Franklin’s Williamson County Fair: Everything You Need to Know
The Williamson County Fair, held annually at the Williamson County Agricultural EXPO Park in Franklin, Tennessee, is one of Middle Tennessee’s most anticipated community events. Since its founding in 2005, the fair has grown into a multi-day celebration of agriculture, education, and local tradition. Taking place each summer over nine days, the fair welcomes thousands of visitors with exhibits, live entertainment, rides, competitions, and family activities.
Whether you’re attending for the first time or returning as part of a yearly tradition, this guide covers everything you need to know, from admission and parking to entertainment, food, exhibits, and safety policies, to help you plan your visit.
The History and Mission Behind the Williamson County Fair
The idea to revive a traditional county fair in Williamson County took shape in the early 2000s, when residents and representatives from the UT Extension Service recognized a growing interest in agri-tourism. With support from the community and a partnership with the Williamson County Agricultural EXPO Park, the Williamson County Fair was officially launched in 2005.
Since then, the fair has grown steadily in attendance, scope, and recognition. It has received numerous honors from the Tennessee Association of Fairs, as well as recognition from the International Association of Fairs & Expos for excellence in programming and community involvement.
Guided by a dedicated Fair Board and supported by hundreds of volunteers, civic groups, and local sponsors, the fair continues to fulfill its mission to offer a family-friendly event that promotes agriculture, brings the community together, and celebrates the long-standing traditions of Williamson County.
What to Expect at the Williamson County Fair
The Williamson County Fair is more than just a place for rides and food; it’s a full-scale community event designed to entertain, educate, and engage visitors of all ages. Whether you’re drawn to agricultural showcases, nightly entertainment, or hands-on activities for kids, there’s something happening around every corner of the fairgrounds.
Livestock Shows and 4-H Events
A core component of the Williamson County Fair is its focus on youth agriculture, highlighted through a series of livestock shows and 4-H competitions. These events give students the opportunity to demonstrate the knowledge, care, and effort involved in raising farm animals while developing skills in leadership, responsibility, and public speaking.
Throughout the fair, Williamson County 4-H members participate in organized shows that include steer and goat competitions, junior market lamb and commercial ewe shows, and poultry judging. These events are open to the public and judged by agricultural professionals based on criteria such as animal health, grooming, and showmanship. One of the fair’s signature events is the Livestock Parade of Champions and Expo Sale, where top-placing youth exhibitors are recognized for their hard work. In some cases, animals are auctioned as part of the Expo Sale, with proceeds going directly to the youth exhibitors to support their ongoing agricultural projects and educational goals.
These programs not only educate fairgoers about animal care and local agriculture, but they also reinforce the fair’s mission of supporting the next generation of farmers, ranchers, and agricultural leaders in Williamson County and beyond.
Entertainment and Live Shows
Live entertainment is a signature feature of the Williamson County Fair, with daily performances across multiple venues. Acoustic music and cowboy poetry are featured at the Pickin’ Porch, while live bands and community showcases appear on the Nissan Stage. Visitors may encounter roaming entertainers and specialty performers throughout the exhibit areas and Fair Village. Outdoor thrill shows are staged in dedicated outdoor arenas with bleacher seating for close-up views of the action
Inside the air‑conditioned Callicott Arena, fairgoers can enjoy demonstrations, contests, educational presentations, and recognition events scheduled throughout the fair.
All regularly scheduled stage shows and attractions are included with admission, unless otherwise specified. Events are designed for a wide age range and interests, with showtimes posted at entrance gates, information booths, and the official fair website
With entertainment spread across multiple locations, the fair ensures that wherever you are on the grounds, something fun is just around the corner.
Midway Rides and Games
The Williamson County Fair’s midway is a major draw for guests of all ages. Operated by professional carnival partners, the midway features rides that range from towering thrill attractions to gentle classics suited for young children. High-speed rides, spinning coasters, and giant swings offer plenty of excitement for teens and adults, while smaller options like bumper cars and a carousel cater to younger fairgoers.
Lining the midway’s walkways are a variety of carnival games where visitors can test their luck and skill. Favorites like basketball toss, balloon darts, ring toss, and fishing games offer the chance to win stuffed animals, novelty toys, and themed prizes. These game booths remain a popular stop for kids and adults alike, adding to the fun and nostalgia of the fair experience.
The atmosphere is enhanced by bright lights, upbeat music, and the smell of classic fair food wafting through the air. Whether you’re chasing a high-speed rush, enjoying a romantic ride on the Ferris wheel, or introducing your toddler to their very first carousel, the midway at the Williamson County Fair offers excitement from morning until night.
Creative and Competitive Exhibits
Competitions are a cornerstone of the Williamson County Fair, offering residents a chance to display their talents and engage in long-standing fair traditions. Each year, the fair hosts dozens of judged events across a wide spectrum of categories, including creative arts, domestic arts, cultural arts, culinary arts, photography, and youth divisions. These contests are open to both adults and young participants, with specific divisions to ensure fair and consistent judging.
