The 2025 Florida State Fair is just around the corner — Thursday, Feb. 6-Monday, Feb. 17. Prepare to live the annual fair-ytale with this guide, featuring need-to-know parking, dining, and entertainment information.

🚗 Parking + admission

The event takes place at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa, ~40 minutes from Lakeland. Parking is always free in the fairgrounds’ three parking lots. Here's what's near each lot so you can plan the perfect parking spot.

Lot A-E (Gate 1) | Expo Hall shopping
Lot F-H (Gate 2) | Cracker Country 19th century rural Florida exhibition
Lot I-J (Gate 3) | Florida Learning Garden

You can buy fair tickets (starting at $11 for adults) online or at the gate.

🥨 Fair food

A trip to the fair isn't complete without trying one of the exciting new menu items. Here's our must-try list for 2025:

Dad Bod | 📍Our Noire Kitchen | Cooked up by Polk County’s own, this sandwich features brisket, smoked pork belly, pulled pork, cheese + pork belly jam.
Pretzel Rolled Corn on the Cob | 📍Miller & Co Concessions | Classic street corn gets a twist with this snack that slathers corn in mayo and spices before finishing it off with crushed pretzels.
Strawberry Lemonade Donut | 📍Fluffy’s Hand Cut Donuts | Sweet tooths will get their fix with a donut featuring lemon buttercream, strawberry lemonade crunch, lemon gummy candy, freeze-dried strawberries, and a pipette of strawberry lemonade.

That's just the tip of the iceberg. Check out the full lineup.

What's a fair without a ferris wheel ride? | Photo by @flstatefair

🎡 Can't-miss rides

City Editor Amelia can be found with the wind in her hair going down the State Fair Giant Slide.
City Editor Connor is a fan of the classics — you can find her on the Midway Sky Eye.
Extreme thrill seekers should head to the Super Cyclone Coaster.
Children and low-to-medium-level thrill seekers can try Silver Streak.

Plan your rides with the full list of attractions.

We're ready to pull up a seat and enjoy some live music. | Photo by @flstatefair

🎤 Live entertainment

With 12 days of fair fun and live shows, there will be no shortage of entertainment. You can find everything from blood-pumping illusion and adrenaline shows to live music, animal exhibitions, and more.

Is your favorite fair food, show, or ride not on our list? Tell us about it.