North Florida Fair: Your Ultimate Guide to the 2025 Tallahassee Experience

North Florida Fair is a lively annual event held in Tallahassee, Florida, bringing families, friends, and communities together since 1939. Known for its exciting mix of rides, live entertainment, livestock shows, and delicious fair food, the fair celebrates North Florida’s rich agricultural traditions and diverse culture. The next North Florida Fair is scheduled for November 6–16, 2025, at the North Florida Fairgrounds located on East Paul Russell Road.

Visitors can enjoy thrilling midway rides, local talent performances, magic acts, and fun exhibits like the Anastasini Circus or Wild World of Animals. The event also features educational agricultural displays, crafts, and competitions that spotlight the region’s farming heritage. With affordable tickets and free admission for children under five, it’s a budget-friendly outing for all. The North Florida Fair is more than a carnival—it’s a cherished community tradition.

What Is the North Florida Fair?

The North Florida Fair is one of the largest and most anticipated events in North Florida and South Georgia, drawing over 130,000 visitors each year. Held annually at the North Florida Fairgrounds in Tallahassee, this agricultural fair has been a staple since 1942, showcasing the region’s farming heritage alongside modern entertainment.

The fair features a sprawling midway with thrilling rides, a wide variety of food stalls, competitive exhibits like livestock shows and 4-H displays, and live performances that cater to all ages. From carnival games to award-winning crafts, the North Florida Fair offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit event for locals and tourists alike.

The North Florida Fair 2025 is set to continue this legacy with new attractions, innovative food options, and a packed schedule of events. Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a seasoned fairgoer, this guide covers every aspect of the fair to ensure you make the most of your experience.

North Florida Fair 2025 Schedule

The North Florida Fair schedule for 2025 is designed to accommodate a wide range of visitors, with operating hours that vary by day to suit different schedules. Based on recent announcements, the North Florida Fair 2025 will take place from November 6 to November 16, 2025, at the North Florida Fairgrounds in Tallahassee. The fair runs for 11 days, offering ample time to explore its attractions. Here’s a breakdown of the expected schedule:

Monday through Thursday: Gates open at 5:00 p.m. and close at 10:30 p.m.
Friday: Gates open at 5:00 p.m. and close at 2:00 a.m. (Midnite Madness nights on November 7 and 14).
Saturday: Gates open at 12:00 p.m. and close at 12:00 a.m.
Sunday: Gates open at 12:00 p.m. and close at 10:00 p.m. (9:00 p.m. on the final day, November 16).

Special promotional days enhance the schedule, offering discounted tickets and unique experiences. For example:

November 6: Opening Night with free gate admission for all attendees.
November 11: Freedom Day, offering free gate admission for active and retired military with valid IDs.
November 12-13: Two Days Two Bucks, with $2 gate admission for youth and adults.
November 14: Carload Night, where up to eight passengers in a car can enjoy gate admission and unlimited rides for $60.

These hours and promotions are subject to change, so check the official fair website or contact the North Florida Fair office closer to the event for the most up-to-date schedule. The extended hours on weekends and special nights like Midnite Madness make it easy to fit a visit into your busy life.

North Florida Fair Location

The North Florida Fair location is the North Florida Fairgrounds, situated at 441 E. Paul Russell Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32301. This 100-acre complex is a hub for events in Florida’s Capital City, featuring six 12,000-square-foot exhibit buildings, a cattle barn, permanent food booths, and ample parking space. The fairgrounds are easily accessible from major roads, including U.S. Highway 319 and Tram Road, making it a convenient destination for residents of Tallahassee, Leon County, and surrounding areas.

The North Florida Fairgrounds are located just south of downtown Tallahassee, about a 10-minute drive from Florida State University and the Florida Capitol. The venue’s layout is designed for accessibility, with paved walkways, handicapped-accessible restrooms, and clear signage to guide visitors through the midway, exhibit halls, and entertainment stages. For those using GPS, entering the address 441 E. Paul Russell Road will lead you directly to the main entrance off Paul Russell Road, where the primary parking lot is located.

