If you’re a foodie, thrill seeker or entertainment junkie, you’ll likely be among the crowds headed to the 2025 Indiana State Fair. Running from Aug. 1 through Aug. 17, this year’s fair attractions will feature a variety of new themes, food selections and shows that will keep the whole family enthralled and coming back for more.
The 2025 Indiana State Fair has been dubbed the “Soundtrack of Summer,” with organizers urging patrons to turn up the volume and turn on the memories, promising a whole playlist of your favorite things this coming August.
“The Soundtrack of Summer theme will bring a vibrant array of music and sound-related attractions. Visitors can look forward to the Vinyl Revival exhibit, which celebrates the connection between music and visual art, and various live performances that capture the essence of summer. From the roar of the midway rides to the melodies of live bands, the fair will be a symphony of summer sounds,” said LeRoy Lewis III, director of community and media engagement for the Indiana State Fair.
One of the most important items on everyone’s need-to-know list is the food. Every year, patrons show up to discover which delectable concoctions will be featured. To help whet those appetites, the public is invited to participate in the Taste of the Fair contest, a competition where vendors compete to create what Lewis calls the most “unique, mouthwatering and buzzworthy bites.” This interactive tradition immerses the public in the grand tradition of Indiana’s best fare. And of course, the fan favorites — deep-fried corn on the cob, giant tenderloin and lemon shake-ups — will be available.
Entertainment seekers should check out featured events including the World-Famous Big Top Circus, The Art of Music Experience exhibit, Mighty Mike strongman shows, DockDogs and Wolves of the World. Many of these exhibits are free with paid admission.
There will, of course, be bands on the grandstand, enticing crowds with sing-along favorites and dance-worthy beats. Fairgoers are encouraged to check out the Hoosier Lottery Free Stage for the summer concert feature. That lineup will be unveiled closer to opening day.
Families will have plenty of options to choose from, with free displays, interactive activities and mesmerizing demonstrations for every age. For a full list of things to do with kids under 10, visit indianastatefair.com/events/kids for a full schedule of crafts, encounters, play areas and more.
Those looking to show off their skills or watch the action can catch competitions ranging from livestock to LEGO, including the Supreme Drive, Indiana Brewers’ Cup and Grand Champion Showcase.
“There’s a competition for nearly every passion — from 4-H projects, home and family arts, livestock showmanship, baking and quilting, to street dancing, photography, cheerleading, gardening and more. These competitions are the heart of the fair, where rural meets urban and excellence is celebrated daily,” Lewis said.
Patrons over 21 looking for their beverage of choice can enjoy award-winning brews and spirits. The Indiana Brewers’ Cup competition, held prior to the fair, determines which brewers will be featured.
“The competition showcases the creativity, skill and innovation of brewers from across the country. With over 100 style categories judged by certified experts, the Brewers’ Cup is a true celebration of the art and science of brewing. Winners are recognized during the Indiana State Fair, where select brews are also featured for public tasting in the Indiana Beer, Wine & Spirits Garden,” Lewis said.
Wine and spirits lovers will have a variety of options thanks to the Indiana State Wine and Spirits Competition. Top vintners and distillers will showcase their creations in the Beer, Wine & Spirits Garden.
“From bold reds and crisp whites to small-batch bourbons and botanical gins, the competitions honor excellence in every pour. Award-winning selections are proudly showcased during the fair, offering visitors a chance to sample the state’s finest in a festive, educational setting,” Lewis said.
Lewis also offered some advice to make your visit run smoothly. He suggests arriving early to beat traffic and crowds. Public transportation can ease parking woes, and E-Z Park locations are available around the fairgrounds. Visitors within biking distance can use monitored bike parking for $1 off admission.
To score a deal, fairgoers can take advantage of advance discounts for parking and admission, wristbands and family four-packs.
“We’ve blended timeless traditions with bold new attractions, so every visit feels like a brand-new adventure. Come hungry, bring your curiosity and leave with memories that smell like popcorn and sound like laughter. This is Indiana’s biggest celebration — and you’ve got a front-row ticket,” Lewis said.
Don’t miss this time-honored tradition. For more information, visit indianastatefair.com.
