Wisconsin State Fair facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Wisconsin State Fair |
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The State Fair's "snowflake" logo, in use since 1972 to advertise the year-round use of Wisconsin State Fair Park
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| Genre | State fair |
| Dates | 11 Days |
| Location(s) | West Allis, WI |
| Years active | 160 |
| Founded | 1851 |
| Attendance | 1,130,572 in 2019 |
| Website | www.wistatefair.com |
The Wisconsin State Fair is a huge yearly event held at the Wisconsin State Fair Park in West Allis, Wisconsin. West Allis is a town near Milwaukee. This exciting fair usually happens in August and lasts for 11 days. It's a place where people come together to celebrate Wisconsin's agriculture, enjoy fun rides, eat tasty food, and see live shows.
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What is the History of the Wisconsin State Fair?
The very first Wisconsin State Fair took place in 1851 in Janesville. About 13,000 to 18,000 people came to this big event! It was organized by the state's Agricultural Society. The fair was held on a six-acre piece of land next to the Rock River. Some of the cool things shown at this first fair included a huge 200-pound squash. There was also a plowing contest where teams of horses and oxen worked together. People said it was the biggest gathering in Wisconsin's history at that time.
When the fair was held in Milwaukee in 1852, visitors could ride their carriages around the Cold Spring Race Course.
In 1859, Abraham Lincoln, who later became president, was invited to speak at the fair. He talked about how important it was for farmers and their families to work for themselves. He also explained how farmers, shopkeepers, and other businesses are all connected. Lincoln told farmers to try new ways of farming to make their lives better.
Over the years, the fair added many new and exciting attractions. In 1869, there was even a fire engine demonstration! They set boxes, barrels, and a large wooden building on fire to show how fire engines worked. For many decades, the fair moved around to different cities like Janesville, Watertown, Fond du Lac, and Madison. But in 1892, it found its permanent home at the Wisconsin State Fair Park.
The fair has been canceled a few times in its long history. It was canceled during World War I (in 1917 and 1918) and World War II (from 1942 to 1945). In 2020, the fair was canceled again because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
What is The Milwaukee Mile?
The Milwaukee Mile is a special one-mile oval track located right on the State Fair grounds. It's a place where motor racing events happen. This track is famous because it's the oldest continuously-used motor racing circuit in the entire world! Sometimes, races or special car shows are held here during the State Fair.
What Fun Events and Entertainment Can You Find at the Fair?
The Wisconsin State Fair is packed with fun things to do and see. Every year, you'll find lots of different vendors selling all sorts of items. There are also many local and national bands playing music. The Kids From Wisconsin often perform, too.
Delicious Food and Drinks
One of the biggest highlights of the fair is the amazing variety of food and drinks. A super popular treat that everyone loves is the cream puff. These are a must-try when you visit!
Exciting Rides and Games
In 2010, the fair added a roller coaster called Comet 2, which is forty feet tall! In 2012, the Wisconsin State Fair took over the Midway area. They renamed it Spin City. This area has many thrilling rides like the Sizzler, the Freak Out, and the Stratosphere, which is a huge 200-foot-tall swing ride.
Live Music and Shows
The Main Stage at the fair features big headline performers every evening. You can also find many local bands playing on smaller stages and in pavilions all around the fairgrounds. There's always music to enjoy!
Amazing Animals and Exhibits
The fair also showcases agricultural exhibits every year. You can see many different animals like horses, cattle, sheep, and chickens. It's a great chance to learn about farming and animals.
Wisconsin Wine Garden
Since 1996, the fair has had a Wisconsin Wine Garden. Here, you can find wines from many different wineries across Wisconsin.
Who Visits the Wisconsin State Fair?
The fair attracts a lot of people!
- The average age of someone visiting the fair is 40 years old.
- Most fairgoers, about 84%, live in Wisconsin. Half of these visitors come from the Milwaukee area.
- On average, people visit the fair about 3 times.
- Visitors usually spend between 5 to 7 hours enjoying all the fair has to offer.
How Many People Attend the Fair?
The attendance for the Wisconsin State Fair was 1,130,572 people in 2019. That's over a million visitors!
Images for kids
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The State Fair's "snowflake" logo, used since 1972.
