CENTRE HALL — As the sun begins to dip behind the tents and the smell of fresh-cut fries and funnel cakes drifts through the fairgrounds, another Grange Fair tradition comes alive.
For many fairgoers, the music is just as much a part of the week as livestock shows, family reunions and late-night walks beneath the lights. This year’s entertainment lineup spans generations, from country legends and rising stars to Southern gospel, contemporary Christian music and a celebration of some of rock’s greatest bands.
Whether you’re reliving old memories or discovering your next favorite artist, here’s who’s taking the stage during the 2026 Grange Fair.
Collin Raye — Friday, Aug. 21
Some voices don’t just sing songs. They tell stories.
Collin Raye’s career has been built on songs that hit straight at the heart. With 16 No. 1 country hits, the 1990s star remains one of country music’s most recognizable voices, delivering emotional ballads like “Love, Me,” “Little Rock,” “In This Life” and “What the Heart Wants.”
Offstage, Raye has supported causes ranging from addiction recovery to providing wheelchairs for children. Onstage, he continues with audiences one song at a time.
John Foster — Saturday, Aug. 22
One year can change everything.
Just months after finishing as runner-up on Season 23 of “American Idol,” 19-year-old John Foster arrives at Grange Fair with plenty of momentum.
The Louisiana native has already earned standing ovations at the Grand Ole Opry and drawn praise from artists including Miranda Lambert and Josh Groban. His music leans into the storytelling tradition of 1990s country while reflecting the faith and values that shaped him.
For fans who enjoy discovering artists before they become household names, Foster may be the one to watch.
Shenandoah — Monday, Aug. 24
If country music had a soundtrack to small-town America, Shenandoah would have written much of it.
For 40 years, the band has filled radios with songs like “Church on Cumberland Road,” “Sunday in the South,” “Next to You, Next to Me,” “Two Dozen Roses” and “The Moon Over Georgia.”
Multi-platinum records, Grammy nominations and ACM honors have followed, but it’s the songs that have made Shenandoah a country music staple.
Glory Way — Tuesday, Aug. 25
Harmony has always been at the heart of Southern gospel and Glory Way brings plenty of it.
The group blends traditional favorites with uplifting messages of faith through rich vocal arrangements and energetic performances. Whether audiences join in on classics like “I’ll Fly Away” or simply listen to their rendition of “Amazing Grace”, Glory Way’s music is designed to leave spirits a little lighter than when the concert began.
Emily Ann Roberts — Wednesday, Aug. 26
Emily Ann Roberts is quickly becoming one of country music’s brightest young stars.
Named one of CMT’s Next Women of Country, the Tennessee native has already topped 83 million streams while touring alongside Blake Shelton and Cody Johnson. Her newest EP, “Memory Lane,” continues building on a career that has Nashville paying attention.
Expect powerhouse vocals, plenty of personality and a performer who seems equally comfortable on a festival stage or in front of a sold-out arena.
Invasion — Thursday, Aug. 27
Why choose one legendary rock band when you can experience four?
Invasion celebrates the music of The Beatles, Queen, The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin in one high-energy production. Featuring young vocalists and musicians breathing new life into timeless hits like “Hey Jude,” “Bohemian Rhapsody,” “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” and “Stairway to Heaven,” the show promises something for nearly every generation of rock fan.
Leanna Crawford — Friday, Aug. 28
Leanna Crawford’s music is built on encouragement.
The contemporary Christian artist earned a K-LOVE Fan Award for “Still Waters (Psalm 23)” and continues to connect with audiences through songs including “For Heaven’s Sake,” “How Can You Not” and “Rest.”
Her concerts are known for heartfelt storytelling, hopeful lyrics and the kind of authenticity that resonates long after the final song.
Richie & The High Street Rockers — Saturday, Aug. 29
The Grange Fair closes on a nostalgic note as Richie & The High Street Rockers transport audiences back to the golden age of rock ‘n’ roll.
Featuring the music of Buddy Holly, Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, Dion and The Everly Brothers, the Philadelphia trio combines vintage style with infectious energy that makes it difficult to stay seated.
It’s the kind of show where one familiar song leads to another, and before long, the crowd is singing every word.
From country and gospel to Christian music and classic rock, this year’s Grange Fair entertainment lineup offers something for nearly every generation. Whether you’re coming for one concert or planning to catch them all, the music promises to provide another memorable soundtrack to one of Centre County’s favorite traditions.
