Wilson County Fair - Tennessee State Fair 2025: What to know before you go

The annual fair returns to Lebanon’s James E. Ward Agricultural Center Thursday, Aug. 14-Saturday, Aug. 23.

A bunch of fair rides lit up at a night like a ferris wheel, swing rides, and more.

We’re fairly certain you’ll want to bookmark this.

Photo provided by Reithoffer Shows, Inc.

Get ready to go hog wild — it’s the Year of Pork at the Wilson County – Tennessee State Fair. The 10-day event will celebrate the importance of the pork industry and feature livestock shows, demonstrations, thrilling rides and, of course, mouth-watering fair food.

We’re breaking down everything you need to know before you head out.

Hours, admission + parking

  • Monday-Friday at 4 p.m., Saturdays at 10 a.m., and Sunday at 12 p.m.
  • Tickets are $12 online in advance and $15 after the fair opens, $6 for children ages 6-12, and free for children ages five and under. Pro tip: You can save a little money if you go on opening day, because the fair runs a slightly cheaper “opening day special.”
  • Mega tickets are $30 and include one gate admission and one ride armband — these must be purchased by Wednesday, Aug. 13.
  • Season tickets are $45 and will get you in the gates all 10 days of the fair.
  • Ride armbands cost $25 Monday-Thursday and $30 Sunday + Friday (Saturday is individual ride tickets only).
  • Free parking is available on and off-site (with a shuttle service) — preferred parking is $10.

New to 2025

From performers and exhibits to fanfair favorites, each day has a jam-packed schedule of events. New to the scene are:

  • Rides | Lightning Ride, Sky Ride, Joker Ride, Samba Balloon, Red Baron, Star Jet, and Treasure Island
  • Competitions | The Great Bacon Toss, Harmonica Contest, Pig Callin’ Competition, Pig Tail Hair Competition, and Fair Food Competition

Know before you go

The fair has a Clear Bag Policy so make sure to bring a clear bag no larger than 12"x6"x12" or a small clutch no larger than 4.5"x6.5".

More from NOOGAtoday
Beat the heat by taking a refreshing dip in one of these spots in and around the city.
Here’s how you can join fellow Chattanoogans in celebrating Earth Week through Saturday, April 25.
It’s time to hit play because we’re spinning some tracks on where to get the best deals on Record Store Day around the Scenic City.
This Southside spot combines a makers market, classroom, and cafe — all in one creative space.
Put your money where your community is and help us create a guide to small businesses by submitting your favorite local spots and sharing this page with a friend.
The Chattanooga Lookouts’ brand-new stadium opens Tuesday, April 14. Here’s everything you need to know before you head to the park.
Pack your reusable shopping bags, because we’ve rounded up 18 farmers markets around Chattanooga, TN.
Assemble the dream team and test your trivia wits at these bars, breweries, and restaurants.
Back by popular demand, the sci-fi thriller will have several more showings on Chattanooga’s largest screen.
The $8.75M compound on Elder Mountain comes with too many luxury features to list.