The Illinois State Fair has announced their first headliner for the 2026 grandstand stage.

Country music star Lainey Wilson will headline the event on Aug. 15.

"Being awarded Entertainer of the Year, Female Artist of the Year, Album of the Year, and Artist-Songwriter of the Year, Lainey Wilson continues to take the world by storm," the fair announced, calling it "one show you won't want to miss."

Tickets for the performance go on sale at 10 a.m. Saturday.

The announcement is likely the first of many major headlining acts planned for the 2026 state fair.

Last year's event saw performances by The Black Crowes, Megan Moroney, Sheryl Crow, Snoop Dogg, Brad Paisley, The Chainsmokers, Def Leppard and more.

The 2026 Illinois State Fair runs from Aug. 13 through Aug. 23.

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