Free at State Fair

Fun doesn’t have to cost a thing! Learn more about all the amazing things to do and see at State Fair for free.

Find Fun All Over State Fair!

175 Fair Flashback Trivia Time

Celebrate 175 years of history together! Test your State Fair knowledge by taking our online quiz where you have the chance to win a special 175th anniversary prize if you win!

Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design Exhibit

See the creativity from this year’s crop of the brightest talent from MIAD sprout from inspiration to finished artwork at the MIAD Rooted in Tradition exhibit, August 6–9 in the Exposition Center Lobby.

Sandra Lee at State Fair

Get ready to Mash, Muddle, and Make it Old Fashioned with lifestyle celebrity Sandra Lee! Sandra Lee will emcee the live culinary judging of a brand-new competitive contest – the Old Fashioned-Inspired Decadent Dessert Contest on Tuesday, August 11 at 12pm in Grand Champion Hall.

Wisconsin State Fair Parade

Join us for the return of the crowd-pleasing parade as it marches throughout State Fair Park on Tuesday, August 11 starting at 2:50pm. Root on the Fairest of the Fairs, rocking street entertainers, mascots, marching bands, and much more as we celebrate both 175 years of Wisconsin State Fair and the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Retro Ribbon and Fair Traditions Display

This display will showcase 175 years of exhibiting at Wisconsin State Fair by presenting ribbons through the decades and stories from exhibitors. Located in the Sheep & Goat Barn.

Faces of Farming Display

State Fair is commemorating and celebrating the agriculture roots of Wisconsin’s many fairs by showcasing photos and contributions from farm families throughout America’s Dairyland. Located on the south side of the Coliseum.

“Wildlife & Winds of Wisconsin” Carving

Be amazed by State Fair’s new tree carving on the northeast side of Exploratory Park. You will dig the design where Wisconsin animals are revealed in the tree. Located in the Exploratory Park.

T-Mobile Terrace

AUGUST 6-16 - Visit the T-Mobile Terrace for interactive games, photo opportunities, and chances to win Fair favorites.

T-Mobile Fairgoers of the Day

Starting bright and early when State Fair opens each morning, one lucky group will be randomly selected as the T-Mobile Fairgoers of the Day. Enter at the T-Mobile Main Entrance for a chance to win a special prize pack. 

1851 Steel & Stone

Fabricated to pay homage to Wisconsin’s industrial roots, the 1851 Steel & Stone water feature commemorates the first year of the Wisconsin State Fair. Located in Central Park.

The Milky Way

This legend-dairy gathering place is home to the iconic, refreshed, giant milk jug!  Be sure to check out the State Fair animals featured in Larry Schultz’s original Milk Jug. Located near Entrance A, this park-like setting is an amazing spot to relax or meet with family and friends during your day!

Camp of Champions

Starting Friday, August 14, stop by the south end of the Lower Cattle Barn to see the Camp of Champions. Open from 10am-9pm, this exhibit features all of the Grand Champion Drive winners auctioned off in the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Livestock Auction held on Wednesday, August 12.

Dairy Lane

Fairgoers of all ages will enjoy and learn about Wisconsin’s vibrant dairy industry with these educational and interactive exhibits located in the heart of Ag Village. The Dairy Lane Exhibit is located in the southeast end of the Lower Cattle Barn.

Bank Five Nine Amphitheater

The Bank Five Nine Amphitheater is the largest FREE entertainment venue at State Fair! Whether it's the dueling instruments, Kids from Wisconsin, or nationally-known musicians, the Bank Five Nine Amphitheater has something for everyone to enjoy throughout the day.

“Neigh”borhood Corral

This in-depth agricultural exhibit focuses entirely on horses. The "Neigh"borhood Corral features grooming demonstrations, educational displays and more, all of which feature engaging and exciting information about the horse industry. Located on Sue Wetley Court, across from the Compeer Financial Discovery Barnyard. Open 10am-9pm.

Cow-Temporary Art Walk

Mooooo-ve along to explore everything from traditional to cow-temporary art on this year’s Rooted in Tradition Cow-temporary Art Walk. From our awesome art galleries, Bears at the Fair wood carving to the rustic metal cow sculpture, this year’s art walk is legend-dairy.

Cirque at the Fair Tickets

Watch incredible acts at Cirque at the Fair, our dazzling free show with brand-new acts here at Wisconsin State Fair! There is even a VIP upgrade you can purchase to get guaranteed ringside seating!

