Salute to our Heroes Opening Weekend, Aug 15-16

Law Enforcement/Firefighter Appreciation Day, Aug 15

“Show Me Stars & Stripes” is a fitting theme to celebrate America 250 at the Missouri State Fair and we will be kicking off our opening weekend celebrating by honoring those who keep us safe. Rep your red, white and blue on Saturday, Aug. 15 for Law Enforcement/Firefighter Appreciation Day. You know what else is red, white and blue? Pepsi, who is a proud sponsor of the day! All law enforcement, firefighters, EMTs and paramedics will receive FREE admission with appropriate ID and their immediate family members receive $1 admission on this day.

Be sure to check out the brand-new State Fair Firehouse during your visit to the Fair. You can see the firetrucks up close and get a picture with our volunteer firefighters. Fun fact, the Missouri State Fair Fire Department is the only full functional fire departments in the United States that operates for only 11 days a year! We appreciate their service!

We would also like to thank the men and women of the Missouri State Highway Patrol for keeping the Fairgrounds and fairgoers safe during the Fair each year. We appreciate their dedication to our safety!

Here is a peek at some of the events happening at the Fair on Saturday, Aug. 15. Find the full schedule of events on the Fair’s website.

Give law enforcement, firefighters, EMTs and paramedics a patriotic thank you when you come to the Missouri State Fair on Aug. 15. Visit the Fair’s website for more information on all things planned for the 2026 Missouri State Fair, Aug. 13-23, in Sedalia.

Military Apprecaition Day, Aug 16

Join the Missouri State Fair as we honor those who have served our country on Sunday, Aug. 16 for Military Appreciation Day, sponsored by GoNetspeed. The 16th annual celebration will include free gate admission for active military, veterans and delayed entry recruits and $1 gate admission for immediate family members. Military and family members can also enjoy a $5 off carnival coupon and free tram rides for military and their families will be offered thanks to the America 250 Missouri Commission!

Other events and promotions for this day include the following.

  • Military equipment displays
  • Quilts of Valor presentations
  • Remembering Missouri’s Fallen exhibit
  • Special photo opportunity for military and their families
  • Hospitality area for active military and veterans
  • Recruiters from all branches are invited to set up displays
  • Missouri National Guard’s 135th Army Band concert
  • Concessions/vendor specials available for military
  • Military-themed special contests for adults and kids
  • Military Resource Fair for organizations and agencies who provide support services for active-duty military, veterans and their families
  • Patriot Guard Riders
  • And MORE!

Military Appreciation Day, Sunday, Aug.16, will be packed with fun celebrations, unique events, and special promotions! Join the fun, show your gratitude to our military, and visit the Missouri State Fair on Military Appreciation Day, Sunday, Aug. 16.