Raise Those Big Hands, as Violent Femmes Set to Rock The Great New York State Fair

Wear your sunscreen on Friday, September 4 so you don't "Blister in the Sun" as American folk punk trio Violent Femmes brings their signature sound to the Suburban Park stage at 8 p.m. at The Great New York State Fair.

Violent Femmes rose to prominence in the early 1980s with their raw, energetic sound that blends folk, punk, and alternative rock. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1983, featured timeless tracks like "Blister in the Sun" and "Kiss Off," which became instant classics and are still beloved by fans today. Over the past four decades, the band has released 10 studio albums and 19 singles, including The Blind Leading the Naked, Why Do Birds Sing?, and Freak Magnet, captivating audiences with their electrifying live performances and enduring hits.

"We're thrilled to welcome Violent Femmes as our Friday evening show," said Fair Director Julie LaFave. "Their gritty, authentic sound has influenced generations, and I can't wait to see the audience sing along to their iconic songs!"

The 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:

Chevy Court:

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, TikTok, and Instagram.

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