The Arizona State Fair is back in full swing for 2025, and this year’s festivities are already making headlines with sold-out concerts, mouthwatering food, and a packed schedule of entertainment that’s drawing crowds from across the state.
September Nights Set the Stage
The Fair kicked off its
September Nights series on September 19, transforming the fairgrounds into a vibrant playground every Thursday through Sunday evening. Visitors are flocking to enjoy
live music, carnival rides, specialty food vendors, and themed nights under the stars—all before the main fair even officially opens in October.
Tonight, September 27, the excitement reaches a fever pitch with a
sold-out concert by The Format at the iconic Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Gates open at 5 PM, and fans are advised to arrive early to navigate parking and catch the festival-style programming on the Backyard Stage, featuring local acts like Astrologer, JPW & Dad Weed, and Sydney Sprague.
Concerts and Entertainment Take Center Stage
The Format’s reunion show is the talk of the town, with no opening act and a start time of 7:30 PM. The band’s exclusive merchandise is available both at the fairgrounds and through a special pre-concert drop at the Hello Merch Store. For those who missed out on tickets, the fair’s Backyard Stage offers free performances before and after the main event, keeping the party going late into the night.
The Fair’s
Coliseum Concert Series promises more big-name acts throughout the season, with a lineup designed to appeal to a wide range of musical tastes.
What’s New for 2025?
This year, the Arizona State Fair is pulling out all the stops:
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Expanded food offerings: From deep-fried classics to Instagram-worthy new treats, foodies will find plenty to savor.
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Nightly giveaways: Lucky fairgoers can win prizes during September Nights events.
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Enhanced accessibility: ADA parking and shuttle services ensure everyone can join the fun.
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Official Fair App: Plan your visit, check maps, and get real-time updates right from your phone.
Key Dates and Hours
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September Nights: September 19–28, Thursdays–Sundays, gates open at 5 PM.
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Main Fair: October 2–27, Thursdays–Sundays, gates open at noon.
The fair stays open late, with the carnival winding down only when the lights on the La Grande XL Wheel go dark.
Insider Tips for Visitors
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Arrive early for concerts and popular events to avoid traffic and secure parking.
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Use rideshare for the fastest entry, with designated drop-off zones at the fairgrounds.
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Download the Arizona State Fair App for schedules, maps, and exclusive updates.
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Follow @ArizonaStateFair on social media for behind-the-scenes content and last-minute announcements.
What This Means for Arizona
The return of the Arizona State Fair in 2025 is more than just a celebration—it’s a sign of renewed community spirit and a boost for local businesses and performers. With
record crowds, sold-out shows, and a diverse lineup of attractions, the fair is cementing its place as one of the state’s most anticipated annual events.
As the fair continues through October, expect more surprises, headline acts, and, of course, plenty of opportunities to indulge in the best fair food Arizona has to offer.
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