Erie County Fair launches national anthem contest

Winners to perform before grandstand shows during 2026 event 

Erie County Fair press release

The Erie County Fair is now accepting submissions for its inaugural national anthem contest. 

Individuals ages 18 and older are invited to submit an audition video for a chance to perform "The Star-Spangled Banner" before one of the 12 shows at The Buffalo News Grandstand during the 2026 Erie County Fair, Aug. 12-23. Selected performers will help kick off the evenings featuring some of the venue’s biggest entertainment events. 

Contestants must submit an a-cappella video performance of the national anthem through the online entry form available at www.ECFair.org/nationalanthem. Videos must feature the full national anthem performed in one continuous take. Submissions will be accepted through July 15. 

A panel of judges will review all entries and select one winner for each day of the Erie County Fair. Submissions will be evaluated on vocal ability, presentation and overall performance quality. 

Selected performers must be available to perform on one day during the Erie County Fair. Performance dates will be assigned based on availability and scheduling needs. 

Each winner will perform the national anthem live before the scheduled grandstand show on their assigned date. Winners will also receive two admission tickets to the Erie County Fair for the day of their performance. Admission tickets do not include access to paid grandstand events, including ticketed concerts and motor events. 

Contest rules, submission requirements and the online entry form are available at www.ecfair.org/nationalanthem. Applicants who are selected to perform will be contacted directly by the Erie County Fair. 

The Erie County Fair is produced by the Erie County Agricultural Society, a private, not-for-profit membership organization established in 1819. It is recognized as the oldest civic institution in Western New York. The society’s mission is to connect communities through agriculture, education and entertainment.