Kentucky State Fair Entries Open, Kicking Off the Road to August

The blue ribbons are waiting! Entries are now officially open for the 2026 Kentucky State Fair, and whether you've been entering for decades or have always dreamed of showing off your grandmother's pie recipe, this is your year. With dozens of departments to enter, you can show off a plethora of talents. The best of the best will be awarded during the Kentucky State Fair, August 20-30, 2026.

This year’s event introduces some exciting new classes that make this year's competition even more special. Here's a taste of what's been added:

America250 themed classes

Eight departments — including patriotic baking, photography, textiles, and wine — are getting special classes to honor the nation's 250th birthday celebration.

Brand new glasswork section

Fine Arts gets a whole new section featuring furnace-worked, kiln-formed, lampworked, and stained glass. If you work with glass, now's your moment.

Maple syrup culinary classes

New classes spotlight maple syrup recipes — think maple blueberry muffins and maple nut goodies. Sweet, sticky, and seriously competitive.

For a full look at all the new classes and updates, you can browse the 2026 Premium List.

First-Time Exhibitor?

Don't let the Premium List intimidate you; it's big, but you only need to read the general rules and the section for your specific department. We've put together a step-by-step guide for first-time exhibitors that walks you through the lingo, the entry process, and everything you need to know.

Deadlines

The entry deadline is July 9, but if you’re in a pinch, we have a late deadline through July 16 (additional fees apply).

Enter Now!