LOUISVILLE, Ky. — The Kentucky State Fair is back after a smaller, modified fair in 2020.
What You Need To Know
- The Kentucky State Fair kicked off Thursday
- It takes place at the Kentucky Exposition Center through Aug. 29
- Masks are required inside but are optional outside
- After a year off, excitement was ramped up for 2021
The Kentucky State Fair kicked off with full service for the first time since 2019. In 2020, the fair was modified because of COVID-19. That meant it was open just for the agriculture and 4-H shows, but not to the general public.
After a year off, excitement was ramped up for 2021.
“I am enjoying the state fair since we weren’t welcome here last year. I’m glad it’s able to come back," said fairgoer Chris Bischoff.
He said the main attraction for him is always the food. Luckily, there was no shortage of unique vendors to try.
For example, you could find Don Kenna on the grill serving up donut burgers. It's something he's been selling at the fair for years.
“Every year we’ve sold more and more. It’s unbelievable," said Kenna.
Not far away you could find Lanona Nelson working near the fryers at Cheezy Does It.
“We are pretty famous for our mac and cheese balls anyway. This year we decided to stuff them with lobster meat and we are excited to bring that to Kentucky State Fair goers,” said Nelson.
A large portion of the Kentucky State Fair revolves around agriculture. Inside the West Hall, you could find all kinds of animals.
“We came here because my sister is a dairy cow judger," said participant Kayne Guess.
Event organizers estimate there are 11,000 livestock on site.
While inside has a farm show, outside looks more like a carnival. Kissel Entertainment has 53 different rides for all ages.
“It’s just great to see everybody smile. When kids come through and are excited to ride their first ride or play their first game, you can’t really bottle that,” said Eric German of Kissel Entertainment.
Masks are required to enter any of the Kentucky Exposition Center buildings. Masks are optional outside.
You can purchase tickets and find a list of events on the Kentucky State Fair website. The fair runs through Aug. 29.