Florida State Fair kicks off in Hillsborough County

TAMPA, Fla. — The Florida State Fair officially opens on Thursday at the state fairgrounds outside Tampa, launching a 12-day run expected to draw nearly half a million visitors through Feb. 16.

As one of the largest annual events in Hillsborough County, the fair brings major crowds, and this year, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is rolling out several new safety measures aimed at keeping the event fun and secure.

Sheriff’s officials say they are prepared to manage traffic, crowd control and safety throughout the fair’s run. More than 1,000 deputies will be working the fairgrounds, patrolling on foot, by bike and on horseback.

For the first time, deputies will also use drones to help monitor crowd activity. Officials say the technology will help reduce response times to incidents such as unruly behavior or lost children.

Another major change this year is a new age supervision policy that goes into effect daily at 5 p.m.

“Children shouldn’t attend the fair unsupervised; they should attend with an adult,” Chronister said. “At 5 o’clock it is mandatory that they are with an individual that is at least 21 years of age, and that particular chosen individual can’t supervise more than four children.”

“Children shouldn’t attend the fair unsupervised, they should attend with an adult,” Chronister said. “At 5 o’clock it is mandatory that they are with an individual that is at least 21 years of age, and that particular chosen individual can’t supervise more than four children.”

Deputies say one of their most common calls during the fair involves children becoming separated from their families. 

The sheriff’s office recommends parents take a photo of their child at the start of the day. 

If a child becomes lost, the photo can help deputies quickly identify them and reunite them with their family.

Opening day also comes with special promotions, including Heroes Day free admission for first responders, active or retired military, medical workers and teachers.

It’s also Bounce Back Deal day, where any guest entering the fair with a full admission-priced ticket receives a free ticket for use any day through Feb. 16. 

View more information on fair promotions and discounts.