Visitors to the 2026 Wilson County-Tennessee State Fair can expect an even bigger and brighter midway this year, with several classic rides receiving major renovations and makeovers. Click for More Events
According to Richard Reithoffer, president of Reithoffer Shows, the Fair’s longtime carnival ride provider, the company has spent months refurbishing some of its most popular attractions.
“This year, our team has gone all out refurbishing several of our classic rides through complete rebuilds and extensive renovations,” Reithoffer said. “I believe the show will look better than it ever has in Lebanon. We strive to provide the finest carnival ride experience of any traveling midway in America.”
One of the most noticeable transformations is the Century Wheel, a 65-foot Ferris wheel that has undergone a complete makeover. The ride can accommodate 60 to 80 riders and offers panoramic views of the fairgrounds, making it a popular attraction for fairgoers of all ages.
Younger visitors will also find a new look on the midway with the Mystery Machine, formerly known as the Magic Bus. The colorful family ride seats 24 passengers and swings riders high into the air before gently circling back down. Parents can ride alongside their children, making it a family-friendly addition to the midway.
Another Kiddieland favorite, the Rocking Tug, has also received a fresh makeover. The classic tugboat ride rocks young captains, sailors and fishermen back and forth as if they were riding imaginary waves, with room for up to 24 passengers.
Reithoffer Shows has a dedicated team responsible for bringing its rides back to life.
“We have one of the best ride refurbishment teams in the industry,” Reithoffer said. “Our Maintenance Supervisor, Tom Popvich, has more than 30 years of experience in the amusement business. When Tom finishes rebuilding a ride, it truly looks brand new.”
Each ride refurbishment includes a complete overhaul, from disassembly and sandblasting to painting, updated lighting and reassembly. Every attraction also undergoes comprehensive safety inspections before opening to the public. In addition, all rides are inspected by the State of Tennessee.
In total, this year’s midway will feature more than 60 rides, including returning favorites such as the Gentle Giant, a 105-foot Ferris wheel; multiple roller coasters; and the popular Sky Ride, which made its Fair debut in 2025.
The midway is designed to offer something for fairgoers of all ages, with two dedicated ride areas. Kiddieland, located near the Green Gate, features attractions geared toward younger children, along with a shaded area and plenty of seating for parents. Thrill rides for teens and adults are located on the north side of the fairgrounds.
Reithoffer Shows is celebrating its 130th year of operation in 2026. The company is the longest continuously operating traveling amusement company in North America and provides carnival attractions for approximately 50 events across 16 states each year.
The 2026 Wilson County–Tennessee State Fair, Tennessee’s largest annual fair, will be held August 13-22 at the James E. Ward Agricultural Center, 945 E. Baddour Parkway in Lebanon. This year’s theme is “TN Voices and Volunteers Celebrating America 250,” while the agriculture commodity promotion focus is the Year of Forestry.
Located just north of Interstate 40, the Fair is expected to draw more than 800,000 visitors during its 10-day run.
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