Central Wisconsin State Fair Brings Big Entertainment, Family Fun, and New Features to Marshfield

By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!

MARSHFIELD — The countdown is on for the Central Wisconsin State Fair, taking place August 19–24, and organizers say this year’s event will be packed with top-notch entertainment, expanded activities, and community spirit.

Fair Manager Dale Christiansen, appearing on the TV program Hub City Time with host Peggy Sue Behselich on the Marshfield Now! Channel, shared details about what’s in store for fairgoers in 2025.

This year’s theme, “From Barns to Beyond,” features a new mascot, “Benny the Beefer,” and a schedule filled with both traditional favorites and fresh attractions.

Special Admission Days & Community Giving
A major new promotion kicks off the fair on Tuesday, Aug. 19: Can-Do Fair Day. Anyone bringing two non-expired, non-perishable food items will receive free gate admission that day. Donations will be distributed to local food pantries. Tuesday is also traditionally half-price day for those not participating in the food drive.

Entertainment Lineup
The grandstand entertainment will bring nationally known acts to Marshfield:

• Wednesday – Chris Kroeze
• Thursday – Hairball’s 25th Anniversary Tour
• Friday – Country star Justin Moore with opener Brett Westgrove
• Saturday – Rock powerhouse Halestorm, fresh off a world tour
• Sunday – Bulls and Barrels rodeo event to close the fair

Many of these shows offer VIP seating options, with Halestorm’s VIP section selling out within hours. Grandstand tickets are still available, but organizers warn they could sell out before the event.

More to See and Do
Beyond the grandstand, the fairgrounds will be buzzing with free entertainment included in gate admission: racing pigs, a circus with performing dogs, the Tada Robots, and a variety of regional bands in the entertainment tent.
Families can also enjoy returning features such as the WOW Tent — with educational exhibits, product showcases, and the return of the “Ugliest Weed Contest” — as well as new contests like the cranberry spitting competition.

Safety & Policy Changes
For the first time, the fair will implement a clear bag policy, similar to those used at major sporting and entertainment venues, to enhance security. Details are available on the fair’s website.

A Tradition of Community and Memories
Christiansen, who has been with the Central Wisconsin State Fair since 2017 and involved with fairs for over 30 years, emphasized that the event is about more than just shows and rides.
“It’s about making memories,” he said. “If I can stand at the end of the fair and see people having fun, then we’ve done our job.”

Fair Details

• Dates: August 19–24, 2025
• Location: Marshfield, WI
• Admission: $10 adults, $5 children; Season passes $35
• Special: Free admission Tuesday with two non-perishable food items
• More info & tickets: www.centralwisconsinstatefair.com

Whether it’s the thrill of a live concert, the charm of 4-H exhibits, or the smell of fair food, the Central Wisconsin State Fair promises six days of entertainment, tradition, and community pride.

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