The announcement of multi-platinum, chart-topping band The Fray headlining the 2026 South Dakota State Fair’s grandstand on September 4 has echoed excitement among South Dakotans. As preparations intensify, Peggy Besch, South Dakota State Fairgrounds Manager, highlighted the significance of The Fray’s involvement in the event. “Kicking off our concerts with The Fray is going to be a lot of fun,” said Besch. “Their music has connected with audiences for years. We are thrilled to welcome them to the SD State Fair as they help set the tone for the rest of the concert lineup!”
The Fray, consisting of lead vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter Joe King, guitarist Dave Welsh, and drummer Ben Wysocki, rose to prominence in the early 2000s with their soul-searching alt-rock sound. Recognized with four GRAMMY Award nominations and three Billboard Music Awards, the band’s breakout single, “How to Save a Life,” is RIAA Diamond-certified and spent an impressive 58 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming an anthem through its association with ABC’s Emmy-winning series Grey’s Anatomy. South Dakota’s passionate community, known for its appreciation of diverse music genres, eagerly anticipates their performance.
After a successful 2025 tour marking the 20th anniversary of their debut album “How to Save a Life,” The Fray will be touring again in 2026, in support of their album “A Light That Waits.” Ticket presales for backrest signage holders and Friends of the Fair begin Monday, May 11, through Thursday, May 14. General ticket sales open at 8:00 A.M. CT on Tuesday, May 19. South Dakota residents can find ticket pricing and information at sdstatefair.com.
The innovative backrest signage program offers advertising opportunities for businesses or individuals, allowing them to place signage on grandstand backrests. This program grants the holders early access to purchase State Fair grandstand tickets. Detailed pricing and additional information are accessible at sdstatefair.com.
The Friends of the Fair program, run by the State Fair Foundation, presents several benefits, such as early bird access to VIP table sales, presales for reserved seating and standing room tickets for the State Fair, complimentary daily gate admission passes, and recognition on the State Fair website.
Joining The Fray in the 2026 South Dakota State Fair grandstand lineup are the popular Thunder at the Fair Truck and Tractor Pull, country star Jake Owen, the notable Red Wilk Construction Tuff Hedeman Bull Bash, and the talented Nate Smith. The fair kicks off on Channel Seeds Opening Day, Wednesday, September 2, and runs through Monday, September 7, offering a wide array of entertainment reflective of South Dakota’s rich cultural tapestry.
The South Dakota State Fair stands as a focal point of community pride, drawing visitors from across the state and beyond, eager to celebrate in Huron. Maintained by a network of dedicated volunteers and local businesses, it underscores the state’s commitment to fostering community spirit and showcasing regional talent. Fair enthusiasts can stay updated by visiting sdstatefair.com or through social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and X.
South Dakota’s identity is deeply connected with its scenic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant communities. The 2026 State Fair is expected to bookend summer with a flourish, celebrating the spirit of South Dakota through music, culture, and community collaboration. As The Fray prepares to take the stage, they join the tapestry of events that define this cherished annual tradition, weaving music’s universal language into the local narrative of shared experiences and enduring memories.
Joe King
For more information, interested parties can contact the South Dakota State Fair office at info@sdstatefair.com or by calling 800-529-0900. Engage with the latest updates and preparations as South Dakota welcomes The Fray to this historic occasion.