2026 Clay County Fair Northwest Bank Stage Lineup Revealed
Spencer, Iowa — The first symptoms of “Fair Brain” are already appearing across northwest Iowa as the 2026 Clay County Fair, powered by SMU, announces this year’s free entertainment lineup for the Northwest Bank Stage. Characterized by excitement, nostalgia, cravings for live music, and an uncontrollable urge to visit the Fair, “Fair Brain” is expected to spread quickly as September approaches.
From nostalgic tribute acts and crowd-favorite classics to stand-up comedy and lively Latin rhythms, this year’s schedule offers the perfect prescription for fairgoers looking to embrace their Fair Brain symptoms.
September 12-14: Laugh along with Mary Mack, a stand-up comedian known for her uniquely quirky storytelling, high-energy delivery, and unmistakable Midwestern charm. Drawing inspiration from life along the Minnesota–Wisconsin border, Mary’s comedy blends absurd observations, unexpected twists, and relatable humor, keeping audiences laughing from start to finish.
September 12-14: Take a musical journey through the decades with The Sidekicks, a high-energy tribute group celebrating the greatest hits from the 70s, 80s, 90s, and beyond. Featuring professional musicians, crowd interaction, and nonstop sing-along moments, their show delivers a fun and nostalgic experience packed with the songs audiences know and love.
September 15-17: Step back into the golden age of rock & roll with The Holy Rocka Rollaz, a Minnesota-based band bringing the spirit of the 1950s to life. Inspired by legendary artists like Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, Chuck Berry, and Johnny Cash, their family-friendly performances capture the timeless energy and excitement of early rock music.
September 15-17: Honor America’s veterans and military heroes with Tribute to the Troops, a powerful female vocal trio delivering heartfelt patriotic performances. Through rich harmonies and inspiring songs celebrating service and sacrifice, this moving show offers audiences a meaningful tribute filled with gratitude, pride, and uplifting entertainment.
September 18-20: Experience the vibrant sounds of Cuba with Charanga Tropical, a dynamic Latin dance orchestra blending strings, flute, vocals, and infectious rhythms. Rooted in the traditional Cuban charanga style, their performances feature everything from elegant danzones to energetic salsa, cha-cha-cha, son, and timba — creating an authentic, danceable musical experience.
September 18-20: Enjoy the unforgettable sound of one of rock’s most iconic horn bands with Transit Authority, a tribute group dedicated to faithfully recreating the music of Chicago. Featuring an eight-piece lineup of seasoned musicians, the band performs classic hits like “25 or 6 to 4,” “Beginnings,” and “Make Me Smile” with the energy, precision, and rich arrangements fans remember.
Each act will perform multiple times daily during their scheduled dates, giving fairgoers plenty of opportunities to treat their Fair Brain symptoms with free live entertainment throughout the Fair. Official showtimes will be available in the Clay County Fair Daily Guides, which will be released later in August. For more information, visit www.claycountyfair.com.
About The Clay County Fair & Events Center
Rooted in Tradition, the Clay County Fair and Events Center is a year-round facility that annually hosts more than 200 events, including its signature event, the Clay County Fair. Known as “The World’s Greatest County Fair” since 1917, the Clay County Fair attracts more than 300,000 guests each September for nine days of world-class entertainment, competition, food, fun, and the largest farm machinery show at any fair in the United States. Additional information can be found at www.claycountyfair.com.
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