The 2026 Kenosha County Fair is scheduled to take place from August 19 to August 23, 2026. This long-standing tradition in Wilmot, Wisconsin, serves as a cornerstone of late-summer entertainment, blending agricultural heritage with modern thrills. Whether you are coming for the high-octane dirt track racing, the massive carnival midway, or the intricate blue-ribbon exhibits, the fairgrounds at 30820 111th Street are prepared to host thousands of visitors for five days of community-focused celebration.

2026 Event Dates and Operating Hours

Planning a visit requires knowing the specific timeline to ensure you do not miss the specific events that define the fair experience. The 2026 schedule follows the traditional Wednesday-through-Sunday format.

  • Wednesday, August 19, 2026: 8:00 AM – Midnight
  • Thursday, August 20, 2026: 8:00 AM – Midnight
  • Friday, August 21, 2026: 8:00 AM – Midnight
  • Saturday, August 22, 2026: 8:00 AM – Midnight
  • Sunday, August 23, 2026: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM

The carnival midway typically opens later in the morning or early afternoon (around 1:00 PM on weekdays and noon on weekends) and remains a primary draw late into the evening.

Admission Fees and Parking Logistics

The Kenosha County Fair remains one of the most affordable large-scale family events in the region. For the 2026 season, the pricing structure is designed to accommodate individual day visitors and those who wish to attend for the duration of the event.

Daily General Admission

  • Adults (Ages 12 and older): $12.00
  • Children (Ages 7 - 11): $6.00
  • Children (Ages 6 and under): Free
  • Senior Citizens (Ages 65 and older): $8.00
  • Military Personnel (Active or Retired with ID): $8.00

Season Tickets (Non-transferable)

For those planning to visit multiple times, season passes offer significant savings:

  • Adult Season Pass: $40.00
  • Children Season Pass (Ages 7 - 11): $15.00

Parking Information

One of the most convenient aspects of the Kenosha County Fair is the parking policy. General parking is free for all attendees. For those who visit frequently throughout the week, a reserved season parking pass is available for approximately $25.00, though these are limited to two per household and often sell out early in the season.

The Heart of the Action at Wilmot Raceway

The Kenosha County Fairgrounds are home to the Wilmot Raceway, a premier 3/8-mile clay oval track that is a magnet for motorsports enthusiasts across the Midwest. During the fair, the Grandstand becomes the focal point for high-energy events.

Dirt Track Racing

On Wednesday and Saturday nights, the air fills with the scent of racing fuel and the roar of engines. Fans can expect to see various classes, including Winged 604 Sprints, IMCA Modifieds, Street Stocks, and Bandits. The "Roger Iles Tribute" featuring the Bumper to Bumper IRA Outlaw Sprint Series is a recurring highlight that brings elite drivers to the Wilmot clay.

Tractor Pulls and Demolition Derbies

The Grandstand also hosts specialized mechanical competitions. The NTPA (National Tractor Pullers Association) sanctioned pulls showcase incredible horsepower, while the Badger Truck and Tractor Pulls offer local and regional competitors a chance to shine.

The International Demolition Derby, often held on the final Sunday, is a fan favorite. It is a spectacle of strategy and durability where the last vehicle moving is crowned the winner. Note that many Grandstand events require an additional fee (usually around $10 for adults) on top of the general fair admission.

Agricultural Excellence and the Junior Fair

At its core, the Kenosha County Fair is an agricultural showcase. The animal barns and exhibit halls are the result of months, and sometimes years, of hard work by local youth and adults.

The 4-H and FFA Impact

The Junior Fair is where members of 4-H and FFA (Future Farmers of America) display their projects. This ranges from livestock—including dairy cows, swine, sheep, goats, poultry, and rabbits—to non-animal projects like woodworking, photography, and aerospace.

Watching the showmanship competitions in the Sale and Show Arena provides a unique look into the dedication of these young exhibitors. The kids are judged not just on the quality of their animals, but on their ability to handle them and their knowledge of the species.

Danish vs. American Judging Systems

If you spend time looking at the ribbons in the exhibit halls, you might notice different judging styles:

  • Danish System: Typically used in the Junior Fair. Each entry is judged against a set standard rather than against other entries. This means multiple people can receive a blue ribbon if their work meets the highest criteria.
  • American System: Used in the Open Class (adult) categories. Entries are ranked against each other, with only one first place, one second place, and so on.

The Discovery Barnyard and Petting Zoo

For families with young children, the Discovery Barnyard is an essential stop. It offers an educational environment where kids can interact with farm animals, learn where their food comes from, and participate in hands-on activities that bridge the gap between urban life and rural traditions.

Live Entertainment on the Creekside Stage

While the Grandstand handles the loud and fast events, the Creekside Stage provides the soundtrack to the fair. This permanent structure hosts a variety of musical acts throughout the five-day run.

  • Rock and Country: Local and regional favorites often take the stage in the evenings, playing everything from classic rock hits to contemporary country.
  • Family Shows: During the day, the stage and surrounding areas feature magicians, jugglers, and specialized kid-friendly performances like Nick’s Kid Show or the Milwaukee Flyers.
  • The Fairest of the Fair: One of the most prestigious traditions is the crowning of the "Fairest of the Fair." This individual serves as the official ambassador for the Kenosha County Fair for the following year, representing the event at parades and community functions.

Fair Food and The Barrel Room Experience

No visit to the Wilmot fairgrounds is complete without indulging in "fair food." The variety goes far beyond the standard fare, offering a deep dive into Wisconsin’s culinary specialties.

