The summer state of Florida becomes even sunnier during its yearly Florida State Fair. This official state fair is held at the Florida State Fairgrounds near Tampa. This annual multi-event fair lasts for 11 days.

The fair began in 1904 as the South Florida Fair. It was renamed Mid-Winter Festival until it was officially named as the Florida State Fair in 1915. In 1975, the Florida Legislature designated Tampa as the official venue for the fair. Like most fairs, the Florida version began as an agricultural expo. Now, several indoor and outdoor activities are held, as well as rides, shows and concerts that attract up to a million people each year.

The Florida State Fair hosts fine arts, crafts and agricultural competitions. There is also a live shark exhibit, rodeo, horse races and equestrian events at the Bob Thomas Equestrian Center, and the famous chocolate-covered bacon food exhibit.