This stage is always jumping with FREE Big Fun entertainment. Look for the food court in the center of the fairgrounds and you’ll find this popular stage within the Coca-Cola Main Promenade. A partial list of FREE concerts are listed here. Concerts Sunday through Wednesday begin around 7:00 p.m. and concerts Thursday through Saturday begin around 8:00 p.m.
Promenade Stage
Fri 7/12 8:00 PM, Set In Stone »
Set In Stone is the one of the best rock bands you will ever see or hear. They play an impressive mix of the best Classic Hard Rock tunes that ever hit the airwaves that blend perfectly with their hard rockin’ original songs! Set In Stone is made up of 6 of the finest Northern Californian musicians who have graced the same stages that rock legends and heroes first set foot upon. They will give you every ounce of energy they can sweat out to prove their worth to you.
Sat 7/13 8:00 PM, Apple Z »
Electrifying powerhouse Apple Z has quickly become one of the most popular dance bands in Northern California. A high energy Rock and Roll band with an authentic rock edge, Apple Z gets audiences up on their feet and dancing. With their extensive playlist and a non-stop dance party show, Apple Z has earned it’s reputation as one of Northern California’s favorite bands. With a playlist that spans several decades, the band delivers crowd pleasing classics covering each era from the fabulous 60′s through today’s Top 40. Amazing artists and serious musicians – Apple Z expertly transitions between favorite rock grooves like Rolling Stones and The Beatles to U2, The Police, Lady GaGa, Maroon 5 and current Top 40. Apple Z’s killer vocals, outstanding musicianship and tight harmonies, make it a hit with audiences of every generation.
Sun 7/14 7:00 PM, Wonder Bread 5 »
Wonder Bread 5 is the real deal in a field of wanna-bes. This wacked out, over-the-top rock n roll conspiracy has been taking it to the streets for over a decade. The Wonder Bread 5 posse fuses hip-hop, country-fied white-trash anthems, disco and hair metal, resulting in a high energy spectacle of fun, grooves and all the songs you love to sing. Make no mistake – this is not your parents’ cover band. This band is crazy, young and drunk on rock n roll. So put on your dancing shoes, and get movin’ cause it’s party time with the Wonder Bread 5!
Tue 7/16 7:00 PM, Pullman Standard »
Pullman Standard is a four-piece burlesque power rock band from Southern California. They originated as an acoustic act by founder Timothy Daniels in the summer of 2007. Shortly after Daniels had established himself as a solo acoustic act, he began to collaborate and perform as a duo with drummer Dale Peters. They began to experiment with ways of maintaining the upbeat yet intimate acoustic vibe, while transforming into a sound that would call for more band members. Longtime friend and musician Austin Smith was introduced as the bassist of Pullman Standard mid-2008. The final piece of the puzzle was added in March, 2009, with guitarist/pianist Kevin Wolfe, who added the extra push needed to give the band its full live sound. Pullman Standard was the recent winner of the “Your Song for San Diego” contest sponsored by CW6, Citybeat, KPRI and 91X!
Wed 7/17 7:00 PM, Egostall, Lucky Isabella & Allinaday »
Egostall is a four piece post grunge heavy alternative band from Sacramento, California. They say, “Our music is a reflection of the lives we’ve lived. It’s every experience, past and present that makes us who we are as people. Our music is about life, people, lies, failures, victories, contentment, resentment, hope, peace, love, but above all truth.”
Lucky Isabella is Northern California’s premiere rock band. A group of guys who love performing in front of people that want to have fun, dance and enjoy their favorite venues. They are a Sacramento based band, but have ventured to play venues in the South Bay, Santa Cruz County, SF and the Reno/Tahoe area. They try to appeal to every genre lover. This fairly new band that has already created a great following of fans.
Allinaday‘s unique style and heart has helped them become one of the most sought after bands from Sacramento, California. In working closely with industry professionals, the band has gained the experiences necessary to succeed. They have eagerly received artistic direction from record producer Rich Mouser and musician Thomas Flowers in creating their powerfully dynamic debut release, “Something Worth Saving.” Due to solid fan requests, Allinaday is receiving radio play on 98 Rock, Radio 94.7, 107.7 The Bone (Bay Area) and can be heard online through Ventchat.com, V103.net and was featured on The Mike O’Meara show. With their dedication, image and sound, they’re sure to captivate audiences worldwide.
Thu 7/18 8:00 PM, 191st Army Rock Band- Band of the Wild West »
The army musical repertoire includes Classic Rock and SKA. This band dates back to WWII, the 91st Division Band has a rich and distinguished history. Instituted in 1943, the band played near the front line in Italy alongside the 91st Infantry Division. In 2003, the band was ordered into active military service for 19 months resulting in the Army Superior Unit Award. No member of the band has been deployed overseas since WWII. In 2008, the band was reassigned the 191st Army Band under the 63rd Regional Support Command. Be ready to rock to the easy sounds of the 191st Army Rock Band!
Fri 7/19 8:00 PM, Pop Rocks »
Pop Rocks originally got together in 1998 to perform a benefit show called “One Night Stand”, which was supposed to be a one time gig. After the show though, the band received requests for additional shows and a write up in the local paper. They decided to put together a real band of pranksters to incite mayhem. Original members Bobby Beige, Nikki Licky Stix, and Pinky St. August were later joined by Taylor Tame and Rudy Riot to complete the lineup. In over-the-top costumes — Pop Rocks know how to dress when they come to the party. Their special brand of party rock has solidified their popularity with large audiences across California.
Sat 7/20 8:00 PM, Cheeseballs »
The name says it all: groovy, funky, danceable and fun! Just ask the tens of thousands of fans who have already experienced them. They will tell you stories of singing “I Will Survive” at the top of their lungs or dancing so hard to “We Are Family” that getting out of bed the next day was quite an event.