Signature Treats

  • Wisconsin Cheese Curds: Served fresh or deep-fried, these are a mandatory snack.
  • Grilled Cheese and Milkshakes: Often hosted by local dairy promotion groups, these booths offer high-quality dairy products that support local farmers.
  • Corn on the Cob: Roasted in the husk and dipped in melted butter, a true late-summer staple.
  • The Classics: Funnel cakes topped with powdered sugar, chocolate-dipped cheesecakes on a stick, and jumbo corn dogs.

The Barrel Room

For adults looking for a more relaxed atmosphere, The Barrel Room highlights craft beers and wines. This area often hosts the results of the amateur wine and homebrew competitions, allowing visitors to appreciate the fermentation arts of Kenosha County residents. It is a great place to escape the afternoon heat and enjoy a local beverage.

Special Events and Unique Competitions

Beyond the barns and the midway, the Kenosha County Fair is known for its quirky and community-driven competitions.

  • Ag Olympics: A hilarious series of events where teams compete in farm-themed challenges like wheelbarrow races, hay bale tossing, and apple bobbing.
  • Tallest Weed and Quilts of Valor: The Marketplace building often houses these diverse displays. The Tallest Weed competition is exactly what it sounds like—a celebration of the more persistent side of nature—while the Quilts of Valor presentations honor local veterans with handmade quilts.
  • Pie Auction: This is a major fundraiser where championship-winning pies are auctioned off to the highest bidder. It is not uncommon for a single pie to sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars, with proceeds often going toward scholarships or fairground improvements.
  • Scavenger Hunts: Designed for children, these hunts encourage families to explore every corner of the fairgrounds to find clues and win prizes.

Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors

If you are planning your first trip to the Wilmot fairgrounds in 2026, keep these practical tips in mind to maximize your experience.

Sensory-Friendly Hours

The fair often designates a specific window (usually on Wednesday afternoon) as "Sensory Friendly" at the carnival midway. During this time, the loud music and flashing lights are turned off to accommodate children and adults with special needs. If you require this environment, be sure to reserve your spot with the fair office in advance.

Weather Preparedness

August in Wisconsin can be unpredictable. The fairgrounds have plenty of buildings to duck into during a sudden sunshower, but the midway and many walkways are open to the elements. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes—remember, this is a working agricultural site with animals—and bring plenty of sunscreen.

Timing Your Arrival

If you want to see the animal shows, check the judging schedule in the "Premium Book" (available on the official website closer to the event). Most livestock judging happens in the mornings and early afternoons. If you are mainly interested in the carnival and nightlife, arriving after 4:00 PM allows you to skip the midday heat and enjoy the neon lights of the midway.

Transportation

While most visitors drive and take advantage of the free parking, Kenosha County often provides limited shuttle services or specialized transportation options like "Link-Western Kenosha Transportation" for residents in the service area. Checking the county’s civic website for updated shuttle routes in 2026 is highly recommended.

What is a Premium Book?

For many, the "Premium Book" is the bible of the Kenosha County Fair. It is a comprehensive document released months before the fair that lists every single category (department, division, and class) in which a person can enter an exhibit.

If you have a hobby—whether it is baking the perfect loaf of sourdough, growing giant pumpkins, or restoring antique tractors—the Premium Book tells you exactly how to enter it. Entering an item typically requires a small fee but includes an exhibitor's pass, which can be a cost-effective way to enjoy the fair for multiple days while being part of the show itself.

Why Wilmot is the Perfect Setting

The village of Wilmot provides a charming, rural backdrop that enhances the fair’s nostalgic atmosphere. The fairgrounds are nestled near the Fox River, and the layout of the grounds has evolved over decades to provide a flow that feels both expansive and intimate. The permanent structures, such as the open-class buildings and the well-maintained barns, speak to the community’s investment in this annual event.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the 2026 Kenosha County Fair?

The 2026 fair will be held from Wednesday, August 19, through Sunday, August 23.

Where is the Kenosha County Fair located?

The event takes place at the Kenosha County Fairgrounds, located at 30820 111th Street, Wilmot, WI 53192.

Is parking free at the Kenosha County Fair?

Yes, general parking is free for all attendees. Reserved season parking is available for a fee but is limited.

Can I bring my dog to the fair?

Generally, only service animals and animals being exhibited in shows (like the Junior Fair Dog Show) are allowed on the fairgrounds. It is best to leave pets at home due to the heat, crowds, and presence of other livestock.

How do I become an exhibitor?

You must create a profile on the official Kenosha County Fair website (using the ShoWorks portal) and register your entries before the deadlines, which usually fall in mid-July. You will need to choose between the Junior Fair (for youth) or the Open Class (for all ages).

What happens if it rains?

The fair typically continues rain or shine. Some Grandstand events like racing or tractor pulls may be delayed or canceled if the track conditions become unsafe, but the indoor exhibits, barns, and most food vendors remain open.

Summary of the 2026 Kenosha County Fair

The 2026 Kenosha County Fair promises to be a vibrant showcase of Wisconsin culture. From August 19 to 23, visitors can experience a balanced mix of adrenaline-pumping motorsports at Wilmot Raceway, educational agricultural displays, and classic carnival fun. With affordable admission prices of $12 for adults and free parking, it remains a top-tier destination for families and individuals alike. Whether you are there for the blue-ribbon pies, the sprint car racing, or just a fresh bag of cheese curds, the fair in Wilmot is an essential summer experience that celebrates the spirit of Kenosha County.