Waukesha County Fair July 2025

The Waukesha County Fair – Inside Scoop and Giveaway

We love the Waukesha County Fair and are excited it is back for its 184th year in 2026. Scroll to the bottom to see our Fair Fun on Facebook and Instagram! 

NEW for 2026: 

The Waukesha County Fair is pleased to announce Hoobastank & Eve6 will headline the Miller Lite Main Stage on Friday, July 17 at 8 PM. Bringing a wave of late-90s and early-2000s nostalgia to the Main Stage, these two alternative-rock defining artists are bringing the volume for both old and new fans. Each of the Fair’s Miller Lite Main Stage Shows are free with paid Fair admission—ELITE VIP and VIP seating will also be available for each show. GET TICKETS HERE. 

Miller Lite Main Stage Acts
• Thursday – Sebastian Bach | 8pm | (VIP tickets-$35, ELITE VIP-$80)
• Friday – Hoobastank & Eve 6 | 8pm |(VIP tickets-$35, ELITE VIP-$85)
• Saturday – 38 Special | 8pm| (VIP tickets-$40, ELITE VIP-$90)
Elite VIP -$80-$90 includes a seat guaranteed in the front few rows, admission,
preferred parking and two beverage coupons.
VIP Seats – $35- $40 includes a seat for the show, which is on a first come first serve
basis the day of the show. Tickets are on sale NOW!

  • ELITE VIP tickets include Fair admission, preferred parking, two drink tickets, and assigned seating in the first eight rows. VIP tickets include first-come, first-serve seating in a designated area in front of the stage. Tickets for the show will be available to purchase online at WaukeshaCountyFair.com and will go on sale on Friday, April 17 at 8 AM.

The Waukesha County Fair is pleased to announce Sebastian Bach, original
voice of Skid Row, will headline the Miller Lite Main Stage on Thursday, July 16 at 8 PM. 

The Waukesha County Fair is excited to announce the southern rock band 38 Special will headline the Miller Lite Main Stage on Saturday, July 18 at 8 PM. 

“Get Your Kicks!”

I have an absolute adoration for the Waukesha County Fair. So many of our summer family memories have been made there.  The first year we went my son was 15 months. He was just starting to talk, but over and over at the fair he kept saying “more animals…more animals…” and hence started his obsession with animals.  Another year, the boys went on their first RIDES ever.  We took tons of pictures, and there were no tears.  Another year, we watched the demolition derby and escaped the heat in the indoor building with the cold milk from the milk tent.  Last year, we had a great time then I lost my phone there but someone turned it in! Hooray for good people! We just LOVE the fair.  We, in Waukesha County, are so lucky to have such an amazing event in the heart of Lake Country!

In this post, we highlight details about the fair, the deals of each day, list out the key attractions and give tips for attending with children. When you go, tag Lake Country Family Fun in your photos with the hashtag #LOVELCFF and #Waukesha #CountyFair.


Please thank our sponsor:

The Waukesha County Fair

Waukesha County Fair

The Waukesha County Fair is Celebrating its 184th Anniversary July 15-19, 2026!

Did you know that Waukesha County Fair is not only the oldest county fair in Wisconsin—they are also the largest event in Waukesha County? It’s true! 

And if you have gone every year or this will be your first, enter to win tickets and have the most fun yet!


2025 Waukesha County Fair Giveaway
(2026 info coming soon!)

6 pairs of tickets valued at $30/pair.
Pair of  tickets include 2 adult admission and parking.  

TO ENTER:

Thank you to everyone who entered! Congratulations to our 6 winners!! Check your email to see if it was you!

2025 Giveaway will run June 11th, 2025  – June 30th, 2025 with winners chosen on July 1st!!! Be sure to comment on the Facebook post from June 11th at 7am (or on the website comment box below if you are not on social media) to be fully entered. There is also a giveaway for a “Parents Date Night Package to the fair which includes 2 Main Stage shows and parking”…you can enter that giveaway through June 30th here.

