2024 Complete Guide to the Florida State Fair: Food, Tickets, Concerts, Rides and More! (2024)

I hope you have already marked the dates in your calendar for the 2024 Florida State Fair. After all, it’s one of the oldest and most outstanding fairs in the country.

The Florida State Fair, which is held in Tampa from February 8-19, 2024, will be celebrating its 120^th birthday.

I am excited to take you on a complete guide of how to enjoy the entertainment, the food, and the culture of this annual Florida event.

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2024 Florida State Fair at a Glance:

• You can expect it to be bigger, grander, more entertaining with great rides, food, entertainment, and everything that the Florida State Fair is known for.
• Dates for 2024 are from February 8th through the 19th
• The 11-day extravaganza which started in 1904 attracts over 500,000 visitors with Florida residents exhibiting their skills in crafts, agriculture, and horticulture.
• You can also find participants applauded for owning things such as the best bull or most beautiful quilt. That’s the tradition that the fair still celebrates and nurtures on this very day!
• Tickets start at $11 for adults and $7 for kids (6 to 11 years old)

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5 Fun Things to Do at The Florida State Fair

There are plenty of things you can do at no additional cost.

The free shows, exhibits, expo area, and equestrian demonstrations all draw in huge crowds and are all the perfect places to start your trip off at the fair in Tampa.

1. The Midway at the Florida State Fair

Adventure is part of the Tampa fair with the Midway offering a variety of rides and unique experiences to enjoy.

If you did not know, Wade Show provides all the rides for the Florida State Fair in Tampa.

2024 Florida State Fair Map

What Rides are at the Florida State Fair?

In addition to the Ferris Wheel, there are other thrilling rides like the Wipeout, The Super Cyclone Coaster, Sizzler, Mighty Mouse Coaster, the Alpine Bobs and so much more for an extra dose of fun at the Florida State Fair.

Florida State Fair rides are divided into four types:

1. Thrill
2. Kiddie
3. Spectacular
4. Family

There are more than 100 rides in which many are family-friendly, but be sure to review the height requirements and the number of tickets needed for each ride here to help you make the most of your time and money.

These are the 5 best rides at the Florida State Fair in 2024:

1. Street Fighter 360
2. Wipeout
3. State Fair Giant Slide
4. Skyride
5. Midway Sky Eye

Check out more Florida State Fair rides here!

Fun Fact: The Florida State Fair has the largest rideMidway in the U.S.A.

2. Florida State Fair Food for 2024

Food is also another notable feature that you’ll want to participate in on your trip to the Florida State Fair.

From traditional dishes to the latest fusion food, expect the best here. There are some age-old favorites like candies, kettle corn, and fried Oreos.

However, what makes people look forward to the fair arethe crazy dishes that appear here.

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You’ll be able to treat both your eyes and your taste budswith some the tastiest and weirdest dishes like:

Best Food at the Florida State Fair 2024

• Bacon Waffle Cheeseburger (LOCATION: Macken’s Sliders)
• Honey Bunny Curd Burger (LOCATION: Shockley’s Food Service)
• BBQ Fried Burrito (LOCATION: Low N Slow Catering)
• Poutine Burger (LOCATION: DeAnna’s Donut Burger)
• Banana Cream Pie Funnel Cake (LOCATION: Ryals Concessions Sweet Shop)
• Korean Spicy Corndog (LOCATION: Seivers Smokehouse Grill)
• Jalapeno Lemonade (LOCATION: Coastal Concessions)

Over the years, people raved about the giant mozzarella cheese stick, the red beans and rice funnel cake, the rainbow grilled cheese, and the Amish doughnut.

The items are sinfully delightful and full of calories that “don’t count” at the fair!

After all, the electrifying ambiance will make you forgetall about the pounds you may be packing on during your visit.

See what food you can eat at this year’s Florida State Fair here!

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3. Cracker Country

Check out the Cracker Country to learn interesting information on the rural history of Florida.

The museum takes you back a few centuries and lets you have a glimpse of life in the state during the 1800s.

There are also a few original buildings that date back from the late 1800s to the early 1900s.

This Tampa museum will be open all 12 days of the state fair.

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4. Agriculture and Exhibitions

If you’re interested in art and culture, there are alltypes craft exhibitions and competitions through the fair.

You can see not only how Floridians have preserved theirheritage in these shows, but you can see the many submissions of studentsaround the state.

I can remember being in school and hoping that my science or history project would win so that my work would be featured in the Lake County Fair.

This is probably why I love browsing the student competition section of the exhibition.

Here are a few competitions to be on the lookout for at the Florida State Fair:

• Wine & Juice
• Culinary
• Art Portfolio
• Technology
• Aquarium
• Horticulture

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Agribusiness

The agribusiness demonstrations are also very popular at the Florida State Fair.

Be it cattle or the fruits and veggies grown in the area, the fair allows you to see the best of what the state offers.

Did you know that every year, more than 6,000 animals arebrought here for the exhibits?

At the Florida State Fair, you’ll be able to get close to some of the most popular livestock of the state.

So, don’t forget to visit the goat and sheep tent and also the small animal show ring which are all included with your admission ticket.

