Updates from Kansas State Fair General Manager, Bryan K. Schulz, IFMG, CFE
Generally Speaking:
Can you believe we’re already less than 40 days away from the 2026 Kansas State Fair? Preparation is in full swing as our Team works hard to get everything ready for you to come and Celebrate Kansas, America at the Kansas State Fair, September 11 through 20! As our nation marks 250 years, there’s no better place to honor the people, traditions and flavors that make Kansas feel like home. From deep-fried favorites and family rides to free entertainment, blue-ribbon exhibits and nights under the stars at the Grandstand, the Fair brings Kansas together for 10 unforgettable days. Bring your family, call your friends and start planning today at KansasStateFair.gov.
Kansas State Fairgrounds Continue to Grow
One of the most exciting things you’ll notice when you arrive this year is the continued transformation of the Bison Arena Ag Innovation Center. Thanks to the continued support of the State of Kansas and the Kansas State Fair Board, this historic facility has undergone an incredible renovation and is nearing completion. This year over 13,000 square feet of space will be opened during the Fair. Plan to stop by and see the creation of the America 250/9-11 sand and balloon sculptures throughout the Fair. The arena will also host the annual Veteran’s and Chamber of Commerce Membership Breakfasts along with several other corporate events. Add this gem to your Kansas State Fair Must See list!
Once fully renovated, the Bison Arena will provide expanded educational opportunities, enhanced events and learning space, and a modern venue that will serve visitors year-round. This investment preserves one of the Fair’s most iconic buildings while ensuring it continues to serve future generations of Kansans.
We’re committed to continually investing in facilities that enhance the experience for our exhibitors, guests, and event partners—not just during the Fair, but throughout the year.
Celebrating America’s Heritage and Kansas Traditions
In the heart of the nation beats a tradition that captures hearts, minds, taste buds, music lovers, thrill seekers, and a little friendly competition.
From the first bite of Fair food to the last ride of the night, every moment brings something worth celebrating.
This year’s Fair is especially meaningful as we celebrate several historic milestones that remind us why the Kansas State Fair is such an important part of our state’s story.
- America’s 250th Birthday, commemorating our nation’s Semiquincentennial.
- The 25th Anniversary of September 11, 2001, honoring those we lost and the heroes whose courage continues to inspire us.
- The 150th Anniversary of Kansas 4-H, celebrating generations of young leaders who have helped shape Kansas agriculture and communities.
- The 35th Anniversary of the Little Red School House, where thousands of students each year discover the rich agricultural heritage and history that make Kansas unique.
These milestones perfectly reflect what Kansas, America’s Fair is all about—celebrating our past, inspiring future generations, and bringing people together through agriculture, education, entertainment, and community.
New Fun and Fair Favorites
Looking for something a little different during your visit?
Goat Yoga returns after becoming one of our most talked-about attractions! Whether you’re an experienced yogi or simply looking for a unique experience, you’ll enjoy stretching alongside playful baby goats. Be sure to check the Kansas State Fair website for dates, times, and registration information.
New this year is Dave Lewis’ Banger Bingo — an energetic twist on traditional bingo that is part music trivia, part sing-along, and all fun! Instead of listening to Bingo numbers being called, players match video snippets of popular songs on their bingo cards while enjoying a high-energy, interactive experience that’s perfect for families, friends, and music lovers of all ages. Whether you’re a music buff or just looking to have a great time, Banger Bingo is sure to have you singing along and laughing throughout the game.
Of course, you’ll also find all the traditions you’ve come to love—from livestock shows and educational exhibits to mouthwatering Fair food, carnival rides, shopping, free entertainment, and countless family-friendly activities across the grounds.
That’s what makes the Kansas State Fair Kansas, America’s Fair — there’s truly something for everyone, every day of the Fair.
A Grandstand Lineup You Won’t Want to Miss
The 2026 Grandstand Entertainment Series offers something for every music and entertainment fan.
- September 11: Trace Adkins with Phil Vandel and Delisa Dawn
- September 12: BigXthaPlug and Stella Lefty
- September 13: Jo Dee Messina with Adam Doleac
- September 14: Demo Derby
- September 15: Hairball
- September 16: Colton Dixon & Danny Gokey with WallerCo
- September 17: Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias
- September 18: Russell Dickerson with Atlus
- September 19: Rock Fest at the Fair featuring From Ashes New with Saliva, and Saving Abel
- September 20: DCOM Live! – MUSIC FROM DISNEY CHANNEL ORIGINAL MOVIES
Tickets continue to sell quickly, so be sure to reserve your seats early.
Buy Safe. Buy Smart.
When purchasing admission or Grandstand tickets, remember that Etix is the only official ticket provider for the Kansas State Fair. Purchasing through unauthorized third-party sellers may result in counterfeit or invalid tickets.
Purchase directly through the Kansas State Fair website to ensure your tickets are authentic and you’re getting the best available pricing.
Before the gates open, before the crowd’s roar, there exists a quiet anticipation where with every sweep, every sizzle, and every behind-the-scenes preparation, the Kansas State Fair comes to life.
So, here’s to the slurps, the screams, the metals, and the memories.
This is where Kansas comes together.
Join us September 11th through the 20th in Hutchinson at the Kansas State Fair.
Stay tuned for more Generally Speaking updates as we can’t wait to see you at the 2026 Kansas State Fair where we will Celebrate Kansas, America!
Bryan K. Schulz, IFMG, CFE
General Manager
Kansas State Fair
About the Kansas State Fair
The 2025 Kansas State Fair will be held September 5-14 in Hutchinson, Kansas. Proudly the largest gathering of Kansans each year, the Fair celebrates all the things beloved about the state: agriculture, education, entertainment, and more. For more information, and to learn about 2025 Fair offerings, visit KansasStateFair.com.
