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Kentucky State Fair Returns: Rides, Concerts & Family Fun!

2024 Kentucky State Fair: Ultimate Guide to Rides, Concerts, Food, and Family Fun

The Kentucky State Fair is back for another exciting year, transforming the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville into a vibrant hub of entertainment, agriculture, and community spirit. Running from August 15 to August 25, 2024, this beloved annual event promises something for everyone, whether you're a thrill-seeker eyeing the midway rides, a music lover catching free concerts, or a family looking for educational exhibits and delicious fair food. With over a century of tradition, the fair celebrates Kentucky's rich heritage while offering modern attractions that draw crowds from across the region and beyond. Gates open daily at 10 a.m., with extended hours on weekends, ensuring plenty of time to explore the sprawling grounds.

One of the fair's biggest draws is the Thrillville Midway, operated by North American Midway Entertainment. This year, the midway features more than 50 rides, ranging from classic favorites to adrenaline-pumping newcomers. For the daredevils, don't miss the Mega Drop, a towering free-fall ride that plummets riders from 100 feet in the air, or the Fire Ball, a looping coaster that spins and twists at high speeds. Families with younger children will appreciate gentler options like the carousel, Ferris wheel, and kiddie coasters. New for 2024 is the "Sky Flyer," an aerial ride that offers panoramic views of the fairgrounds while swinging passengers in a pendulum motion. Ride tickets are available on-site, with all-day wristbands offering unlimited access for around $30, making it an affordable way to experience the excitement. Safety is a top priority, with all rides inspected daily and height requirements clearly posted to ensure a fun, secure environment for all ages.

Beyond the thrills, the fair's free concert series at Cardinal Stadium is a highlight that keeps visitors coming back. The lineup for 2024 is packed with diverse acts performing nightly at 8 p.m., included with fair admission. Kicking off the series is country star Trace Adkins on opening night, bringing his deep voice and hits like "Honky Tonk Badonkadonk" to the stage. Other headliners include rock legends Kansas, known for classics like "Dust in the Wind," and the upbeat pop sounds of Gabby Barrett. Gospel night features The Isaacs, while hip-hop fans can catch Macklemore delivering high-energy performances. For a throwback vibe, The Beach Boys will perform their surf-rock anthems, and Christian rock group MercyMe rounds out the eclectic mix. Seating is first-come, first-served, so arrive early to snag a spot, and remember that while concerts are free, premium seating options are available for purchase if you want a closer view.

No state fair is complete without indulging in iconic fair food, and Kentucky delivers with a mouthwatering array of options. From deep-fried delights to farm-fresh treats, the food scene reflects the state's culinary pride. Classic corn dogs, funnel cakes, and cotton candy are staples, but look for Kentucky-specific twists like the Derby Pie on a stick or bourbon-infused barbecue. The Pride of the Counties exhibit hall showcases local agriculture, where you can sample award-winning cheeses, jams, and honey from across the commonwealth. For healthier fare, fresh produce from the state's farms is highlighted in cooking demonstrations. Don't forget the livestock barns, where 4-H and FFA participants show off prized animals—cows, pigs, sheep, and more—in competitions that educate visitors about Kentucky's farming legacy. Interactive displays let kids pet animals and learn about sustainable agriculture, blending fun with education.

Exhibits and competitions add a layer of cultural depth to the fair. The World's Championship Horse Show, held in Freedom Hall, is a must-see for equestrian enthusiasts, featuring elite Saddlebred horses in high-stakes events from August 17 to 24. Entry to most shows is included with fair admission, though reserved seats for finals may require additional tickets. Art lovers can wander through galleries of quilts, paintings, and crafts submitted by local talents, with blue ribbons awarded in categories like photography and woodworking. The fair also hosts daily demonstrations in areas like beekeeping, blacksmithing, and gardening, providing hands-on learning opportunities. For families, the Discovery Farm area offers interactive zones where children can "milk" a cow, plant seeds, or explore a mini-farm setup, fostering an appreciation for rural life.

Entertainment extends beyond concerts with roaming performers, including magicians, jugglers, and stilt-walkers throughout the grounds. The Texas Roadhouse Concert Series in South Wing adds more free music with local bands playing bluegrass, country, and rock daily. Thrill acts like the high-wire walkers and human cannonball shows occur multiple times a day, drawing crowds with their daring feats. For a break from the action, relax in the air-conditioned exhibit halls, where commercial vendors showcase everything from home improvement gadgets to the latest in outdoor gear.

Admission to the fair is straightforward and budget-friendly: $10 for adults, $6 for children ages 6-12 and seniors, with free entry for kids 5 and under. Parking is $10 per vehicle, but public transportation options via TARC make it easy to avoid the lots. Special days include discounted entry for military personnel on August 18 and sensory-friendly hours on August 20 for those with sensitivities. With an expected attendance of over 600,000, the fair emphasizes inclusivity, offering wheelchair rentals, ASL interpreters for select events, and quiet zones.

In essence, the 2024 Kentucky State Fair encapsulates the best of the Bluegrass State—its people, produce, and penchant for fun. Whether you're riding the tallest slide, cheering at a concert, or savoring a ribbon-winning pie, the fair creates lasting memories. Plan your visit by checking the official schedule for any updates, and prepare for a day (or more) filled with joy, discovery, and that unmistakable fair magic. From the midway's neon lights to the aroma of fresh popcorn, it's an event that truly brings Kentucky together. If you're new to the fair, start with a map from the info booth and pace yourself—there's so much to see and do that one visit might not be enough.

Read the Full The Courier-Journal Article at:
[ https://www.courier-journal.com/story/life/events/statefair/2025/08/11/2025-kentucky-state-fair-things-to-do-midway-rides-free-concerts/84259974007/ ]