Hillsborough County Fair: A Celebration of America
Hillsborough County Fair officials anticipate a record-breaking event with an expected 600 kids showcasing 1,000 livestock animals over its 11-day duration. This year's fair, themed "Celebrate America," pays tribute to the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
As one of Florida's growing fairs, alongside the Tampa Florida State Fair and Plant City Strawberry Festival, the 2026 Hillsborough County Fair promises an exciting lineup. It will run from November 5th to 15th, followed by the State Fair (February 4th-15th) and Strawberry Festival (March 4th-14th).
Youth Involvement
Nicole Laura Humphreys of Riverview, a 12-year-old veteran fairgoer, will be showcasing her talents in multiple areas:
- Photography: A photograph entry in the Youth Photography Contest.
- Art: A dolphin glass mosaic in the Youth Art Show.
- Conservation: A decorated rain barrel at the Florida Conservation Coalition (FCC) Super Plant Auction, supporting local nurserymen and youth programs.
Humphreys' Eagle project, focusing on a "Conservation Sanctuary for Birds of Prey, Pollinators Educational Trail and Habitat Revitalization Project," is on display at the Suncoast Youth Conservation Center in Apollo Beach.
"I love all the rides and seeing all the people and the camels and the goats and the contests and the food," Humphreys enthuses. "I love seeing the kids learn and be recognized for their talents. And I like to see the kids screaming and yelling on the rides."
Fair Highlights
FCC founder Betty Jo Tompkins highlights some new and returning attractions:
- Agricultural Spelling Bee
- Media Day involving older students
- Farmer Sydney Tractor Ride allowing kids to "harvest crops"
"For all attendees, whatever fair day you purchase a ticket, you can use that ticket to attend that day’s arena show, be it the Family Friendly Rodeo, Demo Derby, or Truck and Tractor Pull," Tompkins explains.
Other offerings include:
- Marketplace vendors with holiday gifts
- Fair foods and midway rides
- Arts and crafts displays
- Petting zoo
- A special display by the Florida Strawberry Growers Association.
Parking is free, with varying hours and admission prices based on age, discounts, and special days. Ride armbands are $30 weekdays and $35 weekends. A carload night on November 12th offers admission for $50, for up to eight people in a vehicle with seatbelts.
For more information, visit www.HillsboroughCountyFair.com/ or call .
The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds in Dover are located at 215 Sydney Washer Road.