Southeast Kentucky Fair

The Southeast Kentucky Fair is coming to Laurel County July 21–25, marking the first fair held locally since before the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic.
The five-day event will offer family-friendly entertainment, with activities including carnival rides by Paradise Amusements, livestock shows, tractor pulls, lawn mower races, a horse show, barrel racing, concerts, pageants, and more.
The fair will take place at the Wilderness Road Event Center, formerly known as the London-Laurel County Regional Fairgrounds. The center, managed and operated by London Tourism & Parks, has undergone extensive work over the past two years, including the construction of a 45,000-square-foot three-season pavilion.
The property was directly impacted by the May 2025 tornado, and rebuilding of structures that were lost is set to begin in fall 2026.
“This year’s event represents more than a celebration — it’s a testament to the community’s strength, perseverance, and spirit of togetherness,” Wilderness Road Event Center Director Christina Sowders commented. “We’ve worked hard to rebuild and improve, and we can’t wait to welcome everyone to experience the traditions we love and celebrate the improved space.”
The highly anticipated Southeast Kentucky County Fair pageants will preface fair activities on Saturday, July 18.
The week will then kick off with KOI Motorcycle Racing on Monday, July 21. Each day of the Fair will go on to feature something unique for all ages, from 4-H and FFA competitions showcasing the region’s youth talent and agricultural heritage to the Exhibit Tent, where area Homemakers will compete for prizes with their best crafts, baked goods, and handiwork.
Each evening will feature live concerts, including performances by the award-winning Bluegrass group Just Us on Wednesday and fan-favorite Paint Creek closing out the fair on Saturday night. Kentucky Tractor Pullers Association (KTA) will also be present Friday and Saturday for tractor pulls.
The Southeast Kentucky Fair is actively seeking sponsors and volunteers to help make this year’s fair the best one yet. Sponsorship opportunities range from “Grand Champion” to “Friend of the Fair” levels. Those interested in sponsoring or volunteering can email fairgrounds@visitlondonky.com for more information.
The fair’s website (SoutheastKYFair.com/) is nearly ready to launch. Until then, watch for updates on the Visit London KY and the Wilderness Road Event Center Facebook pages. Additional details and the full schedule for the Southeast Kentucky Fair will be announced as they are finalized.