County Fair Guide

Wisconsin Valley Fair

Wausau, Wisconsin

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2026 Dates

August 4–9, 2026

Duration

6 days

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Size

medium

Worth Knowing

Consistently described as Wisconsin's second-largest county fair, the Wisconsin Valley Fair draws an estimated 140,000 visitors to Wausau each August. Serving Marathon County in central Wisconsin, it features a full midway, open and youth livestock competitions, and a grandstand entertainment lineup that draws from across the region.

Source: FestivalNet / fair organizer

On the Midway

Livestock shows, 4-H and FFA competitions, carnival rides, fair food, and grandstand entertainment draw large crowds from the greater Wausau metropolitan area.

Before You Go

Wausau's Whitewater Park on the Wisconsin River is one of the finest urban kayaking venues in the Midwest — combine the fair with a day on the water.

What to Know

Every year, Wausau hosts the Wisconsin Valley Fair, which is a six-day early August fair serving the Wisconsin River valley and one of central Wisconsin's largest cities. Wausau is known for its granite quarries, whitewater kayaking on the Wisconsin River, and being the home of the American Marathon.

Heading to Wisconsin Valley Fair?

Our complete packing list covers what actually makes a difference — sun protection, footwear, and the small things people forget until they need them.

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