Indiana State Fair announces 2026 theme: “Always a Hit”

Last Updated on March 29, 2026 by Cass County Communication Network

Two of Indiana’s most recognizable summer traditions are teaming up for a grand slam summer. The Indiana State Fair and Indianapolis Indians announced today a partnership for the 2026 Indiana State Fair, bringing together iconic organizations that have long been part of the Hoosier summer experience. The partnership was announced today at Opening Day festivities at Victory Field, where leadership from the Fair and Indians, gathered with fans and media to celebrate the collaboration.

“The Indiana State Fair has always celebrated the best our state has to offer,” said Ray Allison, Indiana
State Fair Executive Director. “Nothing celebrates America and Indiana quite like baseball and the State
Fair. We are excited to partner with the Indianapolis Indians to celebrate America’s pastime and our
nation’s 250th birthday at the 2026 Indiana State Fair.”

The summer-long partnership will bring an exciting lineup of activations to both Victory Field and the
Indiana State Fair. Fairgoers can step up to the plate with immersive, interactive experiences,
highlighted by a “mini-Victory Field” wiffle ball diamond on the north side of the Fairgrounds. The
baseball theme will also serve as a centerpiece for the United States 250th Birthday celebration, bringing
Americana to life through two timeless traditions—fairs and baseball—creating a season that is both
nostalgic and unmistakably All-American.

“I am thrilled for this year’s Indiana State Fair theme to celebrate the game of baseball alongside our
very own hometown team, the Indianapolis Indians. What a perfect year for this collaboration as we
honor the 250th Birthday of America through the lens of two of America’s greatest traditions: fairs and
baseball,” said Indiana Governor Mike Braun.

“The Indianapolis Indians are honored and excited to partner with the Indiana State Fair this year. As we
celebrate our nation’s 250th birthday, we are delighted that two of Central Indiana’s longest standing
summer traditions are working together to make this one especially memorable,” said Randy
Lewandowski, Indianapolis Indians president and CEO. “As Indy’s Original Home Team, we look forward
to welcoming fans throughout the state to Victory Field and the Fairgrounds this summer.”
The 169th Indiana State Fair returns Friday, August 7th through Sunday, August 23rd (closed Mondays).

Look for more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.indianastatefair.com.

About the Indiana State Fair:
The Indiana State Fair, known as the state’s premier multi-day event, is a vibrant celebration of the
Hoosier spirit and agricultural legacy. Over 15 exciting days, it unites communities across Indiana to
honor the state’s unique identity and welcomes visitors from far and wide. Renowned for its top-notch
entertainment, spotlight on 4-H youth, engaging agricultural education programs, modern facilities, and
an array of delicious fare, the Indiana State Fair has been a treasured tradition for Hoosiers for over a
century. The 2026 Indiana State Fair takes place from August 7th to August 23rd (closed Mondays). For
comprehensive event information, ticket details, and attractions, be sure to visit our official website at
www.indianastatefair.com.

About the Indianapolis Indians:
The Indianapolis Indians are the professional Triple-A baseball club affiliate of the Pittsburgh Pirates. In
continuous operation since 1902, the organization believes in creating affordable and memorable
experiences for fans so they can grow closer together with family, friends, and the community through
the game of baseball. The Indians play their home games at Victory Field, a 13,750-seat ballpark located
in downtown Indianapolis and White River State Park. The venue opened in 1996 and has received
numerous national accolades as one of the best minor league ballparks in the United States. The team
has led Minor League Baseball in combined total attendance over the past 15 seasons. In 2018, the
organization was recognized as Ballpark Digest Team of the Year. It was also named a 2019 Best Places
to Work by the Indiana Chamber of Commerce.

SOURCE: News release from Indiana State Fair