The well-worn boots of red dirt country music are set to tread the Illinois State Fair this year, with the announcement that Turnpike Troubadours will headline the Grandstand on August 17. After a three-year pause in their career, the band from Tahlequah, Oklahoma, has fired up their base with a new album, "A Cat in the Rain," and a comeback that's been more than warmly received. According to a press release, the Turnpike Troubadours have amassed an impressive 1.5 billion streams worldwide, a testament to the powerful draw of their music in the Americana scene.

An act associated with the raw authenticity of the Red Dirt genre, Turnpike Troubadours has won over hearts and ears yet again. Building on their repertoire of five genre-defining albums, their hiatus seems to have only deepened fans' hunger for their distinct sound. "This band will feel right at home here in central Illinois," Jerry Costello II, the Illinois Department of Agriculture Director, told Illinois State Fair press.

Not just a mere concert, but a heartfelt homecoming of sorts, Rebecca Clark, the Illinois State Fair Manager, expressed excitement for the band's inclusion in the Grandstand Concert Series. Clark said, "Whether you've followed them for years or just discovered their latest album, this Oklahoma group is better than ever — one of the most beloved groups in Americana music." Tickets for the event are set for release on February 15, accommodating different budgets with a range of pricing and an option for a pre-show party upgrade.

The 2025 Illinois State Fair, starting on August 7 and rounding off on the 17th, seems poised for a noteworthy run. With a lineup that includes the Turnpike Troubadours, the fair is aligning itself with the pulse of modern Americana. Concertgoers eager to witness the acclaimed return of the band can secure their spot by purchasing tickets through Ticketmaster. For those who can't wait, a $30 Pre-Show Party ticket is offered as an additional upgrade for all paid concerts, giving fans a chance to ramp up their experience. Keep an eye on the fair's social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for the latest updates and announcements.