Southeastern Youth Fair
Marion County's annual youth fair at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion featuring livestock shows, carnival rides, food vendors, and youth competitions for the whole family.
Location
Southeastern Livestock Pavilion
2232 NE Jacksonville Rd
Ocala, FL 34470
When
Annually in February/March
Runs approximately one week
Dates vary each year
Who
Fun for all ages
4-H & FFA youth exhibitors
Families & community members
Admission
Gate admission fee applies
Rides & food priced separately
Parking on-site
Marion County's Annual Youth Fair
The Southeastern Youth Fair is one of the most anticipated annual events in Marion County, drawing thousands of families, students, and community members to the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion on NE Jacksonville Road in Ocala each year. The fair typically runs for about a week in late winter, usually in February or March, and serves as a showcase for the agricultural heritage and youth achievement that are central to the Marion County community.
At its core, the Southeastern Youth Fair is a celebration of youth involvement in agriculture. Students from across Marion County participate through 4-H and FFA (Future Farmers of America) programs, exhibiting livestock they have raised and cared for as part of their agricultural education. The livestock shows include competitions for cattle, swine, goats, sheep, poultry, and rabbits, with young exhibitors judged on the quality of their animals and their showmanship skills. These competitions represent months of preparation and dedication by the students, and the livestock auction that accompanies the fair provides a real-world marketplace experience.
Beyond the livestock shows, the fair features a full carnival midway with rides and games that appeal to visitors of all ages. From spinning rides and bumper cars for younger children to thrill rides for teenagers and adults, the midway is often one of the most popular attractions at the fair. Carnival ride wristbands and individual ride tickets are typically available for purchase. The food vendor area is another highlight, with a variety of traditional fair foods including funnel cakes, corn dogs, cotton candy, barbecue, kettle corn, and other seasonal favorites.
The Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, which hosts the fair, is a significant agricultural venue in North Central Florida. The facility hosts equestrian events, cattle shows, and other agricultural activities throughout the year, but the youth fair remains one of its signature events. For families looking for things to do in Ocala during fair season, the Southeastern Youth Fair offers a mix of education, entertainment, and community spirit that reflects Marion County's deep agricultural roots. Visitors interested in farm experiences and rural life will find the fair to be a particularly enriching outing.
Fair Highlights
- •Livestock shows & judging for cattle, swine, goats, sheep, poultry & rabbits
- •4-H and FFA youth exhibitor competitions
- •Full carnival midway with rides & games
- •Food vendors with classic fair favorites
- •Agricultural exhibits & educational displays
- •Livestock auction for youth exhibitors
- •Family-friendly fun for all ages
What to Expect at the Fair
Livestock Shows
Watch Marion County youth exhibit their livestock in judging competitions organized through 4-H and FFA. Categories include cattle, swine, goats, sheep, poultry, and rabbits, with participants showcasing months of dedicated animal care.
Carnival Rides
The midway features a variety of carnival rides for all ages, from gentle kiddie rides to more exciting options for thrill-seekers. Games of skill and chance line the midway, offering prizes and adding to the classic fair atmosphere.
Youth Competitions
Beyond livestock, the fair showcases youth projects in categories including agriculture, home arts, and educational exhibits. These displays highlight the talents and skills that Marion County students develop through organized youth programs.
Local Food Vendors
No fair is complete without the food. Vendors offer classic fair favorites including funnel cakes, corn dogs, cotton candy, barbecue, kettle corn, and other treats. Local food trucks and stands add regional flavor to the midway dining experience.
Venue & Visitor Information
Southeastern Livestock Pavilion
- 2232 NE Jacksonville Road, Ocala, FL 34470
- Fair held annually in February/March
- Multiple days of events, check schedule for daily hours
- Gate admission, ride tickets, and food sold separately
Tips for Attending
- •Arrive early for the best parking and shorter wait times
- •Wear comfortable shoes for walking the grounds and midway
- •Check the daily schedule for livestock show times
- •Bring cash for vendors and ride tickets
- •Weekday evenings tend to be less crowded than weekends
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View Venues →Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Southeastern Youth Fair in Ocala?
The Southeastern Youth Fair is typically held in February or March each year. The fair runs for multiple days, often spanning about a week. Exact dates vary annually, so check the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion website or the fair's social media pages for the current year's schedule.
Where is the Southeastern Youth Fair held?
The fair is held at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, located at 2232 NE Jacksonville Road in Ocala, Florida 34470. The venue is a multi-purpose agricultural facility that hosts the youth fair as well as numerous other livestock events, horse shows, and community gatherings throughout the year.
What can you do at the Southeastern Youth Fair?
The fair features a wide variety of activities including livestock shows and judging competitions, a midway with carnival rides and games, food vendors selling fair favorites, agricultural exhibits, youth project displays, and live entertainment. There are activities for all ages, from young children enjoying rides to adults watching livestock competitions.
Is there a carnival at the Southeastern Youth Fair?
Yes, the Southeastern Youth Fair includes a carnival midway with rides and games. The midway typically features a range of rides from kid-friendly options to thrill rides for older guests. Carnival ride tickets or wristbands are usually available for purchase at the fair, with pricing varying by year.
What livestock shows are at the youth fair?
The Southeastern Youth Fair features livestock shows and judging competitions for various species including cattle, swine, goats, sheep, poultry, and rabbits. These competitions are organized through 4-H and FFA programs, with Marion County youth exhibiting and showing animals they have raised as part of their agricultural education projects.
Is the Southeastern Youth Fair free?
The fair typically charges an admission fee at the gate. Parking is generally available at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion grounds. Carnival rides, games, and food are priced separately from general admission. Exact pricing varies by year, so check the fair's official communications for current admission costs.
Experience the Southeastern Youth Fair
Livestock shows, carnival rides, great food, and community spirit. The Southeastern Youth Fair is a Marion County tradition the whole family can enjoy.