Indiana Association of Fairs

08/27/2026

CALLING ALL FAIR & FESTIVALS

Have you found something that works? Have a great idea, success story, or experience other fairs could learn from? We want to hear from you!

The Indiana Association of Fairs (INAF) is now seeking educational, practical, and engaging presenters for the 2027 Annual Convention.

Whether you represent a large county fair or festival, a small community festival, or anything in between, your experience matters. Share what you’ve learned, what you’ve improved, and what could help another fair or festival succeed.

Presentation topics could include:
• Marketing & social media
• Sponsorships & fundraising
• Livestock & agriculture
• Concessions & vendors
• Special events
• Entertainment
• Volunteer management
• Operations & facility management
• New ideas & innovative programs
• And so much more!

📅 Proposals due: September 1, 2026
📢 Selections announced: November 1, 2026

Know someone who would make an incredible presenter? You can submit a proposal yourself OR share this opportunity with someone you think has something valuable to teach our industry.

👉 Submit a presenter proposal: link in comments

08/24/2026

View Daniel Lee "Danny" Alley's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

08/17/2026

As we come to the end of our middle weekend, we want to pause and reflect for a moment. This has been a hard week for Indiana.

Indiana is facing real hardship, and for many Hoosiers, that hardship is far from over. But times like this have a way of reminding us what really matters.

Family. Friendship. Tradition. And feeling connected to the place we call home. These are the things at the heart of the Indiana State Fair. And every day here, you can see them all around us.

Throughout the grounds. Along the midway. Inside the show ring.
For almost 170 years, the Fair has been a place where Hoosiers come together. And sometimes, especially when life feels heavy, being together is what matters most.

To everyone across Indiana affected by the recent storms and flooding, our hearts are with you and we will continue to help and support however we can. We want you to know, this is YOUR Fair.

And whenever you’re able, there will be a place here for you to gather, to smile, to reconnect, and to keep making memories with the people you love.

To our first responders and military members who continue to keep us all safe during these difficult times, THANK YOU. As a small gesture of our gratitude, we’re inviting you and your families to take a day, to step away, make memories and enjoy the Indiana State Fair on us.

Starting this Wednesday, August 19th, the Indiana State Fair will offer free admission to all First responders, current and former Military, and their families through the remainder of the Fair (Sunday, August 23rd).

Nothing can stop the Hoosier spirit. And nothing can stop the Indiana State Fair. See you Tuesday for the final week. 💙

08/15/2026

BIG NEWS AND UPDATES FOR THE FAIR!!!

TODAY ONLY at the Lake County Fair!

Carnival wristbands are $5 OFF today, Saturday, August 15!
Tomorrow’s wristband special of $22 will remain the same as previously advertised.

And there’s even more good news, admission to the Lake County Fair is FREE for the remainder of the Fair!

FREE ADMISSION:
Saturday, August 15
Sunday, August 16

4-H Auction is happening today, registration begins at 3pm, auction starts at 5pm. This auction is open to anyone to participate.

Come out, enjoy the rides, food, exhibits, animals and everything the Lake County Fair has to offer as we finish out the 2026 Fair!

Due to limited parking on the grounds remember to park at Crown Point High School.

08/14/2026

The Lake County Fair has navigated some daily closures due to a power outage after the weather early this week. Make plans to visit the Lake County Fair this weekend!

06/24/2026

Did you miss yesterday's newsletter? Subscribe now to get future notifications from the Indiana Association of Fairs. Link in comments

06/16/2026

05/27/2026

It's fair time across Indiana!

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/185v29qNFo/

It's the beginning of summer break and I have the fair on my mind! Here is the county fair dates from across the state. Which fair is your favorite?!

04/09/2026

The Vanderburgh County Fair hosted the Southwest You Make the Difference pit stop! Tonight’s attendees representing Harrison, Gibson, Vermillion, and Vanderburgh counties learned valuable resources to keeping volunteers engaged, marketing and obtaining new sponsors. Tomorrow is the last chance in Boone County to see the valuable education that You Make the Difference provides. It’s time to expand your toolbox!

04/07/2026

Happy to kickoff in Elkhart!! Join us in Jefferson, vanderburgh or Boone counties!!

Another powerful stop on the Indiana tour!

Today’s You Make THE Difference session, led by award winning fair and ag society advocate Ian Hill was hosted by the Elkhart County 4-H Fair and the conversations were as energizing as they were meaningful.

Ian Hill’s message continues to resonate—and it’s clear that Indiana is ready to lead with purpose.

Thank you to all who participated for being part of this journey. You are the difference makers