Construction on the new indoor Governor Michael L. Parson Arena is underway, with a completion date of July 2026, just in time for the 2026 Missouri State Fair. The state-of-the-art complex will provide a modern, versatile space for a wide range of events year-round and during the State Fair.
Patrons are encouraged to stay updated on the construction progress. Thanks to Nabholz Construction for providing this service. The Parson Arena Cam will update with a new high-resolution image every 10 minutes and can be found on the Governor Michael L. Parson Arena page.
The Parson Arena will host a variety of events including rodeo, military exhibits, animal races, jousting and bull riding. Children five and under are free to all events at the Arena. Ticket prices do not include Fair gate admission. Tickets go on sale to the public on Tuesday, May 19.
The 2026 Parson Arena line up will feature:
- DAILY, AUG. 13-23 – OPEN TO FAIRGOERS, FREE, all ages, hours will be 11 a.m. – 3 p.m, no event ticket required
- THURSDAY, AUG. 13 – OPENING CEREMONY, RIBBON CUTTING & HAYDEN PLAZA DEDICATION, 11 a.m., FREE, all ages, no event ticket required
- THURSDAY AND FRIDAY, AUG. 13-14 – INTERNATIONAL PRO RODEO ASSOCIATION, 6 p.m., $15 (up to $20 with fees) adult/$8 youth (ages 6-12) (up to $13 with fees)/free kids 5 and under
- SATURDAY, AUG. 15 – INTERNATIONAL PRO RODEO ASSOCIATION, 6 p.m., $20 (up to $25 with fees) adult/$10 youth (ages 6-12) (up to $15 with fees)/free kids 5 and under
- SUNDAY, AUG. 16 – MILITARY APPRECIATION DAY EXHIBITS, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., FREE, all ages, no event ticket required
- MONDAY & TUESDAY, AUG. 17-18 – HEDRICK’S ZEBRA, CAMEL, OSTRICH, EMU & DUCK RACES, 6 p.m., FREE, all ages, no event ticket required
- WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY, AUG. 19-20 – KNIGHTS OF VALOUR JOUSTING SHOW, $10 (up to $15 with fees) adult/$5 youth (ages 6-12) (up to $10 with fees)/free kids 5 and under
- FRIDAY, AUG. 21 – NATIONAL FEDERATION OF PROFESSIONAL BULLRIDERS, $15 (up to $20 with fees) adult/$8 youth (ages 6-12) (up to $13 with fees)/free kids 5 and under
- SATURDAY, AUG. 22 – NATIONAL FEDERATION OF PROFESSIONAL BULLRIDERS, $20 (up to $25 with fees) adult/$10 youth (ages 6-12) (up to $15 with fees)/free kids 5 and under
- SUNDAY, AUG. 23 – OPEN TO FAIRGOERS, FREE, all ages, hours will be 11 a.m. – 3 p.m, no event currently scheduled
Learn more on the Governor Michael L. Parson Arena page.