Severe weather hampers State Fair attendance

The Indiana State Fair drew 800,641 people over its 15-day run — a 7% drop in attendance from last year caused by significant weather events.

Severe storms required multiple temporary closures and periods of sheltering throughout the fair to prioritize the safety of guests, exhibitors and staff, a news release said.

“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, the Indiana State Fair Commission’s executive director. “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.”

This year’s theme was “Always a Hit,” carrying baseball across attractions, food and entertainment around the fairgrounds. It also dovetailed with celebrations of the nation’s 250th anniversary by pairing two long-standing American summer traditions — baseball and fairs.

The State Fair and Indianapolis Indians also announced they have entered into a long-term agreement to install a permanent wiffle ball field at the State Fairgrounds. While details are still being finalized, Schumacher Stadium will ensure a new experience for fairgoers, to build new traditions and make more memories throughout their summertime visit.

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

Here are some overall numbers and data about the 2026 Indiana State Fair:

• 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.
• Record breaking crowds attended the newly renovated Hoosier Lottery Free Stage concerts, including an estimated 9,000 concertgoers to see Josiah Queen — the largest crowd in Hoosier Lottery Free Stage history.
• Five days of gate closures and sheltering in place.

Next year’s fair will run Aug. 6-22 and will be the 170th edition.