The Wisconsin State Fair is back better than ever. This year packs a lot of firepower in celebrating both the 250th semiquincentennial of the United States of America and the 175th anniversary of the event itself. Offering up new spine-tingling rides, unbelievable food, plenty of adorable animals and booming live music.
Here’s what to expect from the State Fair this year.
What’s New
In honor of both anniversaries this State Fair splits the focus between Wisconsin and the entire nation. Catch a ride on a 230 foot ferris wheel to celebrate the country or enjoy a new cream puff flavor that reflects on Wisconsin’s cultural history. Here are all the new ways to enjoy the Wisconsin State Fair.
America 250 Wheel
This is the Wisconsin debut of the “largest portable observation wheel in the entire world,” this massive ride is in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the country, with 45 booths each themed after a specific president. The ride provides gorgeous views for 14 miles and allowing passengers to soar into the air. Tickets are $7 per passenger.
Celebrate Cream Puffs Together
This state fair marks the first appearance of the brand-new Fair-aschino Cherry Cream Puff, commemorating the 175th anniversary of the fair by invoking the delicious flavors of grenadine and ginger ale in a totally sweet and sugary package. The special delectable dessert will be available in the Dairy Building while supplies last.
Faces of Farming Display
Showcasing the colorful and important history of agriculture in the dairy state, the Faces of Farming Display honors all sorts of ranchers, both old and young. Found in the Coliseum area, learn about long-lasting dynasties that have transformed and turned Wisconsin into the cheese capital it is today.
Retro Ribbons and Fair Traditions Display
Right in the Goat and Sheep Barn, the Retro Ribbons and Fair Traditions Display embraces the lively history of the state fair, featuring passed-down stories and taking guests on a time-traveling journey.
Sandra Lee at the State Fair
Award winning chef and television personality, Sandra Lee, is bringing her expertise to the Old Fashioned-Inspired Decadent Dessert Contest, August 11 at noon in the Grand Champion Hall.
Check It Out!
Sporkies
The Sporkies and Drinkies relish in creating the most interesting food and beverages that could both excite and terrify. From deep-fried horchata balls at Badger’s Bites, to a southern delight cup of the bayou and hot chicken lemonade. Here are some of the weirdest and wackiest options on the ever-expanding menu this August.
Bayou Crunch Cup-Exotic Meat Grill
Stacked to the very brim with Southern comforts and mouth-watering snicky-snacks, the Bayou Crunch Cup from Exotic Meat Grill creates a mishmash salad composed of Cajun slaw and pickled okra to start. Topping the leafy greens are alligator nuggets and a whole crawfish (plus breaded bites sprinkled throughout), not to mention crispy fries and a zingy sauce that ties the whole spread together.
Color-Changing Swamp Juice-All Things Jerky
What exactly lies in the Color-Changing Swamp Juice from All Things Jerky remains a mystery, with the drink requiring a syringe filled with a supposedly blue raspberry-flavored liquid to be shot into the rest of the concoction for full effect. With Pop Rocks around the rim and creature-themed candy floating around itself, one will be transported right down to the creek or maybe feel like a certain green animated ogre.
Hot Honey Chicken Lemonade-Deep-Fried Mashed Potatoes On-A-Stick
Lemonade is a quintessential part of the state fair experience, with no trip complete without it. To totally change things up with a spicy-sweet kick, this new rendition at Deep-Fried Mashed Potatoes On-A-Stick mixes in hot honey and popping boba for the adventurous. Pair it with chicken nuggets for the perfect little crunchy snack.
Sweet Lemon Berry Cheese Curds – Saz’s BBQ
Sound like a match in heaven for a hungry grizzly bear, the Sweet Lemon Berry Cheese Curds from the iconic Saz’s BBQ are made in collaboration with the renowned Ellsworth Creamery. Frying their cheese curds to a divine crispy brown before being sprinkled in cinnamon sugar and coated in a saccharine raspberry sauce, the wild combination also includes a sweet lemon zest cream on the side to cleanse the palate.
What’s Returning
Don’t get too lost in all the new exciting events coming to the State Fair. There are plenty of things coming back this year that deserve the spotlight, such as the return of the State Fair Parade, Saz’s Racing Pigs and more.
Fair Parade
On Tuesday, August 11th, at 2:30 pm, all are welcome to join and revel in the state fair parade making its grand comeback. With mascots, marching bands and amazingly decorated floats rounding out the ranks, delight in the dual celebration for both America and the festival.
Saz’s Racing Pigs
A long-running custom of the Wisconsin Fair, the chubby and downright adorable pigs will race at 11 am, 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm, 3:30 pm, 4:30 pm, 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 pm daily. Check out the fierce competition throughout the day to see who is the fastest pig this year.
Cirque at the Fair
With edge of your seat knife throwing and treacherous high-wire balancing, Cirque at the Fair is back with never before seen acts and promises to only up the ante. There are three shows from noon-6 P.M.
Family Variety Stage
The Family Variety Stage offers even more entertainment and hijinks, hosting jugglers and comics who make magic on stage. With new acts each day, featuring yo-yo tricks and hula hoop dancing, make sure to stop by for fun intended for the whole family.
Bank Five Nine Main Stage
Check out all the headliners coming to Wisconsin this year. From acts like Grammy award winning rapper Nelly, The Isley Brothers and comedian John Mulaney. There’s a big show fit for everyone at this stage. Tickets can still be purchased online.
K-9 Sports Arena
Calling all dog lovers and puppy parents to the K-9 Sports Arena, where pooches of all shapes and sizes perform agility tricks and dock diving demonstrations. With local canine celebrities making appearances and professional stunts being shown off, there is something new each day over on Wetley Way & Second Street.
