Jason Crews is the owner and editor of INFRARED MAGAZINE and a Dallas–Fort Worth-based music journalist and concert photographer. Through INFRARED MAGAZINE and JASON CREWS PHOTOGRAPHY, he covers rock, metal, country, and live music with a focus on album reviews, artist features, concert coverage, and photography. His work is driven by a genuine passion for music and helping artists connect with new audiences through honest writing, strong visuals, and meaningful storytelling.
DALLAS, TX — One of the STATE FAIR OF TEXAS’ most recognizable live-music traditions is getting a major change for 2026. The Chevrolet Main Stage is moving inside the historic Fair Park Coliseum, giving Fair concerts an indoor, concert-style home for the first time in this new chapter of the stage’s history.
The move keeps one important tradition intact: Main Stage performances remain included with State Fair admission. No separate concert ticket is required, and seating inside the Coliseum will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
A New Setting for a Longtime State Fair Tradition
The State Fair’s Main Stage has hosted generations of performers ranging from emerging acts to some of the biggest names in popular music. The Fair points to artists including SELENA, ELVIS PRESLEY, DESTINY’S CHILD, and GARTH BROOKS among the many musicians who have appeared for State Fair audiences over the years.
For nearly three decades the stage has carried the Chevrolet Main Stage name. In 2026, the partnership continues as the performance space shifts indoors, where fans will experience a wide range of genres across the Fair’s 24-day season.
The Coliseum setting should also change the feel of the shows themselves. Moving indoors creates a more traditional concert environment while giving artists and audiences a historic Fair Park venue as the backdrop.
Music Remains Included With Fair Admission
The State Fair has built its entertainment programming around the idea that guests can experience substantial live music without adding another concert ticket to the cost of the day. That remains the case at the Coliseum, where the full Chevrolet Main Stage lineup will perform as part of regular Fair admission.
The Main Stage is only one piece of the 2026 music program. Additional daily performances are scheduled on the Bud Light Stage, the new ZiegenBock Stage, and the White Claw Spotlight Stage, giving the State Fair live music throughout Fair Park from opening day through closing night.
Former Main Stage Site Will Get New Attractions
The change also frees the Main Stage’s previous outdoor location for new uses. The Fair has said additional attractions and experiences are planned for the former stage area as part of the 2026 season.
The shift arrives during the State Fair of Texas’ 140th year and reflects a wider round of changes across the grounds, including new family areas, new value programs, and expanded entertainment offerings.
The 2026 State Fair of Texas opens Friday, September 25 and runs through Sunday, October 18 at Fair Park in Dallas.
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Source information courtesy of the State Fair of Texas.
