Don’t miss out on the Washington State Fair’s 125th year!
Looking for something fun to do this Labor Day weekend? If you’ve never been to the Washington State Fair, you’re in for a real treat. This annual fair is arguably Washington state’s biggest event, with over a million people visiting to take part in the 20 days of food, live entertainment, rides, exhibits, and festivities. The fair has been around since 1900 and is one of the biggest fairs in the world.
This year, the Washington State Fair takes place from Friday, August 29 to Sunday, September 21. Located in Puyallup, WA, the fair is under an hour’s drive from Seattle. There is a lot to do and see at the fair so we put together this handy guide for you.
Read on for all the important info you’ll need for attending the fair!
First, keep in mind that the fair is not open every day this September. The Washington State Fair will be closed on September 3 and on Tuesdays. For days the fair is open, you can check the daily hours by visiting the fair website.
To gain admission to the fair, you can buy your tickets online or at the fair gates. Adult tickets are $15-$18 online or $16-$20 at the gate (the higher price is for weekends). There are discounts for children and seniors. Kids age 5 and younger always have free admission to the Washington State Fair.
You can also take advantage of free admission days at the fair. For example, Labor Day weekend will have free admission for all kids under age 18 from Friday, August 29 through Monday, September 1. Plus, every Monday is Military Appreciation Day: get free admission if you can show valid military ID at the gate.
Once you’re at the fair, you may find yourself overwhelmed with options. We suggest checking out the fair’s events calendar to see what events you’re interested in, from live music to fireworks. The majority of the fair’s events are free and family-friendly.
There are also ongoing activities at the fair. These include kid-friendly activities such as free face painting, tractor rides, and a fair farm. You’ll also find some fun for yourself at the Puyallup Rodeo, the various home arts exhibits, the artisan market, and plenty of roller coaster rides suitable for thrill seekers as well as for the little ones.
Separate tickets are required for the fair’s live performance series. You’ll be able to see a lineup that includes TOTO, Meghan Trainor, Ludacris, and comedian Joel McHale.
Finally, be sure not to leave without sampling the fair food! You’ll find everything from classic fair staples like cotton candy to vegan and gluten-free options. Be sure to check out this year’s new The 1900 Food Hall & Rooftop Bar, featuring a scenic view and six food vendors curated by James Beard-nominated chef Mitch Mayers.
If you go for opening night on August 29, you can expect to see this year’s new drone and fireworks show in honor of Washington State Fair’s 125th year. Don’t worry if you miss it, though. There will be more fireworks every Friday night at 10:00 p.m.
Washington State Fair 2025
📍Where: 110 9th Avenue SW Puyallup, WA 98371
📅When: August 29 through September 21 (closed Tuesdays). See daily hours here.
💲Cost: $15+