The Iowa State Fair just unveiled its opening weekend headliners for 2026, and the lineup is sensational. Rod Stewart and Lainey Wilson will kick off the Grandstand concert series on August 14-16, bringing decades of hits and momentum to Des Moines. Tickets go on sale this Friday, December 12, at 10 a.m.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Rod Stewart performs Friday, August 14 at 8:00 PM (his first Iowa State Fair appearance)
- Lainey Wilson makes her Grandstand debut Sunday, August 16 with special guest Tigirlily Gold
- Ticket prices range from $69.40 to $134.40 for both shows
- The 2026 Iowa State Fair runs August 13-23 (11 days of entertainment)
Rod Stewart Returns to Iowa as Rock & Roll Hall of Famer
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Rod Stewart, the legendary rock icon turning 81 in January, brings his storied career to Iowa for the first time in Fair history. The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer has been inducted twice—once as a solo artist in 1994 and again as a member of the Faces in 2012. His catalog includes 19 platinum and multi-platinum certified albums that shaped modern rock.
Stewart’s career spans decades of unforgettable hits and cultural moments. Known for his distinctive raspy voice and commanding stage presence, he has influenced generations of musicians. The two-time Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee was knighted in 2016 for his services to music and charitable work. Fair officials noted this marks a historic moment—bringing one of rock’s greatest practitioners to the iconic Grandstand stage.
Lainey Wilson Brings Rising Country Star Energy
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Lainey Wilson arrives in Des Moines riding an unprecedented wave of success. At the 2025 CMA Awards held November 19, the powerhouse country artist swept three major honors: Entertainer of the Year, Female Vocalist of the Year, and Album of the Year. She hosted the ceremony while performing, cementing her status as country music’s brightest emerging superstar.
Wilson will make her Iowa State Fair Grandstand debut as one of country music’s most exciting performers. The rising artist brings contemporary energy alongside her award-winning material. She’ll be joined by special guest Tigirlily Gold, a country music duo consisting of sisters Kendra and Krista Slaubaugh, adding another dimension to the Sunday evening show.
Ticket Details and Concert Schedule
| Artist | Date | Time | Price Range |
| Rod Stewart | Friday, August 14, 2026 | 8:00 PM | $69.50–$134.50 |
| Lainey Wilson | Sunday, August 16, 2026 | 7:30 PM | $69.40–$134.40 |
Sales open Friday morning, December 12, at 10 a.m. through www.iowastatefair.org or by phone at the State Fair ticket office. These opening weekend shows are presented by the Iowa Lottery. Last year’s Grandstand lineup broke all-time attendance records, setting high expectations for 2026’s entertainment slate.
Why This Lineup Matters for Iowa Fair Fans
Pairing a Rock and Roll Hall of Famer with country music’s hottest rising star demonstrates the Fair’s commitment to diverse, world-class entertainment. Rod Stewart appeals to legacy rock audiences who’ve followed his 50+ year career, while Lainey Wilson attracts younger demographics engaging with contemporary country’s momentum. Together, they span generations and musical tastes across the heartland.
The Iowa State Fair’s Grandstand has evolved into a premier concert destination in the Midwest. Hosting artists of this caliber during the fair’s opening weekend signals that 2026’s lineup will continue elevating the event’s national profile. Fans should expect additional announcements as more Grandstand acts are unveiled in coming months.
What Can Fans Expect from Opening Weekend at the Fair?
Attendees will experience more than just concerts during their August 13-23 visit. The Iowa State Fair combines world-class entertainment with livestock competitions, agricultural exhibitions, carnival rides, culinary adventures, and free entertainment throughout the grounds. Opening weekend concerts set the tone for what promises to be an exceptional 11-day celebration of Iowa culture.
Both Rod Stewart and Lainey Wilson bring catalog depth that appeals beyond casual fans. Stewart’s catalog includes timeless hits spanning rock, pop, and ballad categories. Wilson’s recent award sweep demonstrates her resonance with modern country audiences. Early ticket sales are expected to be strong given the artists’ star power and the Fair’s track record of breaking attendance records.
Jessica Morrison is a seasoned entertainment writer with over a decade of experience covering television, film, and pop culture. After earning a degree in journalism from New York University, she worked as a freelance writer for various entertainment magazines before joining red94.net. Her expertise lies in analyzing television series, from groundbreaking dramas to light-hearted comedies, and she often provides in-depth reviews and industry insights. Outside of writing, Jessica is an avid film buff and enjoys discovering new indie movies at local festivals.