Top 7 Things to Do at the Northern Wisconsin State Fair
Northern Wisconsin’s summer isn’t complete without a visit to the Northern Wisconsin State Fair in Chippewa Falls. With a variety of free live music and entertainment (with paid attendance), delicious food, interactive and safe exhibits, and loads of family fun, the fair draws more than 100,000 visitors each year! Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned fairgoer, we have seven must-see highlights to make your fair experience unforgettable at the largest family-friendly event in the region!
1. Pre-Fair Activities
Kick off the fair early with exciting pre-fair activities and enjoy free admission! On Tuesday, July 8, dive into the fair ahead of the crowds by participating in fun events like the favorite fair food contest, exploring junior exhibits, and listening to some live music by The Dweebs. It’s the perfect opportunity to get a head start on the festivities.
2. Leinenkugel’s Main Stage Performances
Experience national acts up close on the Leinenkugel’s Main Stage. The 2025 lineup features big names like Montgomery Gentry (featuring Eddie Montgomery), Hairball, Flo Rida, and Foreigner, with performances running Wednesday through Saturday night. Don’t miss the chance to dance and sing along with fellow fairgoers.
3. Check out the Exhibits
Celebrate Wisconsin’s rich agriculture at the Northern Wisconsin State Fair by exploring the impressive and safe livestock exhibits featuring dairy and beef cattle, swine, sheep, goats, horses, and rabbits. In addition to these animal displays, the fair welcomes youth and adult exhibitors to showcase their talents in a wide array of non-animal categories such as handcrafted arts and crafts, culinary creations, horticulture, antiques, and more. Throughout the fair, you’ll also find safe, interactive exhibits designed to engage visitors of all ages. There will also be the opportunity to watch a live animal auction
4. Classic Carnival Rides
Step right up to the fair’s classic carnival, where timeless favorites like the Ferris wheel and merry-go-round await, alongside safe and thrilling rides for all ages. The carnival is a hub of excitement and the Ride-All-Day Pass is a great investment for parents wanting to keep their kids occupied on the fairgrounds!
5. Everything on a Stick
No fair is complete without trying out some iconic fair foods! Savor deep-fried delights or snacks on a stick like foot-long corndogs, cheese curds, funnel cakes and fresh-squeezed lemonade. With food vendors lining the fairgrounds, there’s something for everyone.
6. Play Games at the Midway
Put your skills to the test at classic midway games and try your luck at winning a giant stuffed animal prize. It’s fun and friendly competition with a chance to bring home a memorable souvenir for that special someone perhaps!
7. Visit the Animals
Beyond the main attractions, enjoy a packed schedule of free activities for all ages. Don’t miss the youth competitions and the petting zoo, where kids and adults alike can get up close and personal with friendly farm animals like horses, cows, bunnies, and chickens.
The Northern Wisconsin State Fair is a tradition, a community gathering, and a showcase of everything that makes the region special. Mark your calendar for July 9 to 13, 2025, and experience these seven must-sees for yourself in Chippewa Falls, WI at the largest family-friendly event in the region!
Exploring more than the fair? Make the most of your trip by visiting the Leinie Lodge and the heart of downtown Chippewa Falls. At the Leinie Lodge, you can tour the historic Leinenkugel’s brewery, sample award-winning beers, and soak in the welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere. Afterward, take a walk through downtown Chippewa Falls, where you’ll find local boutiques, gift shops, restaurants, and hotels. These stops add even more adventure and local flavor to your fair experience, enjoy!