Arkansas – Arkansas State Police warn fairgoers about banned bags, weapons and strict security rules as State Fair continues through October 25
Arkansas State Police are reminding visitors about security restrictions at the Arkansas State Fair, warning that prohibited bags, weapons and other restricted items will not be allowed on the fairgrounds as the event continues through October 25.
In an announcement issued October 15, the Arkansas State Police said additional troopers have been assigned to this year’s fair in Little Rock. Troopers are patrolling alongside deputies from the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office and officers from the Little Rock Police Department.
“The Arkansas State Fair is a tradition that brings families and communities together, and we want every visit to be a safe one,” said Col. Mike Hagar, director of the Arkansas State Police.
Hagar encouraged visitors to review the security rules, remain aware of their surroundings and notify law enforcement officers or fair security personnel if they notice anything concerning.
Parents are also encouraged to use identification wristbands available at the entrance to help reunite separated children with their families.
All visitors must pass through walk-through metal detectors before entering the fairgrounds, and all bags are subject to inspection. Bags larger than 12 inches by 12 inches by 6 inches are prohibited.
Several types of bags are banned regardless of their size, including regular and clear backpacks, binocular and camera cases, drawstring bags, fanny packs, tinted or patterned plastic bags, oversized tote bags, mesh bags, briefcases, luggage and computer bags. Purses and clutch bags exceeding the size limit are also prohibited.
Weapons are not allowed on the fairgrounds, whether carried openly or concealed. The restriction applies even to visitors who hold concealed weapons permits.
Other prohibited items include chains, spikes, pocketknives and any other objects fair officials consider a potential safety or security concern. Visitors are also prohibited from bringing selfie sticks, outside food and beverages, Segways, drones and tents that are not part of an authorized act or exhibit.
Pets are generally prohibited, with exceptions for service animals, leashed pets on the campgrounds and animals participating in authorized acts or exhibits. Service animals must comply with applicable state regulations.
State police are also reminding families about the fair’s admission policy for minors.
After 6 p.m., anyone younger than 18 must be accompanied by an adult who is at least 21 years old to enter the fairgrounds. Fair staff and security personnel may request identification to verify visitors’ ages.
Minors who cannot provide identification and are not accompanied by an adult will not be admitted after 6 p.m. Adults accompanying minors may also be required to present valid photo identification proving they meet the age requirement.
Fair staff reserve the right to remove unaccompanied visitors younger than 18 from the fairgrounds after 6 p.m. Credentialed youth fair exhibitors wearing designated wristbands may be exempt from the policy.
The Arkansas State Fair runs through October 25, and state police are urging visitors to familiarize themselves with the restrictions before arriving. Authorities also encourage fairgoers to follow instructions from law enforcement officers and fair security personnel throughout their visit.
The full list of restrictions is available on the Arkansas State Fair’s official policies page