Blount County Fair 2026: A Parents Guide to Bringing Kids
The Blount County Fair runs September 16–20, 2026 (Tuesday through Saturday) at the fairgrounds on Fairgrounds Drive in Maryville. Five days of exhibits, food vendors, kids events, and that classic county fair energy.
Here is what families need to know before you go.
Fair Schedule
Tuesday, September 16 — Opening Night - Fair opens at 6:00 PM - ALFA Demo Kitchen at 6:30 PM - Children’s Event at 7:00 PM
Wednesday, September 17 - Rabbit Show, ALFA Kitchen Demo, Children’s Event
Thursday, September 18 - Lamb and Goat Show, ALFA Demo Kitchen, Children’s Event
Friday, September 19 - ALFA Demo Kitchen, Children’s Event
Saturday, September 20 - 4-H Chick Chain Show and Auction - Steer and Heifer Show - ALFA Demo Kitchen, Children’s Event - Fair closes after this day
Daily schedule details and times are posted on blountcountyfair.com. The Saturday schedule is typically the busiest day.
What Kids Get to Do
Each evening of the fair includes a dedicated Children’s Event at 7:00 PM. These are short programs designed specifically for younger visitors — think face painting, mini games, character visits, and the usual kind of fair magic that makes little ones stay up way past their bedtime.
The livestock shows are a real draw for curious kids. If your children are into animals (and most are, at some point), watching the 4-H chick chain auction or the steer and heifer shows is more entertaining than any screen.
What to Expect With Kids
- The fairgrounds can get hot in mid-September. Tennessee heat lingers well into the season. Bring sun protection, water bottles, and be ready for a walk to get around.
- Food vendors change year to year. The fair posts what’s available closer to opening. You can always pack a lunch and eat in the car if the vendors don’t have kid-friendly options you’re looking for.
- It’s a working fair. There will be livestock barns, tractor displays, and agricultural exhibits alongside the typical carnival-style fun. That’s part of its charm, but younger kids might find some of the animals intimidating.
- Saturday is the big day. If you can only make one day, Saturday has the most programming. But Tuesday’s opening night is a good low-key introduction if you want to scout the layout with your kids before the crowds hit.
- Entrance fees and pricing are announced closer to the fair. Check the official website for ticket info as dates approach.
Tips for Going with Little Ones
- Go early enough in the evening. The children’s events start at 7:00 PM, but arriving a bit earlier lets you see the exhibits and find a good spot before the kids’ programming kicks off.
- Strollers work fine on most of the fairgrounds, but the ground isn’t always perfectly paved. A jogging stroller or a wagon works better than a flimsy umbrella stroller if you have multiple kids.
- Bring cash for vendors and prizes. Some smaller booths and games still operate on a cash basis.
- Plan an exit strategy. With a 5:30 PM bedtime at home and a fair that runs into the evening, know your cutoff time before you leave.
Other Fair Details
- The fair is open to exhibitors from bordering counties.
- The ALFA Demo Kitchen runs a cooking demonstration each day.
- The fair runs through Saturday, September 20, 2026.
Full details, exhibitor info, and volunteer signups are on blountcountyfair.com. They post schedule updates there, so bookmark it and check back as September gets closer.