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This year’s Nebraska State Fair will be the first with a casino on the grounds

August 7, 2025 · 8:10pm ET | 5:10pm PT
  • Jack Bartlett, Nebraska TV

There’s less than 20 days until the 156th annual Nebraska State Fair, but things are going to look a little different this year at Fonner Park.

Back in April, the Grand Island Casino Resort opened its new $185 million facility and now marks one of the only state fairgrounds with a hotel on campus. It now gives Fonner Park and the State Fair a boost.

“We’ve seen 315,000 people come through our door since we opened April 10th,” said Regen Lux, Grand Island Casino Resort Marketing Director.

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For the Nebraska State Fair, it’s a big deal. The added amenities and accommodations are expected to draw in more visitors and extend their stays.