The Wilson County – Tennessee State Fair is making several schedule changes and is adding additional cooling measures due to the extreme heat.
The fair, which runs through Aug. 22, does remain open James E. Ward Agricultural Center fairgrounds in Lebanon.
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for most of Middle Tennessee west of the Cumberland Plateau through the evening of Sunday, Aug. 16. Heat indices are expected to exceed 110 degrees during the hottest parts of the day, with air temperatures potentially in the triple digits as well.
The Special Needs Day event, clogging exhibition and Bike Ride Across Wilson County scheduled Aug. 15, have been postponed until Saturday, Aug. 22.
More schedule updates will be shared as
necessary throughout the coming days, fair officials said.
The fairgrounds have 10 air-conditioned buildings, three large covered pavilions, shade throughout Historic Fiddlers Grove and special cooling stations located at the former First Aid Station and other areas of the Fairgrounds.
Free water, popsicles and lemonade will also be available at various locations throughout thegrounds.
Fair gates will open as scheduled at 10 a.m., Saturday, Aug 15. The Reithoffer Shows Carnival will open at 1 p.m.Saturday armbands that allow for unlimited rides for those that qualify will now be valid all day instead of ending at 5 p.m., so fairgoers can enjoy rides later in the day as temperatures cool.
The weather service warns the heat warning means temperatures are reaching dangerous and potentially life-threatening levels.
Fair officials are encouraging those who attend to prepare for the heat, stay hydrated, take breaks and be aware of signs and symptoms of heat-related illness. Fair officials will continue to monitor conditions and makeadjustments as necessary.
This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Wilson County – Tennessee Fair takes heat measures, schedule changes
