INDIANAPOLIS – This year’s Indiana State Fair includes the long-standing Featured Farmers program and other attractions geared toward agriculture, a spokesperson for the fair said.

The 168th edition of the fair is Aug. 1-17 (closed Mondays) at the state fairgrounds in Indianapolis.

“Agriculture can be found in all aspects of the Indiana State Fair,” said LeRoy Lewis III, director of community and media engagement for the fair. “From our educational exhibits that have become family traditions, including Little Hands on the Farm, to Pathway to Water Quality, to Pioneer Village and the Glass Barn. The Featured Farmers program is a must-visit, offering daily opportunities to meet and learn from local farmers.

“Additionally, our livestock barns are full of the hard work put in by thousands of 4-Hers throughout the summer. We truly couldn’t put the state’s largest event on without our incredible ag partners.”

During the fair, 15 farm operations across the state will be honored as Featured Farmers. The farmers will participate in live chats daily in the Glass Barn, and be available to talk with fair visitors. This is the 10th year for the program.

Farmers who grow corn, soybeans and wheat will participate, in addition to those raising such things as goats, grapes, reindeer, ducks, tilapia and Christmas trees.

Lewis said fair officials are proud of the program.

“This platform is an incredible way for us to celebrate our Hoosier farming families and tell the story of the important work they do every day,” he explained. “Our mission at the state fair is rooted in celebrating all things agriculture, and this program is vital as it connects the public with the farmers who grow their food, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of agriculture.”

The attendance for the 2024 fair was over 854,000, and Lewis said officials are optimistic this year’s attendance could surpass that number.

This year’s fair theme is the Soundtrack of Summer. The theme will bring an array of music and sound-related attractions, including a Vinyl Revival exhibit, which celebrates the connection between music and visual art, he said. Various live performances will capture the essence of summer, Lewis added.

The schedule for the fair’s summer concert series will be announced in the coming months, he said.

Other attractions planned for this year’s fair include the World-Famous Big Top Circus, Mighty Mike Strong Man Show, DockDogs and Wolves of the World.

The fair is a celebration of community, culture and heritage, Lewis noted.

“From thrilling rides and delicious food to educational exhibits and live entertainment, the Indiana State Fair officers a unique experience that brings people together with a perfect blend of urban and rural Indiana. It’s a place to make memories, learn something new and enjoy the best of Indiana.

“Whether you haven’t been in years or have never stepped foot on the fairgrounds, you’re in for a surprise: this isn’t just your grandparents’ fair – though we still have their favorite lemon shake-ups. We’ve blended timeless traditions with bold new attractions, so every visit feels like a brand-new adventure. Come hungry, bring your curiosity, and leave with memories that smell like popcorn and sound like laughter.”

For more information, visit www.indianastatefair.com and click on the state fair tab. Early bird discounts on tickets are available through July 31.