About Florida State Fairgrounds
Florida’s Year-Round Hub for Unforgettable Events
The story and history of the Florida State Fairgrounds.
The Fairgrounds Family
Whether it's the annual Florida State Fair or any of our hundreds of events throughout the year, the Florida State Fairgrounds has always been about providing fun for everyone and showcasing the best of our state!
What began with a small start in 1904, at Henry B. Plant's Tampa Bay Hotel, has grown to encompass a family of brands across our sprawling property, offering year-round entertainment, equestrian events, and a rural living history museum.
A Fairgrounds Timeline
Events that shaped the history of The Fairgrounds and the Tampa Bay area.
From a small start in 1904, the Florida State Fairgrounds believes that nothing brings a community together like a good time. That has been the core of our efforts since our first fair, held in downtown Tampa near Henry B. Plant's Tampa Bay Hotel.
In 1915, we combined with Tampa's Gasparilla Carnival to become the biggest, best, most-deep-fried event of the year — now known as the Florida State Fair. Floridians came from every corner of the state to eat, compete, and celebrate together.
As we grew, the need for a governing body arose. In 1975, the Florida State Legislature created the Florida State Fair Authority. Now an official organization, we packed up and moved to our new home — The Fairgrounds you know and love today.
Today, the Florida State Fairgrounds is a year-round hub for community-oriented fun. The Fairgrounds attracts over 1.5 million visitors throughout the year. We still strive to celebrate Florida through amazing events, hands-on learning, and timeless family memories.
Get Involved at The Fairgrounds
Learn how you can get involved and support the mission of the Florida State Fair and help us deliver exceptional year-round events.
The Foundation
Support agricultural, scientific, and educational programs.
Volunteer
Join the amazing volunteers who make year-round fun.
Careers
Be part of a top-tier team that creates forever memories.
Know Before You Go
12345678- 1MidFlorida AmphitheaterUS Hwy 301 Entrance
- 2Bob Thomas Equestrian CenterOrient Road Entrance, Gate 4
- 3TECO ArenaMLK Blvd Entrance, Gate 3
- 4Cracker CountryMLK Blvd Entrance, Gate 2
- 5Expo HallUS Hwy 301 Entrance, Gate 1
- 6Entertainment HallUS Hwy 301 Entrance, Gate 1
- 7Florida CenterMLK Blvd Entrance, Gate 2
- 8Special Events CenterMLK Blvd Entrance, Gate 3