08/21/2026
๐ก๐ Feel Good Friday: Itโs Kentucky State Fair Time! ๐๐ด
Itโs that time of year again, Louisville! The Kentucky State Fair is back, and thereโs something wonderfully Kentucky about spending a summer day surrounded by animals, agriculture, family traditions, rides, music, and, of course, more fried food than anyone probably needs. ๐
And for our animal lovers, thereโs plenty to see!
๐ The Marvelous Mutts are back, bringing their talented rescue dogs and entertaining tricks to the fair.
๐โ๐ฆบ Millerโs Border Collies are also part of the animal fun, showcasing the intelligence and incredible working abilities of these amazing dogs.
๐ Something to Crow About! The annual Rooster Crowing Contest returns, with the finals Sunday, August 23 at 2:00 p.m. in the Pavilion. Yes, Kentucky really does have a rooster crowing contest! And yes, it is every bit as entertaining as it sounds. ๐
๐ด And don't miss all the horses! The Worldโs Championship Horse Show runs August 22โ29 in Freedom Hall, featuring some of the finest Saddlebreds, Hackney Ponies and Road Horses in the country.
Then there are the fair traditions we all know and love: corn dogs, funnel cakes, fried treats, midway rides, blue ribbons, livestock barns and plenty of memories waiting to be made.
A little Kentucky State Fair historyโฆ
The story goes all the way back to 1816, when Fayette County farmer Colonel Lewis Sanders organized Kentuckyโs first fair and stock show, just five years after Americaโs first fair and stock show in Massachusetts.
The Kentucky State Fair has moved around the Commonwealth over the years, including stops in Lexington and Owensboro. The first official Kentucky State Fair was held at Churchill Downs in Louisville in 1902, and after several moves, Louisville was selected as the permanent site in 1907, with the fair's permanent grounds opening in 1908.
Today, the fair celebrates 120 counties, Kentucky agriculture, animals, family traditions and the people who make the Commonwealth special. And in 2026, thereโs an extra reason to celebrate as Kentucky joins the nation in commemorating Americaโs 250th birthday.
So whether you're there for the animals, the exhibits, the entertainment or that once-a-year fair food you absolutely have to haveโฆ
Happy Kentucky State Fair, Louisville! ๐ก๐๐พ
And remember, if you're bringing your dog along, the fair allows non-service dogs in most areas, but dogs must be leashed. Be mindful of the heat, crowds, loud noises and your pet's comfort.