2026 Fair moved to June 19-26

The 2026 Neshoba County Fair is moving to June to accommodate the early start of school, the Neshoba County Fair Association announced on Facebook late last week.

The 2026 Fair is scheduled to take place from June 19 to June 26, according to officials, as announced in a May 16 Facebook post.

The change was made to better accommodate early school starts and late summer scheduling conflicts, allowing more families and friends to enjoy Mississippi’s Giant House Party without interference, according to Fair officials.

“Consideration of the date change for the 2026 Neshoba County Fair was not taken without considerable discussion,” said Neshoba County Fair Association President C. Scott Bounds. “We value tremendously our friends, patrons and partners and their desire to participate in the Fair and its many activities that are unique only to The Neshoba County Fair. After the 2026 Fair, the Fair Associations’ Board of Directors will thoroughly analyze possible similar dates for the 2027 Fair."

Information regarding changes to utility activation dates for cabins and campers in 2026 will be announced later, officials said, as well as plans on how long the grounds will be open following the Fair.

Historically, the Fair has been held from early to mid-August, and around the 1970s, it shifted to dates ranging from early August to late July. It hasn’t started outside of late July since 1996.

Since the Fair Association posted the announcement on Facebook, reactions have been mixed.

“I’m all for moving it up in July so all the school-related people can come, but I’m interested to know how much cabin time we will lose,” said Jean Fulton.

“Causes a lot of issues,” said Chrissy Baysinger. “Summer camps, VBS, and family vacation are in June. The Fair is celebrating end of summer!”

Others were thrilled.

“I’m thrilled and beyond excited because for the first time in years my family will get to spend the entire week, since it will no longer conflict with school,” said Jennifer Robertson Parker.

“It seems to work great for some, but June is our busiest and most expensive month of the year besides December,” said Amanda Phillips Nickels.

For more information, visit neshobacountyfair.org