The Great American State Fair hasn’t exactly lived up to its billing, with early headlines dominated by weak attendance, steep food prices, and a slew of canceled musical acts. And that was before a near-disastrous scene unfolded Thursday afternoon, when a piece of equipment from the Salute Stage nearly struck a group of young dancers rehearsing below. Fortunately, no one was injured, but it was definitely a close call.

This weekend could be even more precarious at the Great American State Fair, with temperatures forecast to exceed 100 degrees and Donald Trump promising to “make a really long speech just to show that I can do anything.”

The stage is falling apart at the rehearsal for Freedom 250's July 4th celebration. pic.twitter.com/bPbg94hp6X

— Aaron Parnas (@AaronParnas) July 2, 2026