As winter approaches, Iowans are already anticipating the warm days of summer, particularly with the announcement of the first two headlining artists for the 2026 Iowa State Fair Grandstand. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Rod Stewart and emerging country music sensation Lainey Wilson are set to take the stage, promising an exciting lineup for fairgoers next year.
Rod Stewart, famed for his iconic hits, will perform at 8 p.m. on Friday, August 14, 2026. This marks Stewart’s much-anticipated return to the Iowa State Fair after more than four decades, with his last appearance dating back to 1984. Tickets for his concert will be priced between $69.50 and $134.50.
Lainey Wilson will also grace the Grandstand stage, making her debut at the Iowa State Fair. She is scheduled to perform at 8 p.m. on Sunday, August 16, accompanied by special guest Tigirlily Gold. Similar to Stewart’s concert, tickets for Wilson’s event will range from $69.50 to $134.50.
Ticket sales for both performances will begin on Friday, December 12, at 10 a.m. Tickets can be purchased through the Iowa State Fair’s official website, iowastatefair.org, allowing fans to secure their spots early for these highly anticipated shows.
The 2026 Iowa State Fair is set to run from August 13 through August 23. This year, the theme, “Fair Spirit,” is particularly significant as it commemorates America’s 250th anniversary. The theme draws inspiration from the 1976 Iowa State Fair, which celebrated the nation’s bicentennial with the slogan “The Spirit of Iowa ’76.” The upcoming fair aligns with similar celebrations across the country, highlighting patriotic themes.
In a nod to the upcoming anniversary, former President Donald Trump recently visited Iowa to kick off the 250th birthday celebrations, marking his first visit to the state since his return to the White House.
With an enticing lineup of performers and a meaningful theme, Iowans are sure to experience a memorable fair in 2026 as they celebrate both local traditions and the spirit of the nation.
