Indiana State Fair 2025: Everything You Need to Know
The 2025 Indiana State Fair runs August 1–17 (closed Mondays) at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis — and it’s shaping up to be the biggest, most music-filled fair yet. With live concerts, deep-fried favorites, rides, animal barns, and over 100 free attractions, this is the event to mark on your Indiana summer calendar.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know before you go — from discount days and hours to free shows and parking tips.
Ready to plan your visit? Grab your tickets now and skip the lines —
Buy Indiana State Fair tickets here!
A Hoosier Tradition Since 1852
The Indiana State Fair has been part of our lives since before the Civil War. Originally launched in 1852 to celebrate agriculture and industry, the fair has grown into a cultural phenomenon that now draws nearly a million visitors each year. Since settling at its current Indianapolis location in 1892, it’s become a Central Indiana summer tradition — where farming meets funnel cakes, and concerts meet carnival lights.
This year’s theme? 🎶 “The Soundtrack of Summer,” a tribute to the music, memories, and magic that make fair season unforgettable.
Major moments in the history of the Indiana State Fair - INDYtoday
Key Dates, Hours & Admission Details
Dates: August 1–17, 2025 (Closed Mondays)
Location: Indiana State Fairgrounds, Indianapolis
Theme: The Soundtrack of Summer
Parking: $10 on-site, or bike in via the Monon Trail for a discount
Shuttle: Free tractor shuttles run throughout the grounds
Admission Hours:
Tuesday–Sunday: 8 a.m. to 10 or 11 p.m. (entry closes at 8 p.m.)
Buildings open 9 a.m.–9 p.m.
Midway rides run noon–11 p.m. on most days
Closed on Mondays – plan accordingly!
Indiana State Fair 2025 Discount Days & Ticket Prices
There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the fair on a budget—especially with these themed discount days:
Discount Day | Date(s) | Deal |
|---|---|---|
$2 Tuesdays | Tuesday, Aug 5 & Aug 12 | $2 gate admission, $2 Midway rides, and $2 food options at each food stand. |
Military & First Responders’ Day | Wednesday, August 6 | FREE admission for current/former military and first responders (and families) with valid ID. Presented by Ivy Tech Community College. |
BMV Discount Day | Thursday, August 7 | $8 gate admission with printed or digital voucher from IN.GOV/BMV. |
IndyStar Free Ticket | Wednesday, August 13 | Free admission with ticket from the IndyStar (available in print Monday, Aug 11). Redeemable only on Farmers' Day. |
AAA Day | Thursday, August 14 | AAA members get FREE admission with valid AAA card (one valid card per person). |
Pro tip: Buy your tickets online to skip the gate lines and save even more.
Free Things to Do at the Indiana State Fair 2025
Not everything at the fair will cost you! In fact, there are over 100 free experiences included with admission:
Play a round of mini-golf
Cast a line at the DNR Fishing Pond
Watch the sunrise balloon launch
Catch the Main Street Parade
Walk through the livestock barns and meet the stars of Indiana agriculture
Cheer on pups at the Dock Dogs jumping competition — one of the most crowd-pleasing events at the fair!
You can find the full list of free attractions at indianastatefair.com.
100 Free Things To Do - Indiana State Fair
Top 5 Things You Can’t Miss at the Indiana State Fair 2025
The Big Top Circus (free shows daily)
$2 Tuesdays with discounted rides and food
Dock Dogs jumping competition
Sunrise Balloon Launch
Deep-fried cookie dough and fair-famous lemon shake-ups
Indiana State Fair 2025 Concert Lineup & Big Top Circus
This year’s theme, “The Soundtrack of Summer,” is bringing all the vibes—and live music is front and center.
The Big Top Circus is back with jaw-dropping acrobats, aerialists, and free daily performances
The Hoosier Lottery Free Stage will host a nightly concert lineup ranging from country to classic rock to family-friendly acts
Stay tuned in June and July when the full lineup drops at indianastatefair.com
Indiana State Fair Announces 2025 Theme: 'The Soundtrack of Summer' | Hoosier Ag Today
Indiana State Fair 2025: FAQs & Planning Tips
Q: When is the Indiana State Fair 2025?
A: The Indiana State Fair takes place August 1–17, 2025 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in Indianapolis. It’s closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.
Q: What days have free or discounted admission?
A: $2 Tuesdays (Aug 5 & 12), BMV Day (Aug 7), IndyStar Day (Aug 13), AAA Day (Aug 14). Kids 5 and under are free every day.
Q: Where do I park at the Indiana State Fair?
A: On-site parking is $10, but you can bike via the Monon Trail for a discount or hop on a free tractor shuttle from nearby lots.
Q: What’s included with admission?
A: Your ticket includes access to exhibit buildings, livestock barns, the Big Top Circus, free concerts, and 100+ free activities across the fairgrounds.
Q: What’s the theme for the 2025 Indiana State Fair?
A: The 2025 theme is “The Soundtrack of Summer”—a celebration of music, memories, and Midwest magic.
Q: Where Is the Indiana State Fairgrounds?
A: The 2025 Indiana State Fair is held at the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center, located at: 1202 E 38th St, Indianapolis, IN 46205
Pro Tip: Parking is $10 on-site, or save by biking in via the Monon Trail and using the free tractor shuttle.
More Indiana State Fair 2025 Guides
Want the full Indiana State Fair experience?
Check out the top attractions at the 2025 Indiana State Fair
Ready to plan your visit? Grab your tickets now and skip the lines — buy Indiana State Fair tickets here!
From rides to deep-fried delights, we’ve got every angle covered.
Let’s Make It a Fair to Remember
Whether you’re in it for the lemon shake-ups, live music, or livestock, the 2025 Indiana State Fair has something for every kind of Hoosier. Grab your crew, wear comfy shoes, and don’t forget to tag @GetIndiana in your funnel cake selfies.
Have a favorite fair tradition or a planning tip? Drop it in the comments or DM us on Instagram — we’ll see you at the fairgrounds!