Kentucky State Fair
Experience Kentucky this summer by visiting the Kentucky State Fair and taking part in a variety of exciting attractions, concerts, and competitions.
Event information
The Kentucky State Fair runs August 14-24, 2025, at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, celebrating its 121st year with 11 days of concerts, competitions, and classic fair attractions. This iconic event draws over 500,000 visitors annually for livestock shows, the Texas Roadhouse Concert Series, Thrill Ville rides, and authentic Kentucky food. On-site RV camping is available exclusively in Lot F with primitive sites at $55/night (reservations required at 502-367-5380), while Louisville's exceptional RV rental marketplace offers everything from compact campervans to spacious Class A motorhomes. Whether you're planning a weekend fair visit or an extended Kentucky exploration, an RV rental puts you minutes from both the fairgrounds and the Bluegrass State's renowned bourbon distilleries, horse farms, and natural attractions.
What is the Kentucky State Fair?
The Kentucky State Fair stands as the Commonwealth's premier annual celebration, showcasing everything that makes Kentucky special under one roof. The fair runs for 11 days each August at the Kentucky Exposition Center, featuring over 50,000 visitors who come to experience authentic Kentucky culture, from livestock competitions to bourbon tastings.
Multiple entertainment venues operate simultaneously across the 247-acre fairgrounds, including the BIG Tent, Budweiser Tent, and the headline Texas Roadhouse Concert Series that brings major recording artists to Freedom Hall. The fair features over 50 thrill rides courtesy of Kissel Entertainment's Sensory Inclusive certified midway, plus competitions ranging from 4-H and FFA exhibitions to the World's Championship Horse Show.
Traditional fair food takes center stage alongside Kentucky specialties, while artisan vendors showcase local crafts, bourbon merchandise, and handmade goods. Educational exhibits highlight Kentucky's agricultural heritage, with interactive displays about tobacco farming, horse breeding, and the state's role in American bourbon production.
For RV travelers planning to explore the fair scene, discover Louisville RV rentals perfect for easy fairground access, or consider Lexington RV rentals for exploring Kentucky's horse country before heading to Louisville.
When and Where is the Kentucky State Fair Held?
- Dates: August 14-24, 2025
- Location: Kentucky Exposition Center, 937 Phillips Lane, Louisville, KY 40209
- Hours: Vary by day (full schedule available in late July)
- Attendance: 500,000+ visitors annually
- Special Events: Texas Roadhouse Concert Series, World's Championship Horse Show, Championship Drive livestock competitions
The Kentucky Exposition Center sits at the junction of I-65 and I-264, making it easily accessible from all directions and just minutes from Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport.
Tickets
How Much Does the Kentucky State Fair Cost?
Ticket prices vary by day and package, with options ranging from single-day general admission to season passes and group discounts. Advanced online purchases typically offer the best rates, with special pricing available for seniors (55+), children, and military families.
The fair offers several ticket packages, including general admission, Thrill Ville unlimited ride wristbands, and premium packages that combine fair entry with concert access. Group rates are available for organizations, schools, and family reunions planning to attend together.
Check the Kentucky State Fair website for current pricing and special promotional days throughout the fair's 11-day run.
How Do I Rent an RV Near Louisville for the Fair?
Louisville serves as Kentucky's RV rental hub, offering an impressive selection of vehicles perfect for fair-goers seeking comfort and convenience. The city's strategic location along major interstates makes it ideal for both local and out-of-state visitors flying into Louisville International Airport, formerly known as Muhammad Ali International Airport.
Travel trailers prove especially popular among fair families, providing ample space for gear, costumes, and fair purchases while offering easy towing for those comfortable with trailer handling. For first-time RVers or those preferring an all-in-one solution, Louisville campervan rentals offer excellent maneuverability for city driving and fair parking.
Most Louisville RV rental locations provide comprehensive orientation sessions, ensuring even first-time renters feel confident operating their rigs. Many hosts offer delivery services to hotels or the airport, streamlining the pickup process for fly-and-drive visitors.
Book your RV rental for the fair season well in advance, as August represents peak demand for RV travel in Kentucky due to ideal weather and multiple state festivals.
Explore Kentucky State Fair RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
The Kentucky Exposition Center is located at the junction of I-65 and I-264 (937 Phillips Lane) in Louisville, with "Fair/Expo Center" signs on both interstates leading to the main gate. From out of state, major access routes include I-64 from the east and west, I-71 from the north, and the Western Kentucky Parkway from central Kentucky.
The fairgrounds offer multiple entry points to accommodate heavy traffic during peak hours. Plan extra travel time during weekend evenings when concerts and major events conclude simultaneously.
Parking areas
Overnight RV parking is allowed only in the Kentucky Exposition Center Lot F, with sites available by reservation only for $55/night (before taxes). Electric and water hookups are not available. Contact (502) 367-5380 for RV camping reservations.
General vehicle parking is available in designated lots around the fairgrounds, though spaces fill quickly during peak attendance days. Accessible parking is provided near main entrances for visitors with disabilities.
