Anzhe Zhang

This year’s Wisconsin State Fair celebrated 171 years of the Wisconsinite tradition, opening earlier this month to a big rebound after two muted years as people showed up for good food, great vibes, and wild rides.

The 11-day event reported that 1,003,450 people attended this year, up 19 percent from last year, while 10,000 competitive animal exhibits were held and showcased.

“The noteworthy attendance of the Wisconsin State Fair is proof that fairs continue to be a mainstay in Wisconsin summers. With another phenomenal State Fair in the books, together as a staff, we look forward to 2023,” Shari Black, the chief executive and director of the State Fair, said.

“After 171 years, the Wisconsin State Fair remains a time-honored tradition for our community and state,” she continued.

Funds totalling $321,950 were raised by the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Meat Products Auction and the Blue Ribbon Dairy Products Auction, which will be made available for youth education, including scholarships and an agriculture program.

Foods that were consumed in large quantities at the State Fair: cream puffs (320,000), corn (over 100,000), and peño popper brats (13,000). 

Underrated highlights included the return of the Milk House and a rock-and-roll bread display. While the Family Entertainment Tent was a great outing for kids looking to see ducks race, and the 20 rides in Mr. Ed’s Magical Midway and the All Star Monster Truck Tour gave attendees who were looking for a thrill some excitement.

“I’m in my 30s. We’ve been going since we were a kid. This is about memories,” Mia Greer, an attendee, said. “Family members have gone away, and we still have the memories of them being here, so that’s really important for me, kinda make it something that we do every year.”