News Summary
The Florida State Fair has been nominated for USA Today’s 10Best state fair rankings, with public voting open until July 28, 2025. Known for its unique cuisine and vibrant entertainment, the fair has a rich history since its inception in 1904. Visitors can enjoy a variety of food offerings and attractions while new technologies enhance the guest experience. Scheduled for February 2026, the fair continues to be a popular event that garners attention, especially among younger audiences on social media.
Tampa, Florida – The Florida State Fair is in the running for a spot in USA Today’s 10Best state fair rankings, with online voting open until July 28, 2025. Recognized for its innovative blend of food, entertainment, and a strong sense of community, the fair is an exciting contender in this competitive ranking process. The winners will be announced on August 6, 2025, following the closing of public voting at noon ET.
This popular event has its roots in a small gathering organized in South Florida in 1904, steadily growing into a significant attraction that showcases Florida’s culture and agricultural achievements. The fair achieved official status as Florida’s state fair in 1975, thanks to state lawmakers who recognized its importance to the local community and the economy.
Visitors to the fair can look forward to a unique array of food offerings, including deep-fried strawberry cake, gator tacos, and new culinary delights such as strawberry lemonade donuts and soul food egg rolls. These innovative food options highlight the fair’s commitment to adventurous cuisine that attracts food lovers from all over. The fair’s diverse food culture is further complemented by exciting amusement rides, with more than 75 attractions this year—including new additions such as the massive Kraken ride and Candy Adventure Fun.
Entertainment and Attractions
The Florida State Fair is not just about food; it offers a wide variety of entertainment options. From thrilling circus acts and racing pigs to lively demolition derbies and a silent disco, the fair promises a packed schedule of family-friendly activities. Live music performances, including a tribute band dedicated to Taylor Swift, add to the vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-visit for entertainment seekers.
To enhance the visitor experience, the fair has introduced a new smartphone app that provides essential information for planning a visit. Attendees can navigate the fairgrounds, view event schedules, and find their favorite food stands easily.
Background and Evolution
The Florida State Fair’s location has changed throughout its history, starting near the historic Tampa Bay Hotel before moving to spots near Tampa Stadium and finally settling at its current site in the mid-1970s. The fair now covers multiple acres, featuring numerous rides, interactive animal exhibits, and agricultural showcases, reflecting its growth from a modest one-building setup to a sprawling entertainment complex.
Moreover, the fair runs concurrently with Tampa’s Gasparilla festival and the strawberry season, drawing larger crowds during its two-week duration. This year, Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson officially opened the fair by flipping the switch to turn on the event’s lights, signaling the start of the festivities.
Details for Visitors
Ticket prices vary by day, with general admission set at $11 for seniors aged 55 and older. Discounted tickets are available at select Wawa locations, making the fair accessible to a broader audience. The next Florida State Fair is scheduled to take place from February 5-16, 2026, following the conclusion of this year’s event.
The Florida State Fair is gaining traction among younger audiences, particularly on social media platforms like TikTok, where videos featuring outrageous food items and exhilarating rides are drawing significant attention. As the fair continues to innovate and expand its offerings, it strengthens its position as a key player in Florida’s cultural and entertainment landscape.
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Additional Resources
- My Q105: Florida State Fair Considered One of the Best in the U.S.
- Fox 13 News: Florida State Fair 2025 – What Visitors Can Find at Fairgrounds This Year
- WTSP: Florida State Fair 2025 Tickets, Dates, and Deals
- Click Orlando: Gov. DeSantis Speaks at Florida State Fair
- St. Pete Catalyst: Florida State Fair Returns with New Food Attractions
- Wikipedia: Florida State Fair
- Google Search: Florida State Fair
- Google Scholar: Florida State Fair
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Florida State Fair
- Google News: Florida State Fair
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
The TAMPA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERETampa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Tampa, Hillsborough County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Gasparilla Pirate Festival, Florida State Fair, and Tampa Riverfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce and United Way Suncoast, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and technology that power the local economy such as BayCare Health System, Grow Financial Federal Credit Union, and KnowBe4. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERESTPetersburg.com, and HERETallahassee.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
