Lainey Wilson to headline Illinois State Fair Grandstand in 2026

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill., (KBSI) – Country music superstar and trailblazer Lainey Wilson will headline the Illinois State Fair Grandstand on Saturday, Aug. 15, 2026, marking the first major act announced for the 2026 fair lineup.

Wilson, one of country music’s most celebrated performers, continues her rapid ascent in the industry. She will host the 2025 Country Music Association Awards, where she leads all nominees with six nods, including Entertainer of the Year and Album of the Year.

Wilson will also headline the 2026 Stagecoach Festival and was recently featured on the TIME100 Next list.

Her current single, “Somewhere Over Laredo,” from the deluxe edition of her award-winning album Whirlwind, is climbing the country radio charts.

“We couldn’t think of a more powerful way to kick off our 2026 Grandstand announcements than with Lainey Wilson,” said Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II. “She’s a trailblazer in country music, and her show will be an unforgettable experience for our fairgoers.”

Wilson, known for hits including “Heart Like a Truck” and “Watermelon Moonshine,” has achieved eight No. 1 singles and collaborated with artists such as Jelly Roll, HARDY, Reba McEntire, Dolly Parton, and Post Malone. She will make her film debut in the 2026 adaptation of Reminders of Him and is currently on her sold-out Whirlwind World Tour.

“Every year, we strive to bring the best in entertainment to the Illinois State Fair, and Lainey Wilson represents exactly that,” said Illinois State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark.

“We know fans are going to be thrilled to see her take the Grandstand stage this August.”

Tickets for the performance go on sale Saturday, Nov. 8, at 10 a.m. through Ticketmaster: Buy Verified Tickets for Concerts, Sports, Theater and Events.

• Tier 3: $88
• Tier 2: $93
• Tier 1: $113
• Track: $128
• Blue Ribbon: $168
• A $30 Pre-Show Party upgrade is available for all paid concerts.

The 2026 Illinois State Fair will run from Aug. 13–23 in Springfield.