What to Know Before You Go to the Volusia County Fair in DeLand, FL (2025): Local Tips & Community Insights
The Volusia County Fair in DeLand, FL is one of Central Florida's most beloved annual traditions, bringing together families, friends, and neighbors for eleven days of fun, food, and entertainment. Whether you're a longtime DeLand resident or visiting Volusia County for the first time, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your fair experience.
Dates and Location
Fair Dates: November 6 – November 16, 2025
Venue: Volusia County Fairgrounds, 3150 E New York Ave, DeLand, FL
The Volusia County Fairgrounds in DeLand, FL serves as the perfect backdrop for this annual celebration, offering ample space for rides, exhibits, and entertainment while maintaining that authentic small-town fair atmosphere that makes DeLand special.
Tickets and Admission
Advance Tickets: $12 (ages 13+), $8 (ages 6–12); purchase online for best rates
At the Gate: $15 for adults, $10 for children
Children 5 and under: Free with adult
Unlimited ride bracelets: Can be bought in advance, starting at $25
Discount Days:
- Opening Day (Nov 6): $10 adult, $5 children, $25 ride bracelets until 9 p.m.
- Coca-Cola Night (Nov 7): $5 admission for students with Coca-Cola container
- Veterans' & Senior Discount Day: Free or discounted entry with valid ID
- First Responders' Day (Nov 16): Free access with ID
- Wednesday (Nov 12): Bring a recyclable for $1 off admission
Parking
One of the best perks of the Volusia County Fair? Free parking in all lots, all nights! This is a huge advantage for families visiting DeLand, FL, especially compared to other regional fairs.
Highlights and Activities
The Volusia County Fair offers classic fair entertainment that captures the heart of DeLand's community spirit:
- Carnival rides, midway games, and food booths: expect everything from funnel cakes to turkey legs. Vendors tend to offer classic fair foods that are a staple of the Volusia County Fair experience.
- Livestock exhibits, youth competitions, and petting zoos showcasing the agricultural heritage of Volusia County
- Musical and entertainment acts: Daily performances, including the Miss Volusia County Fair Pageant on opening night, and specialty acts like circus shows and monkey performers
- Farmers Market and special events: Weekly market continues during fair week, and vintage machine displays energize fans of tractors and classics
Online Communities—What Locals Are Saying
As a staple of DeLand, FL entertainment, the Volusia County Fair generates plenty of discussion in local online communities. Here's what Volusia County residents are sharing:
Positive Comments:
- "It's a top-notch, clean, family-friendly event for all ages."
- "The lineup of performers is better than average; the animals and tractor displays delight both adults and kids. Passionate presenters love to share their expertise."
- "The fair has a relaxed, small-town feel without being overshadowed by carnival vendors, and the oak trees and festive lighting add to its charm."
- "Always something to do. It's a tradition for many locals!"
Common Concerns:
- Price: Several locals discuss rising prices for admission and rides—comments like "Pricing your citizens out of the fair is insane" and "It has always been expensive but this is ridiculous" are common in Facebook and community posts.
- Food and Vendors: Food prices are often higher than similar items at local restaurants, with limited healthy or gourmet choices.
- Entertainment: Some guests mention the entertainment can be hit or miss, with a few rides or attractions remaining unchanged from year to year.
- Crowds: Expect a lively turnout, especially during evenings and weekends. Recent reviews highlight crowding as a possible challenge, so plan accordingly
Extra Tips for a Great Experience
As someone familiar with DeLand, FL and the Volusia County community, here are insider tips for making the most of your Volusia County Fair visit:
- Buy tickets and ride bracelets online: to save money and skip lines
- Plan to arrive early: for best parking and manageable crowds
- Check schedule for discount days: for savings (like senior, veteran, and student specials)
- Be aware of height requirements for rides: if bringing kids; measure up in advance
- Bring essentials: Sunscreen, water bottle, and hand sanitizer recommended
- Visit the official website for up-to-date schedules and ticket purchases
- Follow on Facebook and Instagram for real-time updates, contests, and last-minute deals
Wrap-up
The Volusia County Fair offers a classic Florida experience with fun for all ages, plenty of entertainment, and local traditions that make DeLand, FL special. This annual celebration brings together the best of Volusia County's community spirit, from agricultural exhibits to thrilling rides and delicious fair food.
Plan ahead for savings, expect crowds, and enjoy the vibrant fair atmosphere, but be mindful of costs and come prepared for bustling evenings. Whether you're a longtime DeLand resident or visiting Volusia County for the first time, the Volusia County Fair promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to experience the magic of the Volusia County Fair in DeLand, FL? Start planning your visit today and become part of this beloved Volusia County tradition!
Categories
Recent Posts
“My sister and i were in the market for an investment property in West Volusia. I have purchased a number of properties from numerous agents. They all were nice and competent, but Allen was very accommodating with his time and efforts. We called him too many times and changed our ‘wish list’ half a dozen times. He never became impatient. If he didn’t have an answer, he would reach out to necessary parties to get it immediately. I’ve never written a review for an agent, but for Allen, I made an exception. He is fun, personable, professional, and informed.”