Thank you to everyone that entered and congratulations to our 6 winners!!

 

Even if you don’t win, you can still strike a great deal. Check out the advance ticket page and get discounts for advance purchase tickets and wristbands for rides.  You can also find daily deals here listed in the Daily Deals section below.

Also, if your kiddo is enrolled in a Library Summer Reading program (detailed in our Free Summer Fun Guide) some of the prize coupons include junior tickets to the fair!  Check it out!


About the Waukesha County Fair

The Waukesha County Fair has been around since 1842 (before Wisconsin was officially a state)! That’s 183 years of great family fair fun for all!  Everyone can find something to love at the fair from newborn to ninety-nine. (The fair is stroller and wheel chair accessible). Some people come for the amazing concerts, others for the farm animals, many for the food, some for the rides – really there is something for everyone at the fair!

The fairgrounds are located just south of Hwy 94 in Waukesha at 1000 Northview Road.

Pepsi is the sponsor partner with available Gatorade and water at various locations throughout the grounds. Fairgoers can cool off in the misting tent located on the south end of the Fairgrounds near the air-conditioned Freeman Exhibits Arena building, in the air-conditioned Revere Electric Supply, Co. Forum Marketplace, and in the 4-H Kitchen, while enjoying an ice cream cone or cream puff. Fairgoers can also stay cool and watch local music acts in the shaded Leinie Lodge, Coors Light, & make a “pit stop” at the Express Towing & Recovery rest area.


2025 “Cool” Facts

  • Keeping Fair Fun & Traditions Alive in 2025 – Get Your Fair Face on and celebrate 183 years!
  • Water available at area bubblers in the Air Conditioned Forum Marketplace & Shoppes as well as the Arena Exhibit Hall!
  • Misting Tent available to “cool off” just outside the Arena Exhibit Hall
  • New food offerings set to tempt foodies taste buds all Fair long!
  • Brant the Fire Guy is returning to the Waukesha County Fair this year with the All-New Foam Party every afternoon of Fair!
  • ALL ACTION CENTER EVENTS T-Shirt giveaways courtesy of Waukesha’s own Raised Grain Brewing Company 

Don’t Miss These 2026 Waukesha County Fair Events

Here is a list of some of the new and exciting attractions at the Fair this year in 2026.

  • NEW! SICK AIR FMX PERFORMANCE STUNT SHOW – Get ready for nonstop adrenaline with the Sick Air FMX Performance Stunt Show—a high-flying, action-packed experience led by an incredible father-son duo! Headlined by Michigan’s own Scott Murray, a rider known for pushing boundaries and landing one of freestyle motocross’s most daring tricks—the double backflip—this show is built on grit, passion, and perseverance. From
    overcoming setbacks on the world stage at the X Games, to carving his own path, Scott’s story is as inspiring as it is electrifying. Now riding alongside his son, the duo brings a powerful mix of elite FMX stunts, jaw-dropping tricks, and family-driven energy to every performance. Big air. Bold tricks. Unforgettable moments. Buckle up—because this duo is taking FMX to new heights! This is more than a show—it’s Sick Air!
  • NEW! AMERICA 250 CELEBRATION & FAIR KICK OFF – Join us Wednesday at 3 PM as our America 250 Tribute Walking Parade makes its way around the grounds—celebrating community, tradition, and a whole lot of patriotic spirit. After the parade, head over to the Leinie Lodge for the official Fair Kick-Off, where the celebration continues with a special America 250 tribute. Enjoy highlights, special features, and a closer look at the incredible people and moments that make this milestone so meaningful. And the fun doesn’t stop there—stick around for free giveaways, meet Scoopie from Culver’s, and connect with Toothy the Clown as they bring smiles to kids and families alike… plus so much more! It’s the perfect way to start an unforgettable Fair experience!
  • NEW! WISCONSIN BOOTKICKERS BRINGS LINE DANCING TO THE FAIR! – Gear up and Get YOUR Kicks with us this year! Every step tells the story of fun tradition and summertime excitement. Wednesday, July 15th at 6:30pm it’s fun the whole family will love. Bring YOUR kicks and dance with us under the Children’s Tent to all genres of music with some lessons mixed in for all newbies. Beginners & Experienced Dancers
    always welcome!
  • NEW! HIGH HITCHIN’ HOT ROD GARDEN TRACTOR PULL – Thursday, July 16th @ 6pm – Get ready to feel the rumble and witness big power in a small package at the High-Hitchin’ Hot Rod Garden Tractor Pulls! This fan-favorite event brings together some of Southeast Wisconsin’s most skilled (and spirited) competitors as they push their custom-built machines to the limit. With engines roaring, dirt flying, and bragging rights on the line, it’s high-energy entertainment the whole family will love. From seasoned pullers to first-time challengers, you’ll see creativity, horsepower, and hometown pride on full display—all packed into one thrilling show. Don’t miss your chance to catch the action—grab a seat, cheer loud, and experience the pull for yourself!

