Georgia National Fair opens in Perry

Gov. Brian Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp attended the opening ceremony, which recognized livestock champions and launched the fair's Freedom 250 celebration.

PERRY, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – The Georgia National Fair officially opened Thursday at the Georgia National Fairgrounds and Agricenter in Perry, kicking off 11 days of rides, live entertainment, livestock shows and fair food.

The 37th annual fair began with an opening ceremony at Reaves Arena, where organizers recognized the champions of the 2025 Livestock Show and launched the fair’s Freedom 250 celebration, honoring 250 years of American independence.

Gov. Brian Kemp and First Lady Marty Kemp attended the ceremony. The governor said the fair has been a family tradition for years, with his children growing up showing sheep at the event.

“I mean, this is one of our favorite events of the year,” Kemp said. “The governor and first lady, you know, our kids grew up here showing sheep, and so we’ve enjoyed being able to come back.”

Kemp also described the fair as a place for families to gather and enjoy time together.

“It’s just one of the most wholesome, fun places in the state, really in America, I think, in a lot of ways,” he said. “So we’re honored to be here.”

This year’s theme is “Where Georgia Gathers.” Visitors can enjoy thrill rides, concerts, livestock shows, family entertainment and food vendors throughout the fair’s 11-day run through Sunday, October 18.

Tickets are available online at Georgia National Fair’s website or at the gate.