Plan Your Visit to the 2026 Kentucky State Fair Today

The peak of summer in the Commonwealth is almost here! The Kentucky Exposition Center’s halls and stalls will come to life with blue-ribbon competition and fairgoers of all ages at the 122nd Kentucky State Fair from August 20-30th.

But don't let all the fair sights and sounds overwhelm you and accidentally miss an event or exhibit! Plan ahead for the hilarious stage acts, jaw-dropping outdoor entertainment, and groovy live music. 

Make sure to include these events in your itinerary:

• Largest Pumpkin and Watermelon Contest: Pop in West Hall at 1:30 p.m. on August 22nd to witness giant gourds being weighed and awarded.
• Jr. Dairy Cattle Costume Contest: Stop by Broadbent Arena at 5:00 p.m. on August 21st to see some stylish kids and cattle in costume
• Something to Crow About Contest Finals: You'll hear it before you see it at the Pavilion on August 23rd at 2:00 p.m.
• BEERFEST: Bring your friends and sample beer from over a dozen local breweries at the Hitching Post on August 29th from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Tickets purchased online include fair admission.

Don’t worry if you can’t make it to one of the one-day-only events; our schedule is packed every day! Click here  to view the daily schedule.

The Kentucky State Fair is where core Kentucky memories are made. Spend a day with friends and family whirling around Thrill Ville, visiting livestock, enjoying live music, munching on funnel cake, strolling through the Pride of the Counties exhibits, and witnessing the creations and talents of fellow Kentuckians. See y’all soon!