Little Rock, Arkansas – It’s that time of year again when the excitement builds around the return of the Arkansas State Fair. Celebrating its 84th year, the fair promises an array of attractions including thrilling carnival rides, delectable food, live concerts, and competitive livestock showcases. Set to dazzle from October 11 to October 20, this annual festivity is a highlight for families, food enthusiasts, and music lovers across the state.
The fairground gates will open daily at 11 a.m., inviting visitors to explore a wide range of activities and exhibits at a fraction of the usual cost on special discount days. Offering a split pricing model, tickets are available at advanced rates of $8 for adults and $4 for both seniors and children aged 6-12, with prices slightly higher at the gate. Convenient parking options include a standard $10 fee, with a premium spot costing $20.

Courtesy of Arkansas State Fair
Highlighting its commitment to accessibility and community engagement, the fair has lined up a series of promotional offers designed to cater to diverse groups. Starting the event, October 11 features a Ride Day collaboration with KARK 4 News and FOX 16 News, where a $35 armband provides unlimited access to rides all day long. This is complemented by a ‘Lunch at the Fair’ special, courtesy of Entergy, offering free parking and admission from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and a unique “6 at 6” evening discount by 96.5 THE BOX.
Each subsequent day until the fair’s conclusion presents equally enticing opportunities. For example, October 12 celebrates children with free admission for 92 minutes starting at 11 a.m., courtesy of POWER 92.3/102.1 KOKY/PRAISE 102.5. Seniors aren’t left out, with October 15 marked as Senior Day, offering free entry for those aged 65 and over, sponsored by PrimeWell Health Services. Notably, October 14 features an attractive offer from THE POINT 94.1, setting gate admission, parking, and rides at just $2 each.
A significant highlight of the fair is its military appreciation gesture on October 15, where armed forces personnel along with three family members gain free entry, showcasing gratitude towards those who serve. The fair continues to honor various community members with special days like the Bank OZK Day and Entergy Day, providing discounted admissions for employees and customers.
As the fair progresses, the excitement extends into the evenings with theme nights. These include College Nights offering free admission for students and Ladies Night Out which welcomes women for free after 6 p.m. These promotions ensure that the fair is accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
Beyond the rides and discounts, the Arkansas State Fair is also a hub for live entertainment. This year’s lineup at Barton Coliseum is set to be a major draw with multiple concerts scheduled throughout the fair period. While the specific acts are anticipated eagerly, fairgoers can expect a mix of local talent and renowned artists, enhancing the festive atmosphere.
For those interested in the competitive spirit of the fair, the livestock competitions and exhibits promise to be as engaging as ever, alongside talent showcases and pageants that highlight the best of local and regional talent. With a comprehensive schedule and diverse attractions, the Arkansas State Fair is gearing up to be an unforgettable event.
Further information, including details on the full schedule of events, discount days, and concert lineups, can be found on the official website, ArkansasStateFair.com. This year’s fair not only celebrates the rich heritage and community spirit of Arkansas but also ensures an inclusive, fun-filled experience for all attendees.
