The Georgia National Fair returns for its 36th year at the Perry Fairgrounds from Oct. 2-12, just 30 minutes from Mercer University’s campus. For students this state tradition offers excitement, high-energy rides and a chance to unwind nearing the University's fall break, but first-time fairgoers should know a few basics before joining the fun.
Admission
Gates will open Oct. 2 at 3 p.m. with a kickoff ceremony at 4 p.m. On all other days, gates will be open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., with rides running noon to 11 p.m. General admission is $15 for adults, discounted to $10 on opening day. Military families receive free entry on Oct. 5 for Patriotic Day, and first responders and their families receive free entry on Oct. 7 for American Heroes Day.
Rides
Ride access is available through $30-$35 armbands offered on weekdays and the final Sunday, providing access to unlimited rides. Individual ride tickets cost $1.50 each and can be purchased at midway booths. The midway features more than 60 rides like the Galaxy Coaster, Fire Ball and Tilt-A-Whirl.
Food
Visitors can find classic fair food like candy apples, funnel cakes, turkey legs and lemonade. On Oct. 3, the Fair Food Fight in the Miller Murphy Howard Building will showcase creative dishes such as sunburnt pickle pizza and pumpkin spice funnel cake. Miss Georgia 2025 Audrey Kittila and Perry Mayor Randall Walker are among the nine guest judges.
Entertainment
Daily entertainment includes the Nerveless Nocks Extreme Water Ski and Stunt Show on the main lake and nightly fireworks at 10 p.m. Additional acts feature circus performers, stilt walkers, magicians and a strolling piano. Concerts are free with admission and begin each night at 7:30 p.m.
Animals & Agriculture
The Georgia National fair highlights daily livestock shows and cattle competitions. Visitors can see the Baby Barn in the Georgia Grown Building, where calves and piglets are born, and visit The Eudora Farms Petting Zoo to encounter more than 55 animals from around the world. Other attractions include Robinson’s Racing Pigs, Goat Roping, Sea Lion Splash and Southeastern Reptile Rescue.
