Patriot Ranger greets young visitors to the Alaska State Fair on opening day, August 21, 2026. (Marc Lester / ADN)
The 2026 Alaska State Fair heads into its final stretch this weekend in Palmer. The fair starts back up Thursday and runs through Monday.
The fair has all of the old favorites — great food, vendors, rides, exhibits and more — but fairgoers can typically find new ventures each year as well.
For the fourth straight year, fair parking fees have been waived. And this weekend, the popular Alaska State Fair train will run.
There are Special Days sponsored by several groups and organizations. Many of the days offer discounts to various groups, such as military members, and package discounts are also available.
Here are 12 highlights to check out in the final weekend of the Alaska State Fair, plus information on the major acts performing each night at the Borealis Theatre’s main stage.
Thursday
Cosplay Contest: 4 p.m. at MVFCU Events Hall
This 907 Star Wars cosplay contest allows fairgoers to dress like their favorite characters from a galaxy far, far away. The organization will also be collecting donations to support Make-A-Wish.
Friday
Drone Show: 10 p.m. across the fairgrounds
This stunning drone show should be visible in the sky to fairgoers for three straight evenings starting Friday.
30th Annual Giant Cabbage Weigh-Off: 6 p.m. at Craig Taylor Farm Exhibits
Multiple records have been set at the fair over the years. This year’s crop may hold another. Top prize is $1,000.
Great Alaska Beard Contest: 2 p.m. at SBS Woodlot
This classic fair contest has categories in Urban Alaskan, Soup Strainer and Homesteader with the overall champ winning the title of Mr. Sourdough. Sign up starts at 1:30 p.m.
Saturday
Alaska State Fair Fiddle Contest: 11 a.m. at Alyeska Pipeline Colony Stage
Alaska’s best fiddlers saw on the bow for the chance at cash and prizes. People at the stage are encouraged to dance along. Registration available online.
All Star Monster Trucks: 1 p.m./5 p.m. at MTA Grandstand
Five monster trucks battle in a tailgate-smashing wheelie contest, full-throttle racing and a freestyle throwdown. Shows will take place on both Saturday and Sunday at 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Tickets are $19 for adults, $14 for kids 6-12 and $9 for kids 2-5 years old.
Kylie Thurber launches Monster Moose off a jump while racing Tanner Swinhart in Crash Test Dummy during the All Star Monster Trucks event at the Alaska State Fair in Palmer on Sunday, Sept. 1, 2024. The monster trucks weigh more than 10,000 pounds and are powered by a 1,500 horsepower supercharged engine. (Bill Roth / ADN)
Sunday
Yodeling Contest: 4 p.m. at Craig Taylor Farm Exhibits
Watch contestants call that lonely goatherd with a yodel-ay-hee-hoo.
4-H Costume Critter Showcase: 4 p.m. at. Craig Taylor Farm Exhibits
The fair’s 4H kids dress themselves and their small livestock in creative themed costumes for this fun, family-friendly showcase.
Monday
Alaska’s Got Talent Finals: 2:45 p.m. at Alyeska Pipeline Colony Stage
The top 10 performers from the preliminary round compete in the finals with statewide winners from sister fairs across Alaska.
Arena Obstacle Course Challenge: Noon at France Equestrian Center
This exciting event features horses and riders as they navigate novel obstacles as a pair.
Joni Harms: Songs & Memories Of Alaska’s Balladeer, Hobo Jim: 4:30 p.m. at Global Credit Union Bluebonnet Stage
Listen to local artists perform the songs of the legendary Alaska songwriter Hobo Jim.
Cookie Decorating for Kids: 2 p.m. at Hoskins Exhibits
Decorating starts at 2 p.m. and goes until all 200 cookies are gone.
Max McNown performs during Amazon Music Presents Country Heat at the Country Radio Seminar on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, in Nashville, Tenn. (Photo by Amy Harris/Invision/AP)
This week’s main stage Borealis Theatre concerts
• Thursday: Max McNown is a singer on the rise, with his platinum hit “A Lot More Free” paving the way for big audiences. Concert at 7 p.m.; tickets cost $49 for reserved seating/$39 for lawn.
• Friday: With Sebastian Bach on lead vocals, Twisted Sister is poised to deliver hits “We’re Not Gonna Take It” and “I Wanna Rock” along with other favorites. Concert at 7 p.m.; tickets cost $69 for reserved seating/$59 for lawn.
• Saturday: Electronic music producer Joel Zimmerman aka deadmau5 has developed a huge following with seven albums and numerous high-profile collaborations. Concert at 7 p.m.; tickets cost $79 for reserved seating/$59 for lawn.
• Sunday: Jesse McCartney started his career with boy band Dream Street and has evolved into a multifaceted performer. Concert at 6 p.m.; tickets cost $59 for reserved seating/$39 for lawn seating.
• Monday: Blending country, swing, jazz, blues and more, Lyle Lovett has established a 40-year career as a performer. Concert at 6 p.m.; tickets cost $99 for reserved seating/$59 for lawn seating.
