EVENTS

2024 Indiana State Fair: 15 new things to do beyond the food and rides

Portrait of Cheryl V. Jackson Cheryl V. Jackson
Indianapolis Star

The Indiana State Fair is far more than rides and food.

Fair organizers on Wednesday announced 15 new attractions for 2024.

These new features include a daily Artscape pavilion curated by Newfields that will have demos, performances and free play; the Illuminate display of 14 immersive lantern sculptures, now moved outdoors; and an outdoor movie theater with family-friendly films projected on a giant screen.

Stay cool at the fair:Indiana State Fair just unveiled its new splash pad

New activities and events at 2024 Indiana State Fair

  • State Fair Splash Pad
  • Gold & Glory 100th Anniversary (Aug. 2)
  • Celebrating the Beatles (Aug. 3)
  • Illuminate! Outdoor Lantern Exhibit
  • Outdoor Movie Theatre
  • Momma Town Live Birthing Center
  • Great American Duck Race
  • Pogo Fred
  • Chris Lantz of Extreme Sculpting
  • WTHR Olympic Zone – Paris
  • Artscape! Where Imagination Grows Exhibit
  • DockDogs presented by T-Mobile
  • 406 FMX High Air Tour
  • Baby Animal Feeding Adventure
  • Lore & Tall Tales at the Indiana History Train

Need a break? Play the USA TODAY Daily Crossword Puzzle.

All of the events are free with paid fair admission.

The new splash pad is unveiled Friday, July 12, 2024 at the Indiana State Fair. The agricultural-themed splash pad is a new permanent attraction for fairgoers in the MHS Family Fun Park on the fairgrounds.

Dates for  the 2024 Indiana State Fair

The 2024 Indiana State Fair takes place Aug. 2-18 (closed Mondays).

Get tickets for the 2024 Indiana State Fair

A complete list of state fair events and attractions, along with available tickets can be found at IndianaStateFair.com.

Contact IndyStar reporter Cheryl V. Jackson at cheryl.jackson@indystar.com or 317-444-6264. Follow her on X: @cherylvjackson.