctioned off for $10.5 million […]

The People Behind the Fair

Posted on August 22, 2024 (August 22, 2024)

There are hundreds of people who work hard year-round to make sure the Kentucky State Fair is as spectacular as it can be. They spend countless hours planning, preparing, and executing the event. However, once the event starts, it’s not all work and no play. The staff at the fair make sure to partake in their annual fair-time favorites. Here are some insider favorites: -DeeDee Hudson (Administrative Specialist): “I have to see Freddie and get a corn dog with a Lemonade Shakeup. The fair has not started until I do those.” -Mike Fryman (Creative Director or as he likes to call himself “Grand Creative Wizard”): “Pineapple Whips!! It’s the only time and place you can find them throughout the year. I’ve never missed having at least one…or seven.” -Melissa Cooper (Graphics Production Services Manager): “I have to have a corn dog, see the art entries, ride the scrambler and tilt-a-whirl, and hit up the Kizito Cookie booth. Annual regret includes sugar coma.” -Ellen Benzing (General Counsel): “The fair is not the fair for me until I see the vegetable room/exhibit in the West Hall.” -Stephanie Seber (Executive Advisor & KSF Historian): “Every single year, a pineapple whip is on my menu — a tasty treat that has an incredibly long history at the Ky State Fair, going back to 1932!” -Shawn Hensler (Dept. of Public Safety Executive Director): “Simple, I have to have Newton’s Homemade Ice Cream.” -Corinne Fetter (Expositions Director): “There are many things that would qualify to make it truly the KY State Fair in my mind, but if I had to pick just one, it would be watching the beef shows on the green shavings in Broadbent Arena. I grew up showing Simmental cattle and market steers in Broadbent at the KY State Fair throughout the 80s!” -Lexie Ratterman (Communications Manager): “There’s just something about simply walking around at the fair and taking it all in. For me, there isn’t necessarily one thing I have to absolutely do or eat — just being there and surrounded by all the great people makes it the fair for me. The energy is electric.” -Edward Browne (Asst. Director of Communications): “A hidden gem at the fair is the Cuban sandwich from outside the West Wing, but aside from food, taking a stroll through all the inside exhibits and watching the World’s Championship Horse Show makes the fair special for me.” […]

KY State Fair’s Entertainment Provider First to Receive Sensory Inclusive Certification

Posted on August 9, 2024 (August 9, 2024)

Kissel Entertainment is thrilled to announce that we have become the first traveling entertainment provider to be Sensory Inclusive™ certified by KultureCity. We are excited to debut this certification at this year’s Kentucky State Fair, making it the first state fair ever to have a Sensory Inclusive™ certified entertainment provider. This certification underscores our commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that individuals with sensory needs can fully enjoy our events. KultureCity has provided certification and training to over 2,000 venues, organizations, and small businesses across the United States, including major stadiums and cultural institutions worldwide. Their Sensory Inclusive™ program equips staff with the necessary training and resources to accommodate individuals with sensory sensitivities, such as those with autism, PTSD, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and other conditions. “Becoming Sensory Inclusive™ certified was extremely important to us, not only professionally, but personally,” said R.A. Kissel of Kissel Entertainment. “This certification ensures that everyone, regardless of their sensory needs, can partake in the fun and excitement of our fairs and events comfortably and safely.” “One of our many goals of the Kentucky State Fair is to make every Kentuckian feel welcome and part of the celebration. We commend Kissel Entertainment for enhancing the guest experience and unveiling this new offering to our fairgoers,” said David S. Beck, President and CEO of Kentucky Venues. “We believe this change positively impacts many of those who visit Thrill Ville each day.” As part of the certification process, Kissel Entertainment staff underwent training from leading medical and neurodivergent professionals to recognize and assist guests with sensory needs and manage sensory overload situations. Additionally, Kissel Entertainment will now provide sensory bags equipped with noise-reducing headphones, fidget tools, strobe reduction glasses, VIP lanyards, visual cue cards, and weighted lap pads. These resources help mitigate sensory overload and enhance the fair experience for individuals with sensory sensitivities. In addition to our debut, Kissel Entertainment, in partnership with the Kentucky State Fair, FEAT of Louisville, Home of the Innocents, and the Kentucky Autism Training Center, will host Sensory Awareness Day on Wednesday, August 21. Fairgoers with sensory processing needs will receive free admission and ThrillVille tickets. From 10 a.m. until noon, ThrillVille will operate with minimal lights and music, creating a more enjoyable experience for those with sensory sensitivities. Ticket inquiries can be directed to FEAT of Louisville. Prior to attending an event, families can download the free KultureCity®App where one can view what sensory features are available and where they can access them. Also, on the App is the Social Story which will provide a preview of what to expect while enjoying our events. For a full list of FAQs about the certification here. Kissel Entertainment has a longstanding commitment to serving the disability and neurodivergent communities, hosting sensory-friendly days for decades. This certification also aligns with our top-tier commitment to safety and innovation. It is a great honor to know we are the first traveling entertainment provider to receive this certificate and we encourage our industry peers to prioritize this for their […]