  • *NEW* Fearless Flores Thrill Show | DAILY – buckle up for thirty minutes of thrilling excitement! As seen on America’s Got Talent, witness acrobatic artistry, jaw-dropping balancing acts and gravity defying Motorcycle Madness! More Details: https://www.waukeshacountyfair.com/events/fearless-flores-thrill-show/
  • *NEW* Megamorph | DAILY – Check out the transforming Camaro to 15’ robot with transformations daily!

Returning Favorites:

  • Brant the Fire Guy | DAILY – Get ready to be amazed and dazzled with American spirit! With the burning desire to entertain, Brant – The Fire Guy juggles fire, breathes fire, eats fire, does fire magic and even jumps through a flaming star on a skateboard. New for 2026 – his patriotic theme really hits the stars with the red, white and blue colors and integrations. From afternoon amazement with an ALL-NEW FOAM PARTY to evening blazing fun, there is even a flame thrower as the night goes on! As the world-record holder for the most flames consumed in under 1 min, our fairgoers will be astounded by his talents! Afternoon & Evening Shows (EVERY DAY OF FAIR!)
  • BACK FOR THE 2ND YEAR! SCOUTS AT THE FAIR – Wednesday, July 15th through Friday, July 17th until at least 5pm, the Scouts will be near the Ag-Venture Tent with interactive activities & take-home fun. From table top fishing games, “catch a fish” small pool with magnetic rods, activity sheets, coloring & more, you must make a stop to see & experience it all!
  • BACK FOR THE 5TH YEAR! TOUCH OF THE WILD EDUCATION TRAILER by the OHEC (Outdoor Heritage Education Center)– Experiential walk-through trailer where kids, of all ages, are able to explore by touching and engaging with displays such as fish and wildlife, full body mounts of native animals to Wisconsin – wolf, turkey, beaver, bear, & more…along with antlers, horns, fur and feathers, and beyond! This added special experience offers a great way to connect with nature right at the Fair and inspire future adventurers and knowledge on things from right here in our home State! 
  • 15th Annual Classic Car Show – Key special event averaging 75-100 cars on Sunday of Fair. Parade @ 1:30 pm and Awards @ 4:30 pm
    • NEW! PIT STOP LANE – Get ready to rev your engines and dive into the action! Join us for an exciting, up-close experience as local race car drivers bring their incredible machines to the Fairgrounds. From drag cars and stock cars to high-powered sprint cars, you’ll get a rare look at vehicles many only see on the track—and you might even have the chance to hop in the driver’s seat! As part of our 15th Annual Car Show, don’t miss Pit Stop Lane—your all-access pass to explore these impressive builds, meet the drivers behind the wheel, and discover
      what makes each car unique. Whether you’re a lifelong racing fan or just looking for something new and exciting, this is your chance to feel the horsepower, hear the engines, and connect with the thrill of racing like never before. Don’t miss it!

