October in Tulsa means one thing: the fair is back. The Tulsa State Fair 2026 runs from October 1 to October 11, 2026, bringing 11 straight days of rides, live music, food, rodeos, and family fun to Expo Square. Locals call it “11 Days of Awesome,” and for good reason. Over one million people pass through those gates every year. If you want to make the most of your visit, a little planning goes a long way. This guide walks you through everything you need to know before you go.
Key Event Details at a Glance
Before diving into the details, here is a quick overview of the essential information for this year’s event.
| Detail | Information |
| Event Name | Tulsa State Fair 2026 |
| Dates | October 1–11, 2026 |
| Location | Expo Square, Tulsa, Oklahoma |
| Organized By | Tulsa County Public Facilities Authority |
| Theme | 11 Days of Awesome |
| Expected Attendance | Over 1 million visitors |
| Official Website | tulsastatefair.com |
Expo Square sits at 4145 E. 21st Street in Tulsa. It is a large, well-established venue that hosts the fair each year. The grounds are spacious, so comfortable walking shoes are a must.
Tickets: What They Cost and How to Buy Them
Buying tickets in advance is always the smarter choice. Advance pricing saves you money compared to gate prices. Single admission tickets are available online before the fair opens. A family four-pack costs around $35 in advance and rises to $60 at the gate. Individual adult tickets are approximately $9 in advance or $15 at the gate. Children under five get in free.
Additionally, several ticket categories cover different experiences at the fair.
| Ticket Type | Advance Price | Gate Price |
| Single Adult | ~$9 | ~$15 |
| Family Four-Pack | ~$35 | ~$60 |
| Mega Ride Pass | ~$85 (online) | ~$95 (on-site) |
| Disney on Ice | Separate ticket required | Separate ticket required |
| PRCA Rodeo | Separate ticket required | Separate ticket required |
| Children Under 5 | Free | Free |
Note that prices listed above are based on historical fair pricing trends and may vary slightly for 2026. Always confirm the current pricing at tulsastatefair.com before purchasing.
Special discounts apply to military personnel, senior citizens, and children between the ages of 5 and 12. Therefore, it pays to check for any discount days announced before the fair begins. Past fairs have offered reduced admission on specific weekdays, so watching the official schedule closely is worthwhile.
The 2026 Concert Lineup: Music Every Night
One of the biggest draws at the fair is the free concert series. Live music fills three stages across the grounds every evening. The confirmed 2026 concert schedule brings a wide variety of genres, ensuring something for every musical taste.
| Date | Artist |
| October 1 | Drake White |
| October 2 | Winchester |
| October 3 | Blake Whiten |
| October 4 | Jay Sean |
| October 5 | Ben Fuller |
| October 6 | Colt Ford |
| October 7 | Drew Baldridge and Lanco |
| October 8 | Gin Blossoms |
| October 9 | Waka Flocka Flame |
| October 10 | Neal McCoy |
| October 11 | Alianza Norteña and Grupo Legión 7 |
These concerts are included with general admission. You do not need a separate ticket to enjoy the nightly shows. However, arriving early to claim a good spot near the stage is strongly recommended, especially for the more popular acts.
Top Attractions and Things to Do
The fair is far more than rides and food. There is an enormous variety of activities spread across the Expo Square grounds. Here is a breakdown of what to expect.
Carnival Rides for All Ages
The midway is packed with rides ranging from gentle carousels to high-adrenaline thrill machines. Ride tickets are sold individually or in bundles. The most economical option for ride lovers is the Mega Ride Pass, which covers unlimited access to standard rides for the day. Extreme rides require separate paid tickets. Additionally, children’s ride areas offer age-appropriate options for younger visitors who are not ready for the bigger attractions.
Disney on Ice
Disney on Ice is one of the most anticipated ticketed events at the fair. Families with young children absolutely love it. The show features beloved Disney characters performing on ice to classic and modern Disney songs. Tickets sell out quickly, so booking in advance is highly recommended. The show runs on multiple dates throughout the fair period.
PRCA Rodeo
The Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association Rodeo brings authentic Western entertainment to the fair each year. Events include barrel racing, bull riding, team roping, and more. Cowboys and cowgirls from across the region compete for top honors. Concerts often follow the rodeo performances, making for a full and exciting evening.
Agricultural and Livestock Exhibits
The fair stays true to its roots with a rich selection of agricultural displays. Visitors can explore livestock shows, horse competitions, the Junior Livestock Auction, 4-H and FFA exhibits, and horticultural displays. These exhibits give city-dwellers a genuine window into Oklahoma’s agricultural heritage.
Food, Food, and More Food
No state fair visit is complete without indulging in the food. Tulsa’s fair is known for classic favorites alongside creative new offerings each year. Expect to find:
- Corn dogs and funnel cakes at nearly every turn
- Fried Oreos, turkey legs, and loaded nachos
- Kitchen demonstrations featuring local chefs and home cooks
- A wide range of vendor booths with specialty snacks and beverages
- International food options alongside traditional American fair staples
Additionally, the fair features a wine garden, an international beer garden, and other adult beverage areas for those looking to relax and enjoy the atmosphere.
