The Temperature Heat Ups as Sean Paul Set to Perform at The 2026 Great New York State Fair

State Fair Kicks Off Announcements of 2026 State Fair Concert Lineup

"Get Busy" making plans this summer, as Jamaican sensation Sean Paul debuts at The Great New York State Fair's Suburban Park on Thursday, August 27, at 8:00 p.m. This is the first concert announcement of the year, as The Fair gears up for what is sure to be the most diverse musical lineup yet, with 41 national recording acts set to take the Chevy Court and Suburban Park stages when The Fair opens its gates in the new year, August 26, 2026.

"We couldn't be more excited to launch into 2026 with the news that Sean Paul is coming to Suburban Park. His vibrant energy and global appeal make him one of the most exciting performers to see live," said Fair Director Julie LaFave. "Sean Paul's first-time Fair performance is sure to be a high-energy, unforgettable experience for fans and newcomers alike. We're expecting a fantastic turnout for what promises to be a night of great music and thrilled to share that this is just the beginning - stay tuned for more exciting performer announcements to come!"

For over two decades, Sean Paul has been a global dancehall superstar, delivering chart-topping hits that have dominated the airwaves worldwide. With hits like "Temperature," "Gimme the Light," "Baby Boy," and "Breathe," he has become known for his infectious rhythms and dynamic performances. Sean Paul's music has earned him multiple Grammy nominations, chart-topping singles, and a reputation as one of the most influential artists in reggae and dancehall music. His energetic style and international hits have made him a staple at festivals, award shows, and clubs around the globe.

The 2026 Fair starts Wednesday, August 26, and runs through Labor Day, Monday, September 7. All concerts are included in the price of admission, which will go on sale later this summer. The Great New York State Fair is the most affordable state fair in the country. Tickets are $8 for adults while admission is free for children under 12 and senior citizens aged 65 and older.

In total, The Fair's 2026 Chevrolet Music Series will feature 41 national recording acts. There will be a daily 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. concert at Chevy Court (located near Gate 1), and an 8 p.m. concert each evening at Suburban Park (located on the western end of the Fairgrounds, beyond the Midway). The Fair will also host two special shows at 9 p.m. on Friday, August 28 and September 4 at Chevy Court.

All concerts announced thus far are provided in the chart below. Fair staff will continue to update schedules on The Fair's website at pages dedicated to Chevy Court and Suburban Park.

Suburban Park:

Founded in 1841, The Great New York State Fair showcases the best of New York agriculture, provides top-quality entertainment, and is a key piece of the state's CNY Rising strategy of growing the Central New York economy through tourism. It is the oldest fair in the United States and is consistently recognized as being among the top five state fairs in the nation.

The New York State Fairgrounds is a 375-acre exhibit and entertainment complex that operates all year. Audiences are encouraged to learn more about The Great New York State Fair online, browse photos on Flickr, and follow the fun on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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