Exploring the Midwest with Jody Halsted

Exploring the Midwest with Jody Halsted


Kansas State Fair | Exploring the Midwest Podcast Episode 24

July 26, 2021

Wrapping up 'State Fair Season' with the final state fair in the Midwest.Kansas State Fair begins after Labor Day - on September 10 in 2021- and runs for 10 days.

My guest Ed Burger, Interim General manager for the Kansas State Fair, is going to share the history and highlights of the Kansas State Fair - and hopefully a few 'insider tips' to help you make the most of your visit!

Bottle feeding calf

The Kansas State Fair

The Kansas State Fair takes place in Hutchinson, near the center of the state. It has been running since 1913, only skipping one year (2020). The Kansas State Fair begins the Friday after Labor Day and lasts for 10 days.

Pride of Kansas exhibit

Famous Features of the Kansas State Fair

Everyone has their own 'fair favorites'. On the west side of the fairgrounds you'll find livestock and agriculture. The north side of the fair is where you'll find the displays and judging on everything from cooking to quilts. And throughout the grounds you'll find vendors and commercial displays of all types.

Fair Food

Leave your diet at the gate.

Church groups and service clubs have food booths that have become a tradition. Of course you can get your ProntoPup (corn dog) and the Dairy Association has a popular ice cream stand in the Grandstand.

And you'll find plenty of foods on a stick.

Entertainment at the Kansas State Fair

Midway at night

The fair kicks off with 'dirt events' - bull riding, motorcross, and monster trucks - before musical entertainment begins. You'll find a mix of entertainers in the Grandstand, as well as free stages where you can find a variety of acts.

Kansas' Largest Classroom

The Kansas State Fair is a learning environment. See newborn animals in the birthing center, explore the dairy parlor, examine butterflies and bugs in the pollinator garden, and discover more in the new Education Center.

Tips for Attending the Kansas State Fair

$4 admission after 4 on Tuesday and Thursday.

Enjoy special deals at food vendors on 'Tasting Tuesday'.

'Shop til your drop' on Wednesday with vendor specials.

Thursday evening pub crawl to try Kansas craft brewers.

The Kansas State Fair has ample free parking and you'll also find shuttles to bring you to the fairgrounds. Get all the information, as well as deals & discounts at KansasStateFair.com