Kansas State Fair Kicks Off Labor Day Weekend in Hutchinson
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The nation's heartland prepares for its largest annual gathering as the 2025 Kansas State Fair opens Sept. 5-14 at the Kansas State Fairgrounds, marking the beginning of what organizers expect to be a celebration drawing over 300,000 visitors from across Kansas and neighboring states.
The Kansas State Fair has been the state's largest gathering of Kansans since 1913, transforming the Hutchinson fairgrounds into a 10-day showcase of agriculture, entertainment and Kansas culture that coincides with Labor Day weekend.
The fair's opening weekend features a packed entertainment schedule at the Nex-Tech Grandstand. Friday, Sept. 5 kicks off with Sam Barber and Avery Anna, followed by comedian Jeff Dunham on Saturday, Sept. 6, and country music star Josh Turner with Jason Scott & The High Heat on Sunday, Sept. 7.
Beyond the headline entertainment, fairgoers can expect thrilling rides and delicious fair food to must-see entertainment and agricultural exhibits. The fair also offers numerous free activities and competitions for active participation by visitors of all ages.
The Kansas Department of Agriculture will host the 18th annual Kansas Grape Stomp on Saturday, September 7, at 1:00 p.m. in Gottschalk Park, adding to the weekend's agricultural celebrations that highlight Kansas' farming heritage.
Labor Day weekend in Kansas traditionally offers various regional celebrations, though Hutchinson's Kansas State Fair stands as the premier destination. The fair runs through Sept. 14, providing nearly two weeks of entertainment at the fairgrounds located at 2000 North Poplar Street.
Organizers encourage early ticket purchases for the best deals on gate admission, food tickets, midway rides and concert tickets. VIP and reserved seating options are available for many grandstand performances.
The fair represents a mix of concerts, comedy, motorsports, and live entertainment that has made it Kansas' signature annual event for more than a century.
Quick Reference: Hutchinson Events September 1-7, 2025
Labor Day Weekend (Aug. 30 - Sept. 1)
- Labor Day Monday: Sept. 1, 2025
Kansas State Fair Opening Weekend
- Location: Kansas State Fairgrounds, 2000 North Poplar Street, Hutchinson, KS
- Dates: Sept. 5-14, 2025 (10 days total)
Daily Highlights Sept. 5-7:
- Friday, Sept. 5: Sam Barber with Avery Anna (Nex-Tech Grandstand)
- Saturday, Sept. 6: Jeff Dunham comedy show (Nex-Tech Grandstand)
- Sunday, Sept. 7: Josh Turner with Jason Scott & The High Heat (Nex-Tech Grandstand)
- Sunday, Sept. 7: 18th Annual Kansas Grape Stomp, 1:00 p.m. (Gottschalk Park)
Fair Features:
- Agricultural exhibits and competitions
- Midway rides and games
- Food vendors and concessions
- Free entertainment stages
- Commercial exhibits
- Family-friendly activities
Ticket Information:
- Early purchase discounts available
- VIP and reserved seating options for concerts
- Gate admission required
- Separate tickets for grandstand events
Expected Attendance: Over 300,000 visitors during the 10-day run