Tennessee State Fair
The Tennessee State Fair takes place over 10 days in Lebanon, TN, at the James E. Ward Agricultural Center, also known as the Wilson County Fair Grounds. Attendees enjoy a mixture of carnival rides, concerts, motorsports, and livestock shows, among many other activities. The event attracts over 700,000 people every year from across Tennessee and beyond. RV travelers interested in tractor pulls and demolition derbies appreciate the fair's thrilling competitions and high-energy atmosphere. It's a great place for family fun if you're doing a summer RV road trip. You'll have plenty of games and exhibits to keep everyone entertained.
ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT
There's something for your whole family or group at the Tennessee State Fair, including antique car shows, hands-on displays, and Bluegrass music. Blacksmithing and basket-weaving demonstrations take place at Fiddler's Grove, a historic village on the fairgrounds. Those who love baking or canning can learn a lot from the home arts exhibits. Pageants and contests throughout the fair showcase some of the region's most beautiful local talent and traditions. Many of the live performances are free to the public, while others require separate ticket purchases. If you enjoy midway games or carnival-style rides, you’ll definitely want to explore the carnival section of this fair.
ON-SITE AMENITIES
The fair has plenty of food available, and we highly recommend budgeting for at least one fair food delicacy. You'll find bathrooms with sinks and flush toilets in various locations across the fairgrounds. A first aid station is also provided for visitor comfort and safety, and you can easily locate it on the map.
LOCATION
The Tennessee State Fair takes place at 945 E Baddour Parkway, Lebanon, TN 37087. You'll have convenient access to Interstate 40, making it easy to visit destinations like Nashville or Knoxville and explore more of Tennessee.
FAQs About RVing to the Tennessee State Fair
Are there RV campgrounds near the Tennessee State Fair?
TN40 RV Campground, Cedar Groves RV Resort, and Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground are just three of the nearby campgrounds. Staying at any of these locations will put you roughly 15 to 30 minutes from the fair. Just remember that traffic around the fairgrounds tends to get congested during peak event hours, so you may want to ride-share back and forth to avoid parking hassles.
Can large Class A motorhomes fit at nearby campgrounds?
Yes. The TN40 RV Campground and Cedar Groves RV Resort both offer larger camping sites for Class A motorhomes and fifth wheels. Many travelers use the pull-through sites at TN40 to park without having to back into tight spaces.
Are the roads in Lebanon ideal for RVs?
Driving your rig into Lebanon is relatively easy since the city sits right off I-40. Most of the main roads are RV-friendly and fairly wide, though some downtown side streets and older residential areas can feel a bit tighter for larger rigs.
Are there pet-friendly RV campgrounds nearby?
These nearby campgrounds offer pet-friendly policies: TN40 RV Campground, Cedar Groves RV Resort, and Cedars of Lebanon State Park Campground. Just be sure to review the pet guidelines so that you don't violate any rules.
LINEUP
Performers will delight audiences across 15 stages at this year's fair, but there is no official lineup yet. Checking the event's official webpage is the best way to stay updated on artist announcements and full activity schedules.
RVING AT THE EVENT
There are limited spots at the fairgrounds for on-site RV camping, and the majority of these spaces are tied to specific exhibitors or vendors rather than the general public. Most people traveling in an RV book a spot at a nearby campground. Many of the closest options are only 10 to 15 minutes from the fair and offer full hook-ups.
Where to Camp Near the Tennessee State Fair
Cedar Groves RV Resort offers amenities, including 30/50 amp electric and water, for both short- and long-term stays. A crystal clear pool gives you a relaxing way to cool off in between your visits to the fairgrounds. An on-site mailroom, laundry facilities, and dump station make this resort especially convenient if you want to stay the full 10 days. You'll be about 15 minutes from the fairgrounds. Another place that puts you within minutes of the fairgrounds is the TN40 RV Campground. It features sites for RVs, pull-behinds, fifth wheels, pop-ups, and more. Recreational amenities include a pool, playground, and basketball court. Electricity, water, and sewer connections are available year-round.
RV Rental Tips for the Tennessee State Fair
If you take your RV to town to pick up groceries or visit local attractions, go in the morning hours when traffic is lighter. The earlier you visit the fair during the day, the less crowded it will be. There is an abundance of rideshare options that simplify getting to and from the fairgrounds each day. Always pack leveling blocks since many of the nearby campgrounds have sites with uneven terrain. Before you head to the Tennessee State Fair, find out more about RVing in Tennessee to prepare for your trip.
WHERE TO STAY
If you're seeking accommodations other than RV camping, here are some nearby options: • Holiday Inn Express & Suites Lebanon-Nashville Area: This spot is located approximately 3 miles from the fairgrounds. You can enjoy a complimentary breakfast, an indoor pool, and free Wi-Fi. • Comfort Suites Lebanon: This is another option about 2 to 3 miles from the fairgrounds. Comfort Suites has spacious rooms, an indoor heated pool, and a fitness center. This hotel is known for its friendly service and convenient location near shopping centers and Interstate 40.
HOW TO GET THERE
The Tennessee State Fair is held at the Wilson County Fairgrounds in Lebanon. Here are a few ways to get to the fair: • From Nashville (West): Take I-40 East toward Knoxville. Use Exit 239B and follow US-70 into Lebanon. Follow the signs to the fairgrounds. • From Knoxville (East): Take I-40 West toward Nashville. Use Exit 239 and follow US-70 into Lebanon. Signs to the fairgrounds are clearly marked. • From Chattanooga (South): Take I-24 West toward Nashville. Merge onto I-40 East and follow the above directions from Nashville.
PARKING
Once you arrive at the fair, you will be directed to a parking lot. On-site parking is plentiful, and general admission is free. We recommend carpooling or taking the shuttle with friends and family to save time and money.
TICKETS & PRICING
Tickets are available for purchase on the website. You can also buy certain tickets through the fair’s official ticketing partner page once additional 2026 admissions become available. Another option is to purchase tickets at the gate once you arrive. • Farm to Fair Feast & Fundraiser — $60 • Farm to Fair Feast table for 6 — $350
WRAP UP
You’ve got to check out the Tennessee State Fair in Lebanon! It’s full of great food and classic traditions. Follow them on Facebook and Instagram so you don't miss any updates.
4-day RV Itinerary for the Tennessee State Fair
• Day 1: Arrival and karaoke competition night Arrive in Lebanon early on Wednesday and head toward your campground. Take the morning and afternoon to get the RV set up. Once you're settled, take a rideshare to the fairgrounds and grab a funnel cake before you watch or partake in the Karaoke Competition at 5:30 p.m. After the sun goes down, the carnival area becomes a lively atmosphere filled with bright lights and music. • Day 2: Midway rides and agricultural exhibits Spend this day relaxing around the campsite before you go back to the fair activities. Shopping vendors are set up all throughout the grounds, making it easy to pick up a few souvenirs. Be sure to look up the live entertainment options; you may find one of your favorite performers on stage. Use the evening time to eat at one of Lebanon's local restaurants. • Day 3: Local exploration Skip the fair this day to discover all that Lebanon has to offer. Cedars of Lebanon State Park and Old Hickory Lake are two attractions worth visiting if you like nature. Kiddos love the playgrounds and open green spaces at Don Fox Community Park. Use these campfire recipes to give everyone a good meal back at camp. • Day 4: Square dancing jamboree and departure Take this last day to wrap up your camping trip and enjoy a few final fair activities. The Old Time Square Dancing Jamboree takes place at 4 p.m. It's a great way to end your fair activities before you go home.
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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