Courtesy of the Missouri State Fair
The Missouri State Fair returns to Sedalia from August 10–20, and it promises to be a heck of a party, with St. Louis' own Nelly among the acts. With it being the state's largest agricultural expo, there are, of course, handsome hogs and graceful goats, but the fair also brings live music, rides, motorsports, dancing, wine, and more. It’s a lot to navigate, so be sure to plan ahead, so you can make the most of your time at the fair. Here's what to expect.
Courtesy of the Missouri State Fair
ENTERTAINMENT
Between the free shows—where Missouri State Fair director Mark Wolfe says there’s probably $300,000 worth of free programing every day—and the ticketed shows on the State Fair Grandstand stage, the music lineup is pretty jaw-dropping.
“Country seems to do pretty well here in central Missouri,” he says. “Lainey Wilson is our headline act [on August 11]—it sold out in four hours.”
It’s not just the twangy side of things at the fair, though. “We got a little mix,” says Wolfe. For instance, if it’s aughts-rock you’re craving, then consider getting tickets for 3 Doors Down and Candlebox on August 12 at 7:30 p.m. (Track tickets go for $45, with grandstand spots at $35.)
Nelly will perform on August 18, and Wolfe says the show is expected to sell out as well. Tickets are $40–$50, and the Country Grammar rapper will share the bill with Rahzel, the beat-boxing phenom, longtime member of The Roots and voice actor extraordinaire.
In addition to the big-name musical acts, expect state fair mainstays, such as a demolition derby, antique classic tractor pull, ATV and dirt bike rodeo, motocross, monster trucks, and what Wolfe describes as a “world-class” carnival. (From noon–2 p.m. on August 17, the midway goes sensory-friendly.)
Courtesy of the Missouri State Fair
AGRICULTURE
The fair offers an opportunity to learn more about one of the state's leading industries. “The state fair is the largest showcase each year in Missouri for agriculture—it’s a chance to see the best of the best," says Wolfe. "We put a lot of focus on our youth exhibitors.” Kids in 4H and FFA bring their animals to compete at the fair.
Many of the competitors have already done well in various county fairs, but it’s not necessary for them to qualify. “It’s an opportunity for them to bring the project they’ve worked on all year to the state fair and show it in front of a lot of people,” he says. The competition may be fierce (and the committee’s scholarships coveted), but participation alone is a wonderful thing. “There’s nothing neater than watching a little 8-year-old 4H girl leading her sheep around,” says Wolfe.
Check out the petting zoo, the racing pigs, a milking demonstration, rodeos and bull riding, and stock dog trials as well. Wolfe is also looking forward to the draft horse show, which sees teams of horses pulling mighty loads.
PLANNING
It’s a three-hour drive to Sedalia, so if you’re going from St. Louis, be sure to make a day of it—and possibly even an entire weekend.
Single-day adult tickets are $15, with senior tickets for $10 and youth tickets for $4. Kids ages 5 and under get in free. If you’re going to a concert at the Grandstand, then you’ll need separate tickets. The carnival operates on its own ticketing system, and you can buy unlimited packages or buy by the ticket. There are discount days and other ways to save.
“This is a huge facility—it’s almost 600 acres,” Wolfe says. “There’s 100 buildings here. If you want to make a trip over—and we encourage you to do so—go to our website.”
