Ferris wheels glowing after sunset, roller coasters rattling overhead, farm animals waiting for attention, and the smell of funnel cake following you everywhere—that can only mean one thing: the North Georgia State Fair is returning to Marietta.
The 2026 fair runs from September 24 through October 4 at Jim R. Miller Park. With rides, food, exhibits, live entertainment, and family activities, it is one of the biggest fall outings near Atlanta. The fair’s organizers say this Marietta tradition has been running for more than 90 years and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors. North Georgia State Fair
Generated editorial illustration: an exciting evening on a Georgia fair midway.
When and Where Is the Fair?
The North Georgia State Fair takes place at:
Jim R. Miller Park
1345 Al Bishop Drive
Marietta, GA 30008
The fair begins on Thursday, September 24, and continues through Sunday, October 4, 2026.
Parking is free, which is especially helpful for families and larger groups. Arriving early is still a good idea—particularly on Friday and Saturday evenings, when traffic and crowds are likely to be heavier.
More Than 40 Carnival Rides
The midway is the loudest, brightest, and probably most exciting part of the fair. Organizers say the 2026 lineup includes more than 40 rides, ranging from gentle children’s attractions to fast rides that may make you reconsider eating that second corn dog.
Popular attractions include the Georgia Mountain Lift, Mega Slide, Seattle Wheel, and Wildcat Roller Coaster. New rides announced for 2026 include Horror Hotel, Krazy Cars, Flying Cows, Aero Max, and a carousel. Fair Ride Information
Check height restrictions before purchasing ride tickets for children. Some larger rides require riders to be at least 48 inches tall, while younger visitors have their own collection of smaller rides.
Generated editorial illustration: classic fair-food favorites.
Come Hungry for the Fair Food
Let us be honest: many people attend the fair for the rides but stay for the food.
Fair food is not supposed to be sensible. It is supposed to be hot, crispy, sugary, oversized, and slightly difficult to eat while walking. Look for classics such as funnel cakes, corn dogs, fries, lemonade, caramel apples, cotton candy, and other treats offered by participating vendors.
One useful strategy is to share several items with your group. That way, you can taste more without reaching the point where the Ferris wheel suddenly feels like an extreme sport.
Food and drinks are not included with general admission, so leave room in your budget for snacks.
Animals, Exhibits, and Georgia Traditions
The fair is not only a carnival. Agricultural exhibits and animals connect the event to its traditional county-fair roots.
Families can slow down between rides and explore livestock areas, educational displays, crafts, and community exhibits. This section can be especially fun for younger visitors who have never seen farm animals up close.
Generated editorial illustration: a family-friendly livestock exhibit inspired by a Georgia fair.
Give yourself enough time to explore these quieter areas. Racing directly from the entrance to the biggest ride means missing much of what makes a state fair different from an ordinary amusement park.
Admission and Ride-Pass Prices
General admission purchased in advance is listed at $10 through September 23. At the gate, admission is:
- Adults: $15
- Seniors age 55 and older: $10
- Children age 10 and younger: Free
- Parking: Free
Individual ride tickets cost $1.25, with discounted bundles available. Most rides require three to five tickets.
The fair also offers a daily Pay-One-Price ride option. Prices vary by date, generally ranging from $25 to $35. An advance unlimited-ride ticket is listed at $23.95, but fair admission must be purchased separately. Review the complete pricing before ordering because ticket sales are final. Official Fair Tickets
If someone in your group wants to ride everything, an unlimited pass will probably offer better value. Individual tickets may make more sense for adults who only want one trip around the Ferris wheel.
Entertainment Beyond the Midway
General admission includes access to the fairgrounds, exhibits, free ground shows, pageants, and live music. Entertainment may vary by day, so check the official schedule before choosing when to visit.
Generated conceptual illustration inspired by high-energy fair entertainment. Confirm the 2026 schedule before planning around a specific show.
Pick your date based on the entertainment your group will
