The Colorado State Fair is back for 2024, offering a myriad of free events that promise to entertain, educate, and inspire visitors of all ages. Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of our free (with purchase of admission) concerts and attractions you will want to attend.
Free Concerts: Music for All
One of the most anticipated features of the Colorado State Fair is the array of free concerts held at various locations throughout the fairgrounds. This year’s lineup includes a diverse range of artists and genres, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Pepsi Stage:
The Pepsi Stage is a central hub for free musical entertainment. This year, notable artists will grace the stage, providing nightly performances that are sure to draw crowds. Genres ranging from country and rock to pop and blues will allow attendees to enjoy an eclectic mix of tunes!
AFW Amphitheater:
The American Furniture Warehouse (AFW) Amphitheater is known for hosting larger acts in an open-air setting, making it one of the premier locations for free concerts at the Fair. With its spacious seating and excellent acoustics, the AFW Amphitheater ensures that every performance is a memorable experience. This year, expect to see headlining performances from popular bands and solo artists who are sure to draw large crowds. Whether you’re a fan of country, rock, or pop, the AFW Amphitheater offers a stellar lineup that promises to entertain.
PB&T Bank Pavilion:
The PB&T Bank Pavilion is another fantastic venue at the Fair, offering a blend of musical performances, dance shows, and special presentations. This Pavilion provides a covered space, ensuring that events can go on rain or shine. It is an excellent place to enjoy a variety of free performances, including local talent showcases, tribute bands, and cultural dance performances. The Pavilion’s diverse programming makes it a must-visit spot for fairgoers looking to enjoy high-quality entertainment in a comfortable setting.
Special Events: Unique Experiences
The Colorado State Fair is renowned for its special events, many of which are free and open to all visitors. These events add a unique flavor to the fair and celebrate Colorado’s rich cultural and agricultural heritage. You can find all of the special event information here!
Fiesta Day:
Fiesta Day is on Sunday, September 1 and is a day that celebrates Hispanic culture in Pueblo and across Colorado, showcasing traditional Mexican food, Folklorico dancers, and mariachi music. This is the 57th year of Fiesta Day and is historically the most attended day at the Colorado State Fair. The day starts with a Mariachi Mass in Ray Aguilera/ Bessemer Park, followed by the Fiesta Day Parade. At The Colorado State Fair, you can see a wide variety of free musical performances throughout the day including Tropical Kaoba, Grupazo Alakran, Chihuahua Al Norte, Alegria de Rancho and more! Plus end the night with Celebracion de los Charros at 7pm followed by Banda el Recodo at 9:30! Tickets can be purchased for Banda El Recodo here!
Governor’s Plate:
The Governor’s Plate was created to showcase Colorado’s diverse agricultural products and chefs. It is a competition that brings food trucks from across the state to compete against each other for a Golden Plate award, selected by Governor Polis. In addition, attendees vote for their favorite dish, with the winner receiving the People’s Choice Award. Trucks are asked to select Colorado-grown ingredients to incorporate into their unique dishes and in 2024, they will need to incorporate San Luis Valley potatoes or Palisade peaches in their dishes. It’s an excellent opportunity to see top chefs in action and taste award-winning cuisine. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased here!
Agricultural Events:
The Fair’s agricultural roots are showcased through events like the Junior Livestock Sale and various competitive exhibits. These events are free to attend and provide insight into the state’s agricultural industry and opportunities to see prize-winning animals up close.
World Slopper Eating Championship:
Come watch the sixth year of the World Slopper Eating Championship, an event unique to Pueblo! This event is sanctioned by the Major League Eaters and is open to professional eaters.
Sloppers are a local delicacy featuring an open-faced cheeseburger smothered in pork green chile. If you’re ordering this in Pueblo, be sure to get fries on top! This is Southern Colorado’s can’t miss dish.
This event is occurring on Saturday, August 31 at 3:00 PM on the Pepsi Stage! Fairgrounds admission grants guests access to the World Slopper Eating Championship at no additional charge.
Kids’ Ag Education: Fun and Learning
The Kids’ Ag Education area is a must-visit for families visiting the Fair. This Fair’s educational section offers interactive activities designed to teach children about agriculture and the environment. Find all of the information about the 2024 Kid’s Ag Education here!
Ag Education for Kids:
Colorado Proud Farm Trail:
Kids and adults can take a walk through the new Colorado Proud Farm Trail where they can pick a Palisade peach, harvest a Pueblo Chile or search for a San Luis Valley Potato! This exhibit is open daily in the Small Animal Building.
Ag Pavilion:
The Colorado Department of Agriculture Pavilion is a great place for everyone to learn about animals, agriculture and the role they play in our lives. The Ag Pavilion is open daily until 9 PM.
Dairy Discovery Zone:
The Dairy Discovery Zone is located in front of the Ag Pavilion and open daily until 9 PM. Interact on digital walls and tables, play trivia, show off your dance moves and more all while exploring how your favorite dairy foods go from the farm to your table!
Great American Petting Farm:
The Great American Petting Farm allows you to get up close and personal with pigs, goats, sheep and other animals! This year the Petting Farm is located inside the Small Animal Building and is open daily until 9 PM. Fun for the whole family, this petting zoo allows fairgoers to interact with all their furry friends, and even get the chance to grab a selfie with them!
4-H Exhibits:
The 4-H organization will have a large presence at the Fair, with educational displays and activities highlighting the importance of agriculture and community involvement. Kids can participate in various workshops and demonstrations, gaining valuable knowledge in a fun and engaging way.
Free Attractions
Free with the purchase of admission is a whole line up of daily shows that will give an exciting experience for the whole Family. You can find the daily schedule of our free attractions here!
All American Dive Show:
The All American High Dive Show is an exhilarating spectacle you won’t want to miss! Watch in awe as divers leap from heights of up to 80 feet, with some even performing while on fire. Catch this incredible show daily in the State Fair Plaza.
The Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show:
Experience the ultimate battle of muscle versus machine at the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show! Witness logging skills from both historical and modern times in this thrilling competition. Join us in Triangle Park for this incredible display.
The Xpogo Stunt Team:
The Xpogo Stunt Team, holders of 18 Guinness World Records with over 13,000 performances across 26 countries, is making its debut at the Colorado State Fair! Don’t miss their daily shows on Main Street, east of the Ag Pavilion.
Great American Petting Farm:
It’s scientifically proven that petting animals brings smiles to both kids and adults! Get your dose of happiness at the Great American Petting Farm, where pony rides are also available!
Stomp Lights:
Join us this year in celebrating the Colorful Colorado State Fair! Jump on the vibrant Stomp Lights scattered throughout the fairgrounds—fun for all ages!
Much, Much More!:
Find the full list of attractions on our daily guide, here!
Plan Your Visit
With so many free events and activities, the 2024 Colorado State Fair promises an unforgettable experience for all visitors. Whether you’re a music lover, cultural enthusiast, or looking for family-friendly fun, there’s something at the Fair for everyone. Be sure to check the official Colorado State Fair website for detailed schedules and additional information on these and other free events.
Take advantage of the opportunity to explore all the Fair offers without breaking the bank. Enjoy Colorado’s sights, sounds, and flavors at this year’s state Fair!
