The 2025 Kansas State Fair opened its gates Friday morning under a light drizzle — a reminder, as Kansas State Fair General Manager Bryan Schulz put it, that “you just never know what you’re going to have for weather in Kansas.” While the rain dampened the sidewalks, spirits remained high as opening ceremonies celebrated the start of 10 days of agriculture, entertainment, and tradition.
The day began with a ribbon cutting at the People’s Bank & Trust Arena, where a new canopy has been added to provide shade and shelter for visitors. Schulz noted that the canopy was just one of many improvements across the grounds, alongside ongoing renovations of the historic Bison Building. Exterior work is nearly complete, and interior upgrades will begin later this month.
Concertgoers can look forward to a strong lineup of entertainment, beginning tonight with Sam Barber and Avery Anna at the Nex-Tech Grandstand. Ticket sales are already running ahead of last year’s pace, according to Schulz, with strong presales and plenty of walk-up traffic expected. “Our percentage sold is way above where we had expected it to be,” he said.
Visitors will also notice new food options this year, including pulled pork corn dogs, firecracker wontons, and pineapple smoothies served right in a carved fruit shell. Fairgoers are encouraged to download the official Kansas State Fair app for the latest updates, schedules, and vendor locations.
Agriculture remains at the heart of the fair. Schulz emphasized the importance of showcasing Kansas’ farming roots, even as some state fairs around the country move away from that focus. “We want to make sure our agricultural aspects are being promoted here at the Kansas State Fair,” he said.
Beyond the midway and the rides, one of the most heartwarming events takes place Friday with the Championship Livestock Show at Prairie Pavilion, where Special Olympics athletes are paired with FFA and 4-H youth to show animals in the ring. Schulz called it one of the most rewarding parts of the fair: “For someone who has never been around livestock, to be able to walk with an animal and work with it is truly special.”
The Kansas State Fair runs through Sept. 14, featuring daily entertainment, livestock shows, exhibits, and hundreds of vendors. Tickets and event packages are available online at kansasstatefair.com or at the gate.
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The 2025 Kansas State Fair opened on Friday with a special celebration honoring seniors during "Young at Heart Day". Guests 55 and older will enjoy discounted $2 gate admission as the Fair officially opens its 10-day run at the Hutchinson fairgrounds.
The day began with the Working Equitation Show at 8 a.m. in Expo II, followed by popular family attractions such as Moo-U Guided Barn Tours at the Birthing Center and Dr. Goddard’s Lab demonstrations at the Education Center. Throughout the morning, visitors can also catch Hedrick’s Pig Races, the Chainsaw Woodcarvers, and a variety of art demonstrations in the Oz Gallery.
At 11 a.m., the official Opening Ceremony takes place at the Peoples Bank and Trust Arena, followed by a ribbon-cutting at 11:15 a.m. The afternoon schedule is packed with livestock competitions including goat, swine, sheep, and beef showmanship events, along with the Draft Horse Show in Expo Center. Visitors can also enjoy special contests such as homemade ice cream judging and the “It’s All About the Bread” competition.
Entertainment highlights include the Cowboy Circus, Ron Diamond the Hypnotist, and “It’s Showtime Circus” at Gottschalk Park. Musical performances will feature Sweet Rhubarb on the Lowen Corporation Stage, Jay Jackson with Nashville’s Finest at the Peoples Bank and Trust Arena, and Wyatt Henson performing at Lake Talbott.
The day wraps up with a big night at the Nex-Tech Grandstand, where rising country artists Sam Barber and Avery Anna take the stage.