LOUISVILLE, Ky. — It's August which means the Kentucky State Fair is just days away from kicking off.
Last year's state fair broke previous attendance records with nearly 600,000 people attending to celebrate all things Kentucky for 11 days.
This year, the fair will be celebrating its 120th year, a special milestone to its history.
"This special anniversary is not just a number; it symbolizes our state’s unique make-up of rural and urban life, brought together in one grand celebration," officials said in July. "With exactly 120 counties, from Fulton to Pike County, every corner of our state contributes to the diverse and vibrant culture we celebrate at the fair."
When is the Kentucky State Fair 2024?
The 120th Kentucky State Fair will take place on August 15 through August 25 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville.
Admission to the fair ends an hour before the outdoor closing time each day, except Thursday through Saturday when admission ends at 10 p.m.
Children under 18 will need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who is 21 years of age or older Monday through Friday after 6 p.m. and all day Friday through Sunday. IDs will be verified verified at the gate.
Kentucky State Fair tickets
General admission and parking for the Kentucky State Fair is $10 per person. Children ages 5 and under can get in free.
Tickets to Thrill Ville cost $30 per person and provides unlimited access to over 50 rides.
The World Championship Horse Show will cost $8 per person and does not include general admission to the fair.
Tickets for the second annual Beerfest will cost $40 a person.
Special Days at the Kentucky State Fair
The Kentucky State Fair offers numerous special promotional days and multiple discounts.
Thursday, Aug. 15: County Fairs Day
- The fair will highlight winners from county pageants across all of Kentucky's 120 counties. There will be unique competitions, special activities and a new exhibition.
Sunday, Aug. 18: Military Sunday
- Active military and veterans, and their families, can attend the fair for free. There is a limit of four free tickets and parking is not included. Wristbands for Thrill Ville will be 20% off, as well. Military ID is required.
Monday, Aug. 19: $5 Monday
- Anyone looking to go to the fair can get $5 admission per person, including parking.
Tuesday, Aug. 20: Senior Day
- Fairgoers 55 and older can enjoy the Kentucky State Fair for free. Parking is not included.
Wednesday, Aug. 21: Sensory Awareness Day
- Free admission and Thrill Ville tickets will be given to fairgoers with sensory processing differences. From 10 a.m. to noon, Thrill Ville will operate with minimal lights and music to create an enjoyable fair experience. Limited tickets are available and you need to complete this form from FEAT of Louisville.
Thursday, Aug. 22: Kentucky Farm Bureau Day
- Kentucky Farm Bureau hosts the Gospel Music Showcase, which is open to the public and the 60th Annual County Ham Breakfast and Charity Auction (tickets required.)
Texas Roadhouse Concert Series
The Texas Roadhouse Concert Series is free with paid admission to the Kentucky State Fair. More than a dozen artists are expected to perform this year.
The concert area opens at 6:30 p.m. every day and concerts begin at 8 p.m. On Aug. 25, the area opens at 4:30 p.m. and the concert begins at 6 p.m.
World's Championship Horse Show
The World's Championship Horse Show is held alongside the Kentucky State Fair. It crowns world champion Saddlebreds, Hackney Ponies and Road Horses in different divisions.
Tickets are $8 for performances happening August 17 through August 22. Tickets for performances between August 23 and August 24 cost $11 per person.
Admission to the World's Championship Horse Show does not include Kentucky State Fair gate admission, which is required to get into the Expo Center.
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