The North Georgia State Fair: A Celebration of Fun, Thrills, and Tradition
The annual North Georgia State Fair attracts an estimated 365,000 people every year from North Georgia and neighboring states. The fair features live music, free attractions and shows, blue ribbon competitions, live farm and exotic animals, talented performers and dancers, fun food, and rides on the Great James H. Drew Exposition – one of the largest carnival midways in the U.S. The fair also offers free concerts with big names hitting the stage each year.
Fun and Entertainment:
The North Georgia State Fair features exhilarating rides, colorful games, and mouthwatering treats. From heart-pounding roller coasters to enchanting Ferris wheels, the fair’s amusement rides offer endless thrills and laughter for adventure seekers. For those seeking a more laid-back experience, the fair also includes a wide range of family-friendly rides and attractions.
A Food Lover’s Paradise:
No fair experience is complete without trying some of the delicious fair foods. The North Georgia State Fair offers a variety of savory delights and sweet treats that range from traditional corn dogs and cotton candy to more innovative creations like the deep fried candy bars.
Live Entertainment and Performances:
Entertainment takes center stage at the North Georgia State Fair, with a lineup of shows, live performances, and musical concerts. Visitors can witness awe-inspiring shows, enjoy live music, and be mesmerized by the fair’s diverse variety of entertainment.
The North Georgia State Fair offers a memorable and thrilling experience that has become a favorite part of the fall season.Â
Dates:
September 18 through 28, 2025
2025 Attractions:
Lady Houdini (New in 2025)
Lady Houdini, also known as Kristen Johnson, is no magician’s assistant. She is an escape artist who has performed thousands of daring feats, broken Harry Houdini’s record for the most water escapes, and is currently the only woman in the world attempting the water torture cell.
Showtimes:
Mon-Fri: 6:30 & 8:30 PM
Sat/Sun: 2:30, 5:30, & 8:30 PM
Strolling Piano (New in 2025)
A moving musical act that combines the elegance of a pianist with the fun of a roaming show. This fully mobile, self-contained piano will be rolling through the fairgrounds daily.
Showtimes: Daily at 5:00, 7:00, & 9:00 PM (each show runs 45 minutes)
American Motor Drome (New in 2025)
Step inside the Wall of Death, a vintage thrill show featuring motorcycle daredevils who ride along a 30-foot-high vertical wooden cylinder. Expect acrobatics, stunts, and heart-pounding action.
Showtimes: Daily on the hour
Fireguy Show
With over 20 years of experience, Fireguy heats up the fair with jaw-dropping fire eating, flames, and light tricks that are guaranteed to surprise and entertain.
Showtimes:
Mon-Fri: 6:00, 8:00, & 10:00 PM
Sat/Sun: 3:30, 6:00, 7:30, & 9:30 PM
Robinson’s Racing Pigs and Paddling Porkers
Cheer on celebrity pigs like Britney Spareribs and Lindsay Slowham as they race for the Oreo prize. These little athletes even paddle their way into fans’ hearts.
Showtimes:
Mon-Fri: 5:30, 7:30, & 9:30 PM
Sat/Sun: 1:30, 3:30, 6:30, & 9:30 PM
Ready-Go-Dog Show
This show brings together champion Frisbee dogs, diving dogs, and even the world’s highest box jump dog. After the show, fans can meet the four-legged stars in person.
Showtimes:
Mon-Fri: 6:00 & 9:00 PM
Sat/Sun: 12:30, 4:30, & 7:30 PM
North Georgia Animals Petting Barn
Located at the south entrance of the fairgrounds, this barn offers the chance to meet horses, goats, cows, rabbits, llamas, ponies, and more.
Hours: Open daily during fair hours
Zerbini Family Circus (New in 2025)
Under a 1,200-seat Big Top, the Zerbini Family Circus delivers acrobatics, aerialists, clowns, jugglers, and more in a dazzling family-run show.
