Arkansas State Fair
The Arkansas State Fair is a cherished annual celebration that showcases the best of Arkansas’s rich agricultural heritage, vibrant arts, and community spirit. With roots tracing back over a century, the fair began as a small gathering for local farmers. In the years since, it has evolved into a dynamic event offering exciting rides, live music, creative exhibitions, and delicious food that reflects the state's diverse culture. Held at the Arkansas State Fairgrounds in Little Rock, this event not only offers thrilling entertainment but also serves as a living history of the state. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Arkansas State Fair will provide a memorable glimpse into the heart and soul of Arkansas, making it an experience that’s both nostalgic and modern. The fair is a must-attend event for anyone looking to celebrate all that the Natural State has to offer.
ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT
Every fall, there’s plenty to do at the fair in Little Rock. In years past, there have been animals - from sea lions to goats, rides and roller coasters, produce displays, and tons of delicious fried foods and treats. There are magicians, music concerts, circus acts, and bull riding, along with more staid activities like quilt displays and arts and crafts shows. You can try a Koolickle (that’s a Kool-Aid marinated pickle), and vendors have been known to experiment with newer treats like fried pineapple rings.
ON-SITE AMENITIES
The Arkansas State Fair boasts a wide array of amenities that are sure to enhance your visit and make your experience as enjoyable as possible. You’ll find an impressive selection of food and beverage vendors, offering everything from classic fair treats like funnel cakes and corn dogs to a variety of local specialties. For your convenience and safety, the event features ample security personnel and dedicated locker areas, giving you peace of mind as you explore the fairgrounds. You'll also find a variety of shopping opportunities, including numerous booths and vendors selling unique crafts, apparel, and souvenirs. To help you stay refreshed and connected, there are multiple water refill and charging stations strategically placed throughout the fairgrounds.
LOCATION
The Arkansas State Fairground, located at 2600 Howard Street, Little Rock, AR 72206, is nestled in the heart of Little Rock — a bustling city that blends modern amenities with Southern charm. The fairgrounds are easily accessible in your RV via main roads, and the area is typically very accessible even during busy festival weekends. Additionally, Little Rock’s central location means you’re never far from restaurants, hotels, or other attractions, making it a convenient hub for everyone enjoying the event.
LINEUP
Although the musical acts have not yet been announced for the 2025 Arkansas State Fair, the celebration is sure to have a superb lineup. In 2024, the fair hosted great acts like Ginuwine, Quiet Riot, Ella Langley, Dru Hill, Chase Rice, Vixen, and Stephen Pearcy of RATT.
RVING AT THE EVENT
The Arkansas State Fair is a fantastic destination for an RV trip, allowing you to enjoy the comforts of home each night after your day of fun and entertainment. RV camping is available right at the fairgrounds, so you can spend plenty of time enjoying the rides and activities, then head just steps away to the comfort of your own bed and a nice, hot shower! If you don’t own an RV, you can rent one with RVshare and enjoy the amenities of a home near where you’re spending the day.
Campsites at the fair are first-come, first-served, and no reservations are allowed. Campers should arrive at Gate 11. You may pay with cash or credit card (except American Express), and they do not accept checks. For more information, you can call the Fairgrounds Office at 501-372-8341. If you decide to take an RV trip to the fair, don't forget to pack everything you need, including things like drinking water, a first-aid kit, and non-perishable food. This way, you can enjoy your fair experience without having to spend as much money on supplies.
There are also several other quality nearby options for RV camping if you'd prefer to stay elsewhere:
• Little Rock North/Jct. I-40 KOA is a well-maintained campground featuring RV sites and numerous amenities, including a fitness center, swimming pool, and Swedish sauna. The campground also offers 50-amp service, Wi-Fi, a pool, bike rentals, and a snack bar.
• Another great option is the Downtown Riverside RV Park. Located right on the river in downtown North Little Rock, the campground offers 50 amp electricity only, plus water and sewer hookups and a dump station. There is free Wi-Fi, a pavilion, laundry services, and a boat ramp. The campground is also pet-friendly.
• You could also head to Maumelle Park, which is an excellent option for those who enjoy outdoor recreation. The campground provides great opportunities for activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. Maumelle Park also offers RV campsites with electrical hookups.
WHERE TO STAY
Whether you’re bringing your own RV or renting from RVshare, staying in a motorhome is a fantastic way to experience the fair! You'll have the freedom to explore the exhibits, events, and activities all day; then, in a few short minutes, be back in your own space with your own food, a soothing shower, and a soft bed.
There are also plenty of hotels around Little Rock where you can stay while visiting the fair. The city has a variety of major hotel chains in town, and you can find some locally operated motels as well. One example is the Wyndham Riverfront Little Rock, which features a gym, room service, an airport shuttle, and much more. You can find recommendations on Expedia, AAA, and a host of other travel websites as well.
HOW TO GET THERE
Getting to the Arkansas State Fairgrounds is generally very straightforward and convenient. If you're flying into town, Little Rock’s Clinton National Airport is only about a 15-minute drive away from the fair. Alternatively, if you're driving your RV from farther away, major hubs like Memphis and Dallas offer accessible routes with connections to I-30, which leads directly to downtown Little Rock.
Whether you’re driving yourself or using rideshare services, be sure to plan ahead for festival traffic. The weather in Little Rock during fall is usually somewhat mild, but if you're traveling to the fair in an RV, it's always wise to check weather and road conditions in advance. Local shuttle services are also available, making it easier to navigate from the airport or nearby hotels directly to the fairground.
PARKING
Parking at Arkansas State Fairgrounds is plentiful, with several designated lots available. It’s a good idea to arrive early to secure the best spot, and you should also be sure to follow the clear signs and instructions from fair officials while parking your RV or other vehicle.
TICKETS & PRICING
Adult admission to the fair is $12, and admission for children under 13 and seniors over 60 is $6. If you're visiting the fair in a group of 20 or more people, you can enjoy the group admission rate of $5 per person. Additionally, unlimited ride bands are available for $35.
WRAP UP
The Arkansas State Fair is a dynamic celebration of local culture, history, and community, offering a wide range of experiences from delicious food and exciting rides to unique shopping opportunities and captivating live entertainment. The yearly event is also a wonderful destination for an RV road trip. To stay updated on the latest happenings, ticket releases, and special events, be sure to follow the fair’s social media profiles on Facebook and Instagram.
Please note, this is not the official source of the event information. While we try to be as comprehensive as possible, some details may have changed since the time this article was written. Please confirm final details with the official event page .
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