Mission Square Stage: 12 Nights of Local Live Music at the 2026 CA Mid-State Fair
New This Year: The Improv Crooner Late Night Sets
The California Mid-State Fair is excited to announce the 2026 Mission Square Stage lineup, featuring 12 nights of talented local and regional musicians performing throughout the Fair's run, July 15–26. And new this year - on select dates an Improv Crooner will take the stage after each band.
Located in the heart of the Fairgrounds, Mission Square has become a favorite destination for Fairgoers looking to enjoy live music, local beer and wine, food, shopping, and a relaxed atmosphere.
All Mission Square Stage performances are free with paid Fair admission. Bands perform from 7:00 PM to about 10:00 PM. See the stage or on-site Daily Schedule for an up-to-date schedule.
2026 Mission Square Stage Lineup:
July 15 – The JD Project
July 16 – Monte Mills & The Lucky Horseshoe Band
July 17 – Katie Chappell
July 18 – Casey Anglin
July 19 – IMVA
July 20 – Riff Tide
July 21 – Unfinished Business
July 22 – Dustflower
July 23 – The Electric Lavender Train
July 24 – False Puppet
July 25 – The Vibe Setters
July 26 – The Prairie Outlaws
New This Year: The Improv Crooner
Mission Square will also welcome a brand-new entertainment experience in 2026. The Improv Crooner is a one-man comedy concert experience where audience suggestions and stories are transformed LIVE into fully improvised songs. Comedy dynamo Scott Palmason conjures up '80s rock, Broadway, country and blues songs out of thin air, creating a unique show that is different every performance.
The Improv Crooner Performance Schedule:
July 16 – 10:00 PM
July 17 – 9:30 PM & 10:30 PM
July 18 – 9:30 PM & 10:30 PM
July 19 – 10:00 PM
July 23 – 10:00 PM
July 24 – 9:30 PM & 10:30 PM
July 25 – 9:30 PM & 10:30 PM
About the CA Mid-State Fair
The CA Mid-State Fair is California's largest summer celebration on the Central Coast, bringing together live entertainment, agriculture, food, exhibits, carnival rides, shopping, and family fun for all ages. Whether you're visiting for the first time or continuing a family tradition, the Fair offers unforgettable experiences around every corner.
The CA Mid-State Fair takes place July 15–26, 2026 and this year's theme is “Back to the '80s!”
