The 2026 Wilson County–Tennessee State Fair returns to the James E. Ward Agricultural Center in Lebanon August 13-22, celebrating forestry as this year’s featured agricultural commodity under the theme “Tennessee Voices and Volunteers Celebrating America 250!” Click for More Events
“Forestry plays a vital role in Tennessee’s economy, environment, and way of life. With over half of the state’s land covered by forests, Tennessee’s woodlands provide wildlife habitat, clean water, recreational opportunities, forest products and economic benefits for communities across the stat,” states a press release.
Fairgoers can dig into that theme through interactive educational exhibits set up around the fairgrounds, covering everything from wildfire suppression and tree identification to sawmill operations, large forestry equipment, and woodworking. The exhibits are designed to show visitors of all ages how forestry shapes daily life in Tennessee, from the economy to the environment.
The fair’s popular Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show returns as well, with skilled lumberjack athletes competing in log rolling, axe throwing, and wood chopping. The high-energy show doubles as a showcase for the forestry industry’s traditions.
Younger fairgoers can get in on the action too. The Junior Fair Board’s Patch will host a Log Sawing Competition testing teamwork and traditional forestry skills, along with a Birdhouse Building Competition where teams race to assemble birdhouses correctly and quickly.
For a lighter take on the theme, the fair’s Timber Callin’ Contest invites participants of all ages to compete for the loudest, most convincing “TIMBERRR!”
And for a sweet treat tied to the year’s commodity, Shop Springs Creamery will serve up Little Debbie Christmas Tree Cake Ice Cream, a nod to both the forestry theme and the beloved Tennessee snack brand.
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