WASHINGTON, D.C. — Vanilla Ice is scheduled to perform at the Great American State Fair on June 26, 2026, as part of the Freedom 250 concert series on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The fair runs from June 25 through July 10, 2026. Five of the nine originally announced musical acts have withdrawn from the event.
Vanilla Ice defended his participation in several statements, saying, "It’s just music. What’s the big deal, man? We’re just entertainers." In an Instagram video, he said, "It’s all about enjoying the great times of 250 years. From George Washington to now. All the presidents and everybody in between, this is a magical event that’s gonna happen." He added in an Instagram caption, "We are all one. This is not a political platform. This is celebrating America’s birthday. Nothing too serious just enjoying some fun, dancing and great memories. Hope you guys can join us."
In a TMZ interview, Vanilla Ice stated, "I don’t even vote, so I don’t even care. If former President Joe Biden called up and asked me to perform, I’d go play. It’s not a big thing. You play for your fans. You know, we don’t get a chance to pick our fans. They pick us. And I’ll go play for Putin and I’ll play in Iran if you want. It don’t matter." He also said, "I’m here to party with America, man. Music is made to bring people together, and that’s what we’re here to do, man. We’re just going to represent the ’90s."
Country singer Martina McBride, who dropped out of the concert, said in a statement on X that she was "presented with an opportunity to perform at a nonpartisan event" but was upset when the show "turned out to be misleading." She added, "I’ve spent my entire career singing songs about real people with real issues. I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to be a voice for those who have felt like they didn’t have one. It greatly upsets me that any fan who has been moved by my music may now feel like I’m abandoning the meaning behind those songs."
Vanilla Ice’s manager, TQ Management, confirmed his appearance in a statement to Rolling Stone: "Vanilla Ice is contracted and will perform at the Great American Fair at the National Mall on Friday, June 26. He is proud to help celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary! Everyone is welcome to attend and celebrate USA’s Birthday and our Freedom!" As of now, Vanilla Ice and Fab Morvan of Milli Vanilli remain confirmed performers. Flo Rida has not publicly addressed his status.