It’s almost time to “ooh” and “ahh” at thousands of entries at the Kentucky State Fair but first comes the call for participants. The Kentucky State Fair is now accepting entries for its 122nd event, returning August 20–30, 2026, to the Kentucky Exposition Center. This year, America250-themed competitions are among the ways the fair will celebrate Kentucky's role in the nation's story.
“The Kentucky State Fair continues to be about bringing all 120 counties together to celebrate who we are as Kentuckians, our traditions, our heritage, and our way of life," said David S. Beck, President and CEO of Kentucky Venues. "This year, as our country marks its 250th birthday, I invite Kentuckians to enter and show off the passions and family traditions that make our Commonwealth so special. Whether it's a recipe handed down for generations or livestock you've raised with pride, there's a place for you at this year's fair."
Entries Now Open
Entries at the fair have long been a staple and fairgoer favorite as they weave through dozens of aisles of entries. Interested participants can show off their prize-winning livestock and homegrown crops or let their skills shine with handmade crafts and culinary creations.
The deadline for entries is July 9, with a late entry window through July 16, with an additional fee. Those interested in entering can visit kystatefair.org/compete to submit entries and view the 2026 Premium List.
Among dozens of updates, some of the most significant additions for this year's competition include:
- America250-themed classes across eight departments, including patriotic baking, photography, textiles, and wine
- A new glasswork section in the Fine Arts department, featuring furnace-worked, kiln-formed, lampworked, and stained glass
- New culinary classes featuring maple syrup recipes, including maple blueberry muffins and maple nut goodies
Additional new classes and other competition updates can be found in the 2026 Premium List.
Kentucky State Fair 2026 Campaign: Where County Traditions Meet Our Country's Celebration
This year's campaign celebrates America's 250th birthday while spotlighting the timeless traditions of all 120 Kentucky counties. As part of the federal-and state-level America250 celebrations, the fair will feature a special exhibition honoring the nation's semiquincentennial and Kentucky’s contributions to the history of our nation.
The 2026 Kentucky State Fair is August 20–30 at the Kentucky Exposition Center. Tickets for the fair and the entertainment lineup will be released in June.