North Florida Fair Tickets and Pricing

North Florida Fair tickets are affordable and offer various options to suit different budgets and preferences. General admission and ride tickets are sold separately, with special promotions available on certain days. Here’s a detailed look at the expected ticket pricing for North Florida Fair 2025, based on recent years:

General Admission:
- Adults (13 years and older): $10
- Youth (6-12 years): $7
- Children (5 years and under): Free
VIP Pass: $45, includes gate admission and unlimited rides for any one day of the fair. Must be redeemed at the Midway Guest Booth for a ride bracelet.
Ride Tickets: Individual ride tickets are loaded onto a Strates Shows Fun Card, with rides costing between 3-7 credits each. Credit packages include:
- 7 credits for $10
- 25 credits for $30
- 50 credits for $50
Unlimited Ride Wristbands: Available on select days for $25-$35, depending on the promotion. Excludes gate admission.
Advance Sale Passes: Available until November 5, 2025, at 5:00 p.m., offering up to 24% savings on gate admission and unlimited rides.

Special ticket promotions add value to your visit:

Opening Night (November 6): Free gate admission for all.
Midnite Madness (November 7 and 14): Discounted gate admission ($7 for adults, $5 for youth) and $30 unlimited ride wristbands.
Carload Night (November 14): $60 per car (up to 8 passengers) for gate admission and unlimited rides.
Two Days Two Bucks (November 12-13): $2 gate admission for youth and adults, with $2 rides sold on the midway.
Freedom Day (November 11): Free gate admission for active and retired military with valid IDs, plus $30 unlimited ride wristbands.
Youth/Senior Citizens Day (November 8 and 15): Free admission for youth (12 and under) and seniors (65 and older) from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Tickets can be purchased at the fair gates or in advance through the official fair website. Advance sales are recommended for VIP passes and special promotions to save time and money. Note that all ticket prices and specials are subject to change, so confirm details before your visit.

North Florida Fair Events and Entertainment

The North Florida Fair events are a highlight of the experience, offering a diverse lineup of entertainment, competitions, and activities. The fair blends traditional agricultural exhibits with modern attractions, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Key events expected for North Florida Fair 2025 include:

Livestock Shows: Competitors from seven southeastern states showcase cattle, pigs, goats, and other animals in judged events. These shows highlight the region’s agricultural heritage and are a favorite among 4-H and FFA participants.
4-H and FFA Competitions: Youth exhibitors present projects ranging from crafts to crops, competing for ribbons and recognition.
Arts and Crafts Exhibits: Award-winning displays feature quilts, paintings, photography, and home goods, showcasing local talent.
County Displays: 24 counties from North Florida and South Georgia set up booths to promote their communities and products.
Live Performances: The entertainment stage hosts local bands, dance troupes, and special acts. Past fairs have featured country music, magic shows, and cultural performances, with the 2025 lineup expected to be announced closer to the event.
New Attractions: The 2024 fair introduced tattoo art and new games, and 2025 is likely to bring similar innovative events, such as interactive exhibits or themed activities.
Kids’ Area: A dedicated space offers activities like face painting, petting zoos, and inflatables, perfect for younger visitors.

The fair’s entertainment schedule varies daily, with major stage performances typically held in the evenings and family-friendly activities concentrated on weekends. Check the official fair website for a detailed events calendar closer to November 2025 to plan your visit around specific performances or competitions.

North Florida Fair Parking

North Florida Fair parking is free and conveniently located at the North Florida Fairgrounds, making it easy for visitors to access the event. The fairgrounds offer two main parking lots:

Stadium Lot: A paved lot off Paul Russell Road, ideal for those seeking easy access to the main entrance. This lot is popular and fills up quickly on weekends.
Tram Road Lot: A grass lot off Tram Road, slightly farther from the entrance but spacious enough to accommodate overflow crowds.

