2026 Manatee County Fair Returns With Family Fun, Community Pride, and Special Opening Day Free Admission
The Manatee County Fair is set to return January 15–25, 2026, continuing a beloved community tradition that celebrates agriculture, entertainment, and family fun in Manatee County. Drawing more than 100,000 visitors each year, the 11-day fair offers a wide range of attractions, shows, and activities designed for all ages.
Visitors can take advantage of early ticket savings now through January 14, with adult admission available for $9. Children ages five and under are admitted free, while tickets for children ages 6–12 will be available at the gate during fair dates. During the fair, admission prices will be $10 for adults and $6 for children ages 6–12. Daily military admission is offered at a discounted rate of $6 with a valid active-duty ID.
The fair officially opens Thursday, January 15, with gates opening at 5:00 p.m. Opening Day features free gate admission for all fairgoers, sponsored by Palmetto Build and Detwiler’s Farm Market. Opening night runs from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m., with daily operating hours listed on the fair’s website. The 2026 event will also include special recognition of America’s 250th Anniversary.
Agriculture remains at the heart of the fair, with daily livestock shows showcasing student competitors from across Manatee County. Families can enjoy interactive and educational attractions such as live milking demonstrations, the Cowboy Circus, The Barnyard Cackle Review, Puppy Pals Live, and the Jurassic Kingdom Dinosaur Show. New this year is the Battle of the Beats Drumline Competition, featuring middle and high school drumlines from throughout the county.
Main stage entertainment will be featured throughout the fair.
• The 301 Travelers on Thursday, January 15
• Magic Man TJ Hill on Thursday, January 15, 16, 18 – 25
• Manatee County Baby Pageant on Saturday, January 17
• Eric Von on Saturday, January 17
• Bayside Worship on Sunday, January 18
• Caleb and John on Sunday, January 18
• Open Dance Showcase on Monday, January 19
• Battle of the Beats Drumline Competition on Tuesday, January 20
• Joyful Sound – First Baptist Church of Palmetto on Wednesday, January 21
Additional details, schedules, and updates about the 2026 Manatee County Fair can be found at ManateeCountyFair.com or by following the fair on Facebook.
The fair is organized by the Manatee River Fair Association, a private nonprofit dedicated to promoting the agricultural, economic, and cultural heritage of Manatee County through the annual fair and year-round events. The association also operates the fairgrounds to support local agriculture, commerce, and community programming.