Florida State Fair Best Education and Exhibits in 2024

Besides the food, the exhibits are by far my favorite places to visit while at the state fair here in Tampa, Florida. Below are a few of my favorites that I LOOOOOVE experiencing each year:

• Creative Living Exhibits: Check out the talented artwork from creators all over Florida
• Ag-Venture: The Ag-Venture is a hands-on learning experience designed to teach about the importance of where their food comes from. Learn just how large of an impact agriculture has in our everyday lives!
• Agriculture Hall of Fame: Check out one of my favorite areas of the fair, The Florida Ag Hall of Fame, where you get to see the showcase of the agricultural experience here in the Sunshine State.
• Cattle Ranching Museum: Learn about the 500 years of ranching traditions told through photographs, artifacts, stories and more!
• Florida Fish & Wildlife Exhibit: Learn about the outdoorsy life of Floridians
• The Florida Forest Discovery: Check out the history of Florida’s forests and the natural habitats surrounding them
• Little Farm Hands: This hands-on agricultural exhibition is perfect for kids aged 2-7

Hipster Power Tip: If you are a dog lover, you’ll want tocheck out the small furry puppies inside the pure-bred dog tent. You may alsobe able to play with some rescued dogs too.

5. Entertainment

A cool thing about the 2024 Florida State Fair is the variety of entertainment that’s included with your admission ticket.

Shows such as the Demolition Derby, the Sea Lion Splash, and the Showcase Community Stage which features talent from all over Florida.

2024 Best Entertainment at the Florida State Fair

Below are some of the entertainment that I’m looking forward to the most this year and some popular bands from the past years:

• Dennis Lee Band: THE FLORIDA STAGE
• Circus Hollywood: CIRCUS PAD
• Community Showcase: ENTERTAINMENT HALL
• Sea Lion Splash: ENTERTAINMENT HALL PAD
• American Jones: MIDWAY STAGE
• Log Run Competition: ACROSS MIDWAY STAGE
• Silent Disco: “S” ON THE MAP

Get the full entertainment schedule for the 2024 Florida State Fair in Tampa here!

Hipster Power Tip: Be sure to participate in the Deep Fried Dash which is the annual 5K run. I’m not sure if it will return for 2024, but you can learn more about it on the official state fair website.

Florida State Fair Tickets 2024

Now that we know what to expect from this state fair, let’sgo through the how much it will be for you to visit.

2024 Tickets Prices for the Florida State Fair

• Adult Ticket: $11 in advanced
• Child (Ages 6-11):$7 in advanced
• Senior (Age 55 and older):$9.00 Senior tickets valid only Mon-Fri, Feb. 8-9, 12-16 and 19, 2024

Hipster Power Tips: Be sure purchase your tickets in advance. You can visit the official Florida State Fair website to purchase your tickets.

2024 Armband Prices at the Florida State Fair

Ride armbands are excellent way for you to enjoy yourselfat the fair. Each armband allows unlimited rides at a small cost.

• Any Day Ride Armband: $32 to ride unlimited attractions (valid one day only and not valid on specialty rides)
• Weekday Ride Armband: $22 February 8, Feb 12-15 & Feb 19, 2024 (valid one day only and not valid on specialty attractions)
• Any Day Ride Armband + Fast Pass: $54 to ride unlimited attractions PLUS skip the line (valid one day only and not valid on specialty rides)

Where to find discount Florida State Fair tickets?

You can get a deal on tickets by buying them in advanced on the state fair website.

In the past, you were able to find discount tickets at participating Publix stores. However, I’m not sure if that deal will be returning for the year.

You can get more information on the Florida State Fair discount tickets here.

13 Florida State Fair Tips and Tricks for Beginners

1. Arrive early
2. Try to go on a weekday in the early part of the day to beat the crowds
3. Pack only your essentials (water, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, hand sanitizer, wet wipes, small book bag to carry your items, phone)
4. Have a game plan in mind so that you can do all of your favorite rides and eat all of your favorite treats
5. Get a ride armband to save money
6. Have a set budget before you get to the fair
7. Visit the exhibition hall to see all of the unique displays
8. Pace yourself and take breaks when needed
9. Bring Cash
10. Remember to be safe and stay on alert (Florida State Fair does allow visitors to enter with a valid concealed weapons permit, pursuant to Chapter 790, Florida Statutes)
11. Be wary of the fun houses that promise you outlandish things such as a lady with a snake head 🙂 (although I have been tricked into to seeing this on multiple occasions, I still think it’s fun and hilarious)
12. Make time to see all the local talent and fun animal shows at the Florida State Fair
13. Stop by the citrus booth to make your own orange juice!

Get started onYour Tampa Bay Travel Plans here!

What to Know Before You Go to the Florida State Fair in 2024

In order to make sure that you’ll have a memorable experience at the Florida State Fair, I’ve put together a few of the most commonly asked questions to help you out for your visit.

Where is the fair held?

The fair is held at the Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. Highway 301 N. in Tampa, Florida.

To make it easier for you to understand, the location ofthe fair is at the intersection of Interstate 4 and U.S. Highway 301 inHillsborough County.