Showtimes:
Mon-Fri: 6:30 & 8:30 PM
Sat/Sun: 2:30, 5:30, & 8:30 PM
Lew-E’s Comedy Circus (New in 2025)
This lively show features juggling, magic, music, and comedy, with plenty of audience participation to keep the laughs rolling.
Showtimes:
Mon-Fri: 5:30, 7:30, & 9:00 PM
Sat/Sun: 3:30, 5:30, & 7:30 PM
Oscar the Robot (New in 2025)
A witty robotic entertainer who roams the fairgrounds, keeping crowds laughing with quick comebacks and amusing antics.
Showtimes:
Mon-Fri: 5:00 & 8:00 PM
Sat/Sun: 2:00, 5:00, & 8:00 PM (each show lasts 90 minutes)
Benjamin Jackson Hypnotist Show
Benjamin Jackson’s comedy hypnosis show blends audience participation with hilarious skits that will leave crowds in stitches.
Showtimes:
Mon-Fri: 8:00 & 9:30 PM
Sat: 6:00, 8:00, & 10:00 PM
Sun: 5:00, 7:00, & 9:00 PM
No 8:00 PM Show 9/18 & 9/23
No 5:00 PM Show 9/21
Peter Hart – Atlanta Puppeteer
Peter Hart, a master puppeteer with international awards, brings his skillful performances to the Georgia Grown Exhibit Hall.
Showtimes: Daily on the hour
Eudora Farms Petting Zoo
A hands-on experience featuring exotic animals like zebras, lemurs, wallabies, and even camel rides. A perfect chance for kids and adults alike to learn and interact.
Hours: Open daily during fair hours
2025 Schedule:
Thursday, September 18
- Gates Open at 4 pm
- Opening Day: Free Admission
- $25 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person)
- North Georgia State Fair Beauty Pageant
- 406 Freestyle Motocross, 7 pm & 9 pm
Friday, September 19
- Gates Open at 4 pm
- Senior Day/Heroes Day
- Senior Day: Free admission all day for seniors 55 and older.
- Heroes Day: All active, reserve or retired military veterans, law enforcement, firefighters, first responders, and healthcare workers are admitted free with valid identification.
- $30 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person)
- 406 Freestyle Motocross: 7 pm & 9 pm
Saturday, September 20
- Gates Open at 10 am
- Family Fun Day
- 10 am to 11 am Free Admission & Free Rides (1 hour only)
- $35 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person) sold only until 5 pm (good until close)
- 406 Freestyle Motocross: 5 pm, 7 pm, & 9 pm
Sunday, September 21
- Gates Open at 12:30 pm
- Family Day
- $1 off admission with church bulletin
- School Special 12:30 – 2 pm. Free admission & free rides for students (must present ticket included in brochure/digital)
- $30 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person)
- 406 Freestyle Motocross: 5 pm, 7 pm, & 9 pm
Monday, September 22
- Gates Open at 4 pm
- $20 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person)
- 406 Freestyle Motocross: 7 pm & 9 pm
Tuesday, September 23
- Gates Open at 4 pm
- $25 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person)
- Teacher Tuesday: Free admission for teachers and all school district employees with staff ID
- Special Populations Night
- King And Queen of the Fair Special Needs Pageant at 7 pm
Wednesday, September 24
- Gates Open at 4 pm
- $25 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person)
- Derby Night: Kids Power Wheels Derby at 7 pm and Demolition Derby at 8 pm ($5000 prize)
- Little Roy and Lizzy Show at 6 pm
Thursday, September 25
- Gates Open at 4 pm
- $25 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person)
- College Night: Free Admission With Valid College I.D
- Full Throttle Monster Trucks at 7 pm and 9 pm, Pit Party at 5 pm with Bigfoot, American Scout, Funky Monkey, and Powertrain
Friday, September 26
- Gates Open at 4 pm
- $30 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person)
- American Bull Riders Tour at 8 pm
- Mutton Busting at 7 pm
- Food Drive: Bring 5 non-perishable goods (must not be expired) and receive 1 free admission.
