Mardi Gras
Laissez les bon temps rouler à Little Rock! Mardi gras in Little Rock is celebrated by two major community events, both with a flair inspired by Arkansas’s neighbors to the south.
Arkansas State Fair
Create unforgettable memories with friends and family at the Arkansas State Fair.
Officially called the Arkansas State Fair and Livestock Show, the Arkansas State Fair is an annual event sponsored by the Arkansas Livestock Show Association. The Arkansas State Fair features a midway/carnival, music concerts, a rodeo, commercial exhibits and displays, free shows (from exotic animals to acrobats and magicians), arts and crafts competitions and exhibits, food competitions and demonstrations, and various livestock competitions.
Whether you're looking for family-friendly things to do or seeking new outdoor activities, Arkansas State Fair offers endless fun for all ages.
When & Where
Wondering when is the Arkansas State Fair? This action-packed event will run from October 13 to 22 and gates will open at 11:00 a.m. on a daily basis. The fair will be held at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds, which is located at 2600 Howard Street, Little Rock, AR 72206. Drive along Highway 30, 40, 430 or 530 and reach the fair.
Admission Information
Tickets for the Arkansas State Fair vary with different age ranges and the time of purchase. Fairgoers will receive free parking and gate admission on weekdays from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. If ordering online in advance, visitors can purchase discounted tickets. The standard entry fees depend on the type of ticket package.
- Adult: $12 per person
- Child & Senior: $6 per person
- Ride Bands: $35 per person
- Selected Concert Seating: $20 per person
- Group Admission with a Minimum of 20 people: $5 per person
Featured Events
Experience family-friendly events at the Arkansas State Fair including the annual Arkansas State Fair Pageant and Talent competitions, magic shows, a petting zoo, and more.
Midway & Carnival
Dive into thrilling rides and participate in exciting carnival games with family and friends. Embark on soaring adventures with rollercoasters and a ferris wheel. Seeking kid-friendly fun? Participate in heart-racing games and win an array of prizes for your little ones. Hop on charming ride at night like a carousel, marveling at an array of glowing lights.
Competitions
Discover a variety of competitions, ranging from arts and crafts to beauty pageants. Looking for a wide range of livestock competitions? Explore different types of goats and cattle competitions, featuring miniature cows. Marvel at culinary creations during a variety of food making contests.
Attractions
Explore an assortment of attractions exploring features such as wildlife exhibits and livestock areas at the Arkansas State Fair. Explore the Aussie Kingdom and enjoy watching Australian wildlife. Join the roar of a crowd and cheer for your favorite pig during a thrilling race. Wander through livestock areas and make a new friend at a petting zoo.
Live Music & Entertainment
Fairgoers will enjoy a variety of entertainment at the fair. Don't miss watching brave acrobats spin in the air during the High Diving Pirates of the Caribbean shows. The fair’s Main Stage hosts a wide range of bands and the concerts are always included in the price of fair admission. Make your way to the Bud Light Pavilion for live performances and groove to different types of music. Tap your feet to infectious beats at the Main Stage with new artists each night. Look through the lineup with talented musicians:
- October 13 | Phil Vassar & Matt Stell
- October 14 | Morris Day and the Time
- October 15 | La Cultura Nortena with Enigmatico
- October 16 | Jettway Music School & Zac Dunlap Band
- October 17 | Crowder & Nick Hall
- October 18 | J-Wonn
- October 19 | All-4-One
- October 20 | Uncle Kracker
- October 21 | Night Ranger
- October 22 | La Fuerza Del Rio Conchos & La Tropa Del Norte
Food & Drinks
The fair has been known for its wide array of unique – and typically fried – foods. Adventurous eaters will find a smorgasbord of exciting things to try as they make their way across the fairgrounds. Indulge in mouthwatering eats and beverages at the midway and enjoy classic carnival food such as funnel cakes, turkey legs, and corn dogs. Pair your meal with a refreshing drink like frozen lemonade.
Looking for more things to do near the Arkansas State Fair? Plan your trip with upcoming events and browse through many hotel options in Little Rock.
