NASHtoday Events

Ultimate guide to Nashville-area fairs

It’s that time of the year when the Williamson County, Wilson County - Tennessee State Fair, and The Nashville Fair make their grand return.

A ground-level view of people on a carousel ride with swings attached to it.

This resource will keep you from going ‘round and ‘round in circles when you arrive to area fairs. | Photo via Williamson County Fair

Whether you’re in it for the funnel cakes and lemonade or you find yourself dizzy from the carnival ride drops, we’ve got good news: Nashville’s fair season is back.

The Williamson County Fair is underway now and the Wilson County - Tennessee State Fair + The Nashville Fair aren’t far behind. Ride along with us as we take you through the need-to-knows of each event so you can focus on having a wheely great time.

Williamson County Fair, Williamson County Agricultural EXPO Park | Friday, Aug. 2-Saturday, Aug. 10

Hours, tickets, and parking

  • Open daily: Monday-Friday beginning at 6 p.m. and Saturday at 10 a.m.
  • Parking: Enter Gate 1 for free parking provided by Nissan — courtesy carts will run through lots for drop-off and pick-up at ticket booths.
  • Tickets: Admission ranges from $7-$14 — children ages five and under get in free. Unlimited ride stamps cost $25-$35.
  • Discount days: $1 off admission for Middle Tennessee Electric customers with the coupon insert from your July bill (Aug. 6) and free admission for active and retired military personnel with your military ID (Aug. 10)

New this year

Expect four additions to the Midway, including the Autobahn and Up, Up, and Away Balloons + six fresh entertainment options from Poppin’ Penelope’s Balloon Art Exhibit to Wild Science. Review the full calendar of events, which showcases competitions, music stages, exhibits, demonstrations, and more.

the backs of people watching a band perform on a covered stage.

Make note of this year’s performers on the Back Porch Stage. | Photo by Haley Witcher via Wilson County - Tennessee State Fair

Wilson County - Tennessee State Fair, James E. Ward Agricultural Center | Thursday, Aug. 15-Saturday, Aug. 24

Hours, tickets, and parking

  • Open daily: Monday-Friday beginning at 5 p.m., Saturdays at 10 a.m., and Sunday at 12 p.m.
  • Parking: General on-site parking is free while preferred on-site parking costs $10 per car. Satellite off-site parking is located at two sites (Cumberland University’s football parking lot + First Baptist Church & Wilson County Courthouse) and buses will shuttle guests to the event site at no extra charge.
  • Tickets: Admission ranges from $6-$45 — children ages five and under get in free. Individual ride tickets can be purchased for $1 each (rides take 2-5 tickets) and unlimited ride wristbands cost $25-$35.
  • Discount days: $3-$10 admission (opening day), gates open at 4 p.m. and tickets cost $10 for ages 60 and older (Aug. 20), and wear a Ford logo hat or bring a Ford keychain for $2 off admission (Aug. 24)

New this year

Six competitions debut this year. Enter your best home brew or put your back seat driving skills to the test. Map out your adventure using the full calendar of events.

Two kids in a cart ride going quickly in a circle.

If you’ve read this far, now you’re ready for a wild ride. | Photo via The Nashville Fair

The Nashville Fair, The Fairgrounds Nashville | Friday, Sept. 6-Sunday, Sept. 15

Hours, tickets, and parking

  • Open daily: Monday-Friday beginning at 5 p.m. and Saturday-Sunday at 11 a.m.
  • Parking: Limited on-site parking is located at 320 Wedgewood Ave. and costs $10 per car. Guests can also find additional lots along Craighead Street. Anyone using rideshare should request drop off at 174 Rains Ave.
  • Tickets: Admission ranges from $7-$10 — children ages five and under get in free. Individual ride tickets can be purchased for $1, but note that rides use more than one ticket. All-you-can-ride wristbands are $26.50 (in advance) or $35 at the event.

Check out this year’s full calendar of events, and if you’re looking to unleash your competitive side, brush up on the general rules and bookmark the online entry forms for 2024 competitions.