Saturday, September 27
- Gates Open at 10 am
- Family Fun Day
- 10 am to 11 am free admission & free rides
- $35 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person) sold until 5 pm (good until close)
- American Bull Riders Tour at 8 pm
- Mutton Busting at 7 pm
- Food Drive: Bring 5 non-perishable goods (must not be expired) and receive 1 free admission.
Sunday, Sept. 28
- Gates Open at 12:30 pm
- Last Blast!
- School Special 12:30 pm to 2 pm
- Free admission & free rides for students (must have ticket distributed in schools)
- $30 Pay-One-Price Unlimited Rides (per person)
- American Bull Riders Tour at 6 pm
- Mutton Busting at 5 pm
- Bring 5 non-perishables can good items (must not be expired) and receive 1 free admission.
Gate Admission:
- $15 admission.
- Seniors age 55 & up $10
- Children 10 and under are free.
- Ride tickets are $1.25 each, $20 for 21 tickets, $50 for 55 tickets and $100 for 120 tickets.
- All rides require more than one ticket.
- Ride tickets are cash, card, or tap to pay.
- Parking is free.
- ATM machines are located on the midway.
- Most vendors inside the park accept cash or cards.
Hours:
- Thursday, September 18, 2025 from 4 pm to 11 pm
- Friday, September 19, 2025 from 4 pm to Midnight
- Saturday, September 20, 2025 from 10 am to Midnight
- Sunday, September 21, 2025 from 12:30 pm to 10 pm
- Monday, September 22, 2025 from 4 pm to 11 pm
- Tuesday, September 23, 2025 from 4 pm to 11 pm
- Wednesday, September 24, 2025 from 4 pm to 11 pm
- Thursday, September 25, 2025 from 4 pm to 11 pm
- Friday, September 26, 2025 from 4 pm to Midnight
- Saturday, September 27, 2025 from 11 am to Midnight
- Sunday, September 28, 2025 from 12:30 pm to 10 pm
No entry after 9 pm Sunday through Thursday
No entry after 10 pm Friday and Saturday
Please take note of the following policies that will be in effect during the fair:
- Youth Attendance Policy: Individuals under the age of 17 must be accompanied by a parent after 6 pm daily.
- Clear Bag Policy: For security reasons and to expedite entry, all bags brought into the fair must be clear and not exceed dimensions of 12″ x 6″ x 12″. Also permitted is the use of one-gallon resealable clear plastic freezer bags and small clutch purses no larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″. Diaper bags are allowed but will be searched and tagged.
- Gate Entry Policy: Entry will not be permitted after 9 pm from Sunday to Thursday, and after 10 pm on Friday and Saturday.
Address:
Jim Miller Park
2245 Callaway Road
Marietta, GA 30008
Heads up for fair traffic near Jim R. Miller Park:
- All fair traffic will be routed to County Services Parkway.
- Eastbound Al Bishop Drive will close to through traffic each day starting one hour before the fair opens. (That means no turning onto Al Bishop from Callaway Road.)
- Westbound Al Bishop Drive will have two lanes open to help move incoming fair traffic more smoothly.
- Catching an Uber or Lyft? Pick-up/drop-off will be at the Cobb Safety Village, 1220 Al Bishop Drive, Marietta.
