Illinois State Fair Adds Global Icon to 2026 Grandstand Lineup
The Grammy-award-winning sound and uplifting message from this global icon are coming to the Grandstand at the Illinois State Fair this August.
Music Icon Bringing Award-Winning Career to Downstate Illinois
The 2026 Illinois State Fair is adding a different sound to its lineup this summer, announcing that Ziggy Marley will perform on Tuesday, August 18, in Springfield.
@ziggymarley It’s a simple message and it comes from the heart ! 30 years ago I recorded the theme song for the children animated show @ArthurPBS Recently i did this live performance of it for the WE ❤️ PUBLIC TELEVISION telethon in support of raising funds to help keep public broadcasting tv going it aired on @PBS stations across the USA during thanksgiving day and is being rebroadcasted all throughout December. I love singing this song. Enjoy and support public broadcasting service it has done so much for us especially the children shout out to Bigbird , Ernie, Bert, the Count, Grover, Oscar, Cookie Monster and the whole @Sesame Street ♬ original sound - Ziggy Marley
The nine-time Grammy-winning reggae artist is expected to bring a mix of classic hits, socially conscious music, and uplifting messages to fairgoers during the 11-day State Fair.
Nearly Four Decades of Music and Activism
Ziggy, the eldest son of reggae legends Bob Marley and Rita Marley, has spent decades building his own international music career. Known for songs like "Tomorrow People," "True to Myself," and "Beach in Hawaii," Marley has blended reggae with soul, funk, and rock influences while promoting themes of unity, resilience, and positivity.
From country and rock to folk and reggae, we want the Grandstand lineup to reflect the wide range of music our fairgoers love, and Ziggy Marley is an exciting addition to this year’s schedule. -Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II
Tickets for the concert will go on sale this Saturday, May 23, at 10 a.m. through Ticketmaster, with prices starting at $40.
The 2026 Illinois State Fair runs from August 13 through August 23 in Springfield, Illinois.
More From Rockford's New Country Q98.5
