The Central Wisconsin State Fair in Marshfield offers music, family fun

MARSHFIELD – There will be pig races, children’s activities, a carnival, live music and all the fair food you can eat when the 119th Central Wisconsin State Fair begins Tuesday and runs through Sunday on the grounds of Marshfield Fair.

This year’s fair celebrates Marshfield’s 150th anniversary along with the 100th anniversary of the Wood County 4-H program. The theme, “Traditions are treasured and memories are made,” echoes throughout the week’s program.

“For this year’s fair we are focusing a lot more on family and focusing on history,” said Executive Director Dale Christiansen.

This translates into non-stop family fun.

The Family Fun Tent is full of fun. See the fair’s best dressed cow on Tuesday evening. Watch the ducks and pigs walk around the race course each day. Nick’s Kids and Barnyard Show will be on stage daily for family songs, dances and games. Musical guests include Wisconsin-based singing duo The Memories, Nashville recording artist Red Higgins, country band Diamonds and Whiskey and Christian artist Brendan Brook.

Go to the barns for animal overload, where goats, chickens, cats and more compete for the best show. Browse exhibits that demonstrate skills in art, woodworking, photography and knitting, to name just a few. Last year there were over 1,000 entries in the youth show alone, and this year the number of exhibits has increased.

“That’s what we like to see,” Christiansen said. “It shows community involvement.”

Wisconsin history and treasures will be featured in the Wonders of Wisconsin exhibit in the hockey building. Visitors can learn about the state’s history, agriculture and nature. Play a round of Guess the Cheese on Saturday when the dairy industry is on display.

New to the fair this year is Midway Magical by Mr. Ed. With over 20 rides and attractions, thrills are guaranteed. The carnival kicks off on Wednesday at noon. It will be open from noon to 10pm Wednesday and Thursday, and from noon to 5pm Friday to Sunday.

Tickets for the carnival will not be sold online this year, but daily carnival specials will be offered throughout the week. Find details on the fair website.