Experience the Flavors of Kentucky at The Great Kentucky Proud Cook Out Tent

Posted on August 9, 2024

A full fair experience is never complete without sampling a few festive fair treats, and there’s certainly no shortage of options for foodies of all kinds at the Kentucky State Fair. For the third year in a row, The Great Kentucky Proud Cook Out Tent offers fair visitors something special: a variety of foods sourced directly from Kentucky farms. Kentucky Proud, the official agricultural marketing brand of Kentucky, is sponsoring the Great Kentucky Proud Cookout Tent at the Kentucky State Fair. Located in Lot A just outside the South Wing, The Great Kentucky Proud Cook Out Tent features locally sourced and freshly prepared menu items from several Kentucky commodity groups. From fried catfish to rib-eye sandwiches, grilled sweet corn to fried chicken, and grilled cheese to pork burgers, the tent offers a wide array of delicious dishes all made with ingredients grown and raised on Kentucky farms. When you step into The Great Kentucky Proud Cook Out Tent, you’re not just grabbing a meal; you’re embarking on a culinary journey through Kentucky’s rich agricultural landscape. Each bite you take supports local farmers and producers, making every meal a testament to the hard work and dedication of Kentucky’s farm families. Producers and groups under the tent this year include: • Kentucky Aquaculture Association • Kentucky Cattlemen’s Association • Kentucky Corn Growers Association • Kentucky Dairy Development Council • Kentucky Pork Producers • Kentucky Poultry Federation • Kentucky Department of Agriculture • The Dairy Alliance These groups come together to bring you a menu that showcases the best of Kentucky’s agricultural bounty. Imagine sinking your teeth into a juicy rib-eye sandwich, savoring the crispy perfection of fried catfish, or enjoying the creamy, melty goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich—all knowing that these delicious ingredients come from the very soil of Kentucky. The Great Kentucky Proud Cook Out Tent also offers a comfortable, covered seating area where you can take a break from the bustling fairgrounds. It’s the perfect spot to relax, enjoy your meal, and soak in the festive atmosphere with friends and family. Whether you’re sharing a meal, swapping fair stories, or simply enjoying the shade, this tent provides a welcoming respite for all fairgoers. So, as you make your way through the exciting attractions of the 120th Kentucky State Fair, be sure to stop by The Great Kentucky Proud Cook Out Tent. Here, you can enjoy a delightful meal that not only excites your taste buds but also supports Kentucky farm families. Come hungry, leave satisfied, and take pride in supporting Kentucky Proud! […]

Kissel Entertainment to Unveil One-Of-A-Kind Popcorn Cow Containers at Kentucky State Fair

Posted on August 7, 2024

Kissel Entertainment, one of the nation’s premiere family entertainment providers, is set to debut their latest innovation at this year’s Kentucky State Fair. Designed in collaboration with Fare Foods and Whirly Drink Works, Kissel will unveil an exclusively designed reusable popcorn bucket that pays homage to the importance of agriculture to fairs and our nation. Those purchasing the limited edition popcorn bucket will be treated to unlimited refills for a lifetime at any Kissel Entertainment food cafe. The popcorn bucket, meticulously designed as a cow, complete with a collar, bell, horns, and branding, is of the highest quality and meant to be collected and cherished by families. This one-of-a-kind piece is both functional and fun. The unique collectible pays tribute to the invaluable agriculture industry throughout the state and beyond, and serves as an homage to one of Kissel Entertainment’s favorite non-profits, the 4-H, which Kissel Entertainment has supported for decades. Kissel Entertainment has exclusive rights for production and distribution of this custom product in North America, working alongside a team of artists, designers, sculptors, and engineers. These premiere cow containers are not only handy but are also a great value for your visit to the Kentucky State Fair. “Kissel Entertainment is always innovating and elevating the fairgoers’ experience,” said R.A. Kissel, CEO of Kissel Entertainment. “We want theme park quality products for all of our attendees. We know the importance of fairs for communities and we want our fairgoers to have a product that instantly transports them back to the memory of their experience.” The cow containers are versatile and multifunctional. They can hold popcorn, make for a great accessory, act as a purse once washed out, and even serve as conversation-starting shelf decor. This limited release will be the first design of many to be created by Kissel Entertainment. For more information about the exclusive reusable popcorn bucket and other exciting offerings at the Kentucky State Fair, visit KisselFun.com. Be sure to read all signage when purchasing for stipulations. […]

