The Youth Fair

The Miami-Dade County Fair & Exposition (The Youth Fair), Florida’s largest carnival and a Miami staple, is returning for its 74th year for 21 days from March 12 through April 5. This family-friendly event will once again take place at the fairgrounds in University Park, near Westchester. The fair will be closed March 16-17 and March 30-31.

Read on for details of the 2025 Youth Fair

This year’s theme, “Retro Rewind,” invites more than 500,000 annual visitors to step back in time with nostalgic entertainment like “Jukebox on Ice.” Feel the retro vibes across the 86-acre fairgrounds, where you can enjoy an exciting lineup of rides, a culinary showcase, thrilling games, captivating performances, agricultural and academic exhibits and an array of shopping opportunities.

Tickets can be purchased in advance for as little as $5 on select days or for $12 at Sedano’s Supermarkets throughout the destination, so plan ahead and save. If you prefer to purchase on-site, tickets will be available at the fairgrounds main gate for $16. Children ages five and under, as well as seniors 65 and older, get free admission every day.

Amusement and Games for All Ages

Adventure enthusiasts, thrill seekers and ride fanatics will find excitement in abundance, with 88 exhilarating carnival rides across three zones: Majorland, Kiddieland and Kiddieland Too. From classic roller coasters and carousels to popular midway attractions like the Ferris Wheel, Log Flumes and Sky Ride, there'll be something for everyone, whether you’re young or young at heart.

Prepare for an adrenaline rush with Downdraft, a heart-pounding new ride that mimics the sensation of free-falling through the open air. Feel the rush of wind as you’re spun in a sweeping motion, building toward a gravity-defying plunge that will leave your heart racing.

If you are seeking a playful thrill, Monkey Mayhem, another new ride, will deliver with a fun twist similar to spinning teacups. Climb aboard one of the oversized monkeys and take control of the spinning wheel. With four monkeys, each seating four to six riders, the ride will offer a chance to experience a new level of fun by adjusting the spin speed with a large turntable at the center.

There will be 30 game stations throughout the fair, offering the likes of water gun races, ring tossing, basketball shooting and a Whac-A-Mole arcade game. Games are cash only.

Fair Food Delights That Take The Cake

From delectable confections to savory surprises, this year’s fair is set to raise the bar for food fair. Returning favorites include the funnel cakes by Mama Jane Harris of The Best Around, renowned for its red velvet funnel cake. For those seeking more than just sweet indulgence, over 150 stands will offer a mouthwatering array of options, from timeless carnival staples to inventive fusion dishes that blend American classics with global flavors.

Discover Agriculture at The Fair

Celebrate the vital role of agriculture in the community by visiting the youth agriculture exhibits in the  Exhibits and Community Showcase. More than 40,000 students will display their projects and showcase their talents. The youth agriculture exhibits will feature livestock, including lamb, steer, cavies, poultry and rabbits, raised by students for exhibition and market sale. Other agricultural highlights will include horticulture and landscape design.

Children wanting to explore the world of agriculture will enjoy a special treat during the annual Howdy Tours. Led by Howdy, the freckle-faced agriculture ambassador, this educational experience is designed for second- and third-graders. The tours, on March 18 and 19 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. each day, will teach kids about plants, animals and how everyday products like milk and butter are made.

From Parades To Petting Zoos: The Best Of The Youth Fair

The Youth Fair will be packed with an exciting array of entertainment, from a daily parade at 6:30 p.m. to lively strolling performers who will engage with guests across the fairgrounds. Headlining acts have traditionally included thrilling circus performances and dazzling ice-skating shows.

No visit would be complete without a trip to the pig races and the much-loved petting zoo, where you’ll get up close with a variety of animals, including goats, alpacas, camels, zebras, kangaroos, Himalayan cows and llamas.

The Youth Fair’s Autism-Friendly Sensory Room

The Youth Fair, in collaboration with the Center for Autism & Related Disabilities (CARD) at the University of Miami and Nova Southeastern University, have designed an autism-friendly sensory room for individuals with autism spectrum disorder and related disabilities. This space will offer a calming environment with gentle lighting, soothing sounds and interactive activities.

The room can accommodate up to 12 guests and provide 15-minute sessions for individuals on the spectrum and their families to relax. It will be open daily until 10 p.m., except during school field trip hours.

Plan Your Fair Experience

To make the most of the fair, plan ahead. Download the Youth Fair app on iPhone or Android or pick up a paper guide at the information booths.

For added convenience, the Youth Fair offers stroller, wheelchair and scooter rentals.

Getting To and Around The Youth Fair

General parking is free. A courtesy tram with continuous service to and from the main gate will be available. Fair organizers recommend that you make the most of ridesharing options, such as Uber and Lyft, particularly on weekends. Rideshare passengers and those being dropped off can enter at Coral Way and 112th Avenue. The designated handicapped drop-off area is in front of the main fairgrounds entrance.

Insider Festival Tip

Most vendors at the fair accept cash only, though a few accept credit cards. Need cash? An ATM is available on-site.

By: Cristina Sorondo | February 7, 2025