Indiana would simply not be Indiana without the Indiana State Fair. What would we do without all those fried treats, fair rides, free concerts, and random retail booths?
This year at F.C. Tucker, we thought we would continue to highlight the glory of the State Fair by creating our second annual “Ultimate Guide to Attending the Indiana State Fair.” This guide should answer all those pressing State Fair-related questions that have been tugging on your heart since you saw the first advertisement.
Dates:
This year, the State Fair runs from August 2-18.
Hours:
Of course, it is important to know about the various opening and closing times, so we have listed them for you below.
Gate Hours
Sunday-Thursday………………..……….9AM-9PM
Friday-Saturday……………………..……9AM-9:30PM*
Building Hours
Every Day…………………………..…….…9AM-9PM
Vendor Hours
Every Day……………………………………9AM-9PM
Midway Hours
Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday……………………..12PM-10PM
Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday………………………………………11AM-11PM**
*The only exception is on Friday, August 2 (7:30AM-9:30PM) and Saturday, August 3 (6AM-9:30PM)
**The only exception is on Saturday, August 18 (11AM-10PM)
Price:
Below, we have listed the general admission, children, and advanced ticket prices. Be sure, however, to check out the “Fair’s Promotional Days & Deals” page for special one-day deals. Here is the link: https://www.indianastatefair.com/state-fair/tickets-discounts/discounts-promotions/
General Admission: $12
Children 5 and Under: FREE
Advanced Tickets (bought prior to August 2): $8
2019 Theme:
“Heroes in the Heartland” – This year, the Indiana State Fair’s theme is no mere vegetable, as it has been in the past. Instead, this year, the fair is focusing on the best among us – our heroes. These heroes are without capes and they serve us everyday – farmers, first responders, teachers, law officers, firefighters, and Armed Forces members.
Every day of the State Fair, different heroes will be recognized. From heroes of history to heroes of hope, all deserve their own special day at the Fair. A full list of the various heroes covered can be found under the “Cultural Heroes” section of this page: https://www.indianastatefair.com/state-fair/heroes-in-the-heartland/. To celebrate these individuals and others in our society, the Fair is also asking attendees to submit a photo of their own hero.
Of course, how could there be a hero theme without a small mention of our favorite comic book superheroes? In the Harvest Pavilion, the Fair will be hosting the event “Super City: Where Heroes Unit!” exhibit. This exhibit is described as hands-on and highly interactive, highlighting our favorite comic book heroes while simultaneously celebrating our everyday heroes. One fun fact to know – every day of the Fair, a different superhero will make an appearance for a meet-and-greet experience.
If you love Captain America, Black Panther, Wonder woman, and Thor (just to name a few), the Indiana State Fair is certainly for you!
FREE Concerts:
Perhaps one of the best things about the Indiana State Fair is the free concert series included with fair admission. Each year, talented artists from around the nation perform. No ticket is required, but seating is limited, so be sure to show up early for these awesome free concerts! Listed below are a few of the awesome concerts headed your way this year. For the full list, check the website here: https://www.indianastatefair.com/state-fair/entertainment-attractions/chevrolet-free-stage/
August 2, 7:30PM – Ace Frehley
August 3, TBD – yet to be announced
August 4, 7:30PM – Chase Rice
August 5, 7:30PM – Air Supply
August 6, 7:30PM – Indiana Wind Symphony
August 7, 7:30PM – Switchfoot
August 8, 7:30PM – KC & the Sunshine Band
August 9, 7:30PM – Pop 2000 Tour – Hosted by Lance Bass featuring O-Town, Aaron Carter, Ryan Cabrera, Tyler Hilton “One Tree Hill”
August 10, 7:30PM – David Nail
August 11, 6:00PM – Francesca Battistelli
August 11, 7:30PM – Matthew West
August 12, 7:30PM – Happy Together Tour – Featuring the Turtles, Chuck Negron formerly of Three Dog Night, Gary Puckett & The Union Gap, The Buckinghams, The Classics IV and The Cowsills
August 13, 7:30PM – Sixteen Candles
August 14, 7:30PM – Boyz II Men
August 15, 7:30PM – Melissa Etheridge
August 16, 7:30PM – Everclear
August 17, 7:30PM – The Guess Who
August 18, 7:30PM – Gospel Music Festival Headlined by Mary Mary
New Things to Do:
K9 Crew Trick Dog Show – What would the Fair be without a plethora of animals? This year, dogs are in the spotlight with the K9 Crew Trick Dog Show. The K9 Crew has been featured on Good Morning America, Animal Planet, and season four of America’s Got Talent. Their shows at the fair will take place in the Anderson Family Fun Park and will occur at 11AM, 1:30PM, 4PM, and 6PM daily.
Remembering Our Fallen – As a part of the theme this year, Heroes in the Heartland, the Fair is creating a photographic war memorial featuring 31 “Tribute Towers.” These Tribute Towers will highlight 5,000 fallen servicemen and women who have died since 9/11/2001. This memorial will be open April 2-11 and will be open from 9AM-9:00PM every day.
The Indiana History Train – If you were not proud of Indiana already, you really need to make a stop at the Indiana Historical Society’s Indiana History Train. This train serves as a home for the new-ish exhibit, “Made in Indiana,” featuring various inventions from Indiana. Technically this is not a new element as it was introduced last year, but we still felt it was important to highlight.
Things to Eat:
What would an American State Fair be without delicious unhealthy food? Below, we have listed a few of the new Fair fare! (Food descriptions are from the “2019 Taste of the Fair” page at www.indianastatefair.com)
Peanut Butter Pineapple Pork Burger (Indiana Pork Producers) – “The famous Indiana Pork patty is sandwiched on a bun, spread with a layer of peanut butter and a pineapple ring.”
Deep Fried BBQ Bacon (Goodwin Family Products) – “Deep fried fresh bacon, dusted with BBQ rub then glazed with homemade BBQ sauce.”
Corn Dog Split (Gobble Gobble) – “Get ready for this turkey corn dog split down the middle with cheesy mac and cheese down the opening, topped with chili and jalapenos!”
Deep Fried PB&J (AP Concessions) – Do you really need a description?
I know, your mouth is watering, your feet are itching to get out the door, and you simply cannot wait to experience all the Fair offers. Mark your calendars for one of those August dates and have a delightful time!
