The Kentucky State Fair Board will hold a special meeting on July 1 at 4:15 p.m. Eastern, according to the state Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet. The meeting comes as preparations intensify for the 2026 Kentucky State Fair, scheduled for August 20-30 at the Kentucky Exposition Center in Louisville.

The timing of the meeting aligns with the fair's entry deadline, which is July 9, with a late entry window through July 16 for an additional fee. The board recently elected Dr. David Williams as Chairman and Joe Goggin as Vice Chairman on June 26, marking the beginning of their new leadership roles.

The 122nd Kentucky State Fair will feature America250-themed competitions celebrating Kentucky's role in the nation's story, as the commonwealth participates in celebrations marking the nation's 250th anniversary. The fair continues to draw participants and visitors from all 120 Kentucky counties.

The State Fair Board operates the Kentucky Fair and Exposition Center and the Kentucky International Convention Center, two of the state's largest convention and trade show facilities located in Louisville.