Opening Day of the Indiana State Fair

It's opening day at the Indiana State Fair.

Featured Farmer: Scarborough Farms

Soybeans, Corn, Wheat, Seed Corn

15 Days of Art & Nature: The Art of the Fair

Creativity is freely flowing at the 2024 Indiana State Fair as we celebrate The Art & Nature of Fun, presented by Newfields. Gather your best pals, and come play create, and discover with us during the Greatest 15 days of the summer!

Highlights of the Day

Indiana State Fair Band Day

This year’s Band Day is sure to wow the crowds. Students, directors, and families have been preparing for this music-filled day and are ready to show off their hard work.

ILLUMINATE! Outdoors

ILLUMIATE!  is back and outdoors, there are 14 all- new lantern sculptures to admire, take pictures, and walk through.

Foghat

This 70’s English rock band is ready to take you through a nostalgic, energetic experience tonight at the Hoosier Lottery Free Stage.

5 a.m.-11a.m.

The Bob & Tom Show-> Hoosier Lottery Free Stage

Listen to this world-wide known comedy-based radio show that has been airing since the 80’s, at the Hoosier Lottery Free stage. Start your Morning off right with The Bob& Tom show.

8 a.m.            

Opening Ceremonies -> West end of Main Street at the end of the Ball State Skyride by the F.A.I.R sign

Officially kick off the Fair at our opening ceremony!

9 a.m.

WTHR Olympic Zone-> Coliseum Plaza

Embark on a journey of sporting excellence and entertainment at the Indiana State Fair with WTHR’s engaging Olympic-themed activation, designed to immerse visitors in the spirit and excitement of the world’s most prestigious athletic event. This experience promises to captivate and inspire fairgoers of all ages, fostering a sense of unity and celebration as we come together to embrace the thrill of the games.

9:30 a.m.

Gold & Glory Anniversary Event

Join us for a momentous occasion as we host a special anniversary celebration. This year marks the 100^th anniversary of the Gold and Glory Sweepstakes at the Indiana State Fair. This historic event celebrates a century of excitement, tradition, and community spirit, paying tribute to the cherished memories and thrilling moments that have defined this iconic competition over the years.

9 a.m.-9 p.m.

ILLUMINATE! Outdoors ->The Backyard

Back by popular demand! We’re moving last year’s smash hit ILLUMINATE! Outdoors to The Backyard with 14 all-new immersive lantern sculptures. Experience the spectacular display of artistry every day of the Fair!

9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Baby Animal Feeding Adventure-> Goat Mountain

Embark on an enchanting baby animal feeding adventure at the Indiana State Fair, where families can bond with adorable young animals and create unforgettable memories together.

9 a.m.-9 p.m. 

State Fair Outdoor Basketball Court-> Gate 12             

We’re Hoosiers! As if we could just say ‘bye-bye!’ to Basketball. Our brand-new outdoor court is now open and is a permanent addition to the Fair! Open daily for free-play 9 AM-9PM, located just inside Gate 12. Camps & contests vary; check daily.

9 a.m.

Indiana State Fair Band Day / PRELIMINARIES -> Hoosier Lottery Grandstand   

Bands From all over the State show off their skills and talent. Presented by Music Travel Consultants & Paige’s Music.

9 a.m.-9 p.m. 

Artscape: Where Imagination Grows ,Anila Agha’s All the flowers Are for Me: Turquoise Newfields Performances, Demos & Gift shop -> Harvest Pavilion           

Find a bite-sized taste of Newfields at Artscape: Where Imagination Grows in Harvest Pavilion! From art demos and performances to artmaking and outdoor inspired free play, Newfields experts have crafted a one-of-a-kind space for lovers of art and nature of all ages to enjoy! OPEN DAILY | 9AM–9PM

9 a.m.-8 p.m. 

State Fair Splash Pad, Playsets & Sandboxes -> MHS Family Fun Park

Looking for a quick way to cool off? Check out our newest permanent fixture- the State Fair Splash Pad, a gentle water play experience and a perfect gathering spot for families! Located in MHS Family Fun Park, open daily 9AM-8PM

9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Open Show Art Exhibits-> Indiana Arts Building

Explore the Open Show Art Competition and Exhibit in the Indiana State Fair Arts Building! Marvel at diverse artworks from local talented artists, showcasing creativity and skill. A must-see for art enthusiasts!

1 p.m., 3PM p.m., 6 p.m.

Pogo Fred-> Main Street    

Pogo Fred holds multiple Guinness World Records for his extreme pogo stick stunts and is regarded as one of the best jumpers on the planet! Stop by Main Street at 1PM, 3PM, 6PM to experience this incredible stunt show, full of tricks and flips!

2:30P p.m., 4:30 p.m. & 6:30 p.m.

Chris Lantz of Extreme Sculpting-> Main Street            

Sawdust will fly and the chainsaw will roar as internationally award-winning chainsaw artist Chris Lantz transforms an ordinary log into an extraordinary work of art. His thrilling & fast-paced show is sure to amaze viewers of all ages- you’ll have to see it to believe it! Be sure to catch Extreme Sculpting on Main Street at 2:30PM, 4:30PM & 6:30 PM. An additional 11:30 AM show will take place on Saturdays & Sundays.

7:30 p.m.

Foghat-> Hoosier Lottery Free Stage

The English rock band is known for its hard, blues, and boogie rock from the 70s. Their gritty and energetic sound was very influential in the rock genre. Their 1975 hit song “Slow Ride” remains one their most popular songs and symbol of their unique sound. Tonight they will perform some of their best hits, guaranteeing a fun and exciting night for everyone!

8 p.m.

Indiana State Fair Band Day Finals-> Hoosier Lottery Grandstand   

Watch the selected bands from the preliminaries perform in the finals! Presented by Music Travel Consultants & Paige’s Music at the Hoosier Lottery Grandstand at 8PM.