HUTCHINSON, Kan. – The Kansas State Fair Board has officially called to order its running meeting for the 2026 Fair as final preparations draw to a close ahead of the event’s official opening. Following Thursday’s initial orientation meeting, the board recessed and will gather again on Friday morning prior to the Opening Ceremonies for the 2026 Kansas State Fair.
On the agenda for Thursday’s orientation session was a Security and Procedures Briefing delivered by the Kansas Highway Patrol. Lieutenant Dave Golden and Captain Jimmie Atkinson briefed the board on safety measures, with Lt. Golden noting that more personnel than ever will be working to keep the fair secure this year. To safeguard attendees from aerial threats, a temporary flight restriction will be in place during parts of the fair to mitigate drone usage over the fairgrounds. Officials also highlighted that enhanced security protocols will be implemented for the gubernatorial and senate candidate debates taking place on Saturday, September 12th, while partner organizations and first responders continue to collaborate before and during the event to ensure fairgoer safety.
In addition to safety presentations, the board received updated educational briefings on state compliance standards. Assistant Attorney General Joseph Behzadi delivered a presentation covering the Kansas Open Meetings Act (KOMA) and the Kansas Open Records Act (KORA). Board members also participated in a Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Preparedness Workshop and officially approved race dates for Salt City Racing in 2027.
During the meeting, the board moved three agenda items to a future session during the fair. These deferred items include setting admission prices for the 2027 Fair, holding a discussion regarding the house located at 1803 Plum Street, and addressing Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for Entertainment and Production Grandstand. The meeting was recessed until the board reconvenes on Friday morning ahead of the Opening Ceremonies.