That’s what The Cheeseballs do; they make you “Shake Your Booty” like it hasn’t been shaken in years. The band members pride themselves on serving up a helping of non-stop 70′s disco dance hits and 80′s and 90′ s pop classics with an uncanny knack of performing songs that you will be surprised to discover you knew all the words to, such as “YMCA,” “Stayin’ Alive,” “Dancing Queen,” “Le Freak,” “Disco Inferno,” and many more. The result is always an audience dancing along and singing along.
Whether playing to a crowd of 100 or 10,000, they’ll make sure everyone ends up on the dance floor. The band is comprised of 8 performers dressed in dazzling retro disco outfits and presents a parade of personalities who alternate lead vocals with plenty of exuberantly choreographed dance moves. You won’t be disappointed!
Sun 7/21 7:00 PM, Funkalicious »
Funkalicious was formed by a group of friends out of Los Angeles California. At the time each members of “Funkalicious” was playing behind major artists when they decided to start their own band. They are a new generation of Funksters straight from funky South Central. Funkalicious’ funk is contagious; whatever you do, just don’t fight the funk! So if you’re looking for pure fun and good times, “Funkalicious iz the bizness”.
Mon 7/22 7:00 PM, Stone Kold & A Mile Till Dawn »
Stone Kold is one of the area’s best cover bands. With an outstanding lead female vocalist, great harmonies and talented musicians, who know how to entertain, Stone Kold brings excitement and energy to any stage! They add their own fresh style while performing the classic songs you know and love to sing and dance to.
A Mile Till Dawn was formed in the fall of 2007. The band was formed at Rock Inc. a music school in Citrus Heights, California. With the help of personal instructors and band coaches, AMTD has developed their song writing and performing capabilities.
They have performed at The Boardwalk, Club Retro, Spanish Fly Hair Garage in Downtown Sacramento during Second Saturday, Dimples Records in Folsom, and The Refuge for SN&R’s Youth Music “Battle of the Bands”
Tue 7/23 7:00 PM, Two Steps Down & Blind Dog Run »
Two Steps Down is a hot, young country band that highlights the vocal harmonies of siblings Amy, Brad and Chris, with enthusiastic drumming by Cameron and the newest addition of lead guitar, mandolin and even some banjo from Don. Don’t be surprised by their ability to mix the strong three part harmonies of artists such as The Band Perry or Lady Antebellum with the attitude of Carrie Underwood and the strong country roots of Martina McBride. Make no mistake Two Steps Down performs shows that are sure to keep you dancing and ready to party.
As a band, they have been performing locally for more than five years and have had the opportunity to play with top country artists including Keith Anderson, James Otto and Steel Magnolia. The results are in and Two Steps Down has just been named the 2013 KCRA 3 A-List winner for best local bands. This band is a must see local act sure to keep you on your feet and ready to party.
Blind Dog Run is an all original Rock Band from Sacramento California who has played at the State Fair for many years. Blind Dog Run is pleased to introduce our new lead singer Andy Magenheimer. Andy’s vocal and lyric capabilities bring an added highlight to all of the existing Bind Dog Run songs. Their songs have never sounded better. In addition Guitarist Daryle Longstreth is father to the siblings in Two Steps Down performing on the 23rd as well.
Wed 7/24 7:00 PM, Sin City »
Sin City is five guys with a mutual love for the greatest rock band of all time and decided to go for it by putting together the best tribute possible to AC/DC’s infamous Bon Scott era. Be prepared to party hard!
Thu 7/25 8:00 PM, Purple Haze »
Purple Haze, a tribute to Jimi Hendrix, features Ralph Woodson who certainly knows his Hendrix. He has studied his idol to the point of being able to play the guitar behind his back, and with his teeth. Ralph’s a Hendrix authority, and it’s obvious when you see him perform.
Purple Haze has gained a steady following in the Bay Area and knocks people out wherever they go. Ralph’s showmanship and command of the Hendrix material is second to none. See it for yourself!
Fri 7/26 8:00 PM, Notorious »
Notorious is the Bay Area’s most exciting live dance party/rock show! This band is the real deal. The musicianship of this band is impeccable, and includes incredible singers that rock! They are energetic, experienced players who have a repertoire that spans the full spectrum of ‘80s radness and well beyond, from disco to classic jazz. Notorious is known for their positive attitude and hip youthful style. The five guys and a gal started out as an 80′s pop band and have since mastered the world of 70’s disco and rock through the ages including current hits; playing songs from Madonna to AC/DC to the Commodores to Beyoncé. You’re sure to hear that favorite song from any era and you won’t be able to stop dancing. Decked out in hip, retro outfits, the sensational six have such a good time on stage; you can’t help but be infected with their spirited energy and positive vibe. Wherever they go, the party follows! From the crazy guitar solos, to the dancing, to the great male and female vocals, a Notorious show is a guaranteed good time!
Sat 7/27 8:00 PM, Department of Rock »
The Department of Rock will not rest until they have reshaped the world in their own image. By day, these five agents run The Department of Rock. By night, they defend your right to party with extraordinary “Rock Hero” abilities. Along with secretaries GG1 and GG2 (Go-Go dancers) dancing by their side, you will rock out hard to the best rock music of the 70’s, 80’s, 90’s, and beyond. You will explode with satisfaction hearing these songs exactly as you remember them.
The Department of Rock and its agents have performed, recorded, and worked with some of the greatest national & international producers, recording artist, and pro-audio companies in the world. The Department of Rock agents have performed at a variety of spectacular events and have toured across the United States, Canada, Europe, and the Pacific Rim.


