The 165th Mississippi State Fair will soon be underway in Jackson and Agriculture Commissioner Andy Gipson has provided updates on new online ticketing options, new attractions, and security measures for the popular event.
This year’s state fair will open at 11 a.m. on Thursday, October 3, and run through Monday, October 14. Gate admission will be $10 per person and parking is free. Children aged 5 and under will be admitted free of charge.
For the first time, the public can purchase advance admission tickets, concert tickets, and ride wristbands online. Fairgoers who purchase online tickets in advance can skip the line. Online tickets are available for purchase now through Wednesday, October 2, at a discounted price of $8 per person.
Admission to the fair will be free every weekday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., except on Monday, October 14 for Columbus Day.
“The Mississippi State Fair began as an agricultural exposition, and agriculture remains the heartbeat of this massive event over 160 years later,” Gipson said. “I’m proud to oversee this incredible, family-friendly event. With over 100 food vendors, over 60 rides, 73 expo participants, nationally recognized artists, and so many great acts and shows in between, there is something for all to enjoy. And for the first time in Mississippi State Fair history, fairgoers can purchase general admission tickets and ride wristbands online ahead of the State Fair.”
Fairgoers can expect all their favorites, including the Taste of the Dixie National Rodeo, State Fair Marketplace Expo, Genuine MS Store, pageant and talent show, Farm Bureau petting zoo and pig races, 4-H and FFA livestock shows, Zerbini Family Circus, and the wildly-popular biscuit booth.
In addition to all the usual vendors, shows, and rides, this year’s state fair will also feature all-new attractions like the Tumbleweed Crossing Wild West reenactment, the family-friendly Agri-Puppets show, and the hands-on 4-H and FFA Barnyard exhibition.
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Fairgrounds and law enforcement officials stress that safety is a top priority this year, highlighting the continued partnership between local and state law enforcement agencies, as well as first responders.
The Mississippi Department of Public Safety, Mississippi Highway Patrol, State Capitol Police, Mississippi Office of Homeland Security, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, State Fire Marshal’s Office, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, Mississippi Agriculture and Livestock Theft Bureau, Hinds County Sheriff’s Office, Jackson Police Department, Pearl Police Department, American Medical Response and Swetman Security are all working in collaboration with the Mississippi State Fairgrounds.
“Ensuring a safe and secure environment for all attendees of the 165th Mississippi State Fair is our top priority,” Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell said. “Law enforcement will work tirelessly to guarantee that everyone feels welcome and confident in their enjoyment of the fair here in our capital city.”
Fairgrounds Chief of Security Steve Shows outlined the following safety measures that will be in effect at the 2024 Mississippi State Fair:
- Beginning at 9 p.m., any guest under the age of 18 seeking admission to the Fairgrounds must be accompanied by a legal adult (21 or older). Any guest may be asked to show official proof of age to be admitted after 9 p.m. Guests are encouraged to bring identification.
- When entering the Midway, all guests will proceed through one of several entry security points utilizing a metal detector and/or be subject to magnetic wanding.
- All bags are subject to search. The maximum bag size that will be accepted into the Fair is 12”x12”x6”.
- No outside food or beverage is allowed.
- No marketing, soliciting, political, or vending items are allowed unless and as authorized under fairground regulations.
- No animals (other than service animals or as authorized by fair management for fair activities), banners, fireworks/explosives, or laser pointers are allowed.
- Under state law, the legal carry of firearms by all lawful adults is recognized on the Mississippi fairgrounds.
- Exceptions and challenges to these policies will be satisfied at the discretion of fair management.
For more information on the 2024 Mississippi State Fair, click here.
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