SEDALIA, Mo. – The University of Missouri will kick off the 2026 Missouri State Fair with Mizzou Day on Thursday, Aug. 13, bringing a full day of traditions, celebrations and family-friendly activities to fairgoers.
Visitors can hear from University of Missouri President Mun Choi, celebrate ribbon cuttings for the Governor Michael L. Parson Arena and the newly renovated Missouri 4-H Building, meet Truman the Tiger and enjoy demonstrations from MU schools and colleges.
“Mizzou Day is a chance to celebrate our partnership with the Missouri State Fair and the people of Missouri,” said Chad Higgins, University of Missouri vice chancellor for Extension and Engagement. “Whether you’re visiting a livestock show, exploring the 4-H Building or stopping by Mizzou Central, you’ll see how the university is serving communities across our state.”
Mizzou Day highlights
Opening ceremony. The celebration begins at 11 a.m. in the Governor Michael L. Parson Arena, where President Choi will join state leaders in officially opening the 2026 Missouri State Fair.
Governor Michael L. Parson Arena ribbon-cutting. At noon, Governor Mike Kehoe, Missouri Director of Agriculture Chris Chinn, former Gov. Mike Parson and other state leaders will celebrate the opening of the newly named Governor Michael L. Parson Arena.
Truman Tiger Roar Contest. Kids ages 8 and younger can show off their loudest tiger roar during the Truman Tiger Roar Contest at 1:30 p.m. on the Kids Stage. Truman will be there to cheer on participants.
Missouri 4-H Building ribbon-cutting. At 2:30 p.m., Mizzou will celebrate the ribbon cutting for the newly renovated Missouri 4-H Building. This is the first major renovation in the building’s history. The updated space will better serve Missouri 4-H’ers during the fair and for years to come.
Mascot Meet-Up. At 3:30 p.m. at Mizzou Central, stop by to meet Truman and fair mascot BARTholomule, snap a photo and show off your Mizzou spirit.
Opening day parade. The day wraps up with the Missouri State Fair Opening Day Parade at 6 p.m., featuring Truman and the MU College of Veterinary Medicine Mule Team.
Experience Mizzou throughout the fair
There’s even more to see from Mizzou throughout the Fair.
While you’re at Mizzou Central, enjoy demonstrations from Mizzou’s colleges and schools including daily cooking demonstrations at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., where MU Extension specialists will share practical recipes, cooking tips and healthy eating ideas you can take home
Stop by the Missouri 4-H Building any day to explore hundreds of youth projects, meet Missouri 4-H members and see the creativity, leadership and hard work of young people from across the state.
Catch a livestock show or judging competition and watch Missouri 4-H’ers showcase the animals they’ve spent months raising and preparing.