Both lots are handicapped-accessible, with designated spaces for visitors with disabilities. The fairgrounds provide ample parking space, with over 300 RV hookups available for campers attending the fair or other events at the venue. Security personnel and local law enforcement patrol the parking areas to ensure safety, and clear signage helps guide drivers to available spaces. To avoid congestion, arrive early on weekends or during peak hours (Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons). Note your parking lot’s location (Stadium or Tram Road) to easily find your vehicle when leaving.

North Florida Fair Rides

The North Florida Fair rides are a major draw, transforming the midway into a thrilling playground for all ages. Operated by Strates Shows, the fair’s midway features over 80 rides, ranging from gentle kiddie attractions to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters. The 2025 fair is expected to continue this tradition, with a mix of classic and new rides to keep visitors entertained. Popular rides from recent years include:

Ferris Wheel: A towering classic offering panoramic views of the fairgrounds and Tallahassee skyline.
Zipper: A high-speed ride with spinning cages for thrill-seekers.
Carousel: A family-friendly favorite with colorful horses and gentle music.
Super Himalaya: A fast-spinning ride with vibrant lights and music.
Kiddie Rides: Options like mini trains, teacups, and small roller coasters for younger children.

Most rides are included with an unlimited ride wristband, though a few specialty attractions (e.g., bungee jumps or mechanical bulls) may require separate payment. Rides typically cost 3-7 credits when purchased individually, making wristbands a cost-effective option for those planning to ride multiple times. Height and age restrictions apply to some rides, so check signage or the Strates Shows website for details before purchasing tickets. The midway operates during all fair hours, with extended hours on Midnite Madness nights for late-night thrills.

North Florida Fair Vendors

North Florida Fair vendors bring a vibrant mix of products and services to the fair, creating a bustling marketplace for shopping and exploration. Over 40 commercial vendors set up booths in the exhibit halls and outdoor areas, offering everything from handmade crafts to innovative gadgets. Common vendor categories include:

Arts and Crafts: Local artisans sell jewelry, pottery, quilts, and paintings, many of which are entered in competitive exhibits.
Home Goods: Vendors offer kitchenware, bedding, and decor, often with live demonstrations to showcase their products.
Agricultural Products: Local farmers and producers sell honey, jams, and fresh produce, highlighting Florida’s agricultural bounty.
Specialty Items: Unique finds like custom clothing, leather goods, and novelty toys are popular among fairgoers.

The vendors at the North Florida Fair are carefully selected to ensure quality and variety, with many returning year after year. For example, past fairs have featured artisans like Barbara Pace of B’s Creative Stitches, who sells handcrafted handbags and wallets made from fabric, cork, and leather. The fair also includes a Jr. Exhibitors Tent, where young entrepreneurs (kindergarten through high school) sell their creations, learning business skills while showcasing their talents. Vendors are a great way to support local businesses and find unique gifts, especially during the holiday season.

North Florida Fair Food

The North Florida Fair food scene is a feast for the senses, offering a dizzying array of sweet, savory, fried, and frozen treats. With over 40 food vendors, the fair caters to every palate, from classic carnival fare to innovative dishes that push culinary boundaries. Highlights from recent fairs, expected to return in 2025, include:

Candy Apples: A traditional treat with a modern twist, rolled in Tajín (a chili-lime seasoning) for a spicy-sweet kick.
Korean Corn Dogs (K-Dogs): Deep-fried hot dogs coated in batter and panko, popularized on social media for their crispy texture.
Deep-Fried Tacos: A new addition in 2024, offering a crunchy twist on a Mexican favorite.
Vegetarian Options: Dishes like jackfruit entrées cater to plant-based diets, ensuring inclusivity.
Krispy Kreme Hamburger: A quirky indulgence featuring a burger patty sandwiched between glazed donuts.
Redneck Eggrolls: A creative fusion of Southern flavors, stuffed with ingredients like pulled pork and coleslaw.
Beer Barn: Offers wine slushies, craft beers, and local brews from Deep Brewing for patrons 21 and older.