Contact Information:
- Phone: (770) 423-1330, (770) 528-8989 after September 4
- Facebook:Â Facebook.com/TheNorthGeorgiaStateFair
- Twitter/X: @ngstatefair
- Instagram: Instagram.com/northgeorgiastatefair/
- Email:
guestservices@northgeorgiastatefair.com?subject=NGSF Question via Marietta.com
tod.miller@northgeorgiastatefair.com
pjezerinac@northgeorgiastatefair.com
Legendary Fair, Legendary FunÂ
Few events signal the start of fall quite like a fair imbued with the scent of cotton candy, the roar of rollercoasters and the halogen glow of old-fashioned carnival booths. This year, autumn in Cobb County begins the same way it has for years, with the start of the North Georgia State Fair. For 11 glorious days in September, a local tradition… Read More…
From 1895 to Today: The Remarkable History of the North Georgia State Fair
From horse-drawn arrivals to headline concerts, the North Georgia State Fair has seen it all. What began in 1895 as a modest local fair has transformed over the decades into one of Georgia’s biggest annual events. Officially launched in 1921 as the Cobb County Fair, it reflected a time when most homes in the county didn’t yet have electricity or indoor plumbing, and many of the guests still arrived on horseback.
The fair’s history hasn’t been without detours. Ownership changes, venue moves, and global conflicts paused the event at times, with World War II shutting things down entirely for several years. In 1950, it returned with new energy and a new name: the North Georgia State Fair.
The decades that followed brought big growth. The fair moved to its 115-acre permanent home in 1966, expanded from six to ten days in 1986, and by 1989 was drawing major stars like Kenny Chesney, Brad Paisley, and Blake Shelton to the stage. During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the grounds took on a new role as a testing and vaccination site, showing once again how central the space is to county life.
Now in its 93rd year, the fair continues to evolve, still carrying forward its agricultural beginnings while delivering new rides, live music, and entertainment for thousands each fall.
Event organizer’s contact information:
Phone:
(770) 423-1330 through September 4
(770) 528-8989 after September 4
North Georgia State Fair Non-Commercial Exhibits and Flower Show
A longtime country mainstay with deep vocals and hits like “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk.”9. Chris Young
Broke out from Nashville Star and delivered multiple No. 1 country singles over the last decade.
8. Scotty McCreery
The American Idol winner built a loyal fan base and scored several chart-toppers, including “Five More Minutes.”
7. Loretta Lynn
A true country legend, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, and one of the most influential women in the genre.
6. Jake Owen
Well-known for radio favorites like “Barefoot Blue Jean Night,” he’s maintained steady popularity.
5. Little Big Town
Grammy-winning vocal group with crossover hits such as “Girl Crush” and “Pontoon.”
4. Lady A (formerly Lady Antebellum)
One of the top country groups of the 2000s and 2010s, famous for “Need You Now.”
3. Blake Shelton
Massive country star with chart dominance and mainstream exposure from The Voice.
2. Chris Janson
A modern country radio favorite, though not quite on Shelton or Bryan’s level in terms of crossover reach.
1. Luke Bryan
One of country’s biggest superstars, known for filling arenas and topping charts with dozens of hits.
bad experience
will not come again
perfectly organized chaos.
Poor parking, made us walk very far from the venue, poor coordination
forcing us to pay for water
Very bad experience
Pet friendly?
Went to the fair today and it started to rain. I asked someone at the gate if we could get back in so we could go get a jacket or umbrella so we wouldn’t get wet. But I was told w that we would have to pay another admission fee. Even though to park I would be able to park again without pay a second time. My children and I was very disappointed because we go to the fair and the circus a few times every time they are in town.
Tengo muchos tickets que no pudieron usar mis hijos el sábado, pues llegamos un poco tarde, querÃÂÂa saber si esos tickets aún pueden usarse cualquier dÃÂÂa o ya no sirven más?
Can you bring your dogs?
If your child is under 36″, can they ride kiddie rides with adults?
Do they have the fish game?
am i aloud to wear open toed shoes on the rides ?
Hey! What is the 2017 schedule? Thank you!
Are dogs allowed on the fair grounds?
Why dont they sell unlimited ride tickets today?
On Oct 1st am I reading correct that the rides are unlimited for 25 bucks? Do we have to get there at a certain time or is this all day
Do they sell chicks at the fair in the small animal section? And if they do, do you think they will still be there by October 2 on the last day?