  • Pig, Goat, and Duck Races – Our favorite!! Celebrating 109 years as an active family farm in Wisconsin! Details:
    https://www.waukeshacountyfair.com/events/pig-goat-duck-races/
  • Demolition Derby – 2nd year with Hollywood Motorsports, LLC! Crash ‘em, Smash ‘em action that adds a unique twist to our Fair experience. 9th Annual Power Wheels competition!
    • Coming Back for Year #3 in 2026 – T-Shirt give aways at all the Action
      Center events (Truck Pulls & Demo Derby) courtesy of Waukesha’s own,
      Raised Grain Brewing Co.!
  • Truck & Tractor Pulls Bigger & Better than ever! Come see the smoke fly and the engines of the Truck & Tractor Pulls roar Wednesday 7/15 & Sunday 7/19. These shows pack our bleachers & are often standing room only – so plan your trip & come EARLY!! https://www.waukeshacountyfair.com/events/truck-tractor-pulls/
  • Pancake Breakfast |Saturday, July 18th – Kiwanis Club of Waukesha proudly supports this 47th annual event serving up all-you-can-eat pancakes! Details: https://www.waukeshacountyfair.com/events/pancake-breakfast/
  • BACK FOR A 2ND YEAR! Waukesha County Fair DRILL TEAM COMPETITION – Get YOUR Stride On Fair Fans! Be a part of the show -or- enjoy from the seats… Experience the excitement, precision, and pageantry of equestrian drill teams as they perform synchronized routines to music! These talented riders and their majestic horses will dazzle you with intricate formations, breathtaking beauty, and flawless teamwork—all
    choreographed to an electrifying soundtrack. Whether it’s the costumes, lights, flags, or choreography that you love, this event is a must-see for all ages!
  • BACK FOR A 3RD YEAR! BREWERS RACING SAUSAGES MEET & GREET – Wednesday, July 15th @ 6:30-7:30pm. You can’t miss the iconic racing sausages as they roam the grounds connecting with fairgoers of all ages!

Live Music at the Waukesha County Fair:

  • Miller Lite Mainstage:
    Thursday – Justin Moore
    Friday – Ted Neugent
    Saturday – Nightranger
  • Main Stage Details: https://www.waukeshacountyfair.com/entertainment/main-stage-lineup/
    Coors Light Stage & Leinie Lodge Stage
    • Glam Band, Bella Cain, Ten Feet Tall, Kings of Radio, Four On The Floor, Chasin’ Mason, Ryan McIntyre, & Many more!
      • Special Mention – WAMI/Music6S/Pocket Cue will be an impactful part of our 2026 event, playing on our Leinie Lodge Thursday of Fair. These non-profit organizations pay tribute to & harness the healing power of music education and performance to provide therapeutic benefits at no cost to men and women living with post-traumatic stress and other mental health issues resulting from their
        service to the community. They build camaraderie, belonging, and so much more to aid in coping through all these individuals have endured physically and mentally. Their mission and impact continue to stretch far and wide across the United States.

2026 Daily Deals

  • Wednesday, July 15th (Open Noon – 10pm)
    • Fulfilled by Kroger Delivery
    • 3-2-1 You’re IN on the FUN! Pick ‘N Save and Metro Market Day
      • $3 Admission, $2 Parking, and all Rides 1 ticket ($3/ticket).
  • Thursday, July 16th (Open 10-Midnight) is:
    • Fleet Farm and Senior Day
    • Present a Facebook Coupon from Fleet Farm Muskego and Oconomowoc pages to receive 50%
      off admission before 5 p.m. (Save $7.00!)
    • First 1,000 Fairgoers will receive special Cooling Towels courtesy of Fleet Farm.
    • Seniors receive $8 admission all day (62 & older).
    • Inclusive Ride Day (2-4pm courtesy of Waukesha County Fair & North American Midway Entertainment, Pre-Registration Required).
    • In partnership with North American Midway Entertainment, from 2-11p.m. $35 unlimited RIDES
  • Friday, July 17th (Open 10-Midnight)
    • ST. VINCENT DE PAUL DAY
    • Present an Admission Coupon from donating at the Oconomowoc, Pewaukee, or Waukesha St. Vincent De Paul store & save 50% off Adult Admission ($7.00) before 5pm, coupons available at these area locations starting July 1. Must have physical coupon present at gate.
    • In partnership with North American Midway Entertainment, from 1 p.m. – close. $35 unlimited RIDES

Find the full daily schedule.

