Op-ed from Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell

FRANKFORT, Ky. (Aug. 7, 2026) – As we celebrate the 122nd Kentucky State Fair this year, we also celebrate America’s semiquincentennial – the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.

This year's Kentucky State Fair theme, "Where County Traditions Meet Our Country's Celebration," is a nod to that celebration and the Commonwealth's united identity. Just like Kentucky, America’s heritage is tied to agriculture as it represents what we eat, the clothing we wear, and the fiber we use.

Many of our country’s founding fathers were farmers. The same qualities that made them successful in the fields are what also made them successful in the creation of this country. As Kentucky’s agriculture commissioner, I see the hard work our farming families do today to keep our country’s entrepreneurial spirit thriving. Blending grit, innovation, and respect for the land, our farmers embody what it takes to succeed in one of the world’s oldest professions. Those connections to our ancestral agricultural roots can be found every year at the State Fair. It’s a connection many in Kentucky don’t personally have anymore, but one that can be re-established each August.

The State Fair is the perfect showcase of Kentucky’s agricultural spirit. Rural and urban residents come together in this unique atmosphere to celebrate the very best of Kentucky and everything it has to offer. Farming’s impact is vital for every resident, and that’s displayed in everything we do at the fair. 

As much pride as we take in bringing you a State Fair that’s the envy of many states, we are not standing still. As a member of the Fair Board, I can assure you lots of behind-the-scenes actions take place to make the Kentucky State Fair a showcase. Planned renovations, being furnished by a $200 million appropriation for the State Fair by our General Assembly, are expected to be complete next year. Last year, fairgoers saw the beginning of those renovations, and you will see more progress taking place this year. When finished, this once-in-a-lifetime expansion and renovation will be one of our state’s largest economic investments.

While we are ready for physical changes, our commitment to agriculture history and agricultural fun will remain the same. AgLand brings together more than an acre of agriculture exhibits in the South Wing, highlighting Kentucky’s farm and field heritage, including the future of farming and agribusiness. Interactive and immersive exhibits will return this year for the delight of our youngest fairgoers. AgLand is also where you’ll find exhibits from Kentucky 4-H and FFA.

At the State Fair, you will see why we’re Kentucky Proud of our agriculture industry. Kentucky’s leading youth livestock exhibitors will compete for the highest honors of the livestock show season. Kentucky’s commodity groups will serve delicious locally grown and raised food at the Great Kentucky Cookout Tent. Agricultural displays in the West Hall will highlight the best our Kentucky farmers have to offer.

Creating an inclusive experience for all our residents will once again be highlighted this year as we offer our Sunshine Class. Now in its fifth year, the event offers an opportunity for special needs youth to get hands-on experience with the agriculture industry by showing livestock in a show ring. It’s worth the price of admission just to see the smiles on their faces. You don’t want to miss it!

As always, your Kentucky Department of Agriculture will be on the job at the fair. Our employees meet the public and talk about the ways agriculture affects everyday lives. We help manage the livestock shows and the agricultural exhibits. We also help livestock producers and exhibitors protect their investments in their animals.

I want you to leave the State Fair with fond memories that will last a lifetime. Please join me at this year’s Kentucky State Fair, Aug. 20-30. I hope to see you there!