After Slow 99th County Fair, Organizers Already at Work on 100th Event in 2027

Attendance at the Fayette County Fair was down significantly this year. Fair Association President Michael Zuhn reported a total attendance of 10,848 over the four days for the Fair.

That’s about 5,600 down from last year’s attendance of 16,467.

“I’ve been told from the carnival people and vendors that the other fairs they’ve been to this year have been down as well,” Zuhn said.

Zuhn said the state of the economy could have been a factor.

“It’s always about money,” he said. “I’m not an economist, but that’s what we’re hearing from others.”

2026 Fair Attendance 

Thursday 2,500 Friday 1,891 Saturday 3,431 Sunday 3,026 Total 10,848 Despite the lower attendance, Zuhn said the Fair Association did not lose money this year. Zuhn said he was pleased with the new carnival this year. He said operations went smoothly throughout the weekend.

La Grange Police Chief David Gilbreath said there were no major law enforcement issues at the fair this year, either.

Zuhn said he and the Fair Association are excited about next year, which will mark the 100th celebration of the Fayette County Fair.

“It’s going to be completely different all the way around,” Zuhn said. “We’ll have some additional events and we’re looking at some history and maybe bringing some old things back. I can’t really say right now. We’re kicking around ideas.

“We’re putting together a budget because we want to have some really good entertainment this coming year,” he added. “It’ll be something special, really special.”