Indiana State Fair wrap-up

INDIANAPOLIS — In spite of several days of bad weather, the 169th Indiana State Fair brought together Hoosiers for a fun-filled 15 days.

The fair recorded its strongest final week since expanding to the three-weekend format in 2009, setting attendance records.

The final Sunday, Aug. 23, set the second-highest final-day attendance since 2009.

“We are incredibly grateful to every Hoosier who chose to spend part of their summer with us at the Indiana State Fair,” said Ray Allison, executive director of Indiana State Fair Commission.

“This year reminded us that the fair is about much more than rides, concerts, food and exhibits. It’s about people. It’s about coming together, making memories and celebrating what makes Indiana special.

“When Mother Nature challenged us, our fairgoers, employees, vendors, exhibitors and partners showed incredible patience, understanding and still had a great time.”

By The Numbers

• 800,461 attended the 2026 Indiana State Fair.

• 5 days of gate closures and sheltering in place due to storms.

• 9,000 concertgoers saw Josiah Queen on Aug. 9 — the largest crowd in Hoosier Lottery Free Stage history.

• 62,000 milkshakes served at the Dairy Bar.

• 38,600 grilled cheese sandwiches served at the Dairy Bar.

• 10,300 bowls of ice cream served at the Dairy Bar.

Always A Hit

Due to the popularity of the baseball theme this year, the Indiana State Fair and the Indianapolis Indians entered into a long-term agreement to install a permanent wiffle ball field on the fairgrounds.

“Our partnership with the state fair brought two great Indiana traditions together,” said Randy Lewandowski, president and CEO of the Indianapolis Indians.

“The response to the Schumacher Stadium wiffle ball field was tremendous, and we’re proud it will now have a permanent home at the fairgrounds.”