Florida State Fair: Your Ticket to Fun in the Sun!
You can’t beat the hometown feel of a state fair. From Ferris wheels to corndogs to animal shows, there’s an air of wholesomeness to the entire event – and the Florida State Fair is no exception to the rule!
Although the Sunshine State is known for its glamorous theme parks, we’ve got a homegrown side, too, and we love to show it off at our annual fair in Tampa. In fact, we love it so much this will be our 119th one!1 The Florida State Fair 2023 dates are February 9th – 20th, giving us eleven days of unbridled fun.
Whether you’re a long-time attendee or a first-time visitor, we cordially invite you to partake in everything it has to offer! Here’s what you can expect from a day at the fair.
Meet Me At The Fair
“From a small start in 1904, to our explosive events today, the Florida State Fairgrounds believes that nothing brings a community together like a good time.”2
With a vision like that, it’s no wonder the little event eventually took hold of the entire state. Bringing in around 500,000 visitors each year, this Tampa tradition is one of Florida’s best-loved events!3
The main focus of the fair is agriculture with a side of deep-fried cuisine. This fantastic combination is further coupled with rides, games, live shows, and a living history museum to create an incredibly full experience whether you come for one day or several!
With Florida State Fair ticket prices starting at $10.00 for adults, entrance into this entertainment extravaganza is pretty affordable. However, it is worth noting that games, rides, and food are not included with admission – so budget accordingly! (Note: you can buy armbands that give you unlimited access to rides and even upgrade your experience with fast passes. If you’re planning a ride-centric day, this investment could be worthwhile!)
Florida State Fair Fun
“Eat. Ride. Play.”
That’s the Florida State Fair motto, and honestly, I’m sold (they had me with “eat,” LOL). I mean, do we even need to discuss it any further? Of course, we do! Not as a means of convincing anyone (because you’re totally planning on going now, right?), but simply to build anticipation!
As of writing, specific details for the 2023 fair haven’t been released, but based on the fun of years past, we can still provide a rundown of what you’ll see, hear, and taste!
Animal Farm
I went for the food and stayed for the animals.
With so many farm friends in one place, it’s hard not to experience cuteness overload! And, for those who are educated in farming, you can fully appreciate the quality of these well-bred beasts, from bunnies to cows, to goats and even llamas! Oh, and for all of our dog lovers out there, you have to stop by the tent with all of the purebred and rescue puppers!
You can also check out less domestic critters at the Florida Fish and Wildlife Exhibit, which has housed a snapping turtle in the past. While you’re there, you can also get some great inspo for exploring Florida!
And, for a truly exotic experience, you must check out the Giraffic Menagerie. This exhibit is definitely a fan favorite – not only because Twiggs the giraffe is adorable but also because he’s been known to lick people. And that’s just good TikTok content right there!
While thousands of animals strut their stuff for all to see, the best-grown flowers, fruits, and veggies of the state also make an appearance! With sandy soil and a unique (read: hot and humid) climate, it’s not always easy to be a Florida gardener, which makes the produce you’ll find here that much more impressive.
FYI: the various animal tents, animal show rings, and ag displays are included with admission!
Will It Fry? (Let’s Try!)
The Florida State Fair is sometimes called the “fried food capital” – if something can be deep fried, then it’s probably on the menu here.
Of course, we anticipate the classic, sugar-coated funnel cake, but last year we also saw deep-fried taco shells, deep-fried pickle chips, and deep-fried banana pudding! (If you’re susceptible to heartburn, we suggest packing some Tums.)
You’ll also find fairground favorites like corndogs, hotdogs, and hamburgers (including many made with a creative twist – like having donuts for buns!). Caramel apples, freshly squeezed lemonade and other sweets are always on offer, too. You’ll be surrounded by deliciousness, we promise!
Expos and Other Entertainment
Even if you don’t consider yourself an ag person, there’s plenty of entertainment for city slickers to enjoy at the Florida State Fair!
There’s always a host of fun rides, from a towering Ferris wheel (the Midway Sky Eye) to giant swings and even a zippy, electric slide! In addition to exhilarating rides, the Florida State Fair is also home to a bustling midway brimming with carnival games and cute prizes.
The interactive activities don’t end there! You can also check out the Cracker Country exhibit – the State Fair’s living museum that showcases life in rural 19th-century Florida. The Robot Zoo is another popular exhibit and an especially favorite for kiddos as it displays giant animals – in robot form! (Does it get any cooler than that?)
For a more leisurely pace, stroll through the Expo Hall and Craftman’s Marketplace to find gorgeous handmade items, from carvings to quilts.
Lastly, another big draw to the Florida State Fair is the live music, open-air performers, and exciting variety shows. We’re eager to see which bands and shows will be in this year’s lineup! Oh, and the best part is that all this amazing entertainment is included with your admission ticket!
This is just a smattering of the fun to be found at the Florida State Fair. A perfect event for the entire family, we highly recommend spending a day or two in Tampa this February! We can’t wait to see you there! (You’ll probably be able to find us hanging out with Twiggs, the giraffe.)
Have you been to the Florida State Fair? What’s your favorite exhibit? And your favorite deep-fried dish?? Let us know in the comments below!
Cover Image
Photo: Unsplash
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