The 40th Annual Space Coast State Fair began its 18-day run in Viera, opening with an exclusive celebration for team members from Kennedy Space Center. More than 1,300 employees and their families enjoyed the rides and attractions at Space Coast Daily Park before the gates opened to the public.
This year's fair, a long-standing tradition in Brevard County, runs from October 30 to November 16. It features a mix of classic attractions and new entertainment, including professional wrestling, monster truck shows, and live performances.
Key Takeaways
- The 40th Annual Space Coast State Fair is open from October 30 to November 16 at Space Coast Daily Park in Viera.
- An exclusive opening event was held for 1,300 Kennedy Space Center team members supporting NASA's Artemis program.
- New attractions include Lucha Libre wrestling on weekends and nightly Monster Truck Madness shows.
- Admission is free for veterans, seniors over 65, and children under 36 inches tall.
A Special Kickoff for Space Program Workers
The fair commenced with a private event on Saturday morning, honoring the contributions of local aerospace professionals. Over 1,300 team members from Comet of Amentum, a company that provides ground and launch operations support for NASA, were given exclusive access to the fairgrounds.
This special preview recognized the crucial role these workers play in the nation's space exploration efforts, particularly with the ongoing Artemis program, which aims to return humans to the moon.
"The 40th Annual Space Coast State Fair welcomed members of COMET, who proudly support ground and launch operations for NASA’s Artemis program," said Fair General Manager Scott Joseph. He highlighted the connection between the community event and the region's prominent aerospace industry.
The private gathering allowed these essential workers and their families to experience the fair's offerings in a more relaxed setting before it officially opened to the general public at 1 p.m. on the same day.
Entertainment Roster Blends Tradition with Thrills
For its 40th anniversary, the Space Coast State Fair has curated a diverse entertainment lineup designed to appeal to a wide range of visitors. The schedule is packed with daily shows and special weekend events, all included with the price of gate admission.
One of the most anticipated new additions is Lucha Libre Pro Wrestling. The high-flying, masked wrestling style, originating from Mexico, will be presented live every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 9 p.m. This attraction brings a unique cultural and theatrical performance to the fair, complete with heroic ténicos and villainous rudos.
Featured Attractions
- Monster Truck Madness: Nightly shows at 8 p.m. featuring powerful vehicle demonstrations.
- Squawk the Amazing Bird Show: A family-friendly performance from a group featured on America’s Got Talent.
- The Haunted House: A dedicated attraction for those seeking a spooky thrill.
- Angela’s Petting Zoo: An interactive experience with various animals, alongside traditional pony rides.
In addition to these headline acts, the fairgrounds host 35 different state fair rides, a Video Karaoke Stage for aspiring performers, and dozens of food and merchandise vendors. The combination of new and returning attractions ensures that the event continues its legacy as a cornerstone of community entertainment in Brevard County.
The Cultural Spectacle of Lucha Libre
The introduction of Lucha Libre wrestling marks a significant addition to the fair's entertainment. Known for its colorful masks and acrobatic maneuvers, Lucha Libre is more than just a sport; it is a form of storytelling. The mask is a central element, representing a wrestler's identity and honor. In Lucha Libre tradition, losing one's mask in a match is considered a profound moment in a wrestler's career.
Spectators are an integral part of the show, actively cheering for the heroes and jeering the villains. This interactive element creates a lively and engaging atmosphere, making it a popular form of family entertainment.
Visitor Information and Pricing
The fair is located at Space Coast Daily Park, 5775 Stadium Parkway in Viera, making it easily accessible from Interstate 95. The event runs for 18 consecutive days, offering ample opportunity for residents and tourists to attend.
Pricing and Discounts
General admission provides access to all shows and attractions. Ride access requires a separate purchase.
- Unlimited Rides Armband: $25 from Monday to Thursday, and $30 from Friday to Sunday.
- Individual Ride Tickets: Available for purchase on-site.
- Parking: A flat fee of $5 per vehicle.
- Free Admission: Offered to active and retired military veterans, seniors aged 65 and older, and children under 36 inches in height.
Organizers encouraged visitors to plan ahead to take advantage of savings. Advance combo tickets, which include both gate admission and an unlimited ride armband, were available for purchase before October 30, offering a discount of up to $10. These presale tickets are valid for any single day of the fair.
As the Space Coast State Fair celebrates four decades, it continues to serve as a major annual event for Central Florida, drawing thousands of visitors for entertainment, food, and community gathering. Its blend of traditional fair elements with modern, dynamic shows solidifies its place as a cherished local tradition.