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The legendary funk-soul group The Commodores will kick off this year's Great New York State Fair, bringing their timeless hits to the Chevy Court stage on Wednesday, August 26th at 1 p.m.
The Grammy Award-winning band, known for chart-topping classics like "Brick House," "Easy," "Three Times a Lady," and "Nightshift," will open the 2026 Chevrolet Music Series as the most recent act announced for the summer event.
"The Commodores' timeless sound and incredible stage presence make them one of the most beloved acts in American music," said Fair Director Julie LaFave. "Their performance at The Fair is sure to bring a high-energy, unforgettable experience for fans of all ages."
Formed in Tuskegee, Alabama in 1968 and later signed to Motown Records, The Commodores have maintained their influence in American music for over five decades. The group, which once included singer Lionel Richie, has been inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
The 2026 New York State Fair runs from August 26th through Labor Day (September 7th) and will feature a total of 41 national recording acts across its venues. Other performers already announced include Sean Paul on August 27th and ZZ Top on September 3rd, both performing at 8 p.m. in Suburban Park.
All concerts are included with fair admission, which costs $8 for adults while children under 12 and seniors 65 and older can enter for free. Tickets will go on sale later this summer.
Founded in 1841, the Great New York State Fair is the oldest in the United States and consistently ranks among the top five state fairs nationwide. The fairgrounds operate year-round as a 375-acre exhibit and entertainment complex, serving as a key component of New York's strategy to boost Central New York's economy through tourism.