Concertgoers at the 97th annual Delaware State Fair this summer will get their fill of country, blues, pop and Christian rock music.
The State Fair revealed its 2016 concert series roster Wednesday morning. A total of 16 music artists will take the stage over 10 days in Harrington this July, including Delaware’s own George Thorogood, Little Big Town, X Ambassadors and For King and Country.
The performers announced Wednesday join the previously announced acts, comedian Jeff Dunham and country music artist Alabama.
Delaware State Fair assistant manager Danny Aguilar says the cancellations of Big Barrel and Delaware Junction country festivals certainly affected the way the State Fair approached its musical lineup.
“We had the lineup done before we heard about some of the cancellations. So we went back and let’s try and bring in a few more country artists,” said Aguilar.
For the first time, the State Fair will present a “Kick-off Concert!” in which gate admission is not required. But patrons won’t have access to carnival rides, circus performers, among other things. It will feature country music singer Jake Owen with Granger Smith.
Aguilar adds that while the music acts are a huge draw, many visitors come for the cultural experience.
“Our specialty is that we’re a day trip type of entertainment, so when folks come, they’re not only seeing the concert, but they have the opportunity to have great fair food, do some people watching, ride the rides if they like the rides, and take in hundreds and hundreds of exhibits.”
The fair will also feature events like the “Monster Truck Meltdown,” presented by the Delaware Volunteer Firefighter’s Association.
The 97th annual event will be held at the state fairgrounds in Harrington from July 21 to 30. Tickets will go on sale next Friday, March 11th at 10 a.m. and can also be purchased online at at the Delaware State Fair website.
