Know before you go: 2026 Florida State Fair

TAMPA, Fla. — The 2026 Florida State Fair is finally here, taking over the Florida State Fairgrounds from Feb. 5 through Feb. 16.

From rides and games, to fair food, to live entertainment, the annual event is packed with fun for all ages.

Here's everything you need to know before heading to the Fairgrounds, located at 301 U.S. Highway 301 North, Tampa.

Good Morning Tampa Bay anchor Andrew Kinsey witnessed firsthand what it takes to ensure the fair is fair for everyone.

FAIR HOURS

• Monday – Thursday
  
  • Gates open: 11 a.m. -9 p.m.
  • Midway opens: 1 p.m.
• Friday – Sunday and President’s Day
  
  • Gates open: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
  • Midway opens: 10:30 a.m.

PARKING

• There are three entrances to the Fairgrounds parking facilities:
  
  • Orient Road
  • Martin Luther King
  • US 301

WFTS

Parking prices:

• Advance (through Feb. 4): $8
• Online (Feb. 5-16): $10
• On-site: $15

Tampa Bay 28 meteorologist Ally Blake breaks down all the new changes on parking at the State Fair.

TICKET PRICES

• Monday – Thursday:
  
  • Adult: $12
  • Child (6-11): $7
  • Seniors (55+): $11
  • Midway Ride Armbands (any age): $35
• Friday – Sunday and President’s Day:
  
  • Adult: $16
  • Child (6-11): $11
  • Midway Ride armbands (any age): $45

Purchase your tickets online here.

Tampa Bay 28 reporter Blake Phillips how visitors are reacting to the new cost when it comes to attending the state fair.

FLORIDA STATE FAIRGROUNDS MAP

Florida State Fairgrounds website

• 1: MidFlorida Amphitheater
• 2: Bob Thomas Equestrian Center
• 3: TECO Arena
• 4: Cracker Country
• 5: Expo Hall
• 6: Entertainment Hall
• 7: Florida Center
• 8: Special Events Center

NEW 2026 FAIR FOOD

• Birria Street Taco Pizza
  
  • Located at: Pizza Emporium
• Candy Grapes
  
  • Located at: The Candi Queen
• Deep Fried Cuban Burrito
  
  • Located at: Chester's Gators & Taters
• Cinnamozza Korean Corn Dog
  
  • Located at: Goldenkdog
• Dill Devil
  
  • Located at: The Pickle Jar
• Grilled Campfire S'more Sandwich
  
  • • Located at: Sunshine Concessions
• Dubai Chocolate Funnel Cake
  
  • • Located at: Wade Shows Funnel Cake
• Reese's Pieces Donut Burger
  
  • Located at: DeAnna's Donut Burger

For pictures of what these new menu items look like, click here.