When it comes to the State Fair of Texas, most people's excitement starts with fried food, moves on to the Midway, and then ends with fried food again. The free concerts the fair hosts often get lost in the shuffle, even though organizers generally attract some big names.
The initial batch of bands playing at the month-long event at Fair Park this year have been announced, and it may be hard to ignore the lineup this time around.
Blondie, the late ’70s band fronted by singer Debbie Harry, is arguably the boldest name among the first wave. The rock group, rumored to be putting out a new album soon, will perform Saturday, September 28.
Another '80s icon, Molly Ringwald, will take the stage Friday, October 4. No, she won't be doing a one-woman play or hosting a double feature of The Breakfast Club and Sixteen Candles. Instead, she will be singing songs from her debut jazz album, Except Sometimes, which came out earlier this year.
Other groups performing include Asleep at the Wheel (Friday, September 27), Cory Morrow and The Turnpike Troubadours (Saturday, October 12), Kacey Musgraves (Friday, October 18) and Casting Crowns (Saturday, October 19). More bands will be added in the coming months; last year's fair featured at least one concert a day.
All concerts are free with your admission to the State Fair of Texas, meaning the only thing you need to worry about is how early you camp out at the Main Stage to get up close and personal with your favorite band.
Molly Ringwald sings selections from her jazz record on October 4 at the State Fair.
