Indiana Association of Fairs

04/09/2026

The Vanderburgh County Fair hosted the Southwest You Make the Difference pit stop! Tonight’s attendees representing Harrison, Gibson, Vermillion, and Vanderburgh counties learned valuable resources to keeping volunteers engaged, marketing and obtaining new sponsors. Tomorrow is the last chance in Boone County to see the valuable education that You Make the Difference provides. It’s time to expand your toolbox!

04/07/2026

Happy to kickoff in Elkhart!! Join us in Jefferson, vanderburgh or Boone counties!!

Another powerful stop on the Indiana tour!

Today’s You Make THE Difference session, led by award winning fair and ag society advocate Ian Hill was hosted by the Elkhart County 4-H Fair and the conversations were as energizing as they were meaningful.

Ian Hill’s message continues to resonate—and it’s clear that Indiana is ready to lead with purpose.

Thank you to all who participated for being part of this journey. You are the difference makers

03/31/2026

Congratulations to Cindy Hoye on an incredible career and well-deserved retirement!

Since beginning her journey in 1988, Cindy has left an undeniable mark on the fair industry. As CEO of the Indiana State Fair, an INAF Hall of Fame member, and past chair of the IAFE, her leadership, vision, and dedication have shaped fairs not only in Indiana but across the country.

Thank you, Cindy, for your years of service, innovation, and commitment to our industry. Your legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. Wishing you all the best in this next chapter

03/25/2026

Several Indiana fair volunteers, board members, and staff have already signed up for the You Make THE Difference tour for this April.

Don't miss out on this FREE opportunity to learn and be inspired about specific plans to improve your board, deepen community partnerships, and reimagine your fairs' role in local development!

Has your board or volunteers sign up? Don't miss out!

03/17/2026

Struggling to find a date to attend the You Make THE Difference tour in Indiana? Do you live closer to Illinois?

Check out the Illinois dates below and register today!

03/12/2026

In 25 short days we will welcome Ian back to Indiana! Register today!

Tonight it was an absolute pleasure to spend time with more fairs from the great state of Maine as part of the You Make THE difference session held at American Legion Auxiliary Unit 86 Gray, Maine!!

Tonight, Ian Hill spoke about the generational handoff that must happen for fairs to keep thriving in a time of exponential change. He brought clarity to the actions needed and shared the educational resources and tools to support you and fair boards everywhere in making that transition.

The movement continues!! Maine Fairs - MAAF

03/03/2026

The You Make the Difference tour will be here before you know it! Grab a friend and sign up for the Indiana Tour!

Registration Link in the comments!

02/19/2026

You Make THE Difference tour returns to Indiana this April! Sign up today to attend one of 4 sessions! FREE training, tools, and support to strengthen the future of our fairs.

Who can attend you may ask: Any fair volunteer, extension staff, fair board member, fair staff and more!

Registration link in the comments

12/29/2025

A long time voice of the Indiana State Fair Coliseum has passed.

View Phillip Ray Deckard's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

12/23/2025

JUST ANNOUNCED! We’re incredibly proud to share that Ray Allison, current Chief Operating Officer, has been named the next Executive Director of the Indiana State Fair Commission!

With decades of service to the Indiana State Fair and a deep understanding of its mission and traditions, Ray’s appointment marks an exciting and well-earned next chapter in the Fair’s leadership! His commitment to the Fair and to the communities it serves has been evident throughout his career.

Ray will succeed Cindy Hoye upon her retirement in March 2026. We extend our sincere gratitude to Cindy for her remarkable leadership and look forward to this exciting transition as we continue to build on the Fair’s strong legacy.

12/15/2025

The schedule and educational sessions for the upcoming 2026 INAF Convention at the Marriott East.

7:00 am – 8:30 am – INAF Hall of Fame / Past President Breakfast in Memory of Max & Lois Fitzpatrick Private Dining Room