The Puyallup Fair, now officially known as the Washington State Fair, represents a cornerstone of Pacific Northwest tradition. For over a century, the phrase "Do the Puyallup" has signaled the arrival of September, bringing with it a unique blend of agricultural heritage, carnival thrills, and most notably, the Columbia Bank Concert Series. For the 2026 season, the fair is set to run from September 4 through September 27, offering a diverse array of musical performances ranging from legendary rock icons to modern country sensations and hip-hop pioneers.

The 2026 lineup continues the fair's legacy of bringing high-caliber entertainment to the Grandstand. A critical advantage of attending a show here is the value proposition: every concert ticket purchased includes gate admission to the Washington State Fair for the day of the event. This allows attendees to experience the full breadth of the fair—from the famous Fisher Scones to the high-energy rodeo events—before heading to their seats for the main performance.

2026 Columbia Bank Concert Series Lineup and Dates

The Grandstand at the Washington State Fair Events Center is an outdoor venue that provides a unique atmosphere as the late summer sun sets over the Puyallup Valley. The 2026 schedule is packed with notable names across various genres. Below is the current confirmed schedule for the 2026 season.

Opening Weekend: Pop Nostalgia and Parody

The fair kicks off its musical journey with a blend of legendary 80s pop and the world's most famous musical satirist.

  • Boy George and Culture Club: Friday, September 4, 2026 The 2026 series opens with the vibrant energy of Boy George and Culture Club. Known for their infectious new wave hits and soulful pop melodies, they set a celebratory tone for the opening night of the fair.
  • "Weird Al" Yankovic with Puddles Pity Party: Saturday, September 5, 2026 A Puyallup favorite, "Weird Al" Yankovic returns with his massive production, featuring costumes, video components, and a full band. Joining him is the "7-foot sad clown with the golden voice," Puddles Pity Party, creating a night of comedy and unexpected vocal prowess.

Week One: Country Powerhouses and the Dirt Series

Country music has always been the heart of the Puyallup Fair, and 2026 is no exception.

  • Little Big Town with Ingrid Andress: Sunday, September 6, 2026 The harmonic excellence of Little Big Town takes the stage early in the fair schedule. Accompanied by the contemporary songwriting of Ingrid Andress, this show appeals to those who appreciate sophisticated country vocal arrangements.
  • The Dancin' in the Dirt Series A unique subset of the concert series occurs in conjunction with the Puyallup Rodeo. These shows take place on the actual dirt of the rodeo arena, offering a "mosh pit" experience for country fans.
    • Gretchen Wilson: Thursday, September 10, 2026
    • Dylan Marlowe: Friday, September 11, 2026
    • Chase Rice: Saturday, September 12, 2026

Week Two: R&B, Hip-Hop, and Family Fun

As the fair moves into its second week, the genre shifts toward contemporary beats and family-oriented programming.

  • Blippi: Wednesday, September 16, 2026 Recognizing the fair's role as a family destination, Blippi provides a high-energy, educational live show perfect for the younger demographic during the mid-week slump.
  • Bailey Zimmerman with Chandler Walters: Thursday, September 17, 2026 One of country music's fastest-rising stars, Zimmerman brings his gritty, rock-infused country sound to the Grandstand. This performance is expected to be one of the highest-demand tickets of the 2026 season.
  • Jon Batiste: Friday, September 18, 2026 The multi-Grammy winner Jon Batiste brings musical virtuosity to Puyallup. His performances are known for their improvisational nature and high energy, blending jazz, R&B, and soul.
  • Ice Cube: Saturday, September 19, 2026 Hip-hop royalty takes the stage on the third Saturday. Ice Cube's presence at the fair highlights the diversity of the booking, ensuring that fans of West Coast rap have a headline event to attend.

Final Week: Faith, Soul, and Classic Rock

The closing week of the fair focuses on powerful vocals and timeless classics.