Strolling Street Entertainers

As you stroll through State Fair, be sure to keep an eye out for exciting and unique street entertainers in spots near Central Park, Central Mall, and Exposition Center. Watch for performances by Steve Trash, Brant the FireGuy, The Funny Waiter Show, The Magic of Billy Kidd, The Strolling Piano, and The Plant Guy!

Wisconsin State Fair History Walk

Delve into the Wisconsin State Fair timeline with a quick quiz to see how well versed you are in State Fair facts. Step right up for the clever history quiz or curated history walk to earn the most epic-looking ribbon! Punch cards available in at the History Building on the south end of Exploratory Park.

Plein Air at the Fair

On Monday, August 10 and Tuesday, August 11, seek out and find your favorite artists capturing your memorable State Fair moments as they paint with old and new sites.

Young People’s Art Exhibit

Quirky, vibrant, and courageous best describes the youth artwork from Wisconsin students grade 6 -12 on display for your admiration; it is a feast for your heart and soul. The Make It Take It Art is a great way to get inspired and create a Fair masterpiece in the Exposition Center Lobby.

Exploratory Park

Take your family on an adventure through Exploratory Park! This relaxing oasis on the south side of the State Fair features hands-on stations for kids of all ages.

Garden Walk

With florals in full bloom, join us on the Abso-blooming-lutely Garden Walk. Find your way to the Wisconsin State Fair Flower Crew's favorite purple plants on a stick display, blooming bovine topiary and tranquil gardens.

Compeer Financial Discovery Barnyard

Families can discover Wisconsin’s diverse and thriving agriculture industry through a variety of engaging activities, live demonstrations, and more. Stop by and see baby farm animals, too! Located in Ag Village on Sue Wetley Court, just south of the Lower Cattle Barn.

Youth Exhibits

Youth Exhibits is the place for family fun surrounded by vibrant exhibits made by youth ages 8-19 from across the Badger State. Earn your own “I Discover Youth Exhibits” ribbon after exploring all the cool activities. Located on Grandstand Avenue & Fifth Street.

Free Live Music

There are dozens of FREE stages of entertainment at the Wisconsin State Fair, featuring your favorite regional and local bands, as well as family-friendly entertainment, all 11 days of the Fair.

Grand Champion Hall & Stage

2026-07-29T18:03:44-05:00

Check out the winners of our amateur exhibit contests including textiles, crafts, photography, quilting, culinary, and horticulture. From Bonsai chats, beer and wine making demos to culinary contests galore, Grand Champion Hall is overflowing with flowers and fun! Located on Main Street across from the Exposition Center.

K-9 Sports Arena

2026-07-29T18:03:48-05:00

The K-9 Sports Arena, presented by Yutka Fence, features shows like dog dock diving, frisbee, agility courses, Police K-9 units, and so much more. Back again, pose with your favorite celebrity dog mannequins like Elpha-Bark, Glin-dog, and more! Located on Wetley Way & Second Street.

Milking Parlor

2026-07-29T18:03:53-05:00

Courtesy of the Wisconsin State Fair Dairy Promotion Board, you can view the cow and goat milking demonstrations. Located in Ag Village at the southeast corner of the Livestock Horse Barn on Central Avenue.

Racing Pigs Arena

2026-07-29T18:03:29-05:00

Don't miss this Fair favorite - the home of Saz's Famous Racing Pigs, presented by the Milwaukee Admirals. See the pig races at various times during the day. Located on Second Street & Badger Avenue.

We Energies Energy Park

2026-07-29T18:04:14-05:00

There’s so much to do! We Energies Energy Park features fun performances and exhibits in a clean, relaxed park setting. Open from 10am to 6pm, pick up a safety identification wristband to keep your child safe at State Fair. Plus, visit the Discovery World Solar Power Pollinator for a great activity.

Family Variety Stage

2026-07-29T18:04:18-05:00

Find the Family Variety Stage on South Grandstand Avenue! This stage features jugglers, comics, and more - including Kenny Ahern (Physical Comic), Bex in Motion (Hula Hoop Show), Mark Hayward (Yo-Yo Tricks & Juggling), and more.

Wisconsin Building

2026-07-29T21:56:00-05:00

The Wisconsin Building is a place for loving local products and eating amazing Wisconsin food. From tasty treats to your next meal, you'll see why agriculture is Wisconsin’s greatest industry with these amazing family-friendly prices. Located near Ag Village with entrances on Wisconsin Way, Central Avenue, and Grandstand Avenue.

2026-07-29T18:13:49-05:00
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