Details on the Thursday’s Grand Opening of the Mississippi State Fair

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Ag Commissioner Andy Gipson and Officials Address Security Measures and Other Details
Ahead of Thursday’s Grand Opening of the Mississippi State Fair

STATE FAIRGROUNDS, Miss. – Today, Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce Andy Gipson and other officials addressed security measures, preparations and new details at a press conference ahead of the Great American Mississippi State Fair taking place October 2-13, 2025.

Commissioner Gipson was joined by law enforcement officials partnering to provide security on the Mississippi Fairgrounds during the State Fair, as well as other officials and organizers with special fair events. Also in attendance was Willie Simmons, Central District Transportation Commissioner with the Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT). Commissioner Simmons announced the road construction on Interstate 55 at the Pascagoula Street exit has been completed, so that the exit is now opened to assist the flow of fair traffic.

“Transportation and infrastructure are absolutely key to making the State Fair run smoothly, and I want to thank Commissioner Simmons and MDOT for their tireless efforts in successfully completing the major road construction project along I-55 here by the Fairgrounds before this massive event and significantly improving the quality of our roadways. Their work will make a noticeable difference for visitors of the State Fair driving into Jackson,” said Commissioner Gipson.

“The safety and security of fairgoers is our top priority at the Mississippi State Fairgrounds,” continued Commissioner Gipson. “The annual Mississippi State Fair is one of the largest events held in our state, and we are so thankful for the support and partnerships we have with several local and state law enforcement agencies.”

The Mississippi State Fairgrounds has partnered with the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, including their Commercial Truck Enforcement Division, Mississippi Highway Patrol, Capitol Police Department and Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics; State Fire Marshal’s Office; Department of Homeland Security; Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries and Parks; American Medical Response; Mississippi Agricultural and Livestock Theft Bureau; Hinds County Sheriff’s Office; Jackson Police Department; Pearl Police Department; and SWETMAN Private Security Company.

Commissioner Gipson also emphasized the unique significance of this year’s fair. As part of the nationwide Great American State Fair initiative, the Mississippi State Fair will feature a variety of patriotic festivities and special events in celebration of America’s upcoming 250th anniversary. Gipson and the fairgrounds’ staff encourage all visitors to show their patriotic spirit by wearing red, white and blue, and to enjoy all the new patriotic-themed competitions, shows and attractions taking place throughout the 12-day event.

“One thing that we’re especially proud to add to this year’s State Fair – something we’ve never done before – is the opportunity for fairgoers to give back to our military veterans,” said Commissioner Gipson. “In keeping with the America250 celebrations, it was important to us to make special efforts to honor, recognize and support the over 200,000 veterans who call our great state home.”

This year, the Mississippi State Fairgrounds has partnered with the non-profit combat veterans organization 5th Squad. This organization was founded in 2018 by four Mississippi Army combat veterans to provide financial assistance for immediate life-sustaining needs to qualifying veterans in a time of crisis.

During the State Fair, special signage featuring information about the 5th Squad will be displayed throughout the fairgrounds. Each sign will include a QR code that links directly to the organization’s website, where visitors will have the option to make a donation through a secure online portal.

“While you’re enjoying the Mississippi State Fair, keep an eye out for the 5th Squad signs. Scan the QR code and give what you can to support our veterans in need. They’ve sacrificed so much to protect our freedoms, and they deserve our support whenever we’re able to give it,” continued Gipson.

The 166th Mississippi State Fair will kick off this Thursday, October 2, at 11:00 a.m. Fairgoers can expect all the usual, fan-favorite entertainment, as well as several all-new events and patriotic attractions as Mississippi participates in the Great American State Fair competition.

Fairgrounds Chief of Security Steve Shows also reminded fairgoers of several things to “Know Before You Go.”

Gate admission is $10.00 per person, and parking is free. Children ages 5 and under will be admitted free of charge. The public can purchase admission tickets, concert tickets and ride wristbands online at www.msstatefair.com, or purchase admission and concert tickets in-person at the Coliseum Box Office.
Fair admission is free every weekday from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., except on Monday, October 13, Columbus Day.
Sunday through Thursday from 6:00 p.m. until close and all day Friday and Saturday, any guest under the age of 18 seeking admission to the Fairgrounds must be accompanied by an adult (21 or older). Any guest may be asked to show official proof of age. Guests are encouraged to bring identification.
When entering the Midway, all guests will proceed through one of several security points utilizing a metal detector, and/or be subject to magnetic wanding.
Only clear bags will be allowed on the Fairgrounds during the State Fair and must not exceed 12”x12”x6”. Diaper bags and medically necessary bags and items are allowed after proper inspection and tagging. All bags are subject to search.
No outside food or beverage allowed.
No marketing, soliciting, political or vending items allowed unless and as authorized under Fairground regulations.
No animals (other than service animals or as authorized by Fair management for Fair activities), banners, fireworks/explosives or laser pointers allowed.
Jefferson Street will be closed between Pearl Street and Amite Street. Greymont Street will be open for Fair traffic only.

To view today’s press conference in its entirety, visit https://youtu.be/EUCfxwcCv4E.

For more information about the Great American Mississippi State Fair, which runs October 2-13, 2025, visit www.msstatefair.com and follow the Mississippi State Fair on Facebook, Instagram and X.

Pictured:

Ag Commissioner Andy Gipson and other officials addressed security measures, preparations and new details ahead of the Great American Mississippi State Fair taking place October 2-13, 2025. Pictured L-R: Bret Hansen, 5th Squad Representative; Cannon Craft, 5th Squad Representative; Steve Shows, Chief of Security for the Mississippi State Fairgrounds; Dean Barnard, Director of the Mississippi Agricultural and Livestock Theft Bureau; Tyree Jones, Hinds County Sheriff and Interim Chief of Jackson Police Department; Willie Simmons, Central District Transportation Commissioner with MDOT; Andy Gipson, Commissioner of Agriculture and Commerce; Bo Luckey, Chief of Capitol Police; Hayes Patrick, Deputy Commissioner and Acting Director of the Mississippi State Fairgrounds; Azia Smith, Area Director for Joni & Friends Mississippi; Justin Nipper, Deputy Director of the Mississippi State Fairgrounds; and Mark Smith,
Director of the Mississippi Veterans Affairs.