Indianapolis Indians named title partner of the 2026 Indiana State Fair

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 250^th 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 250^th 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 169^th Indiana State Fair returns Aug. 7-23.