Since 1956, the Kentucky State Fair has transformed the Kentucky Exposition Center into a giant hub of culture — and corn dogs, of course.
So with the sweet smell of funnel cakes looming in the air and trailers of livestock rolling in, we thought we’d provide a numerical snapshot at the annual event and what’s new this year.
One day until the fair
The Kentucky State Fair’s opening ceremony is tomorrow, Aug. 17 at 10:15 a.m. and will mark the 119th anniversary. The fair will continue daily at 10 a.m. until Sunday, Aug. 27. Admission is $10 and includes parking.
2,000+ Saddlebred horses
The World’s Championship Horse Show inside Freedom Hall begins on Saturday, Aug. 19 and promises more than $1 million in awards to competitors. Tickets are sold separately for each show during the eight-day event and range $7-$10.
Four indoor exhibit areas
The South and North wings + East and West halls house the fair’s familiar competitive entries, education and health exhibitions, food vendors, and shops.
$13.6 million estimated economic impact
Based on data from 2022, the fair’s projected economic impact to Kentucky is over $13 million.
Eight new events
Here’s a breakdown of new shows + activities:
- Cirque Zuma Zuma — African-style circus
- U.S. Army Special Operations — parachute and flight simulators
- Plant Guy — strolling show with an interactive plant
- Ice Cream Show — performance with magic tricks + juggling
- Kentucky State Civics Bee — competition where kids use civics to solve community problems
- Beerfest — one-day event with beer samples; additional ticket required
- Kentucky Auctioneers Association State Contest — auctioneers compete during a live auction
- Latin Fest — one-day event with Latin music
10 free concerts
Rain or shine, these artists are taking the stage during the free Texas Roadhouse Concert Series.