Idaho State Fair previews concerts, returning attractions and youth livestock sale; fair week begins Aug. 21

Alexia Jordan, general manager of the state fair, told the Idaho Fair Board on June 16 that the 2026 Idaho State Fair is "just over 60 days" away and preparations are underway across the facility. "Ticket sales have been really strong for both the Joe Nichols and Peter Rowan, as well as our Lee Brice concert," Jordan said.

Jordan listed headline entertainment expected to draw large crowds and said Walker Hayes was close to selling out. She announced returning and new attractions: the Sea Lion Splash will return for the first time since 2015, a new exotic petting zoo will be introduced this year, and the reptile exhibit is back "by popular demand." Competitive exhibits are open for entries; Jordan said fair books have been distributed to area libraries, commissioners' counters and the fair office.

On youth agriculture, Jordan said the youth livestock sale remains "one of our most meaningful and cherished events" and will be held Saturday, Aug. 29 at 9:00 a.m. She emphasized the sale supports local youth and agricultural education. Jordan also reminded commissioners about the apple pie judging contest, the elected-official ribbons that will be distributed by staff, and the grand opening VIP social scheduled for Aug. 21 at 4:00 p.m., which will launch the fair's America's 250 celebration.

Jordan said the fair is hiring seasonal staff, including one administrative position and several admissions and ticket-seller roles for the fair period, and encouraged referrals. Commissioners praised the staff work and no formal actions were taken.

Next steps: staff will continue event operations and recruitment through the summer and send invitations and credentials for fair-week activities to commissioners.