Fairgoers younger than 18 will not be allowed in after 9 p.m. without adult supervision

Fairgoers younger than 18 will not be allowed in after 9 p.m. without adult supervision

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Fairgoers younger than 18 will not be allowed in after 9 p.m. without adult supervision

Increased security and no unsupervised kids after 9 p.m. will be part of this year's Mississippi State Fair.

The Mississippi State Fair is coming up, and many leaders have been planning ahead as safety concerns rise.

Multiple law enforcement agencies are working together to keep people safe at the fair, which is the state's largest annual event.

The 163rd Mississippi State Fair will run from Oct. 6 to 16 in Jackson. The armory at the state fairgrounds will operate as a command center for law enforcement.

"Over the years, we've had great success. All of that's because of our working relationship and partnership with law enforcement," said Agriculture and Commerce Secretary Andy Gipson.

Gipson said for the first time, fairgoers who are younger than 18 will be required to be accompanied by an adult every night of the fair.

"We do have, from time to time, large numbers of unsupervised youths come in late at night without adult supervision," Gipson said. "After 9 p.m., youth will be required to have adult supervision when they come through the gates. In other words, after 9 p.m., every guest may be asked to show official I.D. that they are of-age."

There will also be a heavy police presence — including mounted patrols and K-9 units — seven entry points, metal detectors and bag checks at each entrance. Gipson said there is also video surveillance around the fairgrounds.

The increased security is in response to a shooting in May at the Mississippi Mudbug Festival that ended with one dead and several injured.

"When people come to the Mississippi State Fair in 2022, it will be the safest place in Mississippi. We say that every year, but I believe it is especially true today," Gipson said.

There are also some new events at this year's fair, including a professional bull riding event. The Tri-State Rodeo will return for a second year, along with the Great American Wild West Show. Tap here full list of events.

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