2025 Panhandle-South Plains Fair Kicks Off With New Features, Celebrating Agriculture and Local Talent

The Lubbock fairgrounds host the 108th Panhandle-South Plains Fair, with carnival rides, local food, and community entertainment. New and old attractions are at this year's festival, which runs until Sept. 27.

This year's fair honors former fair board member and Lubbock banking and agribusiness leader Craig McDonald. The festival honors McDonald, who passed away in February at the age of 90, for his lifelong dedication to the community.

It is a privilege to dedicate this year's fair to Craig McDonald, said fair general manager Jennifer Wallace. “His contributions to our community are immeasurable, and this fair will honor him.”

At least 45 nonprofit food stalls are offering a variety of dishes, including the Science Spectrum's new setup, Harvest Church's mini pancakes, and Hub City Hoops' "rib dog" featuring rib meat on a hot dog bun. Wallace expects a vibrant restaurant scene and over 150 commercial booths selling gadgets and gifts.

"We have many new commercial vendors this year," Wallace remarked. "It’s a perfect time for people who haven’t visited in a while to check out the exciting new additions."

Fairgoers can expect newly painted structures and repairs to the parking lot, nonetheless. These enhancements improve the experience, especially in rainy conditions. Wallace said, "These upgrades should help with standing water in the parking lot, especially if we get the usual fair-week rain."

The Reithoffer midway entertainment returns with over 40 carnival rides, including the Ferris wheel, carousel, and thrilling rides for kids and adults. Thrill rides like The Joker and The Red Baron, a plane-themed attraction, are new this year. A balloon-themed ride for kids is also available.

Admission is $10 for adults (13 years and older) and $5 for children (2-12 years). Kids under 1 enter free. Parking costs $5 per vehicle, and transportation tickets are $1.50. Mega Passes cost $75 and provide unlimited fair rides.

Wallace hopes for another high turnout, adding on to last year's 266,060 guests, up from 227,802 in 2023. Wallace said, “The closure of Joyland Amusement Park has certainly contributed to the increased attendance, along with some favorable weather conditions.”

Pig racing returned last year after a 15-year hiatus and has become popular. The fair will have four weekday shows and five weekend shows. The Lumberjack Show, which features log rolling and axe throwing, is new to the fair this year.

For the third year, organizers will use clear bags for security. Parking lot signs will remind attendees of the policy.

Beer sales at the show have continued for four years. Four places will sell alcohol, with sales ending two hours prior to the fair's conclusion for security reasons.

Visit the Panhandle-South Plains Fair website for event information and ticket sales.

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