The Central Florida Fair is a celebration of fun, thrills and community spirit.

Nestled in the heart of Orlando, the Central Florida Fair stands as a testament to the region’s vibrant culture, community spirit and love for wholesome entertainment. Every year, this extravaganza brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate the magic of community, offering myriad attractions, thrilling rides, delicious food and engaging exhibits. Orlando Family sat down with Micheal Tipton, president and CEO of the fair, to take a closer look at what makes the cherished annual event so exciting for locals and visitors alike.

History and Tradition

The Central Florida Fair has a rich history dating back several decades, tracing its roots to the early 1900s. This year from Feb. 29 through March 10, the fair will embark on its 112th year bringing joy and eclectic entertainment to folks from across the area.

Over the years, it has evolved from a modest county fair to a grand celebration that attracts thousands of attendees. The fairgrounds have been witness to countless memories, showcasing the growth and evolution of Central Florida’s communities.

“We want folks to know that we strive to make the fair bigger and better every year, and this year is no exception. We offer live performances daily, and the addition of a beer garden is a crowd favorite. … In the beer garden itself, we will host an assortment of different activities including trivia, karaoke, a live DJ and even a Battle of the Bands segment on a few nights,” Tipton says.

Attractions, Rides and Entertainment

One of the main draws of the Central Florida Fair is its impressive lineup of rides and attractions. From classic carnival rides that cater to all ages to adrenaline-pumping roller coasters that the adventurous can’t resist, the fair offers a diverse range of experiences. Families can enjoy a fun-filled day with kiddie rides, while thrillseekers can test their bravery on the towering rides that dominate the skyline.

Beyond the rides, the Central Florida Fair boasts a diverse array of entertainment options. Live performances—including music concerts, dance shows, fire shows and even a canine frisbee competition—add to the festive atmosphere.

And of course, the fair’s roots in agriculture are evident in its extensive display of livestock, crops and other exhibits. Attendees can learn about the region’s farming heritage, witness live animal shows and explore the intricacies of agricultural practices. What’s more, agricultural competitions add a competitive edge, with participants vying for top honors in categories such as livestock breeding and horticulture.

“The Central Florida Fair is a six-county, not-for-profit district fair that provides a venue for youth exhibitors in Orange, Seminole, Volusia, Lake, Osceola and Brevard counties to showcase their talent. Over 1,000 local FFA and 4-H youth livestock projects are entered in the annual fair, which includes, swine, lamb, cattle, poultry, rabbits, cavies and horses, making the Central Florida Fair one of the largest livestock shows in the state.”

Culinary Delights

No fair experience is complete without indulging in the diverse and delicious food offerings. From traditional favorites like cotton candy, funnel cakes and corn dogs to more exotic options, the Central Florida Fair’s food vendors cater to every palate. The culinary choices at the fair mirror the diversity of the community, offering a gastronomic adventure for all.

“My first year coming to the fair, I was pleasantly surprised at how many food options were actually available. With all the various food trucks and vendors, there is an eclectic variety of food options to cater to almost everyone. It’s quite impressive,” shares Tipton.

The Central Florida Fair goes beyond just providing entertainment: It serves as a platform for community engagement and outreach. Local businesses, organizations and artisans often set up booths and exhibits, creating a sense of community involvement. This synergy between the fair and local entities strengthens the bonds that hold Central Florida’s diverse communities together.

“We believe the fair is an opportunity to bring people together and to share something special in our local communities. On opening day, those who donate a canned good receive $1 off their entry. On Monday, March 4, we offer free admission to military and first responders. On Thursday, March 7, which we celebrate as “Education Day,” we offer free admission to teachers. It’s important to celebrate and show appreciation to those folks who work selflessly to keep our communities strong,” says Tipton.

OTHER FAIR HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE:

• Micromania Wrestling on Feb. 29 and March 1
• A free concert by country music and TikTok star Hannah Dasher on March 4
• On March 5, it’s $2 Tuesday, where admission is only $2. There will also be a Top 40 Dance Party in the amphitheater.

With so much taking place, it’s evident that the Central Florida Fair has something for everyone. As the fair continues to evolve and grow, it remains a cherished tradition that brings people together and creates memories that last a lifetime.

Central Florida Fair
Orlando
(407) 295-3247
CentralFloridaFair.com