Two of Indiana’s most recognizable summer traditions are teaming up for a grand slam summer.
The Indiana State Fair and Indianapolis Indians announced a partnership for the 2026 Indiana State Fair, bringing together iconic organizations that have long been part of the Hoosier summer experience. The partnership was announced today at Opening Day festivities at Victory Field, where leadership from the Fair and Indians, gathered with fans and media to celebrate the collaboration.
"The Indiana State Fair has always celebrated the best our state has to offer,” said Ray Allison, Indiana State Fair Executive Director. “Nothing celebrates America and Indiana quite like baseball and the State Fair. We are excited to partner with the Indianapolis Indians to celebrate America’s pastime and our nation’s 250th birthday at the 2026 Indiana State Fair.”
The summer-long partnership will bring an exciting lineup of activations to both Victory Field and the Indiana State Fair. Fairgoers can step up to the plate with immersive, interactive experiences, highlighted by a “mini-Victory Field” wiffle ball diamond on the north side of the Fairgrounds. The baseball theme will also serve as a centerpiece for the United States 250th Birthday celebration, bringing Americana to life through two timeless traditions — fairs and baseball — creating a season that is both nostalgic and unmistakably All-American.
“I am thrilled for this year’s Indiana State Fair theme to celebrate the game of baseball alongside our very own hometown team, the Indianapolis Indians. What a perfect year for this collaboration as we honor the 250th Birthday of America through the lens of two of America’s greatest traditions: fairs and baseball,” said Indiana Governor Mike Braun.
"The Indianapolis Indians are honored and excited to partner with the Indiana State Fair this year. As we celebrate our nation's 250th birthday, we are delighted that two of Central Indiana's longest standing summer traditions are working together to make this one especially memorable," said Randy Lewandowski, Indianapolis Indians president and CEO. "As Indy's Original Home Team, we look forward to welcoming fans throughout the state to Victory Field and the Fairgrounds this summer.”
The 169th Indiana State Fair returns Aug. 7-23.
Early childhood education programs earn highest rating
Illinois state sales tax reduction for school supplies to begin for parents
Illinois State Police opens another kiosk to help with FOID and concealed carry applications
Local man killed in a two vehicle accident
Celebrate 217 Concert Week with $26 grandstand tickets
New Office of Cybersecurity established in Indiana
FRESH begins across Illinois
Kratos completes $50 million state-of-the-art hypersonic systems payload integration facility in Indiana
FSSA to text HIP members about HIP work requirements
Lawrence County woman to be inducted into 4-H Hall of Fame
Lawrenceville conducting walking and biking survey
Strong storms batter Lawrence County
Deadline is Wednesday for Indiana reserved hunt applications
12th District Democratic candidate visits Lawrence County
