Tulsa State Fair facts for kids

The Tulsa State Fair is a big yearly event that happens at Expo Square in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This fun fair usually takes place for 11 days in late September or sometimes early October. It's a time when people from all over Oklahoma come together for rides, food, and shows!

What is the Tulsa State Fair?

The Tulsa State Fair is one of the largest events in Oklahoma. It brings together people of all ages for a huge celebration. You can find exciting rides, see farm animals, enjoy live shows, and learn new things from different exhibits. It's a place where fun and learning mix!

When did the Tulsa State Fair begin?

The Tulsa State Fair started a long time ago, officially in 1903. Back then, it was called the Tulsa County Free Fair. It was held in downtown Tulsa at a baseball park.

How did the fairgrounds change over time?

Over the years, the fair needed more space as it grew.

• In 1913, the fair moved to a new, larger area north of Archer Street and Lewis Avenue. This spot was home to the fair for 13 years.
• In 1923, the fairgrounds moved again to an even bigger piece of land. This land was given by a Tulsa oilman named J. E. Crosbie. This is the same area where the fair is held today!
• By 1926, a special group was set up to manage the fairgrounds.
• In 1931, money was raised to build the beautiful art deco-style Tulsa Fairgrounds Pavilion. This helped the fair become an official state fair in 1935.

What major changes happened after World War II?

After World War II, the fair continued to grow and add new features.

• In 1949, the Tulsa State Fair joined with a spring livestock show. This meant that animal events became a big part of the fair.
• In 1966, a huge building called The International Petroleum Exposition (IPE) Center was built. Today, it's known as the SageNet Center. This building became a major part of the fair.
• During the 1970s, the fairgrounds were updated and renamed "Expo Square." A large grandstand with 13,000 seats was also built for shows and events.

Who manages the Tulsa State Fair today?

Since 1983, the Tulsa County Public Facilities Authority has managed the fair. This group includes county leaders and other members. The Tulsa Police and Tulsa County Sheriff's Office help keep everyone safe at the fair. Expo Square now hosts many events all year, but the Tulsa State Fair is one of the most important events it creates itself.

When was the fair not held?

The Tulsa State Fair has been canceled a few times in its history:

• It was not held in 1917 or 1918 because of World War I.
• It was also canceled from 1942 through 1945 due to World War II.
• In 2020, the fair was mostly canceled because of the COVID-19 pandemic in Oklahoma. Only junior livestock shows and a few vendors were allowed that year.

What can you do at the Tulsa State Fair?

The Tulsa State Fair offers many exciting things to see and do!

What rides and exhibits are there?

You can find thrilling rides and smaller kiddie rides on the Midway. There are also many agricultural exhibits, where you can see farm animals, located in the Built Ford Tough Livestock Complex. Throughout the fairgrounds, you'll find different kinds of entertainment and educational exhibits.

What is inside the SageNet Center?

The SageNet Center is the biggest building at the fairgrounds. Inside, you'll find many vendors and exhibit booths. These booths offer both fun and educational experiences. Many vendors even have special "state fair" prices to attract visitors!

See also

• State fair
• Oklahoma State Fair