Ky State Fair Begins Hiring Blitz

Posted on July 15, 2024 (July 15, 2024)

With the Kentucky State Fair exactly one month away, it’s time for the event to find enthusiastic, excited workers to fill hundreds of temporary positions with responsibilities ranging from guest services to operations. Starting Monday, July 15 Kentucky Venues, owner and operator of the Kentucky State Fair, will be conducting walk-in interviews Mondays-Fridays from 9 a.m. until 7 p.m. through Friday, July 26. Applicants could be offered a job on the spot. The fair is looking to hire temporary employees to work multiple areas throughout the event, including Gates/Admissions, Guest Services, Checkpoint Security, Ushers, and Grounds Crew. Positions range in pay from $12.50 to $13.50 per hour with opportunity for overtime pay. No experience is necessary, but applicants must be at least 18 years old, able to stand for long periods inside or outside, and able to work around crowds. Interested applicants should enter the Kentucky Exposition Center through Gate 1 or 6 and park in Lot J. There will be signs outside Broadbent Arena directing where to go. Applicants need two forms of identification: one with a photo and a social security card. They should also bring their bank routing and account numbers for direct deposit or a voided check. Applicants can also visit the state fair website at https://kystatefair.org/join-our-team/ and apply. Applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis. […]

Celebrating 120 Years, 120 Counties at the Kentucky State Fair

Posted on July 15, 2024 (July 15, 2024)

As we approach the 120th Kentucky State Fair, we are reminded of the rich tradition representing the heart of the Commonwealth. This special anniversary is not just a number; it symbolizes our state’s unique make-up of rural and urban life, brought together in one grand celebration. With exactly 120 counties, from Fulton to Pike County, every corner of our state contributes to the diverse and vibrant culture we celebrate at the fair. While the fair’s history is filled with incredible experiences and attractions, it is also rooted in resilience and community spirit. Since its inception in 1902 and finding a permanent home in Louisville in 1906, the Kentucky State Fair has weathered many storms. It faced cancellations due to funding issues, endured the trials of wartime, saw low attendance during the Great Depression, and even relocated temporarily while the fairgrounds served as a defense site. Each challenge was met with unwavering determination, and the fair emerged stronger each time, much like the people of Kentucky. Over the decades, the fair has evolved, leaving behind a legacy that epitomizes the Kentuckian spirit: resilient in adversity, warm in hospitality, and steadfast in support of one another. The fair’s past is peppered with unique events such as ostrich and armadillo races, classic carnival sideshows, and even the Rooster Crowing Contest. Today, it centers around friendly competitions, family fun, and ever-growing livestock and general entry contests. This year, we are excited to present an array of attractions that honor our storied past while embracing the future. Highlights include the Oak Ridge Boys’ 50th Kentucky State Fair performance, showcasing the best in Kentucky livestock, crowning the Five-Gaited World’s Grand Champion at the World’s Championship Horse Show, awarding blue ribbons for exceptional general entries, indulging in locally grown food, and supporting community initiatives like the Sunshine Class. I invite you to join us from August 15-25 in Louisville to celebrate the essence of Kentucky and its people. From the dedication of our youth livestock participants who present the state’s best to the craftsmanship of thousands of general entries submitted by passionate exhibitors, the fair is a testament to the hard work and creativity found in every county. Visit our website at kystatefair.org, where you can view the schedule of activities and purchase the best-priced admission tickets which include free parking. Throughout the 11 days of the fair, we will honor and celebrate all 120 counties, their residents, and their invaluable contributions. Join us in this grand tradition as we continue to build upon the legacy of the Kentucky State Fair, a celebration of community, resilience, and the unique spirit of our Commonwealth. Best Regards, David S. Beck President & CEO Of Kentucky Venues […]

