The Wisconsin State Fair is one of our favorite summer traditions. From live music and incredible food to animal exhibits and family-friendly entertainment, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
At Bank Five Nine, we’re proud to support events that bring our communities together, and we’re excited to once again sponsor the Bank Five Nine Amphitheater at this year’s Fair.
If you’re planning a visit, here are some of our favorite ways to make the most of the Wisconsin State Fair without stretching your budget.
Our Top Pick: Free Music at the Bank Five Nine Amphitheater
One of the best values at the Fair is already included with admission: free live music every day at the Bank Five Nine Amphitheater.
Located near Lehman’s Landing, the Amphitheater features a lineup of local favorites, popular tribute bands, and crowd-pleasing performers throughout the Fair.
Be sure to stop by for the Wisconsin State Fair Opening Ceremony at 11:00 a.m. on opening day, where Governor Tony Evers, Wisconsin State Fair Park Board Members, CEO Shari Black, and other dignitaries will help officially kick off this year’s celebration.
Whether you’re a fan of country, classic rock, pop, or something in between, there’s a performance worth adding to your Fair itinerary.
View the full Amphitheater lineup here.
More Free Fun
K-9 Sports Arena
Watch high-energy dog shows packed with stunts and agility tricks, presented by Gruber Law Offices.
Family Variety Stage
Enjoy comedy, juggling, magic, and more throughout the day on South Grandstand Avenue.
Live Performances & Street Entertainers
Jugglers, stilt walkers, musicians, and performers roam the grounds daily-be sure to catch them in action.
Saz’s Racing Pigs
A crowd favorite. Shows daily at 12:00, 1:30, 3:30, 4:30, 6:00, and 7:30 p.m.
Meet the Farmers
Stop by Central Park to meet the Fairest of the Fairs and learn more about Wisconsin’s rich agricultural history.
Free Nature & Art Experiences
Exploratory Park
A quiet spot for hands-on nature activities, trails, a mixed playground, and even a fish tank with Wisconsin species.
History Walk
Explore the history of the Fair with exhibits and memorabilia that showcase decades of tradition.
Art Exhibits
Discover creative installations throughout the grounds:
- Cow-Temporary Art Walk
- Plein Air at the Fair (featuring live painting)
- Wildlife & Winds of Wisconsin woodcarving
- Fairtastic Art Poster Exhibit
Visit The Animals
Whether you’re checking out the fluffy bunnies in the Small Animal Barn or getting up close with giant dairy cows, it’s all included with your fair admission. Kids (and adults!) can spend hours walking through the barns, learning about different breeds, and even chatting with the hardworking 4-H participants who help care for them. It’s an entertaining, educational, and wallet-friendly way to spend your day-no tickets or tokens required.
Save Even More with These Tips
Grab a Bargain Book
Available online for $5 or $6 on-site, this book includes 80+ coupons for food, rides, and merchandise, worth hundreds in savings. To make sure you stick to your budget while enjoying the Fair, you can easily monitor your spending through our digital platform. Make sure you stop by the WTMJ booth across from the welcome desk to grab a free Bank Five Nine hand fan to keep you cool as you walk around on the warm days.
Make sure you stop by the WTMJ booth across from the welcome desk to grab a free Bank Five Nine hand fan to keep you cool as you walk around on the warm days.
2. Look for Special Pricing Days
- Aug. 6 – Piggly Wiggly $5 Day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.)
Donate two nonperishable food items (e.g., canned fruit, low-sodium vegetables) or make a cash donation at an admission entrance to Hunger Task Force. Get a voucher for $5 admission. - Aug. 7 – Celebrate Wisconsin Day (10 a.m.–6 p.m.)
Out-of-state visitors can buy two adult tickets for $20 by showing an out-of-state ID. - Aug. 9 – Network Health Military Appreciation Day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.)
Free admission for veterans, military personnel, and up to four family members per ID. - Aug. 10 – Senior Day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.)
Fairgoers 60+ can get tickets for $7 (ID may be required). - Aug. 12 – Meijer Day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.)
Save $5 on one adult ticket by presenting a Wisconsin Meijer receipt of $40+ from July 13–Aug. 12. - Aug. 13 – Prairie Farms Dairy Day Honoring Educators (10 a.m.–4 p.m.)
Free admission for educators with a school-issued ID or name badge.
3. Take Advantage of Meal & Ride Deals
- $11 Meal Deals on select food combos
- SpinCity bundle: $40 for 50 ride and game tickets (a 20–30% savings)
4. Explore Free Shows and Free Zones
- Bank Five Nine Amphitheater: Free music daily (this is our favorite for obvious reasons).
- If learning about flowers or visiting with vultures is your thing, check out all of the demonstrations featured on the Grand Champion Hall and We Energies Energy Park stages below.
- Cirque at the Fair: High-flying acrobatics at noon, 3 p.m., and 6 p.m. All shows are free. VIP tickets can be purchased for $10.
- Click here for all the Wisconsin State Fair Free Entertainment Stages & Experiences
5. Bring Essentials
Save money by bringing your own sunscreen, refillable water bottles, band-aids, and comfortable walking shoes.
6. Enjoy Free and Low-Cost Treats
- Flavored milk for just $1 (chocolate, root beer, and more)
- Kid Zone: Free crafts and games in the 4-H Discover Barnyard
- Discounted rides in Ag Village’s Ag Park
Plan for a Great Day at the Fair
Start early, pack wisely, and combine deals for maximum savings. Many of the best experiences-from entertainment to exhibits-are included with your admission.
At Bank Five Nine, we believe in supporting the people and places that make life better. The Wisconsin State Fair is a perfect example of that. We hope your visit is full of fun, connection, and great memories-without the high price tag.
See you at the Fair. And don’t forget to stop by the Bank Five Nine Amphitheater for the music lineup you won’t want to miss.
