Mississippi’s Giant Houseparty will kick things off a month earlier than normal this year.
Instead of getting underway in late July, as has been the case for decades, the 137th Neshoba County Fair will run from June 19-26. Fair officials announced last year that the 2026 edition of cabin-filled festivities was moving back on the calendar to accommodate early school starts and late-summer scheduling conflicts. The overarching goal is for families to enjoy the fair without major interference.
The June start might not be a permanent fix, though. Neshoba County Fair Association President and state Rep. Scott Bounds said officials would reconvene to discuss the pros, cons, and overall outlook on the fair running in June, while working to iron out future dates that are as convenient as possible for event-goers.
“Consideration of the date change for the 2026 Neshoba County Fair was not taken without considerable discussion. 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,” Bounds said. “After the 2026 fair, the Fair Associations’ Board of Directors will thoroughly analyze possible similar dates for the 2027 fair.”
As for 2026, folks can enjoy another round of porch swing conversations at a cabin belonging to a friend, family member, or random stranger showing southern hospitality, while also delighting in some of the finer things rural Mississippi has to offer, in just over two months.
Entertainment lineup
A family-friendly event, visitors of all ages can hop on various amusement rides, snack on a funnel cake, watch horse races, and enjoy live music. This year, the Neshoba County Fair’s concerts will be headlined by deep-voiced country music star Trace Adkins, Pecos and the Rooftops, Drake White, and Ernest.
Late-night entertainment acts include The Livestock Band, The Chee-Weez, Paxton Peay, Jax Moore, Hairicane, mustache the band, and The Jason Miller Band.
Political speaking
Highlighted by former President Ronald Reagan’s famous stump speech at Founder’s Square back in 1980 ahead of his first stint in the White House, Mississippi’s political scene is often defined at the Neshoba County Fair year in and year out.
This year’s political speaking lineup has not yet been announced, and 2026 is not a consequential year for statewide races, though a U.S. Senate seat and all four of the state’s congressional posts are up for grabs in November. With 2027 being a statewide election year, many current officials could use their time at the stump to announce a bid for another office or vouch for their record to justify being reelected.
Ticket information
Daily tickets are available for $30, while season passes are available for $60. Children aged 9 and under can enter the fair free of charge. Tickets must be purchased at the gate.