ASP REMINDS FAIR GOERS OF SECURITY POLICIES AHEAD OF ARKANSAS STATE FAIR

What this means

A summary is not yet available. Publication is pending editorial review. Read the full original publication below.

Official release

Source material from Arkansas State Police. The wording below is the issuer’s statement.

NEWS

ASP REMINDS FAIR GOERS OF SECURITY POLICIES AHEAD OF ARKANSAS STATE FAIR

October 15, 2026

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — Arkansas State Police (ASP) encourages visitors to plan for a safe and enjoyable experience at the Arkansas State Fair, which will open tomorrow through October 25.

ASP is increasing the number of Troopers assigned to this year’s State Fair and will patrol the fairgrounds alongside Pulaski County Sheriff’s deputies and Little Rock Police Department officers to help keep the event safe and secure.

“The Arkansas State Fair is a tradition that brings families and communities together, and we want every visit to be a safe one,” said Col. Mike Hagar, ASP Director. “We encourage fairgoers to review security policies before arriving, stay aware of their surroundings, and notify an officer or fair security staff member if they see something concerning.”

Parents are encouraged to make use of ID wristbands supplied at the gate to help reunite lost children with their parents.

Security screenings and bag restrictions

All guests entering the fairgrounds must pass through a walk-through metal detector, and staff will inspect all bags. Bags larger than 12 inches by 12 inches by 6 inches are not permitted.

The fair also prohibits the following bags, regardless of size:

Backpacks, including clear backpacks

Binocular and camera cases

Cinch or drawstring bags

Fanny packs

Tinted plastic bags or plastic bags with printed patterns

Oversized tote bags

Mesh bags

Briefcases

Luggage of any kind

Computer bags

Purses and clutch bags larger than 12 inches by 12 inches by 6 inches are prohibited.

Weapons and other prohibited items

Weapons are not permitted on the fairgrounds, whether carried openly or concealed, including by concealed weapons permit holders. Chains, spikes, pocketknives, and any other items fair officials determine pose a safety or security concern are also prohibited.

Other prohibited items include:

Selfie sticks

Outside food and beverages

Segways

Tents, unless part of an authorized act or exhibit

Drones

Pets, except service animals, pets leashed on the campgrounds or animals participating in an authorized act or exhibit. All service animals must comply with state regulations.

Youth admission policy

After 6 p.m., anyone younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult age 21 or older to enter the fairgrounds.

Fair staff and security may request identification to verify age. Anyone younger than 18 who does not have identification and is not accompanied by an adult will not be admitted after 6 p.m. Adults accompanying minors may be required to present a valid photo ID showing proof of age.

Fair staff reserves the right to remove unaccompanied guests younger than 18 from the fairgrounds after 6 p.m. Credentialed youth fair exhibitors may be exempt from this admission policy when wearing a designated wristband.

ASP encourages fairgoers to review these policies before arriving and follow instructions from law enforcement officers and fair security personnel throughout their visit.

Posted By: ASP

Share this post

Release text attributed to Arkansas State Police. Consult the official publication for any subsequent corrections or updates.