The food stalls are spread across the midway and exhibit areas, with permanent food booths and mobile vendors ensuring easy access. Fairgoers can expect long lines at popular stalls, especially on weekends, so plan to arrive early or visit during off-peak hours (Monday-Thursday evenings). Prices vary, with most items ranging from $5 to $15, though specialty dishes may cost more. Bring cash for some vendors, as not all accept credit cards, and pack a hearty appetite to sample the fair’s culinary delights.

Planning Your Visit to the North Florida Fair

To make the most of your North Florida Fair 2025 experience, consider these practical tips:

Arrive Early: Weekday evenings and early weekend mornings are less crowded, offering shorter lines for rides and food.
Dress Comfortably: Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing, as you’ll be walking and standing for extended periods. Tallahassee’s November weather is typically mild (60-75°F), but evenings can be cool.
Bring Essentials: Pack sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle to stay comfortable. Wagons, strollers, and wheelchairs are available for rent at the Information Booth for a small fee.
Plan Your Budget: Set aside funds for tickets, rides, food, and vendor purchases. Advance ticket purchases can save money, especially for families.
Check the Schedule: Review the events and entertainment schedule to catch your favorite performances or competitions.
Follow Safety Guidelines: The fair employs local law enforcement and private security, with first aid stations available. Keep bags and packages light, as they’re subject to security checks.
Respect Policies: No pets are allowed except for documented service animals, and smoking is restricted to designated areas.

Families with young children should prioritize the kids’ area and gentler rides, while thrill-seekers can head straight to the midway for high-energy attractions. Foodies will love exploring the food stalls, and shoppers can browse vendor booths for unique finds.

FAQs About the North Florida Fair

When is the North Florida Fair 2025?
The North Florida Fair 2025 is scheduled for November 6-16, 2025, at the North Florida Fairgrounds in Tallahassee, with varying hours by day.
Where is the North Florida Fair location?
The North Florida Fair location is the North Florida Fairgrounds at 441 E. Paul Russell Road, Tallahassee, Florida 32301, just south of downtown.
How much are North Florida Fair tickets?
General admission is $10 for adults, $7 for youth (6-12), and free for children 5 and under. VIP passes ($45) include admission and unlimited rides. Special promotions offer discounted tickets on select days.
What events can I expect at the North Florida Fair?
North Florida Fair events include livestock shows, 4-H and FFA competitions, arts and crafts exhibits, live performances, and kids’ activities, with new attractions like tattoo art expected in 2025.
Is North Florida Fair parking free?
Yes, North Florida Fair parking is free in the Stadium Lot (paved) off Paul Russell Road and the Tram Road Lot (grass), both handicapped-accessible.
What types of rides are at the North Florida Fair?
North Florida Fair rides range from kiddie attractions like carousels to thrilling roller coasters like the Zipper, with over 80 rides on the midway.
What food options are available at the North Florida Fair?
North Florida Fair food includes candy apples, Korean corn dogs, deep-fried tacos, vegetarian jackfruit dishes, and quirky items like Krispy Kreme hamburgers, with over 40 food vendors.

Conclusion on North Florida Fair

The North Florida Fair is more than just a fair—it’s a celebration of community, agriculture, and fun that brings Tallahassee to life each November. The North Florida Fair 2025 promises to deliver an unforgettable experience with its thrilling rides, mouth watering food, diverse vendors, and engaging events.

Whether you’re savoring a Tajín-coated candy apple, cheering at a livestock show, or soaring on the Ferris wheel, the fair offers memories for all ages. With free parking, affordable tickets, and a convenient location at the North Florida Fairgrounds, it’s easy to join the 130,000+ visitors who make this event a tradition. Plan your visit, embrace the festive atmosphere, and discover why the North Florida Fair Tallahassee is a highlight of the year.