Fulton County Fair unable to secure carnival for 2025, citing financial constraints

The Fulton County Fair Association has announced that despite efforts to secure a carnival for the 2025 fair. The decision comes after a community poll in 2024 showed strong support for bringing a carnival to the annual event.

In a release, the association said the carnival industry has struggled recently, especially in Missouri and Arkansas, where many providers closed due to COVID-19 and economic challenges. Consequently, fewer companies are available, with many booked years in advance or requiring costly guarantees.

Fair officials noted that securing a carnival involves a guarantee fee, a fixed payment to the provider regardless of ticket sales or cancellations. The lowest fee quoted was $20,000, while historical sales generated $12,000 to $14,000, creating a shortfall of $6,000 to $8,000. Given the fair’s nonprofit status and need for funds for costs like electricity, insurance, and maintenance, the association said absorbing this risk was unfeasible.

The association also noted that it would not be fair to place this burden on local sponsors, who already contribute to the fair’s various expenses.

The association said it is committed to ensuring the 2025 Fulton County Fair remains an enjoyable event. Plans are underway to introduce more activities, inflatables, and games to entertain attendees of all ages.

Looking ahead, the board is actively seeking sponsorships and alternative funding sources to bring a carnival back for the 2026 fair. They remain hopeful that a carnival can again be part of the event with additional community support.