How to save money at the Florida State Fair

TAMPA, Fla. (FOX 13) - The Florida State Fair is about to blast into action. You can keep your costs from soaring by timing your trip right.

Executive director Cheryl Flood says they have several promotions.

"Heroes Day is Feb. 7, which is opening day. We want to give back to those who serve in our community so any first responders [or] military, retired or active, all come in free and can bring up to three family members," Flood told FOX 13.

For the deepest discounts, visit on Feb. 12, which is Two Dollar Tuesday. If you come after 2 p.m., it's $2 admission and $2 for select food, games and rides.

"We've got the largest midway in the United States," continued Flood. "We've got entertainment for the 3-year-old all the way to the 83-year-old."

You can also save on Friday, Feb. 15 with "Five after Five." After 5 p.m. it's just $5 admission.

Giving back can give you a deal as well. Publix and Feeding Tampa Bay are teaming up on President's Day, Feb. 18, for Fair Cares for the Hungry Day. Bring two non-perishable food items to donate and you get in for just $5.

President's Day is also Student Day for Polk, Pinellas, Pasco, Sarasota, Hardee, Citrus, Highlands and Manatee counties. Students get in with a student ticket or ID for free. Meanwhile, Hillsborough County students get in free on Friday, Feb. 8.

Seniors can get in for less on the weekdays, but should expect to pay regular admission on the holiday weekend. 

Remember, parking is always free.

There's still a little bit of time left to save money by buying in advance. Wednesday is the last day you can buy tickets ahead of time on floridastatefair.com or at Publix for less.