Purdue Extension will once again bring hands-on learning and agricultural education to the Indiana State Fair, offering fairgoers an opportunity to explore everything from livestock care and gardening to food science, financial wellness and emerging agricultural technologies during this year’s 17-day event.
The 2026 Indiana State Fair opens Aug. 7 and runs through Aug. 23 (closed Mondays) under the theme “Always a Hit,” presented by the Indianapolis Indians.
For farm families, the Purdue Extension Building has long been a popular stop, showcasing research, educational programs and practical information designed to serve Indiana agriculture and rural communities.
“Purdue Extension is excited to continue its longtime partnership with the Indiana State Fair. It’s also a wonderful chance to celebrate the accomplishments of 4-H youth from across the state and the work our educators do year-round,” said Angie Abbott, director of Purdue Extension and associate dean of Purdue’s College of Agriculture.
Abbott said visitors will find interactive exhibits highlighting agriculture, natural resources, healthy living and youth development while also having opportunities to visit directly with Purdue specialists.
Hands-on learning for all ages
Located on the north side of the fairgrounds, the Purdue Extension Building will feature rotating exhibits and educational activities throughout the fair.
Among the attractions are a Block Party area where young children can develop school-readiness skills through hands-on play, Indiana 4-H exhibits focused on college and career readiness, and demonstrations from Purdue Extension experts covering topics including forestry, animal sciences, early childhood development and farm succession planning.
Master Gardener volunteers will also be available to offer advice on selecting and caring for annual flowers and vegetable plants well-suited to Indiana growing conditions.
Animal agriculture takes center stage
Livestock remains one of the biggest draws at the Indiana State Fair, and Purdue will once again play a key role in educating visitors through Animal Town.
Displays throughout the livestock barns will feature pigs, cattle, sheep, goats, horses, llamas, rabbits and poultry, with Purdue Department of Animal Sciences ambassadors available daily to answer questions about animal care, production and agriculture.
Meanwhile, students from Purdue’s College of Veterinary Medicine will provide veterinary care for 4-H livestock and other animals exhibited during the fair.
Popcorn with a Purdue twist
Visitors looking for a snack can stop by the Purdue Extension Building each afternoon from 1 to 5 p.m., where free popcorn samples, courtesy of Conagra, will be available.
The popcorn can be topped with two seasonings created by Purdue food science students working through the Food Entrepreneurship and Manufacturing Institute. The flavors include Hammer Down Dill for those who prefer a savory option and All-American Caramel Apple for those with a sweet tooth.
The building will also feature an exhibit highlighting Indiana’s long history as a popcorn-producing state and the crop’s role in the state’s agricultural economy.
Celebrating Indiana’s agricultural heritage
Just west of the main fairgrounds, Pioneer Village will once again transport visitors back to the 1800s with demonstrations and exhibits celebrating Indiana’s farming heritage.
Sponsored by the Purdue Agricultural Alumni Association, the attraction includes antique tractors, a farm toy show, fiddler and liar’s contests, the Opry House and other family-friendly activities that showcase rural life from generations past.
Purdue Extension events and exhibits will be located throughout the fairgrounds, including the Purdue Extension Building, Pioneer Village, Pathway to Water Quality, the 4-H Exhibit Hall, Blue Ribbon Pavilion, Corteva Coliseum and several livestock facilities, giving visitors numerous opportunities to connect with Purdue faculty, Extension educators and students during the fair’s run.