Kentucky State Fair Announces Special Promotion Days to Return

Posted on July 2, 2024 (August 17, 2024)

The Kentucky State Fair is excited to announce the special promotional days fairgoers have come to know and love will return. The fair runs August 15-25, 2024, and will offer multiple discounts including Military Sunday, $5 Monday, and Sensory Awareness Day. Some discounts will pertain to specific individuals, while days like $5 Monday will offer every fairgoer a chance to attend the fair for a discounted rate. Special promotional days are as follows and are only offered at the gate (no advance ticket necessary): Thursday, August 15: County Fairs Day Come one, come all 120 Kentucky counties. We will highlight winners from county pageants, offer unique competitions, unveil a new exhibition celebrating all 120 counties, and have special activities. Sunday, August 18: Military Sunday Active military and veterans, as well as their families, can attend the fair for free. Military ID is required. There is a limit of four free tickets, and parking is not included. Wristbands for Thrill Ville will be discounted 20% and available on-site. There is a limit of four wristbands per valid military ID. Monday, August 19: $5 Monday Those looking for a big bargain won’t want to miss this day. The $5 admission is per person and includes parking. While livestock changeover is occurring on the west side of the property, fairgoers can visit Discovery Farm in Agland and also attend morning or evening performances of the World’s Championship Horse Show for free. Free evening tickets will be available at the KEC Ticket Office. Tuesday, August 20: Senior Day Fairgoers 55 and older enter the fair for free. Parking is not included. Special activities will be planned throughout the day. Wednesday, August 21: Sensory Awareness Day In partnership with Kissel Entertainment, FEAT of Louisville, Home of the Innocents, and Kentucky Autism Training Center, free admission and Thrill Ville tickets will be given to fairgoers with sensory processing differences. From 10 a.m. until noon, Thrill Ville will operate with minimal lights and music to create an enjoyable fair experience for those with sensory sensitivities. Limited tickets are available. To receive tickets, fill out this form from FEAT. For those fairgoers who are looking to attend the fair outside of promotional days at the best price, early bird tickets are still available through Friday, July 5. Right now, admission to the 120th celebration can be purchased online for only $8 per person, and fee-free tickets can be purchased at participating Kroger store locations for $9 through August 14. Parking is included with both options. Starting July 6, online ticket prices will increase to $9. Online prices increase to $10 on August 3. Thrill Ville unlimited ride wristbands are also available now and can be added on to fairgoers’ online ticket order for the lowest price of $30 per wristband. Thursday, August 22: Kentucky Farm Bureau Day Kentucky Farm Bureau is celebrating it’s love for Kentucky by hosting the Gospel Music Showcase (open to the public) and the 60th Annual Country Ham Breakfast & Charity Auction (tickets required). […]

Ky State Fair Entries: Something for Everyone

Posted on June 7, 2024 (June 7, 2024)

When it comes to the entries at the Kentucky State Fair, the more the merrier is the best motto. There’s no need to pigeonhole yourself to one craft. If you’re an artist of many talents, show them all off just like mother-daughter duo Barbara Thornsberry and Tonya Shelton do. The pair have a deep-rooted history in the fair that goes all the way back to the 70s when Barbara started participating in the Quarter Horse Show. Once her daughter Tonya came along, she followed in her mother’s footsteps. The family was part of the show for decades but eventually hung up their reins. Years later, in 2018, after Barbara purchased a dollhouse kit, she put a new talent to the test. “I accidentally bought a kit for a dollhouse at an auction one time,” said Barbara. “The directions were so complicated, so I boxed it back up and got it back out a year later. Then Tonya joined me in building.” After Barbara’s nephew noticed her craft, he, a seasoned fair entrant, encouraged his aunt to enter her art into the Kentucky State Fair in the Hobbies department. The rest of the story is history. The mother-daughter dynamic duo has been entering dollhouses in the fair ever since and always place. It didn’t take long for the pair who owns Useful Things Antiques & Collectibles in High Grove, KY to see their potential could go further than just entering one department, so Tonya branched out into the Fine Art department, too. Last year, she entered a piece called “It’s All A Matter of Time” – a collage of clocks. She had no clue that her first entry in the Fine Art department would win, but she was floored to see the coveted blue ribbon attached to it when she visited the fair, and she’s eager to enter the same division again this year. “I’m not really an artist. I don’t oil paint or anything, so I was tickled to win,” Tonya said. Tonya and Barbara work together on many of their entries and are each other’s biggest fans. They encourage people to look at Kentucky State Fair entry options, not be intimidated by trying something new, and even work with friends or family on an entry. “She’s my biggest fan and my biggest critic,” said Barbara about when the pair build their miniature pieces. “We hash it out until we agree.” “And then it’s perfect,” said Tonya. Whether you want to enter the Fine Art department, Hobbies, or any other General Entry department, or all of them like Barbara and Tonya do, there’s something for everyone to try. Barbara and Tonya are proof of that. “When you go down to the fair, it’s so interesting to see all the different things, and you think, ‘I can do that,’” said Barbara. They say it’s worth it to get out of your comfort zone and try something new, as you might just discover a new passion and come home a blue-ribbon […]

