Mississippi State Fair 2024

The Mississippi State Fair is one of the most popular and enduring fairs in the southern United States, drawing over 600,000 attendees annually. Celebrating over 160 years of tradition, the fair is a showcase of Mississippi's hospitality and culture. This year's event promises a wide array of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages, taking place from October 3-14, 2024, at the Mississippi Fairgrounds in Jackson.

Attractions and Activities

The Mississippi State Fair offers a wide variety of activities and attractions for the whole family. The fair features over 120,000 square feet (11,000 sq m) of exhibits, a bustling food court, and numerous shopping opportunities. Children can enjoy a petting zoo and an array of carnival rides, including the Double Decker Merry-Go-Round, Giant Wheel, and Wacky Worm. Adults can explore the Antique & Classic Car Show or attend open-air concerts featuring top musicians. The fair also includes special attractions such as the Ice Dome and food championships. Additionally, 4-H Day offers various contests, including the Omelet and Cornbread Cook-Offs, LEGO Build, and Robot Round-Up, providing fun and educational opportunities for young participants.

Schedule and Program

The fair opens daily at 10 am or 11 am, with free admission until 1 pm on most days, and features a wide array of attractions such as the Mississippi State Fair Marketplace, Genuine MS Store, and Farm Bureau Petting Zoo. Regular events include Tumbleweed XING, Agri-Puppets, Pig Races, and the Zerbini Family Circus. Ride wristband specials are available on select days, allowing visitors to enjoy unlimited rides from noon or 2 pm until closing. Notable highlights include live music in the Michelob Ultra Tent occurring daily and the Miss Mississippi State Fair Pageant on October 3 and 4. The fair also features unique experiences like the Biscuit Booth and the Taste of Dixie food events, offering a taste of Southern cuisine. Gates close at 10 pm or 11 pm, depending on the day.

Concerts

The concerts take place inside the Mississippi Coliseum and feature a variety of musical genres. On Saturday, October 5, at 2 pm, country music fans can enjoy a performance by the renowned Oak Ridge Boys, known for their timeless hits and harmonies, with tickets priced between $20 and $50. The following day, Sunday, October 6, at the same time, contemporary Christian artist Matthew West will take the stage, bringing his inspirational music to the fair. Tickets for this event also range from $20 to $50. On Friday, October 11, R&B fans can enjoy a performance by Dru Hill at 8 pm, with tickets ranging from $20 to $50. The following evening, Saturday, October 12, at 7 pm, the "We Outside" but "Inside" Party will take place, offering a unique musical experience with tickets priced between $30 and $55.

Live music also fills the Michelob Ultra Tent throughout the fair, offering a lively atmosphere with performances from various local and regional artists every evening. These performances are included with fair admission.

Ticket Prices and Parking

Tickets for the Mississippi State Fair can be purchased in advance or at the gate. General admission is $8, with free entry for children aged five and under. Pre-sale pricing is available until October 2. Ride wristbands, offering unlimited rides on specified days, are available for $30, with a special Friday Night Wristband priced at $25. Admission and parking are free on weekdays, although additional fees apply for activities like carnival rides and food booths.

Location and Infrastructure

The Mississippi State Fairgrounds, located in downtown Jackson, Mississippi, cover over 105 acres and are easily accessible by car or city bus. The complex includes various facilities, such as the Mississippi Coliseum, and hosts more than 700 events annually. Visitors can also stay in nearby hotels like Best Western, Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, or Westin, which offer convenient accommodations.

History

The Mississippi State Fair was established over 160 years ago and has grown into one of the South's most significant fairs. It has evolved to include a wide range of events and attractions, reflecting the state's rich cultural heritage. The fair continues to be an essential part of Mississippi's community life, bringing together people from across the state and beyond to celebrate its traditions and innovations.