114th Annual Central Florida Fair Returns Feb. 26-March 8

Jan 22, 2026 by Laura Category: News Releases 0 comments

ORLANDO, Fla. (Jan. 22, 2026) – The Central Florida Fair returns for its 114th year, continuing a beloved tradition that blends affordable family fun, classic fair nostalgia and fresh entertainment for a new generation. As one of the region’s longest-running community events, the Central Florida Fair offers something for everyone—from thrilling rides and favorite fair foods to live entertainment and laid-back date-night experiences—all while generating meaningful economic and cultural impact across Central Florida.  

General admission tickets are $7 for youth ages 7–11 daily, $11 for adults on weekdays and $16 for adults on weekends. Children ages 6 and under are admitted for free. Discounted, unlimited ride wristbands and additional admission information is available at centralfloridafair.com. 

“For 114 years, the Central Florida Fair has been a place where memories are made,” said Michael Tipton, president and CEO of the Central Florida Fair. “Whether it’s a family looking for affordable entertainment, a couple enjoying a fun night out, or longtime fairgoers returning for a sense of nostalgia, the Central Florida Fair brings our community together in a way few events can. Beyond the fun, it also supports local businesses, showcases regional talent and reinforces the importance of accessible, shared experiences for our community.” 

Tickets 

General admission tickets are $7 for youth (age 7-11) daily, $11 for adults on weekdays, and $16 for adults on weekends. Children under age six are admitted for free. Discounted, unlimited ride wristbands and additional information are available at centralfloridafair.com. 

 Themed Nights 

  • Opening Night — Feb. 26, 4–8 p.m.: $1 admission with a canned food donation benefiting Orlando Union Rescue Mission and $1 midway rides all night 
  • Stars & Stripes Night — March 2: Military members and first responders receive free admission with valid ID. 
  • $2 Tuesday — March 3: $2 admission, select $2 rides, $2 food items and $2 drink specials in the Beer Garden 
  • Pride Night — March 4: Enjoy the Fair alongside informational booths from local LGBTQ+ organizations and live entertainment from 6 to 8:30 p.m. 
  • Educator Night — March 5: Educators receive free admission with a valid school ID. 

Building on generations of fair traditions, this year’s event blends familiar favorites with new entertainment offerings that reflect the evolving interests of today’s fairgoers.  

 Entertainment 

  • NEW: Thunderbird Swing Tower – the tallest portable swing tower in North America for a thrilling view of the midway  
  • NEW: The Kraken – a spectacular swinging ride that stands at over 131 feet  
  • NEW: Venetian Carousel: A beautiful double-decker carousel for all ages 
  • NEW: Robot Renegades – Watch 100 robots battling it out across multiple weight classes (Feb. 28 – March 1) 
  • NEW exotic animals at the Turnaround Petting Zoo: meet a “zedonk” zebra/donkey hybrid, capybaras, ostrich 
  • Live Music in the Beer Garden – rock, country or soulful blues nightly, plus Battle of the Bands Feb. 27 through March 1 
  • Circus Inferno Extreme – electrifying side show, featuring breathtaking fire tricks, daring acrobatic stunts 
  • Blockbuster Experience – Immerse yourself in retro nostalgia with rare memorabilia, iconic movie displays 
  • Rorring! RC Race Cars – micro-reality 1/10-scale stock car racing system fun for all ages 
  • Otter Adventure – one of a kind, up close, and personal animal experiences 
  • Zerbini Family Circus – acrobatics, daring stunts, and vibrant entertainment 
  • Livestock – youth market exhibitions, contests, auctions 

 In addition to rides and entertainment, the Fair features a variety of food and beverages available for purchase, offering guests the familiar flavors that have been part of the Central Florida Fair tradition for generations. 

About the Central Florida Fair
For more information about the Central Florida Fair, including ticket purchases, theme nights and the entertainment lineup, visit centralfloridafair.com or follow @CentralFloridaFairgrounds on social media. 

Celebrating its 114th year, the Central Florida Fair is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing safe, affordable and family-friendly entertainment that encourages connection, creativity, and hands-on, in-person fun for all ages. Rooted in tradition and community impact, the Fair serves as a platform for youth from Orange, Seminole, Volusia, Lake, Osceola and Brevard counties to showcase livestock, creative arts and educational projects through year-round programs and annual events. 

Through its mission-driven approach, the Central Florida Fair brings generations together, supports youth development and preserves the timeless experiences that make the Fair a cherished Central Florida tradition. 

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Editor’s Notes:  

  • For interviews and complimentary media/influencer ticket requests, please contact Laura E. Richeson, APR at 407.616.8108 or [email protected]. 
  •  Download images and Broll from the digital media kit.
  • Photo Caption/Credit: The Central Florida Fair returns Feb. 26–March 8 for its 114th year, offering rides, entertainment and classic fair fun for all ages.
  • Save the Date for Media Preview Day on Thursday, Feb. 26. 

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