The Oldest Fairs in Kentucky

Held annually in Louisville, the Kentucky State Fair is one of the nation's premier state fairs and the flagship celebration of Kentucky agriculture and culture. The fair got its start in 1902 and has remained a Kentucky agricultural mainstay ever since. Held at the Kentucky Exposition Center since the early 20th century, this world-class 11-day event attracts more than 600,000 visitors and showcases everything from champion livestock to major entertainment acts.

Held annually in Hodgenville, the LaRue County Fair is a summer tradition in the birthplace of Abraham Lincoln. The fair celebrates the agricultural heritage of a small rural county that wears its Lincoln connection with pride.

Hopkinsville is home to the Western Kentucky State Fair, which is the premier agricultural fair of western Kentucky, celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2026. The fair began in 1951 and has remained a community tradition ever since. Held each late June through Independence Day week at the fairgrounds on Richard Street, this nine-day fair serves the communities of the Pennyroyal region and draws visitors from across the western end of the state.