The South Dakota State Fair announced on May 11 that The Fray will perform at the grandstand stage on Friday, September 4, at 8:00 p.m. Central Time. The announcement highlights the band as a multi-platinum, chart-topping group known for their connection with audiences and their role in setting the tone for the fair’s concert lineup.
“Kicking off our concerts with The Fray is going to be a lot of fun. Their music has connected with audiences for years. We are thrilled to welcome them to the SD State Fair as they help set the tone for the rest of the concert lineup!” said Peggy Besch, South Dakota State Fairgrounds Manager.
The Fray consists of lead vocalist, guitarist, and songwriter Joe King, guitarist Dave Welsh, and drummer Ben Wysocki. The band rose to prominence in the early 2000s with an alt-rock sound and has earned four Grammy Award nominations and three Billboard Music Awards. Their single “How to Save a Life” is RIAA Diamond-certified and spent 58 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100.
After completing a successful tour in 2025 celebrating their debut album’s anniversary, The Fray plans to return to touring in 2026 in support of their album “A Light That Waits.” Ticket presales for backrest signage holders and Friends of the Fair begin Monday, May 11 through Thursday, May 14. General public ticket sales start Tuesday, May 19 at www.sdstatefair.com.
The backrest signage program allows businesses or individuals advertising opportunities tied to early ticket access. Friends of the Fair offers benefits such as early bird access to VIP table sales and complimentary daily gate admission passes. Additional acts scheduled include Thunder at the Fair Truck and Tractor Pull sponsored by American Bank & Trust, Jake Owen welcomed by Legend Seeds, Red Wilk Construction Tuff Hedeman Bull Bash, and Nate Smith welcomed by Pioneer.
The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources supports a thriving economy, varied farming prospects, clean air, clean water and healthy communities for South Dakota residents according to the official website. It functions as part of South Dakota’s state government and aims to safeguard agriculture and natural resources via regulatory services and conservation efforts statewide across South Dakota according to its official website. More information about event details can be found on the official roster page.