2026 Prices At the Gate

Adult = $14.00
Youth (6-12 years) = $8.00
Children 5 and Under FREE
Daily Parking $6.00 (vehicle entry is subject to availability)
Free Motorcycle Parking  


Tips for Attending the Fair with Kids

  • Check the daily schedule for the Children’s Tent. There are tons of demonstrations, contests and events including meet the {Waukesha schools} principals, Iron Beaver/Silver Fox Railroad Exhibit and so much more family fun!
  • Check the daily schedule for the Family Fun Stage located in the Arena Exhibit Hall. Events include Catelyn Picco and a Casa Charter School’s Drum & Dance for Peace Group to name a few.
  • Good news – the grounds are stroller accessible!
  • Bring extra water. It gets hot walking around.
  • Know where the restrooms are in case your little needs to go…like now (fairgrounds map)
  • Don’t forget to stop by our family’s favorite tent – the Waukesha Dairy Farmer’s all you care to drink Milk tent (located by the 4H forum building) for $1.00.  They serve chocolate, strawberry and white. What would a fair in Wisconsin without milk be anyway?!
  • For kids who love trucks and tractors, don’t miss the Demolition Derby Saturday at 1pm or the Tractor Pulls Wednesday at 7pm and Sunday at noon!
  • The Pig, Goat and Duck race schedules.
  • Take Part in a life-size coloring event. Help color the Monster Mural. The life-size coloring book page is 5 feet tall and 8 feet wide. We color it every year! Waukesha County Fair July 2025
  • Whatever day(s) you go, be sure to check the Daily Schedule so you don’t miss a thing (there are WAY to many things to mention).
  • Come hungry. There are so many food vendors to chose from (so hard to choose each year). This year many favorite are returning and a host of new vendors are joining.

See our 2025 Waukeha County Fair Fun on Instagram.
See our 2024 Waukesha County Fair Fun on Instagram.
See our 2023 Waukesha County Fair Fun on Instagram.
See our 2022 Waukesha County Fair Fun on Instagram.
See our 2021 Waukesha County Fair Fun on Instagram.


Other: Entrants must be 18 years or older at the time of entering the giveaway. Entrants must be located in the U.S. The winner will be selected at random and notified via the email that was submitted. Winner must respond within 48 hours to claim their prize, or another winner will be chosen. Only one entry person. Duplicates will be deleted.

Disclosure: Many thanks to the Waukesha County Fair for providing the free tickets for this giveaway.

See  privacy policy. The winner may be congratulated on Facebook (with the official prize notification going through email). For giveaways that are announced or promoted on Facebook, please note that these promotions are in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with, Facebook.

39 thoughts on “The Waukesha County Fair – Inside Scoop and Giveaway”

  1. Jennifer schenk

    I usually go to the Walwort county fair , but having lived in Oconomowoc for several years feel I should make the switch (hard to do). My favorite part of the fair is the food! I love all the food vendors and games. I win a fish every year!!! The fair is just part of summer.

  2. Lynne Fitzpatrick

    The Waukesha County Fair is a real gem. Family friendly, clean, and fun! Don’t miss it ❤️

  3. Michelle Olson

    Ĺove taking my son with special needs to the fair. He loves seeing the animals and huge tractors, his favorite 😍

  4. The cinnamon sugar elephant ears are the bomb along with the fried veggies☺️
    Can’t wait to take grandson on his first merry-go-round ride🎠

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