Jacksonville Fair 2024 in Florida

The Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair (Jax Fair), formerly known as Duval County Fair, takes place every fall at Jacksonville Fairgrounds in northeast Florida. This annual event celebrates agricultural heritage, culture, and the local community, offering plenty of entertainment, family fun activities, competitions, and thrilling experiences. From thrilling carnival rides and live music performances to livestock exhibitions and culinary contests, this year’s event will continue its tradition of showcasing the region’s agricultural roots while providing fun and entertainment for everyone.

Activities and Events

The Jacksonville Fair is renowned for its diverse range of activities and attractions. Visitors can explore educational exhibits in science, arts, horticulture, and agriculture, offering insights into various fields and fostering a deeper appreciation for these disciplines. The fair features national music acts, as well as local talent, performing at the Center Stage, providing a lively atmosphere. This year’s featured performers at the Jacksonville Fair include the interactive Dennis Lee Band, Jacksonville native and rising Nashville star Madison Hughes, and the energetic group, The Instagators.

According to the organizers, family-friendly shows are a highlight of the Jacksonville Fair, with featured acts like the 3 Ring Super Circus and Robinson’s Racing Pigs, a crowd favorite since 1984. This year’s entertainment also includes the Agricadabra magic show, combining agriculture education with magic tricks, and the Aim High Canines, showcasing talented dogs in thrilling performances. Younger audiences can enjoy the Agri-Puppets and Diamond D Ranch Pony Rides, while thrill-seekers can experience Extreme Illusions and the Ultimate Dog Challenge. Additionally, Sea Lion Splash and The Florida AG Experience provide interactive and educational fun for all ages.

Fair Food

The Jacksonville Fair offers a variety of featured foods for visitors to enjoy. Popular options include Amish Donuts, cotton candy provided by Jacksonville Fair and 4-H, and the unique grilled PB&J and loaded tater tots from Sattler's Enterprises. For gourmet treats, visitors can indulge in candy apples by Apple Diva or kettle corn from Henry's Kettle Corn. Adventurous eaters can try Korean corn dogs from Indolishus or pickle pizza from George's Fun Foods. Seafood lovers can savor lobster mac & cheese by Holy Macaroni or lobster rolls from Mason's Famous Lobster Rolls. The iconic turkey leg rounds out the fair's offerings.

Schedule and Hours

The Jacksonville Fair offers various daily specials and operates with flexible hours throughout its run. The gates typically open at 5 pm on weekdays and noon on weekends, with ride hours extending an hour later most nights. Notable daily specials include Opening Night on November 7, offering free gate admission with the purchase of a $15 unlimited ride armband. Seniors aged 65 and up receive free admission on November 8 and 15, while Military Appreciation Day on November 11 offers free entry to active duty, retired personnel, and veterans. Additional specials include $2 Tuesday on November 12, Family Night on November 13, and College Night on November 14.

Tickets

Admission to the fair is priced as follows: $15 for adults (ages 13 and up), $6 for seniors (65+), $6 for children (ages 6-12), and free for children under five. Concerts are included with fair admission, providing added value for visitors.

History of the Jacksonville Fair

The Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair has a storied history dating back to its inception in 1955, when it first attracted over 45,000 visitors. Originally held at the former Gator Bowl, now EverBank Stadium, the fair moved to its current location in 1990, with the new fairground facility hosting more than 700,000 patrons annually.

The fair is organized by the Greater Jacksonville Fair Association, a private, non-profit educational corporation dedicated to promoting agricultural education and community involvement. As the organizers highlight, the fair’s impact on the local economy is substantial, contributing over $10 million to Duval County and supporting various charitable organizations with donations totaling approximately $3.1 million.

Future Developments

Looking ahead, the Jacksonville Fair is planning a relocation to the Westside, with a target move date set for 2025. The new location promises state-of-the-art facilities and more space, allowing for continued growth and an enhanced visitor experience. As the organizers note, the move aims to address current site constraints and provide improved parking and accessibility for fairgoers.