Final touches, safety improvements completed ahead of Tennessee State Fair

LEBANON, Tenn. (WSMV) – The Tennessee State Fair kicks off in Wilson County on Thursday night and organizers are expecting more than 700,000 people over the 10-day festival again this year.

The final touches were put on the fairgrounds on Wednesday with the final competition judging and exhibition space setup.

Executive director Helen McPeak said they’re focused on making sure everyone can have a safe and fun time with their family at the fair.

Multiple agencies are working together to keep watch both inside and outside the gates, McPeak said. That includes police officers directing traffic to lots on land the county just purchased this year.

“We have an emergency management team that starts getting together in April and going through all of the emergency operations plans,” McPeak said. “Then, when the rides get here, there are three different inspections they have to go through.”

The fair added new air-conditioned buildings this year so people can keep cool while experiencing the best of Tennessee. Lebanon police also installed new light towers in parking lots to help prevent break-ins and other crime.

McPeak said her staff and volunteers are committed to making sure families are able to have fun, which is her favorite part of the fair magic.

“The laughter, people with families bringing children and making memories to last a lifetime,” McPeak said.

They are recommending people park for free in one of three satellite parking areas, at Cumberland University’s football lot, First Baptist Church and the Wilson County Courthouse, to help avoid traffic around the fairgrounds.

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