There is something so nostalgic about a good state fair. Classic ferris wheels, blue ribbon pies, funnel cakes, fireworks, livestock competitions. It’s basically the best of Americana on display and that is exactly what the Wilson County – Tennessee State Fair is all about. Whether this is your first time or 15th time attending, the fair promises something fresh and fun for everyone!
With only 10 days to explore this incredible community treat, we want to help you make the most of your time (and tickets) at this year’s fair! Read on to get all the info you need to plan the perfect day (or days) at the Tennessee State Fair!
General Information
This year’s Wilson County – Tennessee State Fair is all about celebrating the unique “Tennessee Voices and Volunteers” as we say happy 250th birthday to America! Expect a lot of live demonstrations and exciting exhibits that showcase Tennessee’s important role in America’s history.
Dates & Times
The fair will run August 13-22 at the James E. Ward Ag Center located at 945 E. Baddour Parkway in Lebanon, TN. The fair opens weekdays at 4pm, Saturdays at 10am and Sundays at 12pm. Gates close Sunday-Thursday at 9pm and Fridays and Saturdays at 10pm. Carnival hours run separately as follows: Monday-Thursday 4-11pm, Fridays 4pm-12am, Saturdays 10am-12am and Sunday 12-11pm.
Admission
Daily admission is $14 for adults, $5 for children (5-12) and children 5 and under are free. You can purchase tickets online in advance, or at the gate when you arrive. You can also purchase Mega Tickets for $35 (presale only). These tickets are perfect if you only have one day to spare and want to try to do it all. But buy early, because the last day to purchase Mega Tickets is August 12th. Season Tickets are also available for $50 per person and allow entry all 10 days. Check out these additional admission savings.
Special Days and Events
August 13- Grand Opening and Flag Raising @ 6:00pm | Parade @ 7:00pm
August 15- Special Needs Day
August 16- Church Service in Fiddler’s Grove @ 9:00am
August 20- Kid’s Night @ 6:30pm
August 21-22- Monster Truck Show @ 6:30pm
Entertainment
There is no shortage of entertainment all week long including live music, thrilling rides, engaging demonstrations, and so much more! Several stages will host bluegrass bands, dueling pianos and traditional country music. One area you cannot miss is Fiddler’s Grove, an historic village with tons of attractions including a General Store, Coke floats and, my personal favorite, fried bologna sandwiches (don’t knock it ’til you try it). This area also showcases live demonstrations including wood carving, hat making, and an incredible model train museum that your kids will love!
Midway Carnival
You have your pick of 60+ thrilling carnival rides and games at Midway. They have kiddie rides, adult rides and everything in between. You’ll see classics like the Tilt-A-Whirl, Fun Slide, Carousel, and Ferris Wheel along with some rides that are not for the faint of heart! Make sure you pay attention to height requirements and whether the ride requires additional cost.
Competitions and Exhibits
I’m a sucker for anything competitive and there is no shortage of competitions at the fair. Many take place prior to the fair like baking, creative arts, and agriculture, so winning items can be showcased throughout the week. Live competitions you can catch include 4H and FFA, Beauty Pageants, Horticulture, Square Dancing, Husband Callin’ (yes, that’s a thing) and many more. New competitions that will take place this year that I am really jazzed about include Build a Birdhouse, Log Sawing, and Timber Callin’, where competitors will each have one minute to call TIMBERRRRRRR!
Livestock Shows
Watch handlers show off their prize livestock and take a peek for yourself as you walk the stalls. You’ll find goats, sheep, horses, mules, dairy cows, pig, rabbits and more!
Fair Food
No fair visit would be complete without some classic fair food! There are over 50 concession stands that grace the grounds. Grab some classics like fluffy cotton candy, kettle corn, funnel cakes, deep fried oreos or a giant turkey leg! Check out all the fair food that awaits!
Know Before You Go
Parking – Preferred parking is $10 and gets you closer to the main gate. General parking is free. Free satellite parking is also offered at designated locations and the fair provides buses to the main gate.
Clear Bag Policy – To keep every safe, the fair has implemented a clear bag policy for an extra level of security.
Pets are not allowed – Service animals only are allowed.
Lockers Rentals – Lockers are available on site for a small fee.
.){kind=link}