The Oldest Fairs in Wisconsin

The Wisconsin State Fair in West Allis is the premier agricultural and entertainment event in the state, drawing over one million visitors during its eleven-day run in early August. Dating to 1851, it is one of Wisconsin's oldest and most enduring agricultural fair traditions. The fair has been a Wisconsin tradition since 1851 and features the iconic cream puffs that have become synonymous with the event.

The La Crosse Interstate Fair draws participants from both Wisconsin and Minnesota, reflecting the Mississippi River border location that makes La Crosse a true regional hub. First held in 1890, it has been a Wisconsin agricultural tradition for over a century. The bluffs overlooking the Mississippi give this area some of the most dramatic scenery in the Upper Midwest.

The Northern Wisconsin State Fair in Chippewa Falls is one of four state-sanctioned fairs in Wisconsin, serving the agricultural communities of the northern half of the state. First held in 1897, it has been a Wisconsin agricultural tradition for over a century. Chippewa Falls is home to Leinenkugel's Brewery and sits along the Chippewa River.

The Central Wisconsin State Fair in Marshfield is one of four state-sanctioned fairs in Wisconsin, serving the central Wisconsin region from the fairgrounds in Marshfield. First held in 1903, it has been a Wisconsin agricultural tradition for over a century. Marshfield is a regional medical and agricultural hub and home to the Marshfield Clinic, one of the largest private medical practices in the United States.