UPDATE: The Jacksonville Fair is set for its final downtown celebration from November 6 to November 16, 2025, before relocating to the Westside in 2026. This beloved event, a staple of the downtown community for 70 years, is preparing for a significant shift, sparking both excitement and concern among residents.
As the fair gears up for its last run downtown, many locals are reflecting on its impact. Bill Olson, executive director of the Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair, stated, “Even though we’ve been here for 70 years, we feel it’s time… it’s just getting harder and harder for us to have the size event that we have.” The downtown area has evolved dramatically, with new developments such as the Four Seasons hotel and the Jaguars stadium altering the landscape.
The new fairgrounds will be located at the Equestrian Center off Normandy Boulevard on the Westside, where construction is currently underway. While this move promises new opportunities, residents like Jeannie Engle are voicing concerns about increased traffic and safety issues in their neighborhoods. Engle, who has lived near Normandy Boulevard for 13 years, expressed her worries: “I’m not opposed to the fair. I’m opposed to new development. Just widen the roads first.”
In response to these concerns, Olson assured the community that plans are in place to mitigate traffic issues. “We’ll have a dedicated entrance and exit off of POW MIA Boulevard,” he explained, aiming to ease the congestion expected on Normandy. This new access point is designed to alleviate pressure on local roads, ensuring smoother transit for fairgoers.
As the countdown begins for this last downtown event, Olson urges those who have fond memories of the fair to attend. “Those folks maybe haven’t come in a while… this is really the last chance they’re going to have to see it here,” he emphasized.
With anticipation building, the Jacksonville Fair’s final downtown iteration promises to be a memorable farewell. Attendees can look forward to familiar attractions and activities, all while preparing for the fair’s exciting new chapter on the Westside.
As the fair prepares for its last downtown run, residents and fair organizers are closely watching the developments ahead. The community’s engagement and feedback will be crucial as Jacksonville transitions to this new era of its beloved fair.
Stay tuned for updates on the Jacksonville Fair and its move to the Westside as we approach this significant event in the city’s history.
