The Wisconsin State Fair returns to Wisconsin State Fair Park in West Allis for its 2019 run from August 1-11. Dreaming of cream puffs? Looking forward to that can't-miss concert? Interested in the visual arts events at the fair? The Shepherd Express Wisconsin State Fair Guide has you covered! This special section is brought t you by the State Fair.
In addition to highly anticipated traditions, this year’s Wisconsin State Fair offers new attractions, competitions and entertainment during the run of the Fair, Thursday, Aug. 1-Sunday, Aug. 11. Here's an overview of what's new:
Monarch Library Partnership
In the past, the State Fair has welcomed readers from Milwaukee, Waukesha and Jefferson counties to participate in summer reading programs, offering free State Fair tickets to kids who read. This year, the program is being expanded to Dodge, Ozaukee, Sheboygan and Washington County Libraries as well. Kids can earn a free youth admission ticket upon completion of the summer reading program.
Autism, Art and Animals
New this year, imaginative and illustrative animals created by children and young adults living with autism will be on display Aug. 1-4. Students ages 8-18 enrolled in the Islands of Brilliance, a Milwaukee nonprofit, have designed an amazing array of artwork including Cactus Cat, Pig Pig and Charlie the Roller-Skating Cheetah. All artwork will be on display in the lobby of the Exposition Center.
All for One Swine Show
Once again, the All for One Swine Show will take place in the Swine & Goat Barn on Thursday, Aug. 1. New this year, the All for One Goat Show will take place in the Swine & Goat Barn on Saturday Aug. 3! Any person with an intellectual disability who is 8-17 years of age is eligible to enter, and will have the opportunity to gain the real-life experience of showing a pig. Each participant will be paired with two youth mentors and a pig to use for the show.
Alpacas
The new alpaca area will feature these captivating creatures live in action. Fair goers should be sure to check out the educational display, and can purchase alpaca merchandise. This new space is located on Sue Wetley Court, just south of the Compeer Financial Discovery Barnyard.
Dairy Lane Exhibit
Courtesy of The Wisconsin State Fair Dairy Promotion Board, the House of Moo has a new name: the Dairy Lane Exhibit. Families will enjoy these educational and interactive exhibits located in the heart of Ag Village. Fair goers of all ages will have the opportunity to learn about Wisconsin’s vibrant dairy industry. The Dairy Lane Exhibit is located in the southeast
end of the Lower Cattle Barn.
Kwik Trip Day is Tuesday, Aug. 6
Wisconsinites’ favorite place to fill up their tanks is thrilled to partake in the Wisconsin State Fair. Attendees should look for the Kwik Trip displays in Central Park to learn more about the Kwik Rewards loyalty program and have a chance to win prizes. Kwik Trip is a family owned business based out of La Crosse, Wis.
Shopper's Fair-a-Dise Day is Wednesday, Aug. 7
The Shopper’s Fair-a-dise promotion is a great reason for shoppers to celebrate. For one day only, 60 shopping vendors will offer discounts on select merchandise or even their entire store. Mark your calendars and take advantage of these savings to get souvenirs for all. Check out the Exposition Center, Central Marketplace, Mile Marketplace, Galleria and the streets in between if you want to get in on the spectacular savings.
New Vendors
Streets lined with vendors is nothing new at The Wisconsin State Fair; however, this year there are several new and expanding vendors. Pistol Pete’s, a popular Brookfield Neighborhood grill, is excited to bring their signature pizzas to State Fair. Their new location will be located on Grandstand Avenue, offering appetizers, pizza and more, as well as live music. Another new vendor stand, Charlie’s Deep-Fried Pork Tenderloin On-a-Stick will be located on Center Street in between the WonderFair Wheel and We Energies Energy Park. An existing fan favorite, The
Steak Stop, is expanding, with new awnings and seating areas to offer more than just delicious food to their guests.
New Rides
SpinCity is proud to present four new soaring, swinging, and spinning rides for all ages to enjoy. These rides include The Haunted Castle, The Eli Ferries Wheel, The AirMaxx and The Tractors (which are perfect for the littlest of fair goers.) Visit WIStateFair.com for additional details.
Read more of our coverage of the Wisconsin State Fair and enter to win a pair of tickets here.