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What are the hours for the Florida State Fair?

In the past, the fair was open from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. each day. Please remember that the times can change at anytime.

How much does it cost to park at the Florida State Fair?

Parking is free at the fair with multiple locations surrounding the fairgrounds. I usually park on the side facing Highway 301 in the area that’s closest to Cracker Country.

When is the 2024 Florida State Fair?

As mentioned earlier, the fair will take place from February 8 to 19, 2024 at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa.

How much is the Florida State Fair?

The cost of the Florida State Fair starts at $11 per adult and $7 per child if purchased in advance.

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Is the Florida State Fair cash only?

You can purchase your admission tickets and ride tickets/armbands with cash or credit cards. But, some vendors may only accept cash. So, bring both your debit/credit card and cash.

Hipster Power Tip: ATMs are located throughout the grounds.

What’s Included With My Admission Ticket to the Florida State Fair?

• Thrill shows
• Musical acts
• Circus shows
• Educational exhibits
• Agricultural experiences

What’s NOT Included with My Florida State Fair Ticket?

All ride tickets/armbands, midway games and food items are not included with the price of admission and must be purchased separately for your visit to the state fair in Tampa, Florida.

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What are the best things to do in Tampa?

Tampa is one of my favorite cities and for good reasons. There are activities for everyone to do in this Florida town that has it all. Nightlife, city life, beach life, and country living.

You’ll be able to find something fun todo, but a few of my favorite activities to do in Tampa are:

• Busch Gardens Theme Park (one of my favorite theme parks in Florida)
• The Florida Aquarium
• Museum of Science and Industry
• Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo
• Downtown St. Pete for shopping
• Have a Spa Day
• Ybor City for nightlife, entertainment, and dining
• Any one of the beautiful beaches

Hipster Power Tip: The Tampa BayCityPASS allows you to visit the top attractions for one low cost and includes: Busch Gardens® Tampa, The Florida Aquarium, Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo, Clearwater Marine Aquarium and Chihuly Collection presented by the Morean Arts Center OR Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI).

2024 Safety Precautions at the Florida State Fair

Let’s go through a few of the safety procedures that will be in place for your trip.

• Hand Sanitizer Stations
• Limited Building Capacity
• Social Distancing Encouraged
• Increased Cleaning Protocol

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My Trip Report and Review of the Florida State Fair

The day was like one of the many perfect weekend days that Florida is known for.

It was also a day for me to indulge into the smells of fried food heaven, the hackling Midway gaming men, the Sunshine State’s agricultural world, the local art, and the quickly put together rides that are staples of the Florida State Fair.

I started out in my usual walking route from the Gate 2 entrance and headed into the Florida Living Center.

This area showcased student artwork, aquaculture, domestic talents, and school projects just to name a few.

It was another solo trip for me, but when you’re an amusem*nt park fan who waits year round for this occasion, you somehow always feel as if you’re in the company of family.

Not to mention the picturesque weather that enhanced the colorful blends of reds, blues, and yellows with the whimsical soundtrack and carnival cuisine smells that flooded the grounds.

These little things are so special to me and things that I love to see at fairs and carnivals throughout the country.

The Florida Forest Discovery Center was one of my favorite areas. Maybe it’s the nerdy gal in me who is a sucker for an amusem*nt park adventure with a dose of learning on the side.

If you can recall the days of museum field trips as a kid, then you’d be right next to me trying to read what a High Wheeler is and when’s the next photo-op with Smokey the Bear.

No day would be complete without the FOOD!

The over fried, overpriced, deliciously unhealthy fair food that is famous for such creations as the Krispy Kreme Doughnut Burger, deep fried butter, and chocolate covered bacon.

Amish Doughnut

I did bend my diet and purchased the melt in your mouth sweetness of the oversized doughnut from the Amish Baking Co.

Calling myself a chili making pro, this chili dog lacked the main ingredient…the chili flavor.

I was a bit upset, but the doughnut made up for the chili dog and it brought my visit to the Florida State Fair to an end.

Hey Hipster, based on what I’ve mentioned so far, do you have a favorite dish that you’d like to try?

Florida Oranges

One of the highlights of my Florida State Fair adventure was the process of making freshly squeezed Florida orange juice.

This experience was located in the Ag-Venture section of the fair.

As you can see, I enjoyed myself with this little adventure. I also had the chance learn what it was like to pump my own water.

This too was located inside the Ag-Venture section of the fair.

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My Final Thoughts on the 2024 Florida State Fair

This Tampa adventure is still one of the largest and oldest state fairs in the country that continues to bring in huge crowds of over 500,000 each year.

Experiencing the food, the attractions, and the classic traditions are all what make this annual event one of the best things to do in Tampa to jump start the new year.

Have you ever been to the Florida State Fair? If so, let us know in the comments section below.

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Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

About the Author

My name is Nikky. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, andawriter who lovesALL thingsamusem*nt park related!

Traveling alone to the parkshas changed my life and I want to show how you can create your own solo theme park memories.

Connect with me on Instagram!

(Original Article Date: February 18, 2014/Updated January 17, 2024)