Fun for everyone, all year long.
Our Story
FLORIDA STATE FAIRGROUNDS
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Est. 1904
Blazing Trails
From a small start in 1904, to our explosive events today, the Florida State Fairgrounds believes that nothing brings a community together like a good time. That has been the core of our efforts since our first fair, held in downtown Tampa at Henry B. Plant’s Tampa Bay Hotel.
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1915 - 1975
Taking Root
In 1915, we combined with Tampa’s Gasparilla Carnival to become the biggest, best, most-deep-fried event of the year – now known as the Florida State Fair. Community members gathered from every corner of the state to eat, compete and celebrate everything Florida.
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1975 - 2019
Moving Home
As we grew in popularity, the need for a governing body arose. In 1975, the Florida State Legislature created the Florida State Fair Authority. Now an official organization, we packed up and moved to our new home – the Florida State Fairgrounds you know and love today, just off of Interstate 4
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2020 and Beyond
Sparking Tradition
Today, the Florida State Fairgrounds is a year-round hub for community-oriented fun. The Fairgrounds attracts over 1.5 million visitors throughout the year, all looking to have fun, learn, or try something new. While some things have changed, our goals have not. We still strive to celebrate Florida through amazing events, hands-on experiences and educational opportunities.
TODAY’S STATE FAIR
500K
Attendees annually
On average over the last decade.
90+
Midway rides
Largest midway in North America.
$1M
PREMIUMS
Awarded to exhibitors and competitors.