Shopping and Vendor Booths
Hundreds of vendor booths line the exhibit buildings. You can browse home goods, handmade jewelry, clothing, beauty products, outdoor equipment, and much more. Many vendors offer special state fair pricing, which makes shopping here genuinely worthwhile. The Made in Oklahoma pavilion is a highlight, showcasing products created by local businesses and artisans.
Getting There: Parking and Transportation Tips
Parking at Expo Square costs around $20 for on-site spots near the main gates. However, you can save that money entirely by using the free shuttle service. Park at the TPS Education Service Center located at 3027 S. New Haven Avenue in Tulsa, and catch a shuttle directly to the fairgrounds. Shuttle times are posted on the official fair website.
Alternatively, Tulsa has two bus routes — Route 150 and Route 450 — that stop near the fairgrounds. Public transit is a great option if you prefer to skip driving and parking altogether. If you plan to attend with an RV, camping reservations must be made separately, as standard fair tickets do not cover RV parking.
| Getting There | Details |
| On-Site Parking | ~$20 per day, first-come first-served |
| Free Shuttle | Park at 3027 S. New Haven Ave, ride to fair |
| Public Bus | Routes 150 and 450 serve the fairgrounds |
| RV Camping | Separate reservation required |
Best Days to Visit and When to Avoid the Crowds
Timing your visit wisely makes a noticeable difference in your experience. Weekends are the busiest days by far. Opening day and the first weekend in particular draw massive crowds. If you prefer a calmer atmosphere, visiting on a Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday during the first week is your best bet.
Additionally, keep an eye on the fair’s schedule for designated discount days. Past editions have featured days with reduced admission for specific groups, half-price entry on opening day, and senior discount days mid-week. These special days attract large crowds but also offer great savings if planned well in advance.
What to Wear and What to Bring
Oklahoma weather in early October can be unpredictable. Warm afternoons can give way to cool evenings quickly. Dressing in layers is the smartest approach. A light jacket or hoodie in your bag will make evening concerts much more enjoyable.
Here is a short checklist of what to bring on your fair day:
- Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes
- A light jacket or sweater for the evenings
- Sunscreen for daytime visits
- A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
- Cash and cards, as some vendors prefer cash
- A portable phone charger for a full day out
Leave large backpacks and bags at home. Most fair venues have size restrictions on bags, and traveling light makes moving through crowds far easier.
Tips for Families with Young Children
The fair is one of the most family-friendly events in all of Oklahoma. However, a little extra preparation helps when you bring young kids.
- Visit early in the day when energy levels are high and lines are shorter
- Identify the Lost Children Office near the Security Office at the start of your visit
- Use the nursing and baby changing stations located at multiple points around the grounds
- Let kids see the petting zoo and activity centers before heading to the rides
- Pack healthy snacks to supplement the fair food and keep energy levels steady
Additionally, note that the Kids’ Activity Centers and creative stations provide structured entertainment for younger children who may tire of the midway quickly.
Conclusion
The Tulsa State Fair 2026, running October 1 through October 11 at Expo Square, is one of the best family events in Oklahoma and the entire region. With a packed concert schedule featuring eleven different acts, beloved attractions like Disney on Ice and the PRCA Rodeo, hundreds of food vendors, agricultural exhibits, and an endless midway of rides, there truly is something for everyone. Buying tickets in advance, arriving early, taking the free shuttle, and dressing in layers are the simplest ways to upgrade your experience. Plan ahead, go in with a loose schedule, and let the fair surprise you. Tulsa does this better than almost anyone.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Tulsa State Fair 2026?
The fair runs from October 1 to October 11, 2026. It takes place at Expo Square, located at 4145 E. 21st Street in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The fair runs for 11 consecutive days, earning its nickname “11 Days of Awesome.”
How much does it cost to get into the Tulsa State Fair 2026?
Advance single adult tickets cost around $9, while gate prices are approximately $15. A family four-pack runs about $35 in advance or $60 at the gate. Children under five are admitted free. Discounts are available for military personnel, seniors, and children. Ride passes and special events like Disney on Ice and the PRCA Rodeo require separate tickets.
Is parking free at the Tulsa State Fair?
On-site parking at Expo Square costs around $20 per day. However, free shuttle service is available from the TPS Education Service Center at 3027 S. New Haven Avenue. Two public bus routes, Route 150 and Route 450, also serve the fairgrounds. Choosing the shuttle or bus saves money and avoids the stress of finding a spot during peak days.
What are the best days to visit to avoid large crowds?
Weekday visits — particularly Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays during the first week — tend to be significantly less crowded than weekends. Opening weekend and the final weekend of the fair draw the largest numbers of visitors. Arriving early in the morning on any day also helps you beat the rush before the midday surge.
Are there free concerts at the Tulsa State Fair 2026?
Yes. Free nightly concerts are included with general admission. The 2026 lineup features a different artist every night, from country and rock to hip-hop and Latin music. Artists performing this year include Drake White, Gin Blossoms, Neal McCoy, Waka Flocka Flame, and others. No separate concert ticket is required for the Oklahoma Stage performances.