Little Rock, Ark. – As the crisp autumn air settles over the Natural State, the iconic Arkansas State Fair has roared back to life for its 85th year, drawing crowds eager for a whirlwind of fried treats, adrenaline-pumping rides, and live music under the stars. Kicking off on Friday, October 10, and running through Sunday, October 19, the fair transforms the State Fairgrounds into a bustling hub of celebration, with gates swinging open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Whether you’re a longtime fairgoer chasing nostalgia or a first-timer hunting for that perfect corn dog, here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of the magic.
A Feast for the Senses: Food, Rides, and Family Fun
No Arkansas State Fair would be complete without its legendary lineup of indulgent eats—from classic funnel cakes dusted with powdered sugar to innovative deep-fried delights like Oreos or butter. Livestock shows showcase the state’s agricultural pride, with competitions featuring everything from prize hogs to show-stopping steers, while the midway beckons with towering Ferris wheels and heart-racing roller coasters courtesy of North American Midway Entertainment. Families can dive into interactive exhibits, craft demos, and kid-friendly zones, all set against the backdrop of golden fall foliage.
Pro tip: Swing by early on weekdays for free parking and gate admission from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., a sweet deal to beat the weekend rush. And if you’re gearing up for unlimited thrills, snag ride bands in advance for $30 (or $37 at the gate) to skip the lines and maximize the midway mayhem.
Concert Lineup: Stars Shine Bright This Weekend
Music lovers, rejoice—the fair’s Concert Series at historic Barton Coliseum is heating up, with tickets starting at $30 for general admission, $45 for box seats, and $55 for floor seating. The weekend slate promises high-energy vibes to cap off your fair days:
- Friday, October 10: Trey Songz – The R&B crooner, sponsored by Top Choice Auto Group, got the festivities off to a sultry start with hits like “Can’t Help But Wait” and “Say Aah,” drawing fans ready to sway under the lights.
- Saturday, October 11: Lonestar & David Lee Murphy – Kick back with Murphy’s twangy anthems “Dust on the Bottle” and “Party Crowd” before Lonestar takes the stage for ’90s country gold like “Amazed.” Sponsored by Smirnoff and Don Julio, it’s the perfect night for boot-scootin’ brews.
- Sunday, October 12: 38 Special – Southern rock royalty closes out the weekend with classics like “Hold On Loosely” and “Rockin’ Into the Night,” another Smirnoff and Don Julio-backed bash that’s sure to have the crowd chanting for encores.
The full series continues through the fair with more acts, so check the official schedule for surprises.
Navigating the Fair: Parking, Policies, and Practical Tips
With throngs expected over the 10-day run, organizers have smartened up the flow to keep things smooth. Ditch the old loop under the bridge—north lot parkers now approach eastbound on Roosevelt Road and turn right, while westbound folks veer right onto Schiller Street for the south lot near the south gate. Parking runs $10 per vehicle, but snag advance tickets online to save: adults $10 (gate $15), kids/seniors (6-12 or 60+) $6 ($8 at gate).
Safety first: The fair enforces a clear bag policy for all events, allowing only clear plastic/vinyl bags up to 12” x 6” x 12” (with a small logo), one-gallon Ziplocs, small clutches (4.5” x 6.5”), or medically necessary/diaper bags after inspection. And parents, note the youth curfew—after 6 p.m., anyone under 18 needs an adult (21+) escort and ID to enter; no exceptions.
The Arkansas State Police are on hand with other agencies to ensure a secure vibe, patrolling the grounds amid the fun.
Buzz from the Grounds: Opening Day Highlights
Opening night was a hit, with fairgoers raving about the warmer-than-average temps and festive energy. Local media captured the excitement, from whack-a-mole games to previews of the midway’s towering rides. On X, attendees shared snaps of the sparkling lights and shared laughs about the fair’s irresistible pull—one user quipped about skipping it due to “probation vibes,” while others warned to “ride at your own risk” after spotting a cheeky ride assembler. Morning shows like KARK 4 Today dished on must-sees, urging folks to grab that fried food on a stick.
As Day 2 unfolds today, the fair’s spirit is palpable— a true Arkansas tradition blending community, cuisine, and country tunes. Head out, embrace the chaos, and remember: in the words of the season, it’s the most wonderful time of the year. See y’all there!
