Support Us Button Widget

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
Here’s how we braved — and enjoyed — winter weather in the 1900s.
Loud music, yelling, and fireworks — here’s what’s okay (and what’s not) after 8:30 p.m.
From full menu takeovers to seasonal touches, grab your coat for this merry bar crawl.
Three local spots serving one of winter’s sweetest drinks.
Neighborhoods, parks, and local attractions are sparkling this season.
It focuses on access, facilities, outreach, partnerships, and new offerings — with goals that evolve each year.
The three-day event will bring 18 teams — and a big boost — to the Scenic City.
Here are some ways to give back locally during this national day of giving.
The 16th annual edition of Small Business Saturday falls on November 29 — the perfect time to help you add a local sparkle into your holiday shopping.
From choose-and-cut farms to festive pop-up lots, here’s where you can find the perfect tree this holiday season.