The Ultimate Guide to the Tulsa State Fair

The major production we know today started as the “Tulsa Country Free Fair” in 1903 with deep agricultural roots, organized as an educational and entertaining community event. That mission has survived for over a century, only now, the traditional agricultural programming is supplemented by hundreds of attractions that brought an estimated 1 million people to the fairgrounds in 2025.

Ferris Wheel - If you prefer amazing views to dizzying rides, the ferris wheel gives an aerial look at the entire grounds. Go at sunset for an extra memorable experience.

Tilt-a-Whirl - The iconic carnival ride is for those with nerves and stomachs of steel. Spin and turn every which way at daring speeds.

Teacups - This classic ride is always a hit with kids and families for that just-right level of adrenaline to keep the fair fun going.

Outlaw Rollercoaster - Get the adrenaline rush of a theme park without leaving the fair when you take a ride on the Outlaw Rollercoaster.

Downdraft - This new addition to the ride lineup takes the fun of a nostalgic swing ride to the next level. You’re sure to be dizzy after this spin above the fairgrounds.
 

Deep-Fried - Fried fair food runs the gamut from savory to sweet, each delicacy more surprising than the next. Past menus have included deep-fried Oreos, Snickers and Twinkies. Even cheesecake and cookie dough have found their way to the fryer.

On-A-Stick - If there is a limit to the types of food that can go on a stick, the fair will find it. Try everything from the more tame “funnel cake on a stick” to the outrageous “alligator on a stick.” Somewhere in between you’ll find skewered cheeses and chickens. 

Pickle - Every few years there’s a new flavor that reigns supreme as the unofficial theme of fair food. Recently, bacon-flavored everything has been surpassed by pickle, and here it comes in every variety. Try a pickle pizza, pickle pretzel or pickle dog and wash it all down with a pickle Dr. Pepper.

Mashups - These combos are like a TV crossover episode, and the fair has all your favorite characters. Gelato tacos, cobbler-in-a-cone, and Flamin’ Hot Cheeto corndogs shouldn’t work, but they do. And your visit isn’t complete without trying one of these forbidden flavor combos.
 

The fairgrounds are teeming with musical talent. You’ll find live music in every corner with fresh lineups everyday. In years past, the fair has drawn a mix of notable artists and rising stars like Ginuwine, Lupe Fiasco, The Fray and Switchfoot. 

This year, the Oklahoma Stage will host the Pepsi Fall Concert Series with performances from Waka Flocka Flame and Neal McCoy. Plus, check out the Hard Rock Huddle Tent, International Beer Garden, Wine Garden and Carousel Club to hear up-and-coming artists. You can explore the packed schedule of musical acts here. 

The fun doesn’t stop there. If you like your live music with a side of stakes, check out the Oklahoma State Fiddling Championships at the SageNet Center on Saturday, October 3. Or, leave the dance floor to the professionals, and enjoy a performance from Ballet Folklórico Sol Azteca on Saturday, October 10.
 

Inspyral Circus - From stiltwalkers to juggling unicyclers to fire dancers, the local circus group never fails to entertain all ages. Catch their performances around the fairgrounds on weekends.

Dog Stunt Show - Take a break from the adrenaline rush of rides with these adorable and talented pups. Find their performances on the Central Park Hall Lawn every evening of the fair.

Disney on Ice - Kids (and adults) will love singing along with their favorite Disney characters as they bring classic stories to the ice. Look out for performance times on opening weekend, October 1–4.

Fireworks - Time your fair visit right and you’ll catch a fireworks show. Following performances on the Oklahoma Stage, October 3rd, 6th and 10th, the SageNet Center will close the night with a dazzling show. 
 

Buy Your Ticket
General admission to the fairgrounds is $17 for adults while tickets for youth (ages 5-12), military and seniors is $12. Children 4 and under are free. Rides require separate passes that you can tailor to your appetite. Compare options and find the ticket that suits your visit here. Purchase tickets online or visit a ticket kiosk when you arrive.

Where to Park
You can pay $20 to park on the fairgrounds but parking fills up quickly. When spots are tight, find overflow parking near 31st and New Haven at the Tulsa Public Schools Service Center where you can board a free fair shuttle to go directly to the grounds. Find more information on directions and parking here.

What’s on your bucket list for the Tulsa State Fair? Will you try gravity-defying rides or fryer-defying foods? Maybe you’ll find your new favorite musical artist on the main stage. However you fair, do it here for an unforgettable start to the season.