Can you enter in the morning and leave at some point, returning later for the concert at 8:00 pm Saturday, and not have to pay?
do you need to wear closed tow shoes to be able to ride all the ride?
how do you buy discounted tickets in advance?
Are there going to be wrist bracelets this year?
I am bringing about 18 kids to the fair, is there a group discount for ride tickets?
The weather says it is suppose to be storming all day today. Will the concerts and everything still go on?
North Georgia State Fair Contact Information:
Phone: (770) 423-1330
Website: NorthGeorgiaStateFair.com
On Sunday,kids 12 and under,is that for the rides as well? or is that free admission?
Directions to the fair after the MARTA train station, that is, which bus and which is the best connection MARTA point. Thank you.
Hello, I was just want to know if the fair is gone now..Thank You
where does the north georgia state fair go when it leaves cobb county?
The fair is not one big company. It is organized by the fair management and consists of the large carnival company (rides and games), individual vendors, paid entertainers and local competitive exhibitors, who all go their separate ways after it’s over. “It” does not just pick up and move somewhere else. Fairs can be similar, but are individually unique.
We are new to the area and was our first time to this fair grounds I have to say I am very disappointed I brought my teenager and several friends out to see colt ford and well needless to say we never got in to the fair because after sitting in line for what seem like forever we are then told we have to go up turn around and come back down and all that just to be rerouted to yet another location by this time it’s almost. Nine and from the looks of it there is no hope In getting in to see colt ford so all of our night was ruin not sure how you all need to do it but when you are. Bringing a name like colt ford to a place like that it should be better prepared to handle the people Who are gonna show up cuz it is really disappointing to the teenagers that have been planning this trip all week we have a trucking company and don’t get time off often and this was something that my kids really wanted to go to so everyone pitched in got the work done so we could go and have a good time but all we got was a trip around a block and a lot of wasted fuel oh and several sad faces when we were told we would. BE wasting our time cuz it would be over before we would ever get in not sure how to fix it so it is more people friendly but this is for sure not the way to go maybe having ticket sold just for a certain night and when they are gone there gone or several different shows by each preformer again I don’t know how it’s set up on the inside but plz try and figure out a way it can be more enjoyable for those of us that just want to see the concerts
With the 1 free adult admission in exchange for 7 non perishable items on Saturday Sept 29, 2012, is that an all day special or would I have to come at a certain time?
D you have pigs and a dunking tank? My daughter wants to know.
When is the opening day for unlimited rides?
What are all of the rides at north ga state fair
does senior citizen get in free
What are the height requirements for the train ride? TIA
How long will the Casey James concert last? Is it from 8:00 until close?
will we need to bring our own seats?
Hi Wendy,
No, you do not need to bring seats but be sure to get there early if you are going to see The Band Perry tonight.
Does anybody know if there is a list of winners of the non-commercial exhibits posted online?
I can honestly say I am very upset about the pageant last night for the babies. i know that they did not know what was going on but there was nothing.. no color nor coordination what so ever. this was the first year my daughter was in it and i was seriously disappointed.
It says ride tickets are $1.00 each. How many tickets does it take for one ride?
Hi Michele,
It depends on the ride, but when we were there we saw quite a few that took 3 tickets for a ride.
Hello,
I’m trying to find the details for entering my baby in the Beautiful Baby contest and the link for additional information is not working, can you send me the details for entering please? Thank you much in advance!
Hi Everyone,
Here is the information we found about the baby contest:
From the smallest princesses and handsome young princes, even the youngest of fairgoers are recognized at 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2011. Each year the fair gives mothers and fathers the opportunity to show off their new additions to the family with the Beautiful Baby Contest, sponsored by Atlanta Parent Magazine. The judging is informal and the contestants may dress any way they want. Parents sign up your 0 to 36-month-old starting at 5:30 p.m. on the night of the contest. The competition will begin at 6:30 p.m. starting with 0-6 months and working up to 36 months in six-month increments. There is no cost to enter a child into the competition, but regular fair admission is required.
