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Pigs, Picnics, and Cobbler

What’s Sizzling at the 2025 Wilson County Fair

Photography by Provided by The Wilson County–Tennessee State Fair

Originally published in Lebanon City Lifestyle

Funnel cakes, Ferris wheels, and... flying skillets? That’s right—when the Wilson County–Tennessee State Fair returns this August, it’s bringing more than just cotton candy and carnival rides. This ten-day event blends Tennessee’s small-town spirit with statewide pride, offering family fun, fierce competitions, and plenty of heart.

The 2025 theme—The Year of Pork—celebrates one of Tennessee’s top agricultural commodities. Enjoy pig-themed contests like the Pork Chop Eatin’ Contest, Pig Callin’ showdown, and the hilarious Hog Costume Contest. Whether you’re craving funnel cakes or fresh bacon, this year’s fair promises a deliciously memorable experience.

But there’s more than food. The fair is packed with educational and entertaining activities for all ages. Fiddlers Grove Historic Village features over 60 attractions, including craft demonstrations, historical reenactments, and interactive exhibits highlighting Tennessee’s heritage.

Supporting youth in agriculture is a key mission, with events benefiting 4-H, FFA, and other leadership programs. Every ticket helps fund scholarships and opportunities for young Tennesseans.

Add to that monster trucks, livestock shows, carnival rides, artisan booths, and live entertainment across nine stages. It’s easy to see why the Wilson County–Tennessee State Fair is one of Tennessee’s most anticipated summer events. Bring your boots, appetite, and love for all things Tennessee!

Experience the Best of Tennessee

From antique cars and fine art to tractor pulls and quilts, the Wilson County–Tennessee State Fair celebrates Tennessee pride with 16 stages, exhibits, and endless food. Families can explore Fiddlers Grove, monster trucks, and school showcases. Horse and mule events begin August 2, 9 & 10, with the full fair running August 14–23 at the James E. Ward Agricultural Center.

Farm to Fair Feast: Southern Supper for a Cause
Monday, August 18 | 6:00 PM

Get ready for a meal to remember! The Farm to Fair Feast features smoked pork, classic Southern sides, and berry cobbler with Nash Creamery ice cream. This $60 ticketed dinner (or $350 for a table of six) benefits the Blue Ribbon Fund for Youth Development. Includes fair admission. Seating is limited—visit the fair’s website to reserve your spot!

Celebrate Pork with Wacky Competitions

With 2025 celebrating pork as the featured agricultural commodity, expect fair fun with a twist! Don’t miss these pig-tastic events:

  • Pig Callin' Contest – 1pm, Saturday, August 16, Opry Stage, Fiddlers Grove
  • Pork Chop Eatin’ Contest – 7pm, Wednesday, August 20, Midway
  • Celebrity Hog Show – 3pm, Tuesday, August 19, Livestock Arena
  • Hog Costume Contest – Follows the Celebrity Hog Show
  • Bacon Skillet Toss & Pig Tail Hair Contest – Details TBD

Fiddlers Grove at the Fair

Offering daily heritage demonstrations like blacksmithing, basket weaving, and bluegrass music, don't skip this time travel opportunity. Enjoy soap making, spinning, sorghum milling, and model trains. Don’t miss nightly music at Melrose Church and the Jazz Alliance Big Band Dance on August 23. With over 60 attractions, it’s a lively celebration of tradition, crafts, and community in a historic village setting.

With 10 full days of family fun from August 14–23, 2025, there’s something for everyone—and plenty of chances to support causes that make a real difference in Tennessee communities. Visit wilsoncountytnstatefair.com to grab your tickets and plan your visit.