SHREVEPORT, La. — A Louisiana tradition 120 years in the making is gearing up for another exciting celebration as the State Fair of Louisiana returns to Shreveport from Oct. 29 through Nov. 15, bringing carnival rides, fair food, live entertainment and the return of the Louisiana Rodeo Cowboys Association Finals Rodeo.
The historic fair, which dates back to 1906, continues its tradition of bringing families and communities together for one of the state’s most anticipated annual events.
Among this year’s featured attractions is the LRCA Finals Rodeo, scheduled for Oct. 30 through Nov. 1 at Hirsch Memorial Coliseum on the State Fairgrounds.
Presented by Hebert’s Town & Country and the Shreveport-Bossier Sports Commission, the three-day championship event will showcase some of Louisiana’s top cowboys and cowgirls competing for rodeo titles.
Fans can expect plenty of action as competitors face off in eight events, including bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing, breakaway roping and bull riding.
The competition will bring together the best of the LRCA circuit, with championship titles on the line and awards presented following the rodeo performances.
Three Days of Championship Rodeo Action
The rodeo will feature three performances during the fair’s opening weekend.
Friday, Oct. 30, competition begins at 6:30 p.m., with doors opening at 5:30 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 31, the rodeo returns at 6:30 p.m., with doors opening at 5:30 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 1, the final performance begins at 3 p.m., with doors opening at 2 p.m.
Adding to the excitement will be two nationally recognized rodeo announcers.
T.C. Long returns to call the action, bringing experience from major competitions including the RAM Texas Circuit Finals, United Finals Rodeo and All-American Pro Rodeo Finals.
Joining Long will be Louisiana’s own Andy Stewart, whose announcing career includes the National Finals Rodeo and the legendary Cheyenne Frontier Days rodeo.
World Champion Western Performers Return
The entertainment won’t be limited to the rodeo competition.
Rider and Bethany Kiesner will return with their Western performance featuring trick roping, whip cracking, gun spinning and trick riding.
Rider Kiesner is a multiple-time world champion in Western performance competitions, including trick roping and gun spinning. Together, the couple brings a fast-paced show celebrating the skills and traditions of the American West.
Their performances add another dimension to an already action-packed weekend designed to entertain rodeo enthusiasts and families alike.
Special VIP Experiences Available
The State Fair is also offering three special rodeo VIP experiences for those looking to make their visit even more memorable.
Friday’s “Denim & Dust” experience includes a pre-rodeo dinner and an opportunity to meet Rider and Bethany Kiesner.
Saturday’s “Glitz & Grit” experience features a Southern-style meal, beverages, VIP parking and rodeo seating options.
Sunday’s “Boots & Buckles” experience includes fair admission, rodeo admission, a catered meal and live music. A portion of the event’s proceeds will support the State Fair of Louisiana’s new scholarship program.
Additional information and VIP packages are available through the State Fair’s website.
Fair Dates: October29.2026 through November 15, 2026
Rodeo Tickets and Admission
Advance rodeo tickets are available at the following prices, including fees:
- General admission: $23
- Box seats: $38.50
- Platinum seats: $34
Tickets purchased on the day of the performance are priced at:
- General admission: $28
- Box seats: $44
- Platinum seats: $39
Rodeo tickets also include admission to the State Fair of Louisiana, allowing guests to enjoy the fairgrounds and midway attractions before the competition begins. Carnival rides may require separate tickets or wristbands.
Advance tickets are available online at www.statefairoflouisiana.com and through participating outlets, including Greenwood Feed, Seed and Hardware and Paul’s Farm and Garden Supply.
A Louisiana Tradition Worth Celebrating
For generations, the State Fair of Louisiana has celebrated the state’s agricultural heritage, livestock industry, entertainment and community traditions.
As the fair marks 120 years since its founding, visitors can look forward to a combination of longtime favorites and special events, from carnival rides and midway attractions to competitive exhibits, livestock activities and championship rodeo entertainment.
The 2026 State Fair of Louisiana runs Oct. 29 through Nov. 15 at the Louisiana State Fairgrounds, 3701 Hudson Ave. in Shreveport. The fair will be closed Mondays and Tuesdays.
Whether making an annual family visit or experiencing the fair for the first time, this year’s celebration offers an opportunity to take part in a Louisiana tradition that has entertained generations.
For fair schedules, admission information, rodeo tickets and special event details, visit www.statefairoflouisiana.com.
