A Gulf Coast Tradition Celebrates Nine Decades
For nine decades, the Pensacola Interstate Fair has been the Gulf Coast’s annual backdrop for crisp autumn nights, the sweet scent of funnel cake and the thrilling chaos of the midway. As this beloved tradition marks its 90th anniversary, Fair management is ensuring the milestone is celebrated safely, introducing clear-cut security policies designed to protect the very heart of this community institution.
Clear Bag and No-Firearms Policies Go Into Effect
To prioritize safety, the Fair has implemented a strict No Firearms Allowed policy.
The rule applies to all guests, with or without a permit, because the event is held on private property. The Fair will also enforce a Clear Bag Policy for all guests, staff and vendors, similar to those used at major sporting events.
Small clutch bags measuring approximately 4.5 inches by 6.5 inches are allowed inside the clear bags but will be searched. Diaper bags and medically necessary bags are permitted, subject to search. The Escambia County Sheriff’s Office will provide security for the Fair’s entire Oct. 16-26 duration this year.
Fun, Food and Significant Discounts
The 2025 Fair, which runs Oct. 16-26, will feature a robust entertainment lineup, including Clay Walker, Sawyer Brown, Petra, Rodney Atkins and White Tie Rock Ensemble with 80’s Radio Rock. Guests can also enjoy free shows like The Sea Lion Splash, Circus Hollywood, the Petting Zoo and The Big Red Barn, which offers hands-on agricultural education. All shows are free with fair admission.
Fair attendees can take advantage of numerous sales and daily specials, including Dollar Days, Midnight Madness and Unlimited Ride Wristband Day. Advanced sales opportunities are available until Oct. 15, offering half off parking and admission tickets and $5 off of wristbands. Management encourages guests to purchase everything online to save time and skip lines at the gate.
A Personal Commitment to Community Safety
Dondi Frenkel, a longtime Fair employee, emphasized that the new policies are about giving families “peace of mind to enjoy a night out” knowing that security is a top priority.
“The Fair aims to be able to give families a night out that won’t break their personal budgets,” Frenkel said, speaking about the various presales and discounts.
When asked about his personal Fair favorites, Frenkel cited The Zipper as his favorite ride when he was younger, Gillette’s New York Style Pizza as his favorite food, and the Military and Photography displays as his top exhibits. He says his most favorite thing about The Fair, is seeing his children light up.
He recommends the Fair because it is a “unique experience that cannot be duplicated digitally.”
For further information and details, visit the official website: https://pensacolafair.com/
