SOKY Fair Clear Bag Policy
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees, the Southern Kentucky Fair (SOKY Fair), hosted by the Bowling Green/Warren County Jaycees and the SOKY Fair Board, has implemented a Clear Bag Policy since the 2025 fair, held at the SOKY Fairgrounds (940 Morgantown Rd, Bowling Green, KY 42101). This policy is designed to enhance public safety, expedite entry, and align with security standards observed at similar large-scale community events.
Approved Bags
The following bags are permitted and subject to inspection upon entry:
- Clear Plastic, Vinyl, or PVC Bags: Maximum size of 12” x 6” x 12”.
- One-Gallon Clear Plastic Freezer Bags: Such as Ziploc bags or similar.
- Small Clutch Bags: No larger than 4.5” x 6.5” (approximately the size of a hand), with or without a handle or strap. These may be non-clear but are subject to thorough inspection.
- Clear Fanny Packs or Backpacks: Maximum size of 12” x 6” x 12”.
- Medically Necessary Items: Bags or equipment required for medical purposes, subject to inspection at designated entry points.
- Diaper Bags: Permitted only when accompanied by a baby or toddler, containing only baby supplies (e.g., diapers, wipes, baby food, pacifiers). Subject to inspection.
- Non-Approved Bags
The following bags are prohibited:
- Backpacks, purses, or totes that are not clear and exceed the approved size limits.
- Tinted or printed pattern plastic bags.
- Mesh bags, camera cases, or binocular cases that are not clear.
- Oversized tote bags or seat cushions with compartments.
Additional Guidelines
- Entry Process: All bags, wagons, strollers, coolers, blankets, and jackets are subject to search upon entry at the Front Entrance (940 Morgantown Rd) or Rear/Pit Entrance (1055 Glen Lily Rd). Guests with clear bags may proceed through expedited security lines, while non-clear bags (if permitted, e.g., medical or diaper bags) will require additional screening.
- Non-Compliant Bags: Guests arriving with prohibited bags will be asked to return them to their vehicles or dispose of them at the gate.
- Exceptions: Exceptions for medical bags and diaper/parental bags will be made after proper inspection. Medications (pill or liquid) must be in a clear bag for visibility.
- Shopping Inside the Fair: The clear bag policy applies only to entry. Once inside, guests may use non-clear bags for shopping or carrying purchased items. An empty, foldable non-clear bag may be brought inside a clear bag for use after passing security.
- Prohibited Items: In addition to non-compliant bags, the following are prohibited: weapons (concealed or open carry, even with a permit), alcoholic beverages, outside food or drinks (except sealed water bottles or baby supplies), drones, and gang-related clothing or accessories.
- Safety Measures: The SOKY Fairgrounds is private property under the jurisdiction of local law enforcement. Security personnel and technology may be used to screen guests and bags, ensuring a safe environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why a clear bag policy? Clear bags allow for quick and efficient security checks, reducing wait times and enhancing safety by ensuring contents are easily visible.
- What about strollers? Stroller pockets or attached bags must be clear or readily available for inspection.
Compliance
Guests who do not comply with the Clear Bag Policy will be asked to return prohibited items to their vehicles or dispose of them. The SOKY Fair reserves the right to deny entry to anyone in possession of prohibited items or engaging in behavior deemed unsafe. Security personnel have the authority to inspect all items entering the fairgrounds.
For additional information, visit sokyfair.org, message SOKY Fairgrounds on Facebook, or contact the SOKY Fair Board. We appreciate your cooperation in helping us create a safe and fun environment for all fairgoers during the 2026 SOKY Fair!