August and September are the biggest months for fairs in Tennessee. If you’re feeling nostalgic for funnel cakes, pig races, Ferris wheels, and dubiously maintained fair rides, then here are the five best fairs in the Nashville area.
When: August 1-9
Where: Williamson County Ag Expo Park in Franklin
Cost: $14 for adults, $7 for kids, ride wristbands $25-35
Details: In addition to all the classic fair rides and games, check out the birthing pigs exhibit, come face to face with dragons, enjoy historic reenactments, and stay late for fireworks on Friday and Saturday night.
When: August 14-23
Where: James E. Ward Agricultural Center, Lebanon
Cost: $11.50+ for adults, $4.25+ for kids, ride wristbands $25-30
Details: This is the largest local fair, and considered one of the best in the country. Prepare yourself for crowds; over 700,000 people attend every year. I recommend taking advantage of their satellite parking and riding a shuttle over (pulled by a tractor!). This year’s theme is the Year of Pork, and I’m imagining lots of bacon-themed fair food will be available.
When: August 28-September 1
Where: Dickson County Fairgrounds
Cost: To come
Details: There aren’t many details yet on this county fair, but they typically have monster trucks, craft competitions, and lots of livestock. This is the fair I went to as a child, and it gives me all the nostalgic feels.
When: September 4-6
Where: Ashland City
Cost: $15, free rides
Details: With free rides, this is the most affordable local fair. I also like that it’s on a nice grassy area instead of concrete, so you don’t roast! They haven’t announced the event lineup yet, but expect muddy truck obstacle courses, livestock competitions, and live music.
When: September 5-14
Where: The Fairgrounds Nashville
Cost: $10 for adults, $8 for kids, ride wristbands $35
Details: This is the least crowded fair, and therefore my favorite. It doesn’t have quite the level of fair food and unique performances as the state fair, but it does have all the classics, and it’s right in our own backyard. My favorite part is the arts and crafts exhibits.
