(This story was updated with a change in policy after the story originally published earlier today.)
Pensacola Interstate Fair officials are instituting new safety measures this year that include a no weapons policy and a clear bag requirement for everything except diaper bags and medically necessary bags.
The Board of Directors modified their new policy to allow those exceptions within a couple of hours after announcing the policy, based on community feedback.
Under the new rules, weapons of any kind — including firearms — will not be permitted on the fairgrounds at any time regardless of whether the individual holds a concealed carry permit.
The fair is on private property and the Board of Directors has the ability to set its own rules to prioritize the safety and comfort of all attendees, officials said.
“We want our guests to come ready to laugh, ride the rides, pet the animals, enjoy the concerts, and eat all the fair food they can handle,” said Pensacola Interstate Fair General Manager Jamie McDonald in a prepared statement. “These policies are designed to help everyone feel secure and focus on what really matters — making memories at the Fair.”
All bags other than diaper and medically necessary bags must be clear, and any bags that are not clear will not be allowed on the property. The policy is similar to those used at many large events across the country, fair officials said. All bags are also subject to search when attendees arrive.
The Pensacola Interstate Fair runs Oct. 16-26 at the Pensacola Interstate Fairgrounds.
When is the Pensacola Interstate Fair?
Since the late 1960s, the Pensacola Interstate Fair has been held at the fairgrounds at 6655 Mobile Highway. The 2025 fair will run from Oct. 16 through Oct. 26.
Hours are:
How much is admission and parking at Pensacola fair?
General admission prices are $14 for 12 years and older, and $6 for children 4 through 11 years. Children 3 and under are admitted free.
Unlimited ride wristbands are $30 for Monday-Thursday and Oct. 26. On Fridays-Sunday, it’s $35. Individual ride credits will also be available. There is also a $10 parking fee that will be collected upon exiting the Fair parking lot.
There are numerous discount opportunities, including $1 admission on opening day and Advance Super Saver general admission tickets for half price online through Oct. 15.
Advance Super Saving Package until Oct. 15
Pensacola Interstate Fair discounts
This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: New Pensacola Fair rules ban all weapons, require clear bags
Reporting by Pensacola News Journal / Pensacola News Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
