What’s in store for this year’s Wisconsin State Fair

The Wisconsin State Fair is right around the corner. Here’s a preview of what to expect.

July 8, 2026

Matthew Carrasco of Milwaukee eats a chocolate cream puff with his family and girlfriend outside of the new Dairy Building at the Wisconsin State Fair Park in West Allis on the afternoon of July 31, 2025. (USA Today via Reuters Connect)

With the Wisconsin State Fair approaching, there will be no shortage of exhibits to experience, foods to taste, and live music to enjoy.

The Wisconsin State Fair returns Aug. 6-16, as it celebrates its 175th year. Here’s what you can expect to see at the fairgrounds:

Agricultural exhibits

One of the staples of the state fair, visitors can expect to see a variety of showcases and competitions.

The Ag Village will feature animals large and small, from cattle to rabbits and other classic Wisconsin farm animals, both grown and young.

There will also be several competitions, including horse pulls, cattle, swine, and goat shows, and more.

Additionally, there will be educational opportunities like grooming demonstrations, competition preparations, and interactive exhibits.

Entertainment

Of course, there will be no shortage of entertainment over the course of the fair.

The Bank Five Nine Amphitheater is the largest free entertainment stage at the state fair. It will feature nationally known musicians all day, every day, and a nightly headliner.

There are also dozens of other free stages across the fairgrounds where you can catch a show from regional and local bands.

If you’re looking for something other than music, there are plenty of options, ranging from the K9 Sports Arena, to the Milking Parlor, or the Racing Pigs Arena, home to Saz’s famous racing pigs.

Food and drinks

It wouldn’t be the state fair without classic fair foods. While the new fair foods have yet to be announced, there are plenty of classics to choose from.

Of course the cream puffs, a fan favorite, will be available. Grab a single, three-, or six-pack in original, chocolate, or the new Fair-aschino Cherry in celebration of 175 years.

Before the fair, visitors can also get a cream puff at the drive-thru, available from Monday, Aug. 10 through Friday, Aug. 14 from 7-9 a.m.

Aside from the cream puffs, attendees can also get food on-a-stick, or head to the Milk House from some unique milk flavors.

Shopping

The new vendors have not been announced yet, but expect to see some unique locally made goods.

For all your shopping needs, visit the Exposition Center for plenty of vendors with something for everyone.

Fair activities

No state fair day would be complete without enjoying some of the iconic attractions, like the skyglider, ferris wheel, or the giant slide.

In addition to rides, visitors can check outthe Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design exhibit, the “Wildlife & Winds of Wisconsin” carving, the Cow-Temporary Art Walk, or the Fairtastic Poster Art Competition.

If you’re interested in attending, from now until July 19, adult admission tickets will be available at a discounted price of $17. On July 20, the prices will rise to $20.

And if you want to plan your day ahead of time, be sure to check out the daily schedule.

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