  • Lauren Daigle with Leanna Crawford: Monday, September 21, 2026 Contemporary Christian music takes the spotlight with Lauren Daigle. Her crossover appeal ensures a wide audience, focusing on soul-stirring vocals and uplifting messages.
  • HARDY with McCoy Moore: Thursday, September 24, 2026 Hardy brings his "Hi-xtape" energy and country-rock crossover hits to the final Thursday of the fair. Known for high-decibel performances, this is a show for those who like their country with a rock edge.
  • Trey Songz & Tyga: Friday, September 25, 2026 A double-bill of R&B and hip-hop, this Friday night show caters to the contemporary urban music crowd, ensuring the fair's penultimate weekend is high-energy.
  • Chicago: Saturday, September 26, 2026 Closing out the major musical headliners is the legendary band Chicago. With their iconic horn section and decades of hits, they provide a nostalgic and technically brilliant conclusion to the 2026 Columbia Bank Concert Series.

Understanding the Grandstand Experience

Attending a concert at the Puyallup Fair is different from attending a show at a standard arena or theater. Because the venue is part of a larger fairground, there are logistical nuances that every ticket holder should understand to maximize their experience.

The Venue Layout and Seating

The Grandstand is divided into several sections, including the Floor (which can be seated or standing depending on the artist), the Grandstand (elevated permanent seating), and sometimes bleacher sections.

In our experience, the central sections of the elevated Grandstand (Sections 202-205) offer the best acoustic balance, as they are aligned with the soundboard. However, the Floor seats provide the closest proximity to the performers. For artists like "Weird Al" Yankovic or Ice Cube, being on the floor adds a level of immersion that the elevated seats lack. Conversely, for legendary groups like Chicago, the elevated seating allows you to see the full choreography of the horn section and band.

Ticket Inclusion and Value

The most significant benefit of the Puyallup Fair concert ticket is the inclusion of fair admission. Since standard adult admission to the fair typically ranges from $15 to $18, this effectively discounts the concert ticket.

It is important to note that you do not need a separate gate ticket. You can simply present your concert ticket at any fair entrance (Gold, Blue, Red, or Purple gates) for scanning. This allows you access to the fairgrounds all day long, not just during the concert hours.

Insider Tips for Concert Goers

Based on years of "Doing the Puyallup," there are several practical strategies to ensure a smooth concert night.

Arrive Early for the Atmosphere

The Grandstand gates typically open one hour before the scheduled show time. However, we recommend arriving at the fairgrounds at least four hours early. This provides enough time to navigate the parking lots, clear security, and enjoy the fair's unique offerings.

A typical itinerary might include:

  1. 3:00 PM: Park in the Blue or Gold lots (these are closest to the Grandstand).
  2. 3:30 PM: Enter through the Gold Gate.
  3. 4:00 PM: Secure a dozen Fisher Scones. The line is always long, but it moves quickly.
  4. 5:00 PM: Explore the Expo Hall or the Farm at Sillyville.
  5. 6:30 PM: Head toward the Grandstand entrance to beat the final rush.

The Pre-Show Party Option

For those looking for a more "all-inclusive" experience, the fair offers Pre-Show Parties held in the Expo Hall. These are sold as separate tickets and include:

  • A catered dinner and two beverage tickets (including beer and wine).
  • Live music or DJ entertainment to build excitement.
  • Prizes and giveaways, which occasionally include front-row seat upgrades for the night's concert.

While the Pre-Show Party does not include the concert ticket itself, it is an excellent way to avoid the crowded food court lines and enjoy a more relaxed pre-concert environment.

Security and Prohibited Items

Security at the Puyallup Fair has increased in recent years. All concert-goers must pass through metal detectors. To speed up the process:

  • Clear Bag Policy: While the fair has traditionally been lenient, many Grandstand shows now encourage or require clear bags for faster inspection.
  • Prohibited Items: No outside alcohol, glass containers, or professional recording equipment (cameras with detachable lenses) are allowed inside the Grandstand.
  • Blankets: For late-September shows like Chicago or Trey Songz, the temperature in Puyallup can drop significantly after sunset. You are permitted to bring a small blanket to keep warm in the outdoor seating.

Transportation and Parking Logistics

Puyallup is a small city, and during the fair, traffic can be intense. Planning your route is essential.

Official Fair Parking

The fair operates several official lots:

  • Gold Lot: The most popular and usually the first to fill up. It is located directly across from the Gold Gate and the Grandstand.
  • Blue Lot: Located on the south side of the fairgrounds. It is often easier to exit after the show than the Gold Lot.
  • Red and Green Lots: These are slightly further away but often have more availability during peak weekend shows like Boy George or Ice Cube.

