Benton County Fair & Rodeo announces 2026 Main Stage lineup
Hunter Hayes, Queen Nation headline four days of concerts at fairgrounds July 29–Aug. 1
CORVALLIS, Ore. — The Benton County Fair & Rodeo is back this summer with a main stage lineup that organizers say has something for every generation. The annual event returns to the Benton County Fairgrounds in Corvallis, July 29 through Aug. 1.
The fair, a beloved community tradition featuring 4-H livestock shows, rodeos, carnival rides, competitive exhibits and food, will wrap up each evening with free concerts on the Pioneer Connect-sponsored main stage, all included with $10/day fair admission.
“The Benton County Fair is one of those events that brings our whole community together, and this year’s lineup reflects that,” said Jennifer Martin, Benton County Fair manager. “Whether you’re a lifelong country fan, a rock music lover, or you’re just bringing the kids out for a great time, there’s something on that stage for you.”
Wednesday, July 29 is Family Day
The fair kicks off with Family Day, when all kids 16 and under receive free fair admission. Main stage entertainment begins at 6 p.m. and includes family-friendly acts Bright Hearts Circus, Matt Baker Comedy Stunt Show and Jeff Martin Magic & Hypnosis.
Thursday, July 30 is the Battle of the Bands
Local and regional artists compete in the fan-favorite Battle of the Bands competition throughout the afternoon and evening. The winner will earn a coveted spot on Friday night’s main stage. Plus, it’s senior day, so those 60+ get free admission for a front row seat.
Friday, July 31 will “Rock You” with Queen Nation
The Battle of the Bands winner opens the night at 7 p.m. before the main event. Queen Nation takes the stage at 8:30 p.m.
Founded in 2004 in Los Angeles, Queen Nation has built a reputation as one of the premier Queen tribute acts in the country. The four-piece band recreates the iconic sound and energy of Queen’s classic 1970s and ’80s concerts, from “Bohemian Rhapsody” to “We Will Rock You.” The band has been honored in the California Music Hall of Fame and won Best Live Band at the 2020 VCMA Awards.
Saturday, Aug. 1 brings Jacquie Roar and Hunter Hayes for Country Night
Saturday night features a double bill of country talent. Oregon Jamboree veteran Jacquie Roar opens at 7 p.m. She is fresh off her fourth-place finish on Season 24 of NBC’s “The Voice” where she earned a rare four-chair turn performing Gretchen Wilson’s “Here for the Party.” Roar has shared stages with Reba McEntire, Alan Jackson, Martina McBride, Kelsea Ballerini, Dan+Shay and others.
Headlining our Country Night is chart-topping artist Hunter Hayes at 8:30 p.m.
GRAMMY®-nominated, multi-instrumentalist and PLATINUM-selling artist, Hunter Hayes is an embodiment of a musician that embraces evolution and redefines boundaries. Bursting onto the scene with his PLATINUM-certified debut album, Hayes has charted a unique course through the genre-bending course he was destined to explore.
The Louisiana native has amassed over 3 billion global on-demand streams since his debut, with seven singles achieving gold and 10x PLATINUM certifications. His electrifying on-stage performances have not only stolen the hearts of fans but have also earned him spots on tours with superstars like Taylor Swift and Carrie Underwood, and resulted in his own sold-out headlining shows across the US, Canada, Europe, and Asia.
Hayes’ most recent release, EVERGREEN, is a 10-track genre-blending project that completes a trilogy beginning with Wild Blue and Red Sky, tracing a journey from optimism through conflict to resolution. The project received worldwide recognition, alongside television performances of “Too Late” on the Live with Kelly & Mark and the title track “Evergreen” on the The Kelly Clarkson Show.
“We’re especially excited to have Hunter Hayes close out the fair on Saturday night,” Martin said. “He’s an incredible performer. Pairing him with Jacquie Roar, who has a strong Oregon connection, makes for a really special evening.”
Beyond the Main Stage
The fair also features the Willamette Valley Fiddle Contest, a beard, mustache and goatee competition, rodeos, carnival, 4-H exhibits and the Lee Allen Memorial Youth Market Auction. Dozens of other activities and competitions will fill the four days.
All main stage concerts are free with paid fair admission. Seating in the outdoor venue is first-come, first-served. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair.
Tickets are on sale now for just $10.
For tickets, schedules and more information, visit the Benton County Fair website or call 541-766-6521. Sponsorship inquiries should be directed to Mindy Johnson at the same number.
The Benton County Fair & Rodeo is held at the Benton County Fairgrounds, 110 SW 53rd St., Corvallis, OR 97333.