Public Transportation
The Transit Authority of River City (TARC) provides bus service to routes near the fairgrounds. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft offer convenient door-to-door service, particularly useful for fairgoers staying at nearby RV parks who prefer not to navigate fair traffic.
Where to stay
Onsite
While the fairgrounds offer primitive on-site camping in Lot F, Louisville's outstanding RV infrastructure provides superior comfort and amenities just minutes from the action.
Nearby
Premier RV Parks Near the Fair:
Louisville South KOA offers the perfect combination of convenience and amenities for fair visitors. Located in peaceful woodlands just 30 minutes from the fairgrounds, this award-winning campground features full hookups supporting rigs up to 90 feet, a swimming pool, hiking trails, an outdoor theater, and a dedicated Kamp K-9 dog park for traveling pets.
Taylorsville Lake Campground provides a scenic escape for extended fair visits, sitting on the shores of beautiful Taylorsville Lake about halfway between Louisville and Lexington. This state-run facility offers full hookup sites, marina access, sandy beaches, and excellent fishing opportunities.
White Acres Campground delivers a comfortable camping experience just outside Louisville with full hookups for big rigs, recreational activities including horseshoes and playground equipment, plus convenient access to nearby Sympson Lake for boating and fishing.
For budget-conscious fair visitors, several Corps of Engineers campgrounds around Louisville area lakes offer more affordable options, though they typically provide fewer amenities than private RV resorts.
Getting around
Electric scooters, wagons, wheelchairs, and strollers can be rented at multiple locations at the fairgrounds. Rentals cover the entire day, and you will need a valid driver's license for all rentals. Comfortable shoes are in order for enjoying all this fair has to offer.
What to pack
Clothing
August in Louisville brings warm, humid weather with daytime temperatures typically reaching 80-85°F and comfortable evenings around 65-70°F. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for fair walking, plus a light jacket for air-conditioned buildings and evening outdoor concerts.
Many fairgoers embrace the agricultural theme with western wear, farm-themed t-shirts, or Kentucky-proud apparel. Comfortable walking shoes are essential given the fairgrounds' size and gravel paths.
Gear
Bring a valid ID along with your fair tickets, as some attractions and adult beverage areas require age verification. Essential items include sunscreen, water bottles (one sealed bottle per person allowed), and a small blanket for concert seating.
While many vendors accept cards, having cash proves helpful for smaller booths, games, and tip situations. ATMs are available on-site but may have lines during peak hours.
Health & Safety
August's Kentucky heat and humidity make hydration critical—water stations are located throughout the fairgrounds. The open-air environment means sun protection is essential, especially during daytime livestock shows and outdoor concerts.
Security personnel conduct bag checks at entrances and patrol the grounds during operating hours. Store valuables securely in your RV rather than carrying them through crowded areas.
Where to eat
Cooking
If staying at area RV parks, take advantage of full kitchens to prepare hearty breakfasts before fair days and late dinners after evening entertainment. Local grocery stores near the fairgrounds stock up on supplies during fair week, making meal planning convenient.
Most campgrounds allow outdoor grilling, perfect for recreating fair barbecue experiences back at your site while sharing stories from each day's adventures.
Restaurants
Louisville's renowned culinary scene extends far beyond the fairgrounds, featuring everything from James Beard Award-winning fine dining to iconic local favorites. The Highland and Bardstown Road areas offer eclectic restaurant collections within easy driving distance of most RV parks.
Don't miss trying authentic Louisville specialties like the Hot Brown sandwich, bourbon-infused cuisine, and locally-distilled spirits at restaurants throughout the metro area.
Vendors
The Kentucky State Fair showcases both traditional carnival favorites and distinctive regional specialties. Signature items include Kentucky bourbon barbecue, country ham biscuits, fried green tomatoes, and Derby pie alongside classic fair treats like funnel cakes, turkey legs, and fresh-squeezed lemonade.
Local distilleries often sponsor food booths featuring bourbon-enhanced versions of fair classics, offering unique tastes unavailable elsewhere.
Safety
Security
Security personnel are present on-site during fair hours, conducting bag checks at entrances and patrolling the grounds. State Police provide additional enforcement as needed. Emergency exits are clearly marked throughout the facility.
Fair management prohibits weapons not compliant with state and federal law, unauthorized drones due to airport proximity, and outside alcohol per Kentucky Alcohol Beverage Control regulations.
Weather
In the event of inclement weather, the Kentucky State Fair does not offer refunds or rainchecks. August weather in Louisville is generally stable, though afternoon thunderstorms can occur. Indoor buildings provide shelter during brief showers.
Monitor weather forecasts during your visit, as severe weather can temporarily close outdoor attractions and rides for safety.
Medical
First aid stations operate throughout the fairgrounds with trained medical professionals available. Emergency services remain on call 24/7 for visitors staying at area campgrounds. Wheelchair and scooter rentals are available through Scooter Time Rentals at the West Lawn near accessible parking.
