RAPID CITY, S.D. (AP) — Country music star Lee Brice will headline the opening night of the 2025 Central States Fair concert series in Rapid City, organizers announced Monday.
Brice, a multi-Platinum-selling artist with nine No. 1 singles and more than 10 billion career streams, will perform Friday, Aug. 22, at the Central States Fairgrounds as part of the Black Hills Energy Concert Series.
Known for chart-topping hits like “Rumor,” “Hard to Love,” and “One of Them Girls,” Brice’s latest single, “Cry,” continues his streak of emotionally charged country anthems. His songs often resonate with working-class fans, particularly in South Dakota, where themes of family, military service, and small-town pride are part of the cultural fabric.
“We couldn’t be more excited to welcome Lee Brice to Rapid City,” said Ron Jeffries, general manager of Central States Fair, Inc. “He’s the kind of artist that connects deeply with South Dakotans — a family man, a storyteller, and a powerhouse performer. This is going to be a night to remember.”
Gates for the Aug. 22 concert will open at 6 p.m., with the show beginning at 7 p.m. A Tailgate Party for VIP and Premier ticket holders will kick off at 4:30 p.m. Tickets go on sale June 2 at CentralStatesFair.com, with VIP and Premier Passes offering early entry, preferred seating, and other perks.
The Lee Brice performance is the first of three headlining shows scheduled for the 2025 Central States Fair, which runs Aug. 15–23. Organizers say additional concert announcements will be made in the coming weeks.
