What better way to celebrate the unique flair of northern Wisconsin locales than to gather your friends and family and head to a fair this summer? Here 7 reasons why northern Wisconsin fairs are a great way to spend those halcyon summer weekends.

7 Reasons You’ve Got to Go to a Northern Wisconsin Fair

1. Rides. There’s a ride for everyone at the fair, whether you favor an exhilarating coaster, a classic carousel, or a romantic Ferris wheel. An added bonus: If you’re traveling with young fairgoers who approach rides with trepidation, there’s a lower cost commitment at the fair than at a large amusement park with high admission fees. (Perhaps hold off on buying the unlimited ride wristband and opt for a few ride tickets until you know how your little one is going to respond to rides.)
2. Food. Funnel cake, corn dogs, cream puffs…need I say more?
3. Animals. Here’s a chance to see amazing animals such as cows, horses, sheep, goats, and pigs up close. I don’t know about you, but for me, there’s never a day that wouldn’t be improved by spending some quality time with four-legged friends.
4. Live music and other entertainment. You might just find your new favorite local band.
5. Showcase your own talents or be inspired by others’. Whether you have a green thumb and prize-winning petunias, you are a genius in the kitchen with blue-ribbon-worthy blueberry pies into the competition, or you are a shutterbug with a portfolio of gorgeous photos to display, your local fair is your opportunity to shine! Or, if you’re shopping for a new hobby, perusing the competition entries and other booths at the fair can be a source of avocation inspiration.
6. Get some exercise. Many of northern Wisconsin’s fairs have a fun run/walk event as part of the festivities. (Psst…there’s your excuse for grabbing that second helping of chocolate-covered, deep-fried fill-in-the-blank!)
7. Learn a thing or two. Sure, fairs are fun, but they’re also great opportunities for a little education. Many fairs include demonstrations of agricultural and environmental practices—from creative recycling and upcycling to sheep shearing—as well as opportunities to talk to representatives from organizations such as Future Farmers of America, 4-H, or the National Guard.

Okay, so you’re convinced that you should give a northern Wisconsin fair a chance this summer. Now you’re faced with a serious dilemma: There are so many great fairs in northern Wisconsin, and several happening each weekend, so which one should you attend? We’ve got you covered. Here are some of the most popular northern Wisconsin fairs for each of the remaining sweet months of summer.

29 of the Best Fairs in Northern Wisconsin