Dodge County Fairgrounds Competitors

The Department of Natural Resources is dedicated to the preservation, protection, effective management, and maintenance of Wisconsin's natural resources. It is responsible for implementing the laws of the state and, where applicable, the laws of the federal government that protect and enhance the natural resources of our state. It is the one agency charged with full responsibility for coordinating the many disciplines and programs necessary to provide a clean environment and a full range of outdoor recreational opportunities for Wisconsin citizens and visitors.

Wisconsin State Fair Park is multi-purpose entertainment venue hosting activities, events and meetings throughout the year. It is home to the Exposition Center, Tommy G. Thompson Youth Center, the Milwaukee Mile Speedway, Wisconsin Products Pavilion, and many other facilities, where hundreds of events are held each year, most notably the annual Wisconsin State Fair, presented by UScellular. The RV Park at Wisconsin State Fair Park is the only RV Park in the Metro Milwaukee area, and is open 24/7/365. The 11-day Wisconsin State Fair is the state’s largest agriculture showcase, and features dozens of FREE entertainment stages as well as the State Fair Main Stage, presented by Potawatomi Casino Hotel, hosting some of today’s top entertainers. Each year the Fair features thousands of animals and exhibitors, hundreds of food and beverage vendors, endless family activities, events, contests, and more. State Fair has welcomed more than one million guests the past five years, and 2026 marks 175 years of celebrating this tradition.

The first fair, held in Rosendale, Wisconsin, began with an address at half past one on the first day, September 29, 1852. The event was held for two days. Fond du Lac County Fair LogoDairy cattle, fine, wool, tools and manufactured items were exhibited at the first fair. Household arts and garden vegetables were on display to be judged. The best stallion received a $4 premium. Working oxen and steers were awarded $3 for being the best in the class. The best sample of butter, not less than 50 lbs., was awarded $5. The best sample sugar, also not less than 50 lbs., was given a $4 premium. The theme for the fair "Education, Entertainment and Affordable Family Fun" is the creative genius of Mr. Williard Henken, who retired from the Fond du Lac County Agricultural Society in November of 2001. His background as the first Dean of the University of Wisconsin-Fond du Lac and his love of the fair are certainly reflected in not only the theme, but also in the many years of service he gave to the fair organization.