Public Transit and the Sounder Train

For select Friday and weekend shows, the Sounder Train provides "Fair Express" service from Seattle and Tacoma. This is the most stress-free way to attend. The train drops you off a few blocks from the Red Gate, and a shuttle or a short walk gets you to the fair. Note that the Sounder schedule is specific, so you must check if it aligns with the end time of your concert.

Food and Dining for Concert Attendees

You cannot go to a Puyallup Fair concert without eating. However, the timing is crucial. The food stands near the Grandstand get incredibly busy between 6:00 PM and 7:30 PM.

The Concert "Meal Deal"

If you are sitting in the Grandstand, we suggest grabbing "fair fries" or a "Krunchy Kreme" burger at least 90 minutes before the show. If you wait until the opening act starts, you will likely miss several songs standing in line.

For a more substantial meal, the newly renovated 1900 Food Hall offers higher-end options, including craft cocktails and rooftop seating. This is a great spot to relax if you want to avoid the more chaotic atmosphere of the main food courts.

The Unique Appeal of Dancin' in the Dirt

The Dancin' in the Dirt shows (Gretchen Wilson, Dylan Marlowe, Chase Rice in 2026) are a distinct sub-culture within the fair. After the rodeo events conclude, the arena is transformed. Ticket holders for these shows are allowed down onto the dirt floor where the rodeo just took place.

If you are attending one of these, be prepared:

  • Footwear: Wear boots or shoes you don't mind getting dusty. It is a literal dirt floor.
  • Energy: These are high-energy shows where the crowd is standing and dancing close to the stage.
  • Access: Access to the dirt is usually through the lower levels of the Grandstand. Follow the signage specifically marked for "Dirt Access."

Planning for 2026: Key Takeaways

The 2026 Washington State Fair concert season is shaping up to be one of the most balanced in recent history. By combining the nostalgia of Chicago and Boy George with the contemporary power of Bailey Zimmerman and Jon Batiste, the fair continues to be the premier destination for live music in the South Sound.

Summary of Key Points:

  • Dates: September 4 – September 27, 2026.
  • Ticket Value: Your concert ticket is your fair admission.
  • Diversity: Lineup includes Rock, Country, Hip-Hop, R&B, and Comedy.
  • Preparation: Arrive at least 4 hours early to enjoy the fair and navigate traffic.
  • Location: All major shows are at the Grandstand at the Washington State Fair Events Center in Puyallup, WA.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to buy a separate ticket for the fair if I have a concert ticket?

No. Your concert ticket includes gate admission to the Washington State Fair on the day of the show. You can enter the fairgrounds as soon as they open that morning.

Where is the Will Call window located?

The Box Office and Will Call are located at the Gold Gate, which is at the corner of 9th Ave SW and Meridian St. You will need a photo ID that matches the name on the ticket order to pick up your tickets.

What happens if it rains during a concert?

The concerts are held rain or shine. The Grandstand seating is partially covered, but the Floor and Bleacher sections are typically exposed to the elements. Ponchos are allowed, but umbrellas are usually discouraged as they block the view of other attendees.

Are children required to have a ticket for concerts?

Generally, all children aged 2 and older require a ticket for the concert. For the fair gate admission, children 5 and under are often free, but this does not apply to reserved seating in the Grandstand for the concerts.

Can I upgrade my seats at the fair?

Occasionally, seat upgrades are available at the Grandstand Box Office on the day of the show if the event is not sold out. Additionally, attendees of the Pre-Show Party have a chance to win seat upgrades.

Is there a "Meet and Greet" option for the artists?

Official "Meet and Greet" packages are rarely sold through the fair's central box office. They are usually handled through the artist's fan clubs or VIP ticketing partners. Check the specific artist's website for these opportunities.

Conclusion

The 2026 Puyallup Fair concerts offer more than just a musical performance; they provide a full day of Washington tradition. Whether you are there to see the comedy of "Weird Al," the country grit of Bailey Zimmerman, or the legendary horns of Chicago, the combination of world-class entertainment and the unique fair atmosphere makes it a highlight of the Pacific Northwest summer. By planning your parking, arriving early for those iconic Fisher Scones, and understanding the logistics of the Grandstand, you can ensure a memorable experience at the Washington State Fair.