With their new CD hitting stores July 22, the country duo Sugarland is once again hoping to make their way to the top of the charts. And on July 26, they also will be making their way to Minot for the North Dakota State Fair.

The North Dakota State Fair is known for bringing in big-time entertainers, and this year will be no different. Along with Sugarland, the stage will include performers such as Matchbox Twenty, Trace Adkins and Christian music's top-selling group, Casting Crowns.

"We like to do everything we can to get the performers involved and make them feel the fun. And over the years, most of them say they've enjoyed performing in North Dakota," said state fair manager Bob Wagoner.

Even with the four country and two rock performers, Wagoner said the North Dakota State Fair is one of the best agriculture state fairs in the country.

"Agriculture has always been a strong element of the state fair, but we try to build off that with popular events," Wagoner said.

There is a wide variety of events for this year's fair, and Wagoner said they try to find new events every year to add to family favorites.

A new event they have this year for kids is the Kids Clubhouse, which will run all day and include activities and games. Another new event for kids is the Play N Trade Game Break. This all-day event will provide kids with free access to the latest video games, like "Guitar Hero," and systems like the Xbox 360 and Wii.

"The main message we want to send is that there are so many activities going on, so in addition to agriculture and livestock, it doesn't matter your taste - you can find something to enjoy," said Wagoner.

In honor of the Murphy brothers celebrating their 40th year running the state fair carnival, they will provide four hours of free carnival rides on July 22 and 24 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Last year, Wagoner said the attendance throughout the nine days of the state fair last year was almost 250,000 people, and this year he said they hope for even more.

With the vast amount of entertainment, Wagoner said one of the main focuses will be the livestock and horse shows. Last year was the first year the fair included a Ranch Rodeo, and they will also feature bull riding and different 4-H and FFA competitions. "This gives people a chance to see the best of the best in 4-H and FFA," he said.

Along with hospitality around the Minot area, the camping ground also will be open. There will be free RV parking without electricity, and electricity can be included at $15 a night.

Daily gate admission is $7 for adults and $3 for juniors. Season passes can be purchased for $20.

For ticket information and purchases, as well as a schedule of events, go to the North Dakota State Fair Web site at www.ndstatefair.com or call the state fair office at 701-852-FAIR.