WISCONSIN STATE FAIR

THE WISCONSIN STATE FAIR has an outstanding tradition of offering something for everyone. From Aug. 5-15, nearly one million people will pass through the fair’s gates, located just west of downtown Milwaukee, south of I-94 (84th St. or 68th St. exits).

As one of few state fairs operated in a truly urban setting, the fair features a wide variety of activities, demonstrations and entertainment that begin early each morning and into the evening. Gates are open daily from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m., with most buildings open 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. On the final day, Sunday, Aug. 15, buildings close at 9 p.m.

Don’t miss the livestock barns, where you can watch the animals being primped for judging. The State Fair distributes more than 30,000 ribbons to beef and dairy cattle, draft horses, goats, sheep, swine, llamas, rabbits and poultry. Other judging categories include baked goods, floral arrangements and dairy products. In several categories, including the famed Clydesdale draft horses, the Wisconsin fair represents the premier competition in the world.

The Miller Lite Main Stage has a variety of national headliners every evening (see the KEY Arts & Entertainment listings for details.)

Twenty-eight stages of free entertainment feature national, regional and local musical acts, as well as family entertainment, karaoke, cooking demonstrations and educational programs. New this year is Circus Matrix, offering international circus performances, Hall of Fame clowns,ornate Circus Parade wagons and elephant, camel and pony rides. Other must-sees include the GT AIRSHOW’s Bicycle Stunt Team and the famous racing pigs that also will be swimming this year. Street performers roam the grounds and stroll through the crowd during the fair’s daily parade.

When the mercury rises, head for the air-conditioned Expo Center, where shop-a-holics can browse the wares of more than 600 vendors and discuss politics with representatives of major, and even minor parties. Also on tap is bingo-playing, climbing the indoor rock wall and making phone calls at the US Cellular Interactive Café. Another cool spot is the Cool Zone at the nearby Pettit Center, where fairgoers can skate with U.S. Olympians, hit the ice as a human hockey puck, or test their skills at cream puff curling.

Eating is always a favorite fair activity. The cream puff celebrates its 80th anniversary this year as the fair’s No. 1 treat, and this year the Wisconsin Bakers Association debuts a brownie creation. Other Wisconsin favorites are offered by Wisconsin companies and commodity associations, and the fair’s 200 food concessions serve up traditional favorites and ethnic specialties.

Admission is $8 for adults, $3 for children (7-11) and children under 6 are free. Fairgoers with disabilities and senior citizens (60 years and older) receive a discounted admission price of $6. Advance tickets are available at discounted prices by visiting the Wisconsin State Fair Box Office, by phone at 414-266-7100. For more information,