MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
The countdown is on, with just eight days to go until the 2025 Kansas State Fair kicks off in Hutchinson. Fair General Manager Brian Schulz says preparations are well underway as vendors, exhibits, and entertainment begin to move onto the grounds.
“We’ve been out making sure everything is ready,” Schulz said. “People are starting to move in, and for safety reasons, we’ve closed the grounds to walkers during setup. With big trucks, combines, tractors, and other large items coming in, it’s just too dangerous.”
Free entertainment and local talent
Schulz highlighted this year’s lineup of free entertainment, much of it featuring Kansas talent. Acts will perform at venues across the fairgrounds, including the Lowen Stage at Lake Talbott, the newly upgraded People’s Bank and Trust Arena with a permanent canopy, and Gottschalk Park. Local performers include Derby’s America’s Got Talent runner-up and Ella Wellman of Sterling, now a K-State student.
Vendor spots and traditions
Vendors are also making their return. Most booths are held year-to-year, with waiting lists for new spots. The fair takes care to avoid placing direct competitors side by side. Schulz noted that equipment displays remain a highlight, connecting new generations with Kansas’ agricultural roots.
“We’re five to seven generations removed from the family farm,” Schulz said. “For many young people, this is their first chance to see a combine or tractor up close.”
Grandstand lineup
This year’s grandstand shows feature a wide variety of acts:
• Friday: Sam Barber and Adriana
• Saturday: Jeff Dunham
• Sunday: Josh Turner with Jason Scott and the High Heat
• Monday: Demolition Derby
• Tuesday: Fair Fight Pro Wrestling
• Wednesday: Josiah Queen with Ben Fuller (Christian Night)
• Thursday: Hairball
• Friday: Ludacris
• Saturday: Plain White T’s with The Fray
• Sunday: Lorrie Morgan with Mason Ramsey
Saltwater Taffy returns
One sweet tradition is also making a comeback. The Kansas State Fair Foundation will be selling official saltwater taffy as a fundraiser. The taffy, absent in recent years, will be available at the merchandise booth near the interactive fountain and at the 1861 Club.
New Foods and Classic Favorites
Alongside staple fair foods like Pronto Pups and roasted corn, new items this year include fried brownie bites, pulled pork corn dogs, pineapple smoothies, and firecracker wontons.
Tickets and app updates
Advance ticket packages are still available, including kids, seniors, and couple’s night bundles. Schulz recommends purchasing early, as prices increase once the fair begins. Adults will be $10 at the gate, while kids 6–12 are $6, and seniors $6.
The Kansas State Fair app has also been updated, offering visitors maps, schedules, food locations, and event reminders. “It’ll be your best friend during the fair,” Schulz said.
Opening Day
The fair opens Friday, September 5, with gates at 10 a.m. and opening ceremonies at 11 a.m. at the People’s Bank and Trust Arena, where a ribbon-cutting will also be held for the new canopy.
The fair runs for 10 days, bringing back a mix of tradition and new experiences for Kansans of all ages.