INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — The Indiana State Fair has announced the first wave of performers for the 2026 Hoosier Lottery Free Stage, with five acts spanning rock, hip-hop, gospel and classic American music set to take the stage. The free concerts are included with paid fair admission and run Au g. 7 through Aug. 23. The fair is closed on Mondays. All shows begin at 7:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted, and seating is first-come, first-served. Here’s which artists to expect so far. More big names in music will be announced in the coming months. The Beach Boys – Friday, Aug. 7 (Opening Day) Busta Rhymes – Thursday, Aug. 13 Gene Simmons – Thursday, Aug. 20 Don McLean – Saturday, Aug. 22 Tasha Cobbs Leonard – Sunday, Aug. 23 The state fair says there is a limited amount of reserved viewing area tickets available for the Free Stage concerns. For more information, visit the Indiana State Fair‘s website. ...read more read less