Jacksonville Fair opens at new Westside location with more parking and JTA shuttle service

The 2026 Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair is offering a free shuttle service operated by the Jacksonville Transportation Authority.

The shuttle carries passengers from the JTA bus stop at 103rd Street and Blanding Boulevard directly to the fairgrounds. The fair opened today and runs through November 15.

The transit service comes as the fair moves to a brand new facility on the Westside instead of its former downtown location. The shuttle aims to alleviate travel concerns and provide access for visitors who lack personal vehicles.

Bill Olson, president and CEO of the Greater Jacksonville Agricultural Fair, addressed concerns regarding the location shift.

“So what I tell people - let’s say it’s far - it’ll take you probably less time to get here and park than it would downtown to try to get there and park somewhere,” Olson said.

The continuation of the shuttle service was previously in question because the Jacksonville Transportation Authority is dealing with a $39 million budget shortfall.

Olson said during a Wednesday news conference that he was unsure if the service would remain available.

“I’m happy that JTA stepped up and they’re doing this partnership with the fair to get people out here,” Olson said, after learning the shuttle was still operating.

To prepare for the transit service, fair officials built a dedicated bus loop drop-off area as part of the new fairgrounds construction.

The shuttle operates every 30 minutes. Service runs on weekdays from 4 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. and on weekends from 11:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

Olson noted that the service offers a vital option for fairgoers across the area.

“I mean we want everybody to come to the fair. So if you don’t have a vehicle or transportation, this is a good way for them to be able to come to the fair,” Olson said.

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