In addition to traditional exhibits, the fair presents themed contests and special demonstrations that highlight talents in areas like baking, quilting, engineering, and performing arts. These events encourage community participation and celebrate the creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation of Williamson County residents.
The Williamson County Fair also hosts official pageants, held at the Williamson County Performing Arts Center at Academy Park during fair week. These contests include age-based divisions, including Petite Miss, Little Miss, Junior Miss, Teen Miss, and Fairest of the Fair, and are judged on qualities like poise, presentation, and community involvement.
Education Through Entertainment
The Williamson County Fair blends fun with learning by offering a rich array of educational exhibits, live demonstrations, and interactive programs across the grounds. One of the most engaging areas is the Tractor Supply Company AgVenture Village, which houses youth-centered exhibits like the Children’s Barnyard, where visitors can observe barnyard animals and poultry up close. Nearby, the Chick Hatchery in the Ag EXPO mezzanine offers insight into incubation and the life cycle of chicks.
Demonstrations such as blacksmithing and hands-on construction science exhibits allow fairgoers to explore traditional trades and learn STEM concepts through live presentations. Safety-themed demonstrations are also part of the schedule, offering useful real-world learning opportunities for families.
Through these exhibits and presentations, the fair supports its mission of promoting agriculture and practical knowledge.
Food, Shopping, and Souvenirs
A big part of the fair experience is the food, and the Williamson County Fair doesn’t disappoint. Food Row, one of the most popular areas on the grounds, is lined with booths and trailers serving everything from time-tested fair favorites to unique Southern specialties.
Classic carnival eats like corn dogs, funnel cakes, and fried Oreos are easy to find, along with refreshing drinks like lemonade and iced tea. Many food vendors at the fair are based in Williamson County or surrounding areas, offering locally made treats, desserts, and regional specialties that let visitors support small businesses while savoring local flavor. In addition to Food Row, the midway area is peppered with snack stands and quick-grab items perfect for fairgoers on the move.
Shopping at the Williamson County Fair goes well beyond food. Visitors can browse a selection of local vendors, artisans, and product booths throughout the fairgrounds and inside the arena. These booths often feature handmade crafts, home décor, jewelry, soaps, toys, regional goods, and more, many created by artists and makers from Middle Tennessee. It’s a great opportunity to find one-of-a-kind gifts or take home a reminder of your day at the fair.
Plan Your Visit to the Williamson County Fair
The Williamson County Fair takes place at the Williamson County Agricultural EXPO Park, located at 4215 Long Lane in Franklin, TN. The venue includes both indoor and outdoor facilities, featuring livestock barns, exhibit areas, outdoor arenas, and the air-conditioned Callicott Arena, which houses vendors, demonstrations, and restrooms.
Safety and Accessibility
Fair organizers prioritize guest safety and comfort. Expect random bag inspections at the gates, and note that alcohol, drugs, fireworks, weapons, and outside food or drinks are not allowed. Closed-toe shoes are required for all midway rides. Pets are prohibited unless they are service animals or livestock participating in scheduled shows. Smoking and vaping are banned inside buildings and barns.
While the fair does not provide wheelchairs, guests are welcome to bring their own mobility aids. Baby care stations, handwashing stations, and air-conditioned restrooms are located throughout the fairgrounds to support families and individuals with accessibility needs.
Helpful Tips for a Smooth Experience
The fair takes place rain or shine, and all purchases, including admission, ride wristbands, and food, are final. No refunds or rain checks are offered.
To avoid heavy crowds, consider arriving early and reviewing the daily schedule before attending. Stay hydrated with beverages from on-site vendors. If you become separated from your group or need assistance, visit the Security Tent on the north end of the grounds or the Fair Office near the arena entrance.
Admission and Special Pricing
Tickets can be purchased online in advance or at the gate during fair days. Online sales often include discounted general admission and date-specific unlimited-ride wristbands. Children five and under are always admitted free.
The fair also hosts themed admission days, which may offer free or reduced entry for specific groups such as government employees, military personnel, seniors, or families with school-age children. Some of these themed days include giveaways or special ride pricing during select hours.
Ride Tickets and On-Site Payments
Guests can purchase individual ride coupons or opt for unlimited daily wristbands to enjoy midway attractions. Most booths and food vendors accept credit cards, and ATMs are located throughout the fairgrounds for added convenience.
Parking and Shuttle Services
Parking is free and available on-site. Courtesy carts and shuttle buses assist with drop-offs and entry access. Overflow parking lots nearby also offer free shuttle service to and from the fairgrounds to ensure a smooth arrival for all visitors.
The Williamson County Fair: A Tradition Worth Celebrating
The Williamson County Fair is more than a seasonal event; it’s a meaningful tradition that highlights the spirit of community, celebrates agricultural heritage, and brings people together through shared experiences. Whether you’re craving funnel cake, cheering on 4-H youth, or watching your kids light up on the Ferris wheel, the Williamson County Fair is where summer memories are made!
