2026 Indiana State Fair Reveals First Wave of FREE Stage Concerts
The Indiana State Fair has unveiled the first wave of performers for the 2026 Hoosier Lottery Free Stage, and the lineup is shaping up to be one of the summer's most anticipated slates of live music. Running August 7th through August 23rd (closed Mondays), the fair returns with nightly concerts included with your admission.
Free Concerts Return to the Indiana State Fair
No separate ticket, no extra cost. Just show up, get through the gates, enjoy everything the fair has to offer, and then stick around for a great show. Each year, the Hoosier Lottery Free Stage provides a great variety of artists, drawing crowds with an eclectic mix of iconic acts and genre-spanning sounds. Most performances get underway at 7:30 p.m., with a handful of exceptions noted on the schedule.
The Beach Boys | Friday, August 7th
The Beach Boys have two big reasons to celebrate in 2026 - America's 250th birthday, and the 60th anniversary of the band's Pet Sounds album.
Busta Rhymes | Thursday, August 13th
Anytime there is a discussion about the best MC's of all time, Busta's name is always near the top of the list.
Gene Simmons | Saturday, August 20th
I think it's safe to say that by now, Gene Simmons needs no introduction.
Don McLean | Monday, August 22nd
Don McLean is responsible for one of the most iconic songs of ALL time - "American Pie." I bet you're humming it right now, aren't you?
Tasha Cobbs Leonard | Tuesday, August 23rd
Tasha is the headlining act of the Gospel Music Festival, which begins at 3pm. Tasha is scheduled to take the stage at 7:30pm.
These acts are just the tip of the proverbial iceberg. Officials will continue to announce even more FREE concerts as we get closer to the 2026 Indiana State Fair!
The Indiana State Fair is partnering with the Indianapolis Indians, giving the fairgrounds a baseball-inspired makeover, including interactive experiences for the whole family. An area that will undoubtedly be a crowd favorite is the “mini-Victory Field” wiffle ball diamond. It might be meant for the kiddos, but you know the adults (myself included) will love stepping up to the plate too.
A Celebration Of Baseball And Tradition
This partnership also ties into America’s 250th birthday and combines two summertime traditions – fairs and baseball – into one unforgettable season. It’s a chance to soak up some nostalgia while making brand-new memories with friends and family.
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