HUTCHINSON, Kan. — There are a couple of new announcements for this year’s Kansas State Fair.

The first is that the fair will have two nights with no grandstand concert. During those evenings, there will be free concerts at Bretz and Young Arena. Those concerts will be free and seating will be on a first-come-first-served basis. The concerts will be on Sept. 10 and Sept. 12.

The Explore Kansas Festival is also new this year. It will take place the first week of the fair.

The fair hopes the festival will teach fairgoers about things the state has to offer. The two-day showcase will bring together communities and attractions from all across the state, creating a place for the public to discover Kansas treasures. The festival will run Sept. 7 and 8.

The Explore Kansas Festival could help visitors find unique cafes, fishing holes, hiking trails, next summer’s vacation spot, historic sites, natural landmarks, museums, performing centers, arts and culture, and events — or even a new place to call home.

The Kansas State Fair opens Sept. 6.