Kentucky State Fair Announces Entertainment Acts for the August Event, Early Bird Tickets on Sale

Posted on June 5, 2024 (July 17, 2024)

Celebrating 120 Years, 120 Counties at the Kentucky State Fair LOUISVILLE, Ky. (June 5, 2024) — It’s time to snag the best tickets available for the 120th Kentucky State Fair, happening August 15-25. With the event just a couple of months away, organizers announced over 70 entertainment acts, including headliners taking the stage for the Texas Roadhouse Concert Series, specialty performances, and family shows included with fair admission. Tickets are available online for $8, and fee-free tickets are available at participating Kroger locations for $9. Parking is included with early bird ticket purchases, a $10 savings. Thrill Ville Ride Wristbands On-Sale Today Thrill-seekers looking for all-day ride wristbands can get the best price today by purchasing their Thrill Ville wristbands for $30, a $5 savings, online or at participating Kroger locations. At least 50 rides, including thrill, family, and the iconic Astro Ferris Wheel, are coming to town in August. Music Takes Center Stage at the Kentucky State Fair The Texas Roadhouse Concert Series returns this year and is bigger and better, with 11 days of headlining acts. Included with admission, fairgoers can rock out with 80’s hair bands, sing along with iconic country acts, and dance to unforgettable hip-hop tracks. The full list of Texas Roadhouse Concert Series Acts is available below. For the first time in over six years, the Kentucky State Fair is hosting a double-headlining performance. On August 25, the renowned Mexican band known for their distinctive blend of Norteño music with accordion and saxophone sounds, Geru y Su Legión 7, will perform in The BIG Tent, while Christian singer Tauren Wells with special guest Consumed By Fire takes the Texas Roadhouse Concert Series Stage shortly after at 7 p.m. The Texas Roadhouse Concert Series Lineup Except August 25, the concert area opens daily at 6:30 p.m. and concerts begin at 8 p.m. On August 25th, the area opens at 4:30 p.m. with the concert beginning at 6 p.m. Thursday, August 15: Lonestar and Montgomery Gentry featuring Eddie Montgomery* Friday, August 16: The Sugarhill Gang Melle Mel & Scorpio (of Furious Five) with special guest Ying Yang Twins Saturday, August 17: Stephen Pearcy of Ratt with special guest Quiet Riot Sunday, August 18: The Oak Ridge Boys with special guests The Country Gold Tour including Leroy Van Dyke, Linda Davis, Jimmy Fortune, Rockland Road (who will perform the National Anthem and God Bless the USA) Monday, August 19: CAIN with special guest Katy Nichole Tuesday, August 20: Happy Together including The Turtles, The Cowsills, Badfinger, The Vogues, The Association, Jay and the Americans Wednesday, August 21: Justin Moore with special guest Alex Miller* Thursday, August 22: Everclear with special guest Marcy Playground Friday, August 23: 38 Special with special guest Exile* Saturday, August 24: Lauren Alaina with special guests Mackenzie Porter, Kelsey Hart* Sunday, August 25 (7 p.m. show): Tauren Wells with special guest Consumed By Fire *= Kentucky artist The music doesn’t stop there. Throughout the 11-day run of the fair, over 25 bands will […]

Author: Lexie Ratterman

Posts by Lexie Ratterman