Illinois Native Bailey Zimmerman to Perform at 2026 State Fair

The Illinois State Fair has announced that Illinois native Bailey Zimmerman will perform on the Illinois Lottery Grandstand stage on Ag Day, Friday, August 14, 2026.

Zimmerman, who is from Louisville, Illinois, has emerged as a prominent voice in country music in recent years. He first gained attention in 2020 by sharing original songs on social media, building a large following. His breakout single, “Fall in Love,” became the fastest debut country artist song to reach No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart in more than a decade and has since earned 4x-Platinum status. It was followed by the 5x-Platinum, six-week No. 1 single “Rock And A Hard Place.”

Zimmerman recently released his sophomore album, Different Night Same Rodeo, through Atlantic Records/Warner Music Nashville. The album includes the No. 1 country radio collaboration “Backup Plan” featuring Luke Combs, as well as tracks including “Lost” featuring The Kid LAROI, “Holy Smokes,” and “Holding On.”

“Bailey Zimmerman’s Illinois roots make this announcement especially meaningful,” said Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II. “He represents the talent and authenticity that Illinois is known for, and we’re thrilled to welcome him back home to perform at the Illinois State Fair.”

Zimmerman has received nominations from the Billboard Music Awards, ACM Awards, People’s Choice Country Awards and CMT Music Awards. He has also performed on national television programs including Good Morning America, TODAY, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and Jimmy Kimmel Live!.

“Bailey’s connection to Illinois fans runs deep, and his live shows are nothing short of electric,” said Illinois State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark. “This is a performance fairgoers won’t want to miss—whether you’ve followed his journey from the beginning or are just discovering his music.”

Tickets go on sale Friday, February 13 at 10 a.m. through Ticketmaster. Prices are Tier 3 – $55, Tier 2 – $65, Tier 1 – $75, Track – $85 and Blue Ribbon – $130. A $30 Pre-Show Party ticket is available as an add-on for paid concerts.

The 2026 Illinois State Fair will be held August 13 through August 23 in Springfield.