By Blake Jackson
The 121st Kentucky State Fair has wrapped up another memorable year, bringing all 120 counties together for 11 days of “All Things Kentucky, All In One Place.”
The fair once again showcased the state’s culture, agriculture, and community pride with record-breaking participation and a world-class horse show.
"The Kentucky State Fair is an 11-day celebration of who we are as a state, and we saw the pride and passion of Kentuckians from Pikeville to Paducah come together to showcase our traditions, talents, and communities,” said David S. Beck, President and CEO of Kentucky Venues.
This year’s fair saw more than 33,400 entries across multiple categories, continuing a strong decade-long trend. General Exhibits drew 16,706 entries, including nearly 1,500 first-time exhibitors, while Beer and Wine competitions received 676 entries.
Livestock competitions attracted 6,014 entries, with 831 in poultry, pigeon, and rabbit contests. 4-H and FFA youth also played a major role, contributing 9,185 entries.
The prestigious World’s Championship Horse Show, held alongside the fair, featured 1,785 Saddlebreds nearly 200 more than last year. Riders and drivers from across the U.S. and abroad competed in 236 classes, including 135 first-time participants.
The event concluded on August 23, 2025, with Midd’s Delaney of West Wind Stables, trained by Kim Cowart and ridden by Susan Swope, winning the Five-Gaited World’s Grand Championship for the second consecutive year.
The Kentucky Farm Bureau Country Ham Breakfast and Charity Auction raised an impressive $10 million, continuing its record-setting tradition.
The Championship Drive, presented by Farm Credit Mid-America, nearly doubled in size this year, awarding more than $137,000 to around 270 youth exhibitors showing both market and breeding animals.
The fair also highlighted local talent through the Talent Classic, which featured 67 participants across three age groups competing for $5,675 in prize money. Entertainment was plentiful with the Texas Roadhouse Concert Series and new attractions across the fairgrounds.
Accessibility remained a focus, with the Sensory Friendly Morning welcoming over 1,200 guests, and a record 69 participants joining the Sunshine Class.
The 2026 Kentucky State Fair will run August 20-30 with the theme, “Where County Traditions Meet Our Country's Celebration,” joining the nation in marking America’s 250th anniversary.
Photo Credit: kentucky-state-fair
Categories: Kentucky, Business, Livestock