Winners of each category will receive a plaque, and ribbons will be issued to 2nd and 3rd places. Be sure to bring your cameras you don’t want to miss the opportunity to photograph the future Mr. or Mrs. America.
Admission prices are $5 for adults, $2 for students – ages 7 to 18 and free for children
6 and under.
Source: http://northgeorgiastatefair.com/Media/Fair%20Pageants.pdf
Where can I register my baby for the beautiful baby contest
How do we enter the baby contest
Are you having the first hour free on Saturdays again?
We r looking forward 2 eating funnel cake’s n dancing with The Band Perry at ya’ll’s fair. We will be traveling from Statham Ga just west of Athens. My question is will there be any additional charge’s 4 admission 2 see The Band Perry ? Thank You very much, Bill Pollard and Family…….
Hi Billy,
Glad you will be there. All concerts are free with paid admission.
Hello,
Regarding rides and attractions, will there be bumper cars?
Yes there are bumper cars. they have them every year
Thanks Sabrina.
There were bumper cars last year i think they will bring them back bc the day we went it was a big hit.
Hello, I am a member of a student organization called LINK at KSU. We are focused on doing community service all over the world and we are planning our national service project for this year. For this we need to do fundraising. We were wondering if it was too late, and if not how much it would cost, to rent a booth at the Fair this year? Thankyou!
Hi Lauren,
For booth information, please call (770) 423-1330.
Hey for the 2011 concert series… Can you PLEASE get The Band Perry!?:))
Hi Meagin,
On September 29, 2011, The Band Perry takes the stage at 8pm at the North Georgia State Fair. 😉
can you get a 15$ stamp for free rides any day you would like?
Hi Kayla,
Here is the schedule for unlimited rides:
Opening Day: $18 for unlimited
9/24/11 $25 for unlimited rides (sold from 11am-3pm)
9/26/11 $15 for unlimited rides
9/27/11 $18 for unlimited rides
9/28/11 $18 for unlimited rides
10/1/11 $25 for unlimited rides (sold from 11am-3pm)
If we purchase unlimited rides before 3pm, are we able to come back (the same day) for no extra admission cost? Thanks in advance!
Are the animal attractions all covered? Trying to decide if we want to come in the rain…
Hi Mandy,
We have been when it was raining and when it was sunny, and you can definitely have fun either way. Some of the animal attractions are in covered areas, and some are outside. When it is raining, you will generally have cooler weather, shorter lines, and fewer people, however some of the attractions may be temporarily closed.
Inside:
Outside:
I order some ride tickets and never recieved them. We are going to the fair next Saturday, Oct 2nd. Is there somewhere I can go to see where they might be?
Hi Kirsten,
It would probably be best to check with the organization or website that sold you the tickets. If that does not work, try calling the event organizers at (770) 423-1330.
Would like to get information on working the vendor booths, have tried several emails, with no response.
Thanks in advance.
Hi Susan,
Vendor information is available online at http://northgeorgiastatefair.com/Vendor%20Info/Vendor%20Info.html or by phone at (770) 423-1330.
go to the website
I have made a blanket and want to submit it at the fair and try for one of those great blue ribbons. Where do I need to go to submit the art work?
Hi Andie,
For more information, please call the event organizers at (770) 423-1330 or (770) 528-8989.
Do you have bracetls too??
What time do you suggest getting to the fair in order to get a seat (good seat) at one of the concerts?
Hi Julie,
It depends on the act and the day, but you could probably get a good seat most days by arriving at the concert area an hour early.
do yall have just tickets or braclets to?
Are there already seats, or do we need to bring our own chairs?
hey Julie,
you can probably get a good seat if u get there about 1\haft early.im going to see the band Perry so i will probably get there 2 hours early,
lyric
at 8:30 i think that is the correct time!