Florida State Fair Returns This Week with New Food, Entertainment and Patriotic Theme
TAMPA, Fla. — The Florida State Fair opens its gates this Thursday, February 5, 2026, at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa. This year’s theme, “America’s Sunniest Celebration,” honors America’s upcoming 250th birthday with a blend of traditional fair attractions, new food offerings and patriotic displays.
The fair will run through February 16, offering a wide range of entertainment, agricultural exhibits, and of course, thrilling rides. Fairgoers can expect a diverse lineup of attractions, including circus shows, magicians, pig races, and eating contests, culminating in the Star-Spangled Fireworks Spectacular.
Fair Dates and Hours
The Florida State Fair is scheduled from February 5 through February 16. Hours of operation vary:
- Monday – Thursday: Entry gates open at 11 a.m. And close at 9 p.m., with the ride midway opening at 1 p.m.
- Friday – Sunday and Presidents’ Day: Entry gates open at 10 a.m. And close at 9 p.m., with the ride midway opening at 10:30 a.m.
Ticket Prices
Ticket prices vary depending on the day of the week and age group:
- Child (Ages 6-11): $7 Monday – Thursday, $11 Friday – Sunday and Presidents’ Day
- Adult (Ages 12-54): $12 Monday – Thursday, $16 Friday – Sunday and Presidents’ Day
- Ride Armband (All Ages): $35 Monday – Thursday, $45 Friday – Sunday and Presidents’ Day
Special Discount Days
Several days offer discounted or free admission for specific groups:
- Heroes Day (Feb. 5): Free admission for law enforcement, first responders, active or retired military, medical personnel, and teachers with valid agency ID.
- Opening Day Bounce Back Deal (Feb. 5): Guests who enter with a paid admission ticket on opening day will receive an additional admission ticket valid for February 6–16.
- $5 Freedom Friday (Feb. 6): $5 admission and $5 parking after 5 p.m.
- Youth in Ag Day (Feb. 7 & Feb. 14): Free admission for FFA, YLPA, and 4-H members with ID, or in official dress.
- BOGO Bowl Sunday (Feb. 8): Buy One Get One admission and ride armband after 3 p.m. Free admission for Girl Scouts in uniform.
- Feeding Tampa Bay Day (Feb. 8): $1.00 from every ticket will be donated to Feeding Tampa Bay.
- Exceptional Citizens Morning (Feb. 9): Free admission for exceptional citizens with an accompanying paid guest from 11 a.m.–1 p.m. Sensory-friendly adjustments will be in place.
- Hospitality & Service Industry Day (Feb. 9): $5 admission all day for service and hospitality staff with employer ID.
- College Student Day (Feb. 9): $5 admission all day for college students with college ID.
- One Great Price (Feb. 10): $25 admission + unlimited rides (select specialty rides excluded).
- Senior Savings Day (Feb. 11): $5 admission all day for seniors 55+.
- $3 Thursday (Feb. 12): $3 admission, plus select rides, games, and food items after 3 p.m.
- Family Day (Feb. 13): Free admission for persons 17 years of age or younger with an admission paying parent or guardian.
- Salute to America Day (Feb. 16): Free admission for persons 17 years of age or younger with an admission paying parent or guardian, and free admission for active or retired military with valid military ID.
New Fair Food
Attendees can look forward to a variety of new food options this year, including “America’s Birthday Cake Iced Tea,” “Red, White & Berry Smoothie,” and “Star-Spangled Cookie Sundae,” alongside dishes featuring cookie butter, Dubai chocolate, and more. Some of the new offerings include the Arepa Pig Mac, Birria Street Corn, and a Reese’s Pieces Donut Burger.
Agricultural Exhibits
The Florida State Fair continues to highlight the state’s agricultural heritage with exhibits including the Ag Hall of Fame, Cattle Ranching Museum, and Livestock Barns. Guests can also enjoy camel and pony rides, and learn about fish and wildlife.
Fair App and Location
The Florida State Fair app, available on Apple iOS and Google Play, provides an interactive map, daily schedule, and information on food and attractions. The fairgrounds are located at 4800 U.S. Hwy. 301 North, Tampa, FL 33610.
