Pensacola’s biggest fall event is back and bigger than ever. The Pensacola Interstate Fair returns for its 90th anniversary, bringing 11 days of rides, concerts, food, and fun to the Gulf Coast. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, foodie, or just here for the live music, this guide covers everything you need to know before heading to the fairgrounds.

Where and When

The 2025 Pensacola Interstate Fair runs from October 16–26, 2025 at the Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds, located at 6655 Mobile Highway, Pensacola, FL 32526. This annual event is one of the largest and longest-running fairs in the Southeast, featuring more than 60 rides, top-name entertainers, and endless local food options.

For out-of-towners, the fairgrounds sit about 15 minutes from downtown Pensacola, with easy access from Highway 90 and I-10.

What’s Happening This Year

Rides and Midway Thrills

With over 60 rides, the fair offers everything from kiddie rides to heart-pounding thrill rides. The Midway is operated by Reithoffer Shows, one of the top carnival providers in the country, and promises excitement for all ages.

Top Ride Picks for 2025:

Ferris Wheel – A must-ride at sunset, offering sweeping views of the glowing fairgrounds and Pensacola skyline.
Yo-Yo Swing Ride – A high-flying favorite for thrill-seekers that spins riders through the air under flashing neon lights.
Kiddie Zone – Dozens of smaller rides perfect for children and families, from merry-go-rounds to mini coasters.

Pro Tip: Purchase an unlimited ride wristband if you plan to ride multiple attractions—$30 Monday–Thursday or $35 Friday–Sunday. Discount days and one-ticket rides are also available on select dates.

Live Entertainment

All concerts and shows are free with admission, with open seating available once the fair opens each day. This year’s lineup celebrates 90 years of fair entertainment with major names in country and rock music:

Thursday, Oct. 16: Tyler Farr (7:00 PM)
Friday, Oct. 17: Sawyer Brown (7:30 PM)
Thursday, Oct. 23: Clay Walker (3:30 PM & 7:00 PM)

Check the full entertainment schedule on pensacolafair.com for more acts and daily showtimes.

Fair Food Favorites

You can’t visit the fair without sampling some of its legendary eats. Alongside funnel cakes and corn dogs, the Pensacola News Journal spotlighted four of the most unique foods to try this year:

Dill Pickle Pizza – Sweet, tangy, and surprisingly addictive.
Nutella Pancake Taco – A breakfast-dessert hybrid worth hunting down.
Jamaican Jerk Fries – Packed with flavor and spice.
Honey Bun Bacon Cheeseburger – Equal parts indulgent and unforgettable.

With dozens of food vendors on-site, this year’s menu stretches from deep-fried classics to inventive new creations that redefine fair food.

Exhibits and Attractions

Beyond rides and food, the fair hosts agricultural and livestock exhibits, art displays, science projects, and local vendor booths. It’s an all-ages community event celebrating Northwest Florida’s creativity and culture.

Admission and Tickets

Adults (12+): $14 at the gate
Children (ages 4–11): $6
Ages 3 & under: Free
Advance “Super Saver” Tickets: Available online through Oct. 15 at discounted rates
Unlimited Ride Wristbands: $30 Mon–Thu / $35 Fri–Sun
Parking: $10 at the gate or $5 online

Purchase advance tickets at tickets.pensacolafair.com.

Hours of Operation

Thu, Oct 16: 4 PM – 11 PM
Fri, Oct 17: 4 PM – 1 AM
Sat, Oct 18: 11 AM – Midnight
Sun, Oct 19: 11 AM – 11 PM
Mon–Thu, Oct 20–23: 4 PM – 11 PM
Fri, Oct 24: 4 PM – 1 AM
Sat, Oct 25: 11 AM – Midnight
Sun, Oct 26: 11 AM – 10 PM

Parking and Getting There

Parking is available on-site at the fairgrounds for $10 per vehicle (cash or card accepted). The main parking lot is well-lit and paved, with overflow parking on adjacent lots when needed.

Important: Do not park at the Walmart Supercenter or other nearby retail lots. Unauthorized vehicles are subject to towing at the owner’s expense. Each year, multiple fairgoers report being towed from private lots—avoid the hassle and stick to official fair parking.

Arrive early on Friday and Saturday nights to avoid heavy traffic and long entry lines. If you’re leaving near closing time, expect delays exiting onto Mobile Highway.

Rules and Helpful Tips

Clear bag policy is enforced at the gates.
No firearms allowed, even with a permit.
No pets, except service animals meeting ADA requirements.
ATMs are located throughout the grounds; most vendors accept cards.
The fair is rain or shine, so check the forecast and dress accordingly.

Why This Year’s Special

The 2025 Pensacola Interstate Fair marks its 90th anniversary, celebrating nine decades of entertainment, community, and tradition. Expect upgraded attractions, improved guest amenities, and a few surprises to honor this milestone year.

Plan Your Visit

For families, couples, and groups, the Pensacola Interstate Fair delivers the ultimate mix of nostalgia and excitement. Whether you’re catching Clay Walker live, sharing a funnel cake on the Ferris wheel, or letting the kids explore the Midway, this is the Gulf Coast’s can’t-miss event of the fall.

Get your tickets early, park smart, and make the most of your fair day at pensacolafair.com.

Pensacola Interstate Fair 2025: What to Know Before You Go