Erie County Fair reveals first wave of 2026 grandstand events

5 can’t miss nights at the Buffalo News Grandstand 

Erie County Fair press release

The Erie County Fair is proud to announce the first wave of its 2026 paid grandstand entertainment lineup, featuring ticketed headlining performances at the Buffalo News Grandstand Aug. 12-23 in Hamburg. 

These paid grandstand shows bring a dynamic mix of nationally recognized artists spanning classic rock, country, comedy, and modern Americana, offering something for every fairgoer. Additional shows included with admission will be announced in May. 

The 2026 Buffalo News Grandstand ticketed shows include: 

•“Happy Together Tour” featuring The Association, The Troggs, Jason Scheff (Chicago lead singer, 1985-2016), Gary Puckett, The Fortunes, Ron Dante, The Vogues & The Cowsills; 7:30 p.m. Friday, Aug. 14.: A celebration of ’60s and ’70s pop-rock classics, the “Happy Together Tour” delivers a nostalgic evening packed with chart-topping hits including “Happy Together,” “Windy,” “Cherish,” “Wild Thing,” “Five O’Clock World,” “Sugar, Sugar” and “25 or 6 to 4.” 

•Joe Nichols, Phill Vassar & Mark Wills; 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 15: Three acclaimed country music stars share the stage for an evening of hit-filled performances featuring fan favorites such as “Tequila Makes Her Clothes Fall Off,” “Good Morning Beautiful,” “Yeah,” “Just Another Day in Paradise,” “Carlene,” “I’m Alright” and “19 Somethin.’ ” 

•Max McNown with special guest Waylon Wyatt; Sunday, Aug. 16, 7:30 p.m.: Rising stars Max McNown and Waylon Wyatt bring heartfelt storytelling and a modern country-folk sound to the grandstand, featuring songs including “A Lot More Free,” “Better Me for You,” “Everything Under the Sun” and “Arkansas Diamond.” 

•Blues Travelers & Gin Blossoms with special guest Spin Doctors; 6 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 18: Three powerhouse bands from the golden era of ’90s alternative rock come together for a can’t-miss, multi-act show featuring radio-defining hits such as “Hey Jealousy,” “Follow You Down,” “Run-Around,” “Hook,” “Two Princes,” “Little Miss Can’t Be Wrong” and “How’s It Going to Be.” 

•Jeff Foxworthy; 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19: One of America’s most beloved comedians, Jeff Foxworthy brings his signature observational humor to the Erie County Fair. He is, perhaps, best known for his iconic “You might be a redneck …” routine and decades of relatable, laugh-out-loud comedy. 

Tickets for all paid grandstand shows will go on sale to the public beginning June 5 at www.ECFair.org. Members of the Erie County Agricultural Society receive early access to purchase tickets (on June 4). Membership applications must be submitted by May 31 and are available at www.ecfair.org/ecasmembership. All tickets purchased in advance will include admission to the Erie County Fair on the day of the show. 

Additional shows during the “Best 12 Days of Summer” (Aug. 12-23) will be announced May 5 and 19. Stay tuned! 

More about the Erie County Fair: The Erie County Fair is produced by the Erie County Agricultural Society, a private, not-for-profit membership organization established in 1819. It is recognized as the oldest civic institution in Western New York. The group’s mission is to connect communities through agriculture, education and entertainment.