For those who live around Milwaukee, summer usually means one thing – it's almost time for the Wisconsin State Fair! This massive event takes place over 11 days in August, and locals may spend the other 11 months looking forward to it! We can't blame them – after spending a few minutes looking over the plans for the 2024 Wisconsin State Fair, scheduled to take place from August 1st to 11th, we think this year might be the best yet.

Like all great state fairs, there's a little something for everyone here. There are traditional agricultural exhibits and events paying tribute to the traditional roots of the show. Those pair nicely with live entertainment, wild and wacky rides, and some of the most over-the-top fried food items we've ever seen. It all comes together into the event of the year in Wisconsin. We picked out our 12 most anticipated events for the Wisconsin State Fair this year, so read on to start making your plans!

Also, make sure to listen to our latest podcast episode about the Wisconsin State Fair! Our hosts were live at the fair, talking to locals, exploring the cream puff scene, and so much more.

The 2024 Wisconsin State Fair is about to kick off on August 1st, and this year's event looks as exciting as ever –if not more. This is a ticketed event, with admission tickets ranging from $13 to $18. Some major activities have additional fees, and package deals are available for those who want to pack a lot of action into their day. Here are some of the attractions we're looking forward to the most in 2024.

Best Agricultural Events At The 2024 Wisconsin State Fair

1. The Coliseum

This is where the magic happens – the main show barn of the Wisconsin State Fair. Through the eleven days of the Fair, cattle and horses will be judged here, and the best of the best will be shown off. If you're interested in seeing how business is done here, make sure to attend the Governor's Blue Ribbon Livestock Auction, where prize winners fetch a pretty penny.

3. Compeer Financial Discovery Barnyard

Kids and adults alike will love the Ultimate Board Game Spectacular in Compeer Financial Discovery Barnyard. Play agriculture-themed learning games and activities like Operation: Vet Edition, Guess Who? Featuring Ag Careers, and Gone Fishin'. You'll learn all about Wisconsin's diverse agriculture industry, and you can even play "I Spy" with the baby animals.

3. Dairy Lane

Wisconsin is unofficially known as the dairy state, as anyone who has attended a Packers game can attest to! This is where you'll learn all about the industry and witness some fascinating displays of the history and technology that make this industry possible. It will likely make you want to head over to the nearest cheese curd vendor!

4. We Energies Energy Park

A unique exhibit combining the history of farming in Wisconsin with modern technology, this interactive area features exhibits relating to electricity and natural gas, as well as activities for kids like building their own Solar Power Pollinator. The park is full of events that allow kids to get up close and personal with local wildlife, like raptors, in a safe environment, of course.

Best Live Entertainment At The 2024 Wisconsin State Fair

5. Family Variety Stage

This is one of the best spots at the Fair for family fun. No matter the day, there'll be some sort of unique variety show going on – this year's offerings include hip-hop juggling, science experiments, physical comedy, and so much more.

6. Live Music Events

Multiple venues, including the largest – the Bank Five Nine Amphitheater, offer live music every night at the Wisconsin State Fair. Some of this year's featured performers include Journey From The Heart, Gaelic Storm, and rising country superstar MacKenzie Porter.

7. K-9 Sports Arena

Who let the dogs out? Pooch lovers will love this unique activity where top performers team up with dogs to do stunts like frisbee and agility courses. Police K-9 units will also be on hand to show off their dogs' unique abilities in the field.

8. Saz’s Racing Pigs

Sooooooeeee! This fun-filled event, located on Wetley Way and Second Street, is one of the most famous events of the Fair. Surprisingly speedy porkers will take to the track in a thrilling fan favorite. Who will win this year - Hank, Brooke, Maverick, or Harvey?

Best Family Fun At The 2024 Wisconsin State Fair

9. Exploratory Park

The Wisconsin State Fair is set amid a beautiful natural landscape, and several peaceful gardens surround it where you can escape the crowds. Our favorite is the Exploratory Garden, which features small ponds, springs, and even a Japanese Garden. There are plenty of interactive activities for small kids, including a life-size chess board.

10. Giant Slide

One of the most recognizable icons of the Wisconsin State Fair, this towering slide allows guests to slide down 200 feet with only a burlap sack under them. Rides on the Giant Slide are only $4!

11. SpinCity

It wouldn't be the State Fair without over-the-top amusement rides, and you'll find them at SpinCity. Ranging from gentle kiddy rides to the most thrilling ones around, SpinCity offers options for guests, including unlimited ride wristbands and per-ride tickets. If you're taking a break from the rides, you can win prizes at the many carnival-style games.

12. SkyGlider

A trip to the Wisconsin State Fair isn't complete without a ride on the SkyGlider. Presented by Kwik Trip, this cable car ride can transport you across the Fair for $6, or you can take a round-trip for $10. The views of the Fair are stunning, especially at sunset.

Have you attended the Wisconsin State Fair in past years? What are your most anticipated attractions at the 2024 Wisconsin State Fair? Let us know in the comments section! If you want the most up-to-the-minute details, check out the Facebook page of the Wisconsin State Fair as the event gets closer.

While you're in the Milwaukee suburb of West Allis, make sure you stop by the West Allis Cheese & Sausage Shop for some of the most delicious deli goods in Wisconsin. And if you want to stay as close to the Fairgrounds as it gets, check into the Hampton Inn and Suites Milwaukee West – there are plenty of dates still available for the Fair, but they're going fast!