2008 Iowa State Fair Free Entertainment Features Award-Winners, Legends and Builders

DES MOINES, IA (06/02/2008)(readMedia)-- The 2008 Iowa State Fair’s free stages are packed with the summer’s hottest acts ranging from Lady Antebellum and Foghat to Lou Christie and Bob the Builder – all free with gate admission. The Fair runs August 7-17.

The line-up includes Lady Antebellum, named 2008’s “Top New Vocal Group” by the Academy of Country Music. Dubbed by Nashville Lifestyle magazine “the next big thing,” their hit “Love Don’t Live Here Anymore” proves they’re on their way. Luke Bryan’s single “All My Friends Say” launched his career into the lime light and earned him a nomination for Academy of Country Music’s 2008 “Top New Male Vocalist.” Chuck Wicks’ first smash-hit, “Stealing Cinderella,” climbed Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart, landing at number five. Plus don’t miss James Otto (“Just Got Started Lovin’ You), Carolina Rain and up-and-comer Candy Coburn.

Extreme Sunday entertainment on August 17 will feature rock legends Rare Earth (“Get Ready” and “I Just Want to Celebrate”) and Foghat, whose hit “Slow Ride” is featured on the wildly popular video game Guitar Hero. Pat Green and Elvis impersonator Travis LeDoyt will also take the stage on Extreme Sunday.

New this year, oldies fans can now see legendary performers on the free stages. Artists Lou Christie, Ron Dante of the Archies, The Crystals, John Ford Coley and Terry Sylvester formerly of the Hollies and will be rockin’ and rollin’ throughout the Fair.

Young Fairgoers won’t want to miss the “Can We Build It? Yes, We Can!” Bob the Builder Live Performance. With interactive songs to teach kids about teamwork, a positive attitude and problem solving skills, Bob the Builder takes the stage three times each day of the Fair.

Fair and local favorites Jason Brown, The Nadas, The Blue Band and The Envy Corps are also part of the free entertainment schedule.

A complete listing of event dates, times and locations is attached.

The 2008 Iowa State Fair is set August 7-17 – “U Gotta Love It.” The Fairgrounds are located at East 30th and East University Avenue, just 10 minutes east of downtown Des Moines and are open 7 a.m. to 1 a.m. each day of the Fair. Exhibit hours may vary. For more information, call 800/545-FAIR or check out www.iowastatefair.org.

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