The Wilson County — Tennessee State Fair opened this week but county emergency officials are warning that extreme heat will be a major factor for anyone attending outdoor exhibits and events. With forecasted highs reaching or surpassing 100 degrees at times over the weekend, Wilson County Emergency Management officials say they have added cooling measures across the fairgrounds and are urging visitors to plan for heat-related risks.
Cooling measures, hydration stations and schedule tweaks
Maegan Eldridge, administrative assistant and public information officer for the Wilson County Emergency Management Agency, outlined the steps the county has taken to protect fairgoers. Organizers have set up misting fans and portable evaporative coolers near the family community facility, established multiple cooling stations toward the front of the fairgrounds and installed water refill points throughout the site.
"We are kind of hoping that people are using an extreme caution in this heat because it's dangerously hot outside, especially for any elderly or young kids to come out here in this heat," Eldridge said.
Officials also said cooling towels will be handed out while supplies last. The fair's main pedestrian hours begin at 10 a.m. on Saturday, a time of special concern because it coincides with peak daytime heat.
What officials recommend for visitors
Wilson County Emergency Management advises guests to limit exposure during the hottest parts of the day and consider visiting in the late afternoon or evening when temperatures drop. Eldridge described common signs of heat exhaustion, including lightheadedness, a sense of near-fainting and an elevated heart rate, and urged fairgoers to respond quickly if they or someone in their group shows symptoms.
- Bring plenty of water or electrolyte drinks.
- Wear loose, light-colored clothing and take frequent shade breaks.
- Apply cooling towels or use misting stations to lower body temperature.
- Watch children and older adults closely for signs of heat stress.
The county has not announced any cancellations of events, but some schedule adjustments and resource placements are designed to ensure attendees have access to shade and cooling when needed.
| Resource | Location on fairgrounds |
|---|---|
| Misting fans | Back near family community facility |
| Cooling stations | Front part of fairgrounds and expo |
| Water refill stations | Throughout the site |
Local impact and context
County fairs draw large crowds and many attractions are outdoors, placing attendees at increased risk during heat waves. Heat-related illness can escalate quickly, especially among vulnerable populations such as infants, young children, older adults and people with chronic medical conditions.
Heat exhaustion may progress to heat stroke if not addressed. Symptoms of heat stroke include confusion, loss of consciousness, hot and dry skin or a high body temperature. Emergency personnel at the fair are prepared to respond, but county officials emphasize prevention — hydration, shade and avoiding strenuous activity during the hottest hours — as the best protection.
Practical tips for attending safely
Visitors should check the forecast and the fair’s schedule before leaving home. If planning to attend during the morning, consider shortening the visit or taking frequent indoor breaks. Families with young children or attendees with medical vulnerabilities should weigh postponing their visit until evening.
For those who do attend, Eldridge suggested placing a cooling towel on the back of the neck frequently and monitoring companions for early signs of heat stress. She said organizers will continue distributing supplies while available and will maintain staffing at the cooling and water stations throughout the hottest periods.
The Wilson County — Tennessee State Fair will continue through its advertised run. Visitors seeking real-time information about resources and schedule changes are encouraged to consult official fair communications and local news outlets.
Reporting from Wilson County.
