Chennai's 50th India Tourist and Industrial Fair: A Nostalgic Celebration with Modern Attractions

For generations of Chennai families, a trip to the Island Groundsexhibition has been a ritual of food stalls, government pavilions, anda whirl on the Ferris wheel.

In 2026, that tradition is set to get anupgrade as the city gears up to host the 50th India Tourist andIndustrial Fair,promising a blend of nostalgia and novelty.Spread across nearly 4 lakh sq.ft. at Island Grounds, the fair willrun for 70 days, offering Chennaiites and visitors a mix of governmentpavilions, industrial showcases, and a sprawling amusement park. Everyyear, the event draws around 7 to 8 lakh visitors.The fair, better known locally as the Island Grounds Exhibition, hasfor decades been a seasonal outing for families. "For the public, theexperience will be both nostalgic and new. The golden jubilee editionis expected to feature new amusement rides, food courts, and culturalperformances, alongside the traditional government and industrystalls," said a TTDC official.Tickets have been fixed at ₹40 for adults and ₹25 for children, withTTDC monitoring sales through online and counter systems. Studentconcession tickets at ₹25 will also be distributed via schools andcolleges.Organizers will be required to erect temporary bridges across theCooum River, design a grand entrance façade, and ensure facilitiessuch as CCTV surveillance, fire safety, sanitation, and eco-friendlyoperations.

The fairgrounds will also be kept plastic-free, withdustbins and waste collection managed by the event contractor.An amusement park-equipped with innovative rides and gadgets certifiedfor safety, will be an attraction. Information boards in Tamil andEnglish will caution visitors on ride restrictions for children,senior citizens, and those with health concerns. "We are planning therides as on date. But it will be new," the official added.In addition to the entertainment, government departments and publicsector institutions will showcase welfare schemes and products,ranging from Aavin to fisheries, while TTDC will retain control overthese pavilions.