Matchbox Twenty Brings Pop Rock Anthems to the Illinois State Fair Grandstand on August 16

SPRINGFIELD – Generational hits and pop rock is headed to Springfield as Matchbox Twenty takes over the Illinois Lottery Grandstand Stage on Sunday, August 16, 2026. With a catalog packed with era-defining songs, the band promises a night fairgoers won’t forget.

Few bands have woven themselves as seamlessly into the fabric of American popular culture as Matchbox Twenty. With timeless anthems like “3AM,” “Push,” “Unwell,” “Bent,” “If You’re Gone,” and “She’s So Mean,” the band has earned hits in each of the last three decades. From dominating radio airwaves and MTV to amassing billions of streams worldwide, Matchbox Twenty’s enduring appeal has led to over 40 million records sold globally, multiple GRAMMY® Award nominations, and sold-out performances across arenas, amphitheaters, and stadiums around the world.

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“Matchbox Twenty is one of the most recognizable names in pop rock, and we’re thrilled to welcome them to the Illinois State Fair,” said Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II. “It’s a great fit for the diverse music fans who come to the Illinois State Fair.”

The band’s catalog includes the diamond-certified, 12x-platinum classic Yourself or Someone Like You [1996], quadruple-platinum Mad Season [2000], double-platinum More Than You Think You Are [2002], and gold-certified North [2012], which marked their first No. 1 debut on the Billboard 200. Their most recent album, Where The Light Goes—their first in 11 years—finds the band once again delivering songs that are real, relevant, and deeply relatable.

Comprised of Rob Thomas, Brian Yale, Paul Doucette, and Kyle Cook, Matchbox Twenty continues to evolve while staying true to what fans love most: honest storytelling, unforgettable melodies, and songs that soundtrack life’s biggest moments.

“Matchbox Twenty brings an incredible energy and a catalog of songs that instantly resonates with audiences,” said Illinois State Fair Manager Rebecca Clark. “This show will be a can’t-miss moment for fairgoers who grew up with their music and for a whole new generation discovering it.”

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