LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — The Kentucky State Fair returns Thursday with hundreds of activities, thousands of visitors and construction underway on a major new facility at the fairgrounds.
Meanwhile, the Kentucky Exposition Center is undergoing a $460 million transformation, including construction of a 350,000-square-foot multipurpose facility.
The building is expected to be completed by the end of the year.
"Just a year ago, we were looking at just dirt," fair spokesperson Ian Cox said, calling the project a "once-in-a-lifetime transformation."
Construction will be visible to fairgoers this year, but officials said it should not interfere with the fair itself.
Parking will be impacted the same way it was in 2025, when the spot was cleared for construction. The new facility is taking over some areas that have previously been used for parking.
Officials said additional parking lots across Phillips Lane can be used on busier days. Fair officials estimate the property can accommodate about 20,000 vehicles on a good-weather day.
The construction is part of a larger effort to modernize the fairgrounds. Cox said the changes are intended to create better facilities for future fairs and events.
"We're all in this together, and ultimately, the change that we see today is a change of progress and growth for our venues and for our shows," Cox said.
By next year's fair, the new facility is expected to become the centerpiece of the fair's agricultural exhibits and events. It will replace facilities currently located in the West Wing and West Hall, which will be demolished and redeveloped into a 249,000-square-foot multi-purpose wing. This $213 million phase will also enhance food and beverage operations in the South Wing in Phase II of the project.
For some fairgoers, the new building also means the possibility of improved amenities.
"If we've got good air conditioning in the other barn, I'll take it," said Kelli Buckley, of Lawrenceburg.
For now though, the fair will look much like it has in years past, even as construction continues around it.
"Being able to walk through the halls here, relax, enjoy the fair food, check the boxes, and see some Kentucky artists at the concert series is going to be a special moment for all of us," Cox said.
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