The Ultimate Tip Guide For The Florida State Fair
It’s that time of year! The Florida State Fair is taking place at the Florida State Fairgrounds (4800 US Hwy. 301 N., Tampa) from February 8-19. Everyone knows the best part about the Florida State Fair is the amazing (and sometimes ridiculous) food creations. Whether it’s your first year going, or want to make the most out of your experience, we put together a few Florida State Fair tips to remember.
The Florida State Fair is open daily from February 8-19. Entry gates open at 11 a.m. Monday-Thursday and 10 a.m. Friday-Sunday & Presidents Day. Weekday tickets cost $6 for kids (ages 6-11) on the weekdays and $11 on the weekends. Adults will have to pay $12 on weekdays and $16 on weekends. Click here to see the 2024 discount days. If you like the thrill of the fair rides, an armband to get you unlimited access to all the rides is $27 for weekdays and $42 for weekends. You can also buy individual tickets if you are only interested in one ride. Click here for more info. Parking is free for fair attendees and there are three entrances to the fairgrounds: Orient Road, Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, and US Hwy 301.
What’s New At The Fair?
Some new events are taking place at the fair this year that you don’t want to miss. There will be a silent disco on February 9-10 ONLY. There will also be a concert featuring country sister duo Tigirlily Gold on February 10 ONLY. And don’t forget the fireworks only happen on opening and closing weekends (Feb 9-10 and 17-18).
Here Are Some Tips On Going To The Florida State Fair
- Take a day off of work and go during the week. (but look out for the fair school days) – The best way to experience the Florida State Fair is to go during the weekday. We know everyone can’t take off work, but if you can, it’s highly recommended. Also, look out for the designated county school days, otherwise, it will be just as busy as going on a weekend.
- The Amish donuts are a MUST – Let’s be real, all the food is really good. But we think about those Amish Donuts year-round.
- Don’t forget to check out the arts/photography booths– They are indoors so it’s a nice spot to escape from the noise, heat, and/or rain.
- Don’t skip out on Cracker Country and the animal shows – If you’re wondering what there is to do at the Florida State Fair other than the foods or rides, the answer is a lot! The fair has 15 different entertainment shows. Our favorites are the Sea Lion Splash and the Lumberjack Show. Click here to see the map and find your favorite event! Or you can get away from all the craziness and head to Cracker Country to see some rural Florida history (it’s mostly shaded too).
Florida State Fair - Start with the rides THEN the food – Seems self explanatory. Save the cleanup for the fair staff and eat AFTER you ride your favorite rides.