These days, the word “free” has a nice ring to it. Especially when it refers to seeing well-known acts such as Ziggy Marley, David Spade, Joan Jett & the Blackhearts or The Beach Boys perform.

That’s exactly what’s being offered at the 2014 Oregon State Fair, to be held Aug. 22-Sept. 1 in Salem. With the purchase of fair admission, fairgoers will have a chance to see 10 acts at the fairground’s L.B. Day Amphitheater.

Not only are the concerts free, the admission prices have been reduced this year as well, according to a news release. Tickets are $8 for adults (ages 12 and older) and $6 for children (ages 6-11) and seniors (ages 62 and older).

Seating at the L.B. Day Amphitheater is first come, first served, so plan accordingly. Gates open one hour prior to the scheduled start time for each concert.

If you want to secure a seat ahead of time, a limited number of VIP Experience tickets are also being sold. These tickets include premium reserved seating, preferred access to concessions and a chance to win backstage access. (Admission to the fair is also included when purchased in advance). VIP tickets range from $20 to $35, depending on the entertainer.

Here is the 2014 Oregon State Fair concert lineup:

Aug. 22 — Buckcherry, 7 p.m.

Aug. 23 — Ziggy Marley, 7 p.m.

Aug. 24 — Emblem 3, 4 p.m.

Aug. 25 — The Fab Four, 7 p.m.

Aug. 26 — David Spade, 7 p.m.

Aug. 27 — The Newsboys, 6:45 p.m.

Aug. 28 — The Charlie Daniels Band, 7 p.m.

Aug. 29 — Chris Young, 6:45 p.m.

Aug. 30 — Joan Jett & the Blackhearts, 4 p.m.

Sept. 1 — The Beach Boys, 4 p.m.

Contact: www.oregonstatefair.org or 800-833-0011.

— Reporter: 541-383-0350, jwasson@bendbulletin.com