163 days until the fair Aug 30 - Sep 7

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FAQ for 2023 EISF

PARKING FAIR TIME PARI-MUTUEL & INDIAN RELAY RACES GATE TICKETS GRANDSTAND NIGHT EVENT TICKETS CARNIVAL

Parking

Is there handicap parking?

We have handicap parking spaces on Park, Royal, and Maple Streets for people who have state-issued handicap parking stickers in the window of their car. Go to the Maps page for a map of the fairgrounds.

Is there a fee to park?

There are various parking areas that are more expensive the closer you are to the gates. For those who park further away, there are two free trams that drop-off at the Main Entrance on Park Street. View the Route Map here.

Fair Time

What time does the Fair open?

Gates open at 8 am; however, buildings, barns, vendors and concessionaires do not open until 10 am. For carnival hours, please see the carnival section on this page.

Do you accept credit and debit cards?

Gate Ticket Booths, the Grandstand Event Ticket Office, Butler Amusement Carnival kiosks and many vendors and concessionaires accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover. There are a few concessionaires that are cash only. Absolutely no checks.

Do you have backpack and package storage?

No, we do not.

How do I become a performer at the Fair?

We have a Community Free Stage for local performers. Contact Rhonda Robinson at hisheartbeat@cableone.net or (208) 317-3217.

When is the parade?

The 2023 parade is on Saturday, September 2, at 10 am. It runs down Shilling Avenue from the corner of Rich Street to Alice Street.  You can view the Parade route by clicking here.

I lost something at the Fair. How do I find it?

Check with the Security booth found directly behind the Main Office.

Where is the First Aid station?

There are four First Aid Stations: across from the Beef Show Arena, near the Race Horse stalls, by the tunnel from the Carnival towards West Events, and next to the Event Ticket Office building. You can find their locations on the Fair Map.

Is there security at the Fair?

Yes, security members are stationed in the building directly behind the Main Office and patrol the grounds throughout the day and night.

Can I bring a cooler?

Yes, you can bring a cooler as long as it does not contain alcohol.

Can I bring my camera into the concerts?

Advanced audio or video recording equipment is prohibited, unless a person has a media pass. Basic cameras are welcome unless otherwise restricted by the artist. Go to Tickets to purchase your event tickets.

Do you rent wheelchairs and strollers?

With a deposit of $25, you can rent a wheelchair or stroller for the day. Upon return of wheelchair or stroller, you will receive $10 back. Limited amount available. CASH ONLY. Located by the Main Gate inside Gate #2.

When and where do the trams run?

The trams run from 10 am to 11 pm daily. View the Route Map here.

Are pets allowed on the fairgrounds?

No, pets are not allowed on the fairgrounds. Service dogs are allowed on a leash.

Are there ATMs at the Fair?

During the week of the Eastern Idaho State Fair, there are four ATMs: by the Main Office (outside of the gate), outside the Grandstand, at the northwest gate, and near the Security Office. Go to the Maps page for a map of the fairgrounds.

Pari-Mutuel & Indian Relay Races

Where can I purchase tickets for Horse Racing?

If you are a Fair fanatic, the Ultimate Happy Pass may be the perfect  Go to Tickets to purchase yours now! If you would like to purchase an individual horse racing ticket, you can do so the day of the event at any Gate Ticket Booth!

Gate Tickets

How much are gate tickets?

Adult 12 & Up – $7

Child 6-11 – $3

5 & Under – Free

Senior 65 & Up – $5

You can purchase gate tickets in advance for EVERYONE! Tickets will be delivered via email, and you can present the tickets on your phone! Buy tickets now!! **Remember, your Grandstand Night Event tickets INCLUDE admission to the Fair!

Are group ticket sales offered at a discount?

Yes, for details about quantities and pricing, call (208)785-2480 Ext. 107 or email tickets@funatthefair.com

Do I have to pay for a gate ticket if I'm just grabbing lunch?

Yes, if you are entering the Fair, even just for lunch, you must have a gate ticket!

What days can I get discounted gate tickets?

We have partnered up with Channel 8 and Channel 3 to offer you discounted adult gate tickets on Wednesday and Thursday during the Fair! On Wednesday, bring a canned food item before 1 pm to get $4 adult gate admission. On Thursday, bring a new school supply before 1 pm to get $4 adult gate admission. To receive the discount, you must have one item/supply per person. 

Grandstand Night Event Tickets

Does my grandstand ticket include admission to the Fair?

Yes! All Grandstand Night Event Tickets include FREE fair admission the day of the event. Go to Tickets to purchase yours now!

What time do the night events start?

All Grandstand Night Events begin at 7:30 pm with the gates to the event opening at 6:30 pm. Go to Tickets to purchase yours now!

Carnival

How much are carnival tickets?

Carnival tickets are only available for purchase in the Carnival during the week of Fair. Tickets are $1 each. Rides require between 3-7 tickets each and games require 10+ tickets each play. Click here to see a full ride list with height and ticket requirements.

What day is wristband day?

Pepsi wristband days are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. Pepsi Wristbands are $32 and include gate admission and unlimited rides at the carnival for one of the three listed days. Pepsi Wristbands can be purchased in advance (prior to the first day of the Fair) online or at the Event Ticket Office (208)785-2480, Ext. 107.  During the Fair, Pepsi Wristbands can be purchased on Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday at the Gate Ticket Booths. Remember, the Pepsi Wristband includes admission to the Fair, so do not purchase additional gate tickets!

Carnival Wristbands are offered every day of the Fair. Carnival Wristbands include unlimited rides at the carnival for one day, but do NOT include gate admission. Carnival wristbands can be purchased in advance (prior to the first day of the Fair) for a discounted price of $30! You can purchase in advance online or at the Event Ticket Office (208)785-2480, Ext. 107. During the Fair, Carnival Wristbands can be purchased in the Carnival for $37.

What are Carnival hours?

The Carnival opens at different times each day and closes around 11 pm each night. Following are the times the carnival opens each day:

  • Friday, September 1 @ Noon
  • Saturday, September 2 @ Noon
  • Sunday, September 3 @ 1 pm
  • Monday, September 4 @ 11 am
  • Tuesday, September 5 @ 1 pm
  • Wednesday, September 6 @ 1 pm
  • Thursday, September 7 @ 1 pm
  • Friday, September 8 @ Noon
  • Saturday, September 9 @ Noon
What accessibility does the carnival have for people with disabilities?

Download Butler Amusement’s Guide for Disabled Guests here.  

Contact us if you have any additional questions.

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