Nebraska State Fair 2024 in Midwest

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The Nebraska State Fair is a prominent annual event held in Grand Island, drawing visitors from all over the region. It takes place every year from late August to early September, runs for 11 days, and concludes on Labor Day. Known for its blend of agricultural heritage and modern entertainment, the fair offers a wide range of activities suitable for families, music lovers, and thrill-seekers alike.

Schedule

Daily hours of operation for the fair are from 10 am to 9 pm. The event promises carnival rides, live music performances, and a plethora of food and drink options. For those interested in agriculture, the "Raising Nebraska: Your Food and the Families Who Grow It" exhibit offers an educational look at the journey from farm to table.

Bullriding and Bullfighters

The US Foods Outdoor Arena will host the heart-pounding action of the Ultimate Bullriding Tour and the Ultimate Bullfighters Tour, challenging some of America's toughest cowboys on August 23 and 24, both at 7 pm.

Music at the Heartland Events Center

Moving indoors to the Heartland Events Center on Sunday, August 25, at 7:30 pm, Casting Crowns, accompanied by special guest Anne Wilson, will uplift audiences with their inspirational music. The following day, Monday, August 26, at 2 pm, the Heartland Events Center will resonate with the timeless hits of The Gatlin Brothers and Lorrie Morgan. Then, on Tuesday, August 27, at 7:30 pm, the iconic sounds of The Guess Who will fill the Heartland Events Center.

Outdoor Concerts

Transitioning outdoors to Anderson Field on Wednesday, August 28, Riley Green will kick off the outdoor segment of the Nebraska Lottery Concert Series. Ramon Ayala will take the stage at Anderson Field on Thursday, August 29, showcasing his signature norteño music. On Friday, August 30, Anderson Field will come alive once more with the return of Turnpike Troubadours and the energetic sounds of Shane Smith and the Saints. And on Saturday, August 31, Yung Gravy will bring his platinum energy to Anderson Field alongside Tayler Holder. All of these concerts start at 7:30 pm.

Motorsport Events

The excitement continues on Sunday, September 1, at 5 pm, with the Nebraska Bush Pullers Truck & Tractor Pull at the State Fair Motorsports Park. Concluding the festivities on Monday, September 2, at 2 pm, the Nebraska Demolition Derby Championship will thrill audiences at the State Fair Motorsports Park.

Tickets and Parking

Ticket prices for the Nebraska State Fair vary depending on the event, ranging from $12 to $90. General admission tickets for individuals aged 13-59 are priced at $12. Guests aged 60 and above and children aged 6-12 can enjoy discounted admission at $6 throughout all fair days. Children aged five and under enjoy free admission. Parking is available on-site.

Carnival

At the carnival, pricing options cater to various preferences and budgets. Wristbands offer unlimited rides, with advance purchases available at $28 and weekday and weekend rates at $37 and $42, respectively. For those seeking flexibility, adult coupons come in packs of 5 for $7, while coupon sheets offer discounted rates at 30 tickets for $35 and 50 tickets for $50. Special promotions like Two Dollar Tuesday, Three Dollar Thursday, and Labor Day Last Blast Dollar Rides make certain rides, food, and games more affordable.

Location, History, and Infrastructure

Grand Island is easily accessible by car, and for those traveling from out of town, the city is approximately 90 miles (145 km) west of Lincoln. The fairgrounds are equipped with modern facilities, including the Pinnacle Bank Expo Center and the Nebraska Building. The first fair was held in Nebraska City in 1859. It changed various locations—Brownville, Lincoln, and Omaha—until it moved to Grand Island in 2008. Since then, the state has spent $42 million on new facilities like the arena, horse track, and convention center.