The South Dakota State Fair announced on May 11 that the Thunder at the Fair Truck and Tractor Pull, sponsored by American Bank & Trust, will return on Monday, September 7, 2026, at 1 p.m. Central Time.
The event will feature the 2026 Case IH Thunder in the Dirt Outlaw Pulling Series with five national classes: Super Farm Tractors, Light Pro Stock Tractors, Light Super Stocks, NA 2WD, and Light Limited Mod Tractors. Competitors from across the Midwest are expected to compete for top honors and championship points.
“The energy and intensity of the truck and tractor pull are unmatched. We can’t wait to see those engines roar and the grandstand packed with fans enjoying every moment. It’s powerful, it’s exciting, and it’s the perfect way to wrap up the 2026 State Fair!” According to Peggy Besch, South Dakota State Fairgrounds Manager.
Ticket presale for backrest signage holders and Friends of the Fair runs from Monday, May 11 through Thursday, May 14. General public ticket sales begin at 8 a.m. Central Time on Tuesday, May 19. Details about pricing and tickets are available at www.sdstatefair.com. The backrest signage program allows businesses or individuals to place signage on a grandstand backrest; these holders can purchase tickets before general sales. Friends of the Fair is a program offering early access to VIP table sales and reserved seating as well as complimentary daily gate admission passes.
Thunder at the Fair joins other previously announced grandstand events including Jake Owen welcomed by Legend Seeds, Red Wilk Construction Tuff Hedeman Bull Bash, and Nate Smith welcomed by Pioneer. The fair begins Wednesday, September 2 with Channel Seeds Opening Day and concludes Monday, September 7.
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. The department functions as part of South Dakota’s state government with operations extending statewide across South Dakota; it focuses on agriculture and environmental stewardship as a state agency while providing regulatory services, conservation programs and assistance to promote agriculture and environmental care according to its official website. More information about this event is available on the official roster page.
