Since 1956, the Kentucky State Fair has transformed the Kentucky Exposition Center into a giant hub of culture — and corn dogs, of course.

So with the sweet smell of funnel cakes looming in the air and trailers of livestock rolling in, we thought we’d provide a numerical snapshot at the annual event and what’s new this year.

One day until the fair
The Kentucky State Fair’s opening ceremony is tomorrow, Aug. 17 at 10:15 a.m. and will mark the 119th anniversary. The fair will continue daily at 10 a.m. until Sunday, Aug. 27. Admission is $10 and includes parking.

Horses in the championship show compete in nine different divisions — like the Hackney/Harness Ponies seen here. | Photo by Linda Doane

2,000+ Saddlebred horses
The World’s Championship Horse Show inside Freedom Hall begins on Saturday, Aug. 19 and promises more than $1 million in awards to competitors. Tickets are sold separately for each show during the eight-day event and range $7-$10.

See prized country hams that will be sold during the Country Ham Breakfast and Auction — some for millions of dollars — in the indoor exhibit halls. | Photo by LOUtoday

Four indoor exhibit areas
The South and North wings + East and West halls house the fair’s familiar competitive entries, education and health exhibitions, food vendors, and shops.

$13.6 million estimated economic impact
Based on data from 2022, the fair's projected economic impact to Kentucky is over $13 million.

The fair offers 75+ free daily attractions and shows. | Photo by Linda Doane

Eight new events
Here’s a breakdown of new shows + activities:

Cirque Zuma Zuma — African-style circus
U.S. Army Special Operations — parachute and flight simulators
Plant Guy — strolling show with an interactive plant
Ice Cream Show — performance with magic tricks + juggling
Kentucky State Civics Bee — competition where kids use civics to solve community problems
Beerfest — one-day event with beer samples; additional ticket required
Kentucky Auctioneers Association State Contest — auctioneers compete during a live auction
Latin Fest — one-day event with Latin music

10 free concerts
Rain or shine, these artists are taking the stage during the free Texas Roadhouse Concert Series.