The 73rd Annual Dubuque County Fair is rolling into Dubuque County Fairgrounds from July 28 to August 2, 2026, promising six days packed with heart-pounding excitement, family-friendly attractions, and toe-tapping live music that captures the very best of summer traditions. This year’s lineup blends high-energy headliners, local talent, thrilling track events, interactive experiences, and plenty of community spirit. Whether you’re a country music fan, rock enthusiast, or just looking for good old-fashioned fair fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. 

Mainstage Concerts: Big Sounds Under the Open Sky

The fair’s grandstand entertainment delivers standout performances that will have the crowd cheering. Note that these concerts require separate tickets in addition to fair admission (more on pricing below). 

•  Tuesday, July 28 – 7 PM Mainstage: Kick off the fair with a crowd-pleasing Neil Diamond Tribute and Country Duets by Doug Allen Nash. It’s the perfect nostalgic yet upbeat start to the week, sponsored by Biechler Electric. Tuesday is also Free Admission Day (sponsored by Tegeler Wrecker & Crane), making it an ideal entry point for families. 

•  Thursday, July 30 – 7 PM Mainstage (Gates at 6:30 PM): Country Day heats up with rising star Dylan Marlowe and special guest Atlus. Expect high-energy anthems and heartfelt hits that define modern country. This one’s sponsored by Theisen’s and is sure to be a highlight for fans. 

•  Friday, July 31 – 7:30 PM Mainstage: Rock Night brings Sleep Theory with special guest Silly Goose (noted as ALBORN in some listings). This hard-rocking lineup promises powerful vocals, driving rhythms, and an electrifying atmosphere to close out the weekend strong. 

Concert Ticket Info: Prices typically range from around $25 to $46.50 depending on seating (Grandstand GA/Reserved options available; exact pricing and availability via Etix or the fair site). Fair gate admission is not included with concert tickets. Purchase early for the best seats! 

Beer Garden / Festival Garden Entertainment: Local Vibes and Late-Night Fun

The Festival Garden (often referred to as the Beer Garden area) serves as a lively hub for continuous entertainment, featuring local and regional acts that keep the good times rolling well into the night. This is where fairgoers gather for cold drinks, great company, and fantastic music in a relaxed, festive setting. 

Here’s a quick rundown of the spotlight performances:

•  Tuesday, July 28 – 8 PM: Ken Peiffer

•  Wednesday, July 29 – 8 PM: Ken Peiffer (back for more!)

•  Thursday, July 30: 4:30–7:30 PM – The High Hands (Adam Splinter); 8 PM–Midnight – Back Booth Alley

•  Friday, July 31: 4–7 PM – Adam Keith Band; 8 PM–Midnight – Crazy Delicious

•  Saturday, August 1: 2–6 PM – Ozzy and Bon JoeB; 8 PM–Midnight – Ditch Lillies

•  Sunday, August 2: 1–5 PM – Li Li and The Dirty B’sp

These sets complement the mainstage shows and create an all-day soundtrack of talent. The Festival Garden is the perfect spot to unwind, socialize, and discover new favorites while enjoying fair favorites like food and drinks. 

Beyond the Music: A Full Fair Experience

Music is just the beginning. Expect thrilling track events like Pro Late Model Series Racing (Wednesday), ECIPA Truck & Tractor Pull (Saturday), Demolition Derby, and more. Families will love the Sensory-Safe Hour (8–9 AM daily) with quieter grounds, plus attractions like Scott’s Foam and Bubble Party, Old MacDonald’s Farm, Tiny Town, the Exotic Animal Zoo, mechanical bull, kids’ activities, exhibits, and the midway with ride bracelets ($35 for unlimited on most days). 

Fair Admission: Adults (12+) $12, Kids (0-11) FREE. Save with a 5-for-4 ticket package. Parking is generally free with shuttle service. 

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It

The Dubuque County Fair isn’t just an event — it’s a beloved community tradition that brings people together to celebrate agriculture, talent, competition, and summer joy. With its mix of big-name concerts, local spotlight acts in the Festival Garden/Beer Garden, family-oriented days, and classic fair thrills, 2026 is shaping up to be one of the best yet. The energy, the smiles, the memories — this is where family traditions are made and continued. 

Mark your calendars, grab your tickets, and get ready to make some noise at the Dubuque County Fair! For the latest details, full daily schedules, and ticket purchases, visit dbqfair.com. See you there — it’s going to be an unforgettable week! 🎡🎤🍻

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