Iowa State Fair 2026 Lineup Revealed: Rock Legend Rod Stewart and Country Star Lainey Wilson to Headline

The Iowa State Fair has announced its first major concerts for 2026. Rock legend Sir Rod Stewart and country music powerhouse Lainey Wilson will headline the Grandstand stage. The shows are scheduled for the fair’s opening weekend in August.This dual-headliner strategy blends iconic legacy with red-hot contemporary talent. It signals a strong start for the 2026 edition of the iconic Midwestern event. Tickets for both concerts go on sale to the public this Friday.

Rod Stewart Makes Historic First Appearance

Rod Stewart will perform on Friday, August 14. This marks his very first concert at the Iowa State Fair. The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer brings a catalog of hits spanning five decades.His distinctive voice is known on songs like “Maggie May” and “Forever Young.” According to the Associated Press, Stewart continues to be a major global touring act. His show promises a night of classic rock anthems and soulful ballads.Fair organizers expressed excitement about securing this historic booking. They noted it fulfills a long-standing goal to bring Stewart to Des Moines. His performance is expected to draw fans from across multiple generations.

Lainey Wilson Rides Award Wave to Grandstand Debut

Lainey Wilson will take the stage on Sunday, August 16. This will be her debut performance at the Fair’s famed Grandstand. She arrives with tremendous momentum from the country music awards circuit.The singer-songwriter recently won top honors at major award shows. Her style blends traditional country storytelling with a modern, rock-influenced edge. Hits like “Heart Like a Truck” and “Things a Man Oughta Know” have defined her rise.Her concert is presented as a can’t-miss event for country music fans. It highlights the fair’s commitment to featuring today’s most relevant artists. Wilson’s energy is known to create a memorable live experience.

Ticket Information and Broader Fair Impact

Tickets for both concerts range from approximately $70 to $135. They can be purchased online through the Iowa State Fair’s official website. Phone orders will also be available through the fair’s ticket office.These high-profile shows often drive early interest and attendance. They set a positive tone for the entire 11-day run of the fair. The economic impact for local businesses in Des Moines is typically significant.The announcement suggests a robust entertainment lineup for 2026. More Grandstand acts are expected to be revealed in the coming months. The fair remains one of the largest and most beloved events of its kind in the United States.

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The 2026 Iowa State Fair lineup begins with a powerful one-two punch, offering something for both classic rock enthusiasts and modern country fans. Securing artists of this caliber underscores the event’s premier status and promises an unforgettable opening weekend for all attendees.

A quick knowledge drop for you

When do tickets for the 2026 Iowa State Fair concerts go on sale?

Tickets for the Rod Stewart and Lainey Wilson concerts go on sale this Friday at 10 a.m. They are available online at the Iowa State Fair’s official website and by phone.

How much do tickets cost?

Ticket prices vary by seat location. They generally range from about $70 to $135 before applicable fees. Premium Grandstand seats are at the higher end of that scale.

Has Rod Stewart ever played the Iowa State Fair before?

No. The 2026 concert will be Rod Stewart’s first-ever performance at the Iowa State Fair. This makes it a historic booking for the event’s long-running Grandstand series.

What is the full date range for the 2026 Iowa State Fair?

The 2026 Iowa State Fair is scheduled to run for 11 days from Thursday, August 13, through Sunday, August 23. The Rod Stewart and Lainey Wilson concerts are part of the opening weekend lineup.

Will more musical acts be announced?

Yes. The fair typically announces its full Grandstand concert lineup over several months. The Rod Stewart and Lainey Wilson shows are just the first headliners confirmed for 2026.

Where can I find official information?

All official information, including ticket links and schedules, is posted on the Iowa State Fair’s website. It is the primary and most reliable source for all fair-related updates.