for the concerts, the racing and demolition derby, 4-H exhibits, rides, or the Beer Garden vibes, it’s set to be one of the best weeks of summer in the region. For the full daily schedule, tickets, and updates, visit the official site: dbqfair.com. 

Mark your calendars and get ready for six days of memories—see you at the fair! 🎡🎤

The 73rd Annual Dubuque County Fair returns to the Dubuque County Fairgrounds (14569 Old Highway Road) with a packed schedule of family fun, agriculture exhibits, carnival rides, racing, and standout live music. This year’s music lineup features two major mainstage concerts alongside daily entertainment in the Festival Garden (also known as the Beer Garden area), promising something for every taste. 

Mainstage Concerts: Country Night and Rock Night

Thursday, July 30 – Country Night

Dylan Marlowe with special guest Atlus

•  Gates open at 6:30 p.m., show at 7:00 p.m.
Rising country star Dylan Marlowe headlines after building momentum with hits like “Boys Back Home” (feat. Dylan Scott). Opening act Atlus, from Denver, brings a high-energy mix influenced by pop, rock, and hip-hop, with massive streaming success and opening slots for artists like Jelly Roll. 

Friday, July 31 – Rock Night

Sleep Theory with special guest Silly Goose (Note: Some sources mention ALBORN as opener)

•  Gates open at 6:30 p.m., show at 7:00 p.m.
Sleep Theory, a breakout rock/metalcore act from Tennessee, delivers high-energy performances blending heavy riffs, emotional hooks, and powerhouse vocals from Cullen Moore. They’ve toured with Shinedown, Falling In Reverse, and others, and dominated Active Rock radio charts. 

Ticket Information for Concerts (separate from fair admission):

Tickets are available via dbqfair.com or Etix. Prices typically start around $25–$46+ depending on seating (Grandstand GA/Reserved or Festival Area SRO), with limited tickets remaining for popular nights. Fair gate admission is required in addition to concert tickets. Purchase in advance for the best selection. 

Fair Admission (required for grounds access):

•  Adults (12+): $12

•  Children (0–11): FREE

•  Discounts available (e.g., 5-for-4 packages). Tuesday, July 28 is Free Admission Day.

•  Parking: General (free with shuttle), Preferred $10/day. 

Festival Garden / Beer Garden Entertainment

The Festival Garden (Blain’s Stage) offers free live music daily with your fair admission, creating a lively Beer Garden atmosphere with local and regional bands, cold beverages, and a relaxed vibe perfect for hanging out with friends and family. 

Key highlights include:

•  Tuesday, July 28: Ken Peiffer (8 p.m.)

•  Wednesday, July 29: Ken Peiffer (8 pm)

•  Thursday, July 30: Joey V Music (afternoon), The High Hands / Adam Splinter (4:30–7:30 p.m.), Back Booth Alley (8 p.m.–midnight)

•  Friday, July 31: Adam Keith Band (4–7Pm.), Crazy Delicious (8 p.m.–midnight)

•  Saturday, August 1: Ozzy and Bon JoeB (2–6 p.m.), Ditch Lillies (8 p.m.–midnight)

•  Sunday, August 2: Li Li and the Dirty B’s (1–5 p.m.)

Additional events like Beer Olympics add to the festive energy in this area. 

Other mainstage entertainment includes Tuesday’s free Doug Allen Nash (Neil Diamond tribute and country duets).