History of the Wisconsin State Fair

The Wisconsin State Fair has a rich history dating back to 1851 when the first State Fair was held in Janesville along the banks of the Rock River. The State Fair has evolved over time to meet current trends, including large farm machinery displays in the late 1800s, aviation demonstrations in the early 1900s, the war efforts in the 1940s, hot entertainment acts since the 1950s, the space race in the 1960s, new and crazy food trends in recent years, and much more. Come and learn all about the Wisconsin State Fair!