The Tulsa State Fair returns Thursday for “11 days of awesome.” While many things require you to open your wallet, there are several free family-friendly activities too.
This is your guide for how to budget for the higher-ticket items and what you can do for free at the Tulsa State Fair this year.
Admission
A family of four adults will spend $68 just to get into the fair. Children 4 and younger enter free, but tickets cost $12 each for youth aged 5 to 12. Tickets work for one-time entry.
Quick tip to save: It may be cheaper to buy admission in advance — $40 for four tickets or $12 each, both without age restrictions. There are also brand promotions during the week, which offer discounts.
Parking
Reserve a parking spot across from the fair’s Pavilion for $150. This premium parking covers you for one day, but you can go in-and-out as often as you want.
Standard parking costs $20, or you can get to the fair for free via shuttles at the Tulsa Public Schools Education Service Center. Shuttles operate Thursday through Sunday.
Rides
There are two new rides at the Tulsa State Fair this year, plus more than 50 others to choose from. Each ride costs between 7 and 16 credits, but two of them require straight up cash: the Extreme Ride Sling Shot costs $70 for two riders, and the Extreme Ride Sky Scraper costs $35. Find more information about this year’s rides here.
You can get access to rides in a variety of ways. Some have purchase deadlines. See a cost breakdown below. You can buy ride access here and find Midway Express Access Pass details here.
- An advance ride five pack costs $15 for access to five rides, if bought before Sept. 30.
- A ride ticket card offers 20 credits for $10, 65 credits for $30 or 145 credits for $60.
- A Midway Express Access Pass is an add-on that gives front-of-line access for $20. This is for one day only, and a limited number are available each day.
- A ride wristband costs $47 and gives you unlimited rides for one day only. Gate admission is not included, and these are only on sale Oct. 5-11.
- A Mega Ride Pass gets you unlimited rides for all 11 days of the fair and includes gate admission. It costs $97 and must be purchased before Oct. 4.
- A Golden Mega Pass gets you unlimited rides, front-of-line access and gate admission for all 11 days of the fair. It costs $130 and must be purchased before Oct. 4.
Other ticketed events
The Pepsi Fall Concert Series brings a variety of artists to the Oklahoma Stage. VIP access gives you front row seats and costs between $35 and $55, depending on the concert. Gate admission is included.
Find out who’s performing and buy tickets here. You can also enter for a chance to win meet-and-greet tickets here. Gate admission is not included.
“Disney On Ice” is also coming to the Tulsa State Fair Oct. 1-4. Tickets cost between $20 and $83.30, and your gate admission is included. Buy tickets here.
Food
Whether you’re craving the classics, a sweet treat or something else — chances are, the Tulsa State Fair has it. Locate all your options using the finder tool here.
Last year, fairgoers questioned high prices, from $11 corndogs to $23 turkey legs. If you need help narrowing down your options, winners of the Awesome Eats Food Competition will be announced Oct. 3 and posted here. Find out who’s in the running here.
Free things to enjoy
There are many free things you can wander into. They happen on specific days and times throughout the week. Make sure you plan ahead.
- Music: Any remaining seats at the Oklahoma Stage concerts are free with your gate admission. There are also free concerts at Hard Rock Huddle Tent, International Beer Garden, Wine Garden and Carousel Club. Read more about music here.
- Attractions: From sea lions to dogs performing tricks, the Tulsa State Fair has 11 attractions this year. Each happens on specific days and times. “Disney On Ice” requires paid tickets. Find out more information here.
- Muscogee Nation Entertainment Stage: Watch pageants, the Oklahoma State Fiddling Championship and other performances on this stage. Find out days and times here.
- Exhibits: 4-H, FFA and other competitive exhibits will be on display all 11 days of the fair. Curious what’s at stake for best photo or pumpkin decorating? Find out here.
- Exchange Center: Many vendors will be tabling in the Exchange Center, and they might have freebies and resources for you. Come say hello to staff from the Flyer and Oklahoma Eagle during all 11 days.
- 918 Create: You can make friendship bracelets and more at various DIY workshops. Class size is limited, so sign up in person at Central Park Hall. Read more here.
- Other things: The petting zoo, fireworks and more are open to the public. Read more about when those are happening here.
News decisions at the Tulsa Flyer are made independently of our board members and financial supporters. Read more about our editorial independence policy here.
