One more ride: Lubbock's Panhandle-South Plains Fair wraps up Saturday

The Panhandle-South Plains Fair continues for a final day Saturday at the fairgrounds at Broadway and Avenue A, wrapping up a 10-day run that began Sept. 22.

Jennifer Wallace, general manager for the Panhandle-South Plains Fair, said there are more than 40 booths run by non-profit food vendors, including familiar favorites like the Science Spectrum, area churches, band boosters and service organizations. That's close to the pre-pandemic normal for vendor turnout, she said.

The Reithoffer midway show is also back, showcasing its carnival attractions including the Ferris wheel, carousel and wide assortment of thrill rides and rides for kids.

The price for admission tickets is $10 for adults, age 13 and up, and $5 for children ages 2 to 12. Children 1 and younger are admitted for free. Parking in the large lot near the fairgrounds costs $5 per vehicle.

Ride tickets can be purchased in the carnival area for $1.50 per single ticket, with deals for buying them in bulk and specials on some days.

Enhanced security at the South Plains Fair

This year, Wallace said, fair organizers opted to enhance security procedures, including increasing the number of officers at the fairgrounds at any time by six and implementing a clear-bag policy out of an abundance of caution. There will be signage in the parking lot before entry to inform visitors of the clear-bag policy.

"It's for the safety and security of everyone," she said. "Most people are already pretty familiar with clear-bag policies from other events, and we'd rather be safe than sorry."

South Plains Fair introduces beer sales for the first time

Beer will be served on tap and in cans at this year's fair, Wallace said. It's a move that she acknowledges doesn't come without a bit of heartburn, but she said there's also been a growing call for the refreshment.

"I think we've been just about the only fair in Texas that doesn't do beer," she said. "We are kind of behind the times."

Beer will be served in select locations, including a beer trailer with standard domestic tap beer (Bug Light, Coors Light, Miller Lite, etc.) on tap for $5 for 16 ounces. There will also be canned options at various points in the non-profit food row. Beer can be consumed throughout the fairgrounds, but not beyond the gates.

Gate hours will be from 8 a.m. to midnight, with the midway open from 11 a.m. to midnight.