Nebraska State Fair

ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT

Head to the show ring for a daily lineup of featured animals and exciting contests, or wander through the livestock barns to get an up-close look at some of Nebraska's beloved four-legged friends, birds, and other fascinating species. Discover the Sustainability Pavilion, offering daily presentations, demonstrations, interactive activities, and family-friendly edutainment. Witness captivating science experiments, delightful magic shows, or humorous skits that are sure to entertain all ages. Feeling competitive? Check the calendar of events ahead of time and enter a contest yourself! Enjoy the free performances happening throughout the fairgrounds each day. From lively music and marching bands to engaging kids' shows and comedians, there is entertainment for everyone, no matter the time of day. Celebrate Older Nebraskans Day, dedicated to entertainment and activities designed especially for the older generation, making it a perfect outing for senior travelers. And of course, indulge in the fair's culinary delights. Explore the numerous vendors scattered around the fairgrounds, where you can savor new flavors or stick with your favorite fair foods.

ON-SITE AMENITIES

Find everything you need to comfortably and conveniently enjoy the State Fair within a few steps. Browse food and beverage concessions for endless indulgence — you never need to go hungry at the fair. Restrooms are located throughout the fair, as are ATMs, charging stations, and water stations. You'll also find a mother's nursing station as well as wheelchair and scooter rentals for those who need a little help getting around. Tractors with trailers roam the grounds all day, providing free transportation, too.

LOCATION

Grand Island is Nebraska's fourth-largest city. The State Fair occurs at 501 E Fonner Park Rd, Grand Island, NE 68801, and is located near the I-80 corridor for easy access, especially for RVs. The surrounding city offers a host of restaurants, shops, and gas stations, too. If you're looking for more options on a rainy or too-hot day, check out the Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer, only 4 miles away. Be sure to check out the fair's maps before planning your trip.

FAQs About RVing to the Nebraska State Fair

Can you bring an RV to the Nebraska State Fair?

Yes, there is even an on-site RV park. Be sure to reserve three to six months in advance because spots go fast.

Where can you park an RV near the Nebraska State Fair?

Yes, there is an RV park right on the fairgrounds. Off-site camping options are plentiful within 15 miles, too.

Are there RV hookups at the Nebraska State Fair campground?

Yes, 20-, 30-, and 50-amp electrical hookups are present. You will also find sewer and water hookups.

Is the Nebraska State Fair family-friendly?

Yes, the Nebraska State Fair features carnival rides, 4-H competitions, a talent search, and all-day free entertainment. Children 5 and under enter free with an adult admission.

When should I book my RV for the Nebraska State Fair?

If you plan to camp at the fairgrounds, we recommend booking three to six months in advance. There are nearby options that are typically less competitive, but you will need a ride from those sites.

LINEUP

The Nebraska State Fair offers an exciting lineup of special events every day. These events require additional ticket fees. Check out the demolition derby, truck and tractor pulls, and a rodeo for a dose of Midwestern adventure to cap off your day at the fair. Confirmed acts for the 2026 Concert Series include Shinedown with Dexter and The Moonrocks, KC & The Sunshine Band, Phil Wickham with Jamie MacDonald, Skillet, and Theory of a Deadman. Visit the website for a full, up-to-date musical lineup, and get your tickets early to ensure a spot near the action.

RVING AT THE EVENT

Multiple on-site and nearby RV parks make the fair highly convenient for camping and other recreation. An RV park with 130 sites is right on the fairgrounds, offering 20-, 30-, and 50-amp electrical hookups. Likewise, campers have access to water and sewer hookups. Concrete and grass pads are available, too. This location sells out fast, so be sure to reserve your spot three to six months before the fair.

Where to Camp Near the Nebraska State Fair

Grand Island KOA Journey offers a large complement of amenities, including cable TV, Wi-Fi, a pool, laundry, showers, a playground, and a storm shelter. It is also pet-friendly and has a dog park. Ninety-eight sites are available, but electric and water hookups are limited. Grand Island KOA Journey is about 10 miles south of the fairgrounds. The state of Nebraska operates the Mormon Island State Recreation Area. Situated 8 miles south of the fairground, Mormon Island has 71 sites, including 53 with electrical hookups. Water fill and dump stations are present. The location includes modern restrooms and pay showers. If you like outdoor activities, Mormon Island has a swimming beach, fishing, hiking trails, a boat ramp, and a playground. Hall County Park is the closest option at around 6 miles from the grounds. It includes 20 RV sites and access to 30- and 50-amp power. Showers, laundry, and a sports court are available, too. The site offers no reservations and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

RV Rental Tips for the Nebraska State Fair

If you're planning an RV rental in Grand Island, consider a Class C or Class A recreational vehicle. Check out travel trailer rentals for more capacity, too. You can expect daytime highs near 90°F with high humidity during the fair. Severe weather can crop up at any time, so know where to shelter in the event of a hail storm or tornado. Keep up with weather alerts, which are posted visibly with red for warnings and yellow for watches. Check out our weather tips.

WHERE TO STAY

If you'd prefer indoor lodging, the Grayhouse Inn Bed & Breakfast is a quaint home with cozy rooms to stretch out and relax between visits to the fair. Candlewood Suites is a modern hotel with a pool and spa to help you unwind after all the excitement of a day at the fair. The Ramada by Wyndham Midtown Grand Island, Best Western Plus Grand Island Inn & Suites, and Grand Island Casino Resort are all excellent nearby options, too.

HOW TO GET THERE

From I-80: Take Exit 314 for Locust Street. Go north on Locust Street for almost 6 miles. The fairgrounds are on the right.

PARKING

There are several public parking lots around the outskirts of the fairgrounds. The east and west admissions gates have nearby parking lots with accessible spots available. Parking in these public lots is free of charge. Gates are within easy walking distance, and trams are available if you need a little help getting back and forth. Additionally, the fair offers free shuttle services from the nearby parking lots. Park your vehicle at Sam's Club and jump on the shuttle at the top of every hour to get to the fair with ease.

TICKETS & PRICING

Children 6-12: $6 Adults 13-59: $12 Seniors 60+: $6 Be sure to check out the full breakdown of pricing options for other discounts on certain days or for certain groups, such as those for veterans. Learn about Free Friday and $2.50 Tuesday, too. You can also buy tickets online ahead of the fair.

WRAP UP

The Nebraska State Fair is a superb opportunity for the whole family to get some fresh air and have some fun. For more details, be sure to follow the fair on Instagram and Facebook.

4-Day RV Itinerary for the Nebraska State Fair

• Day 1: Arrival and RV Setup: Check in at the RV park office, find your site, and set up for camping. Say hello to your neighbors for the coming days. Settle in for dinner outdoors or head into town for a bite at one of the city's superb restaurants. • Day 2: Fair Day: Explore livestock barns, 4-H exhibits, and the Sustainability Pavilion. Free entertainment appears on the grounds throughout the day. Take in the gorgeous glow of the carnival midway under the night lights, and then head back to your RV to cool down and rest up for tomorrow. • Day 3: Concert and Motorsports Night: A trip to the State Fair isn't complete without taking in a demolition derby or a tractor pull! Also, make sure to buy tickets for at least one concert. • Day 4: Departure: Pack your stuff, and then take one more trip through the midway. Stop by the Stuhr Museum on your way out of town, and then hit the road home through the breathtaking summer landscapes of Nebraska.

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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