Notable Fact
Missouri's flagship state fair has run in Sedalia since 1901 and drew nearly 350,000 visitors in 2023 before dipping to 329,000 in 2025 amid heat indexes over 100 degrees. The 2025 edition logged more than 28,000 competitive entries, including nearly 8,000 4-H exhibits and roughly 6,500 FFA exhibits, anchoring it as the largest agricultural showcase in the state.
Source: mostatefair.com (official)The Fair
The Missouri State Fair in Sedalia is the premier agricultural exposition in the state, running eleven days in mid-August at the historic Sedalia fairgrounds that have hosted the event for more than a century. Launched in 1901, the fair has held its place in Missouri agricultural life for generations. It is one of the nation's great state fairs, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors and featuring world-class entertainment, championship livestock, and the full spectacle of Missouri agriculture on display.
What You'll Find There
Visitors will find hundreds of exhibits, championship livestock competitions, 4-H and FFA showcases, midway rides, fair food from across the state, nationally touring grandstand concerts, a rodeo, horse racing, and an astonishing variety of competitions and demonstrations over eleven days.
Local Tips
Book grandstand concert tickets well in advance as popular acts sell out quickly; the free stages offer excellent entertainment throughout the day as well. Arrive early on opening and closing weekends to beat the largest crowds, and wear comfortable shoes — the fairgrounds are expansive.
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