LOUISVILLE, Ky. – The 2025 Kentucky State Fair is just around the corner, slated for Aug. 14-24, at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville, offering everything from showcases of the state’s rich agricultural heritage and livestock shows, to competitive entries and live music, according to officials.

“Our theme, ‘All Things Kentucky, All in One Place,’ reflects what makes the Kentucky State Fair so special,” Ian Cox, executive director of communications for Kentucky Venues at the Kentucky Exposition Center, told Farm World. “We wanted to highlight the range of experiences people can only find here. That includes our agriculture, heritage, music, food, entertainment, and entries.

“(For) 11 days, we welcome all 120 counties to showcase their local pride, talents, and innovations,” he added. “Whether it’s blue-ribbon baking, championship livestock, or a live concert, the fair brings the entire state together in one location.”

He said this year’s schedule features dozens of educational and specialty attractions like AgLand, Discovery Farm, the Farm to Fair Cooking Stage, and Health Horizons; and signature events including the Country Ham Contest, Sunshine Class and National Civics Bee State Competition.

He said the Texas Roadhouse Concert Series is included with fair admission and features artists like Sawyer Brown, Sister Sledge featuring Sledgendary, Blue Öyster Cult, Theory of a Deadman, Parmalee, and Roots & Boots. He added the 121st World’s Championship Horse Show will be Aug. 16-23, awarding over $1.5 million in prizes and crowning new World’s Champions.

He said, “This year marks 250 years since Daniel Boone and his party blazed the Wilderness Road, creating a clear path through the Kentucky wilderness. That route became a vital link for thousands of settlers moving west, and helped shape the founding of Kentucky and the broader United States.

“Our exhibit in partnership with America250KY and the Kentucky Historical Society honors this milestone with stories, artifacts and a look back at Kentucky’s foundational role in early American expansion,” he added. “It’s also a way to begin looking ahead to the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026.”

Another feature of this year’s fair will be the three finalists who were selected for the 2025 Kentucky Farmer of the Year award, a prestigious honor that highlights excellence in agricultural production, leadership and community service, according to Kentucky Farm Bureau officials. On July 10, the organization named Mark Metcalfe, of Hopkins County; Scott Porter, of Mason County; and Mike Wilson, of Anderson County as the three finalists.

The three finalists will receive special recognition at the Kentucky Farm Bureau’s annual Ham Breakfast Aug. 21 during the fair. The winner of the 2025 award will be announced Oct. 2, and will be honored at the Kentucky Farm Bureau annual meeting in December.

David Beck, Kentucky Venues president and CEO, said, “New competitions this year include a Supreme Open Beef Heifer Drive with higher premiums, a BBQ Sauce division in (the categories of) Culinary, and a Reclaimed Bourbon Barrel Woodworking division in Hobbies.

“While tradition is at our core, we’re always looking for ways to grow,” he said. “These new competitions and increased premiums reflect Kentucky’s creativity, culture, and craftsmanship. They allow us to highlight our neighbors in a whole new way.”

Officials said advance admission tickets will cost $12, and fairgoers purchasing online through Ticketmaster will get free parking. Pricing includes all fees.

For more information on ticket pricing and the schedule of events, visit: www.kystatefair.org