Nothing says Americana quite like the state fair series throughout the Midwest. Therefore, if you are a fan of live music, carnivals, rodeo events, crafts, culture, and cuisine with strong roots in the local spirit of a particular state, then you may have thought about crossing some of the more popular state fairs off of your bucket list and may be wondering: When and where is the Indiana State Fair?
The Indiana State Fair runs for 18 days and four weekends during the summer, commencing with the last weekend in July and ending after the third weekend in August. It takes place at the Indiana State Fairgrounds and Event Center in Indianapolis.
For those looking to plan their trip in advance, the 2022 Indiana State Fair has already announced its dates, with the event set to run from July 29 – August 21, 2022. The following breakdown looks at all of the particulars of this annual event in the heart of the Hoosier State and will help you plan your trip before you go.
When is the Indiana State Fair?
The Indiana State Fair takes place over 18 days in the summer, commencing with the last weekend in July and running through the third weekend in August. The 2022 Indiana State Fair has announced its dates as July 29 – August 21, 2022.
The fair is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays but is open every other day of the week during the four-week duration.
Are the Indiana State Fairgrounds Open All Year?
Although the Indiana State Fair only lasts for parts of four weeks in late July and most of August, the Indiana State Fairgrounds themselves are open throughout the year.
Redesigned in 1990, the fairgrounds now offer modern event facilities in a historical setting, hosting events such as conventions, consumer shows, conferences, sports, conferences, weddings, retreats, and exhibitions throughout the calendar year.
Where Is the Indiana State Fair?
The Indiana State Fair takes place at the Indiana State Fairgrounds and Event Center in Indianapolis. Its address is 1202 E 38th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205.
Laid out over 250 acres in central Indianapolis, the Indiana State Fairgrounds offers over 1,000,000 square feet of event space. Some popular nearby attractions include:
- Indy Fuel – playing their games at the fairground coliseum, the Indy Fuel is an ECHL affiliated professional hockey team that is a must-see for any sports fans or action enthusiasts.
- Indianapolis Opera – experience one of humanity’s oldest forms of entertainment via the vocal expression of timeless stories from world-class singers, designers, directors, and conductors at the Indianapolis Opera.
- Upland Brewing – if you like experiencing the intersection between bar and coffee house, then Upland Brewing is the place for you, with a funky and eclectic flair and a wide selection of hand-crafted brews to sample.
Where to Park at the Indiana State Fair
Unlike some popular events throughout the country, there is ample parking at the Indiana State Fair, making it highly accessible to people driving from all directions.
There are two designated fairground parking areas:
- Fairgrounds Infield, South Lot (38th Street)
- Indiana School for the Deaf (42nd Street): ADA parking is available in the southwest corner of the infield parking lot.
Parking is available in one of these two areas for $10, while space lasts. If you miss out on one of these fairground lots, E-Z Park lots are located just south of the 38th Street south lot, just across from the main gate. E-Z Park is also $10.
If you want to avoid driving to the fairgrounds, IndyGo Routes 4 and 39 will drop you off just steps away from the main entrance on 38th Street.
Can You Camp at the Fairgrounds?
With 170 campsites on the fairgrounds, guests are encouraged to camp during their stay at the Indiana State Fair. However, reservations must be made in advance, and campers must adhere to all campground rules.
The campground for the Indiana State Fair is located at 1209 E. 46th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205. Guests will check in at the office at this location.
Is There a Charge to Get into the Indiana State Fair?
Tickets to get into the Indiana State Fair are $10 in advance or $13 the day of the event.
To access rides on the midway, tickets cost $1.50. You can purchase wristbands for unlimited rides for $25 in advance or $35 at the door. However, the wristbands can only be used on Wednesdays, Fridays, and the last day of the fair.
Final Thoughts
The Indiana State Fair originated in the 1850s and has become one of the most popular fairs in the nation for those people looking to experience the Hoosier State’s take on Americana.
Located at the Indiana State Fairgrounds and Event Center (1202 E 38th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205) and scheduled to take place July 29 – August 21, 2022, be sure to plan your trip in advance to make the most of all that this exciting event has to offer.