Harvest Fair, World Beef Expo bring back “fair” spirit

THE LOOK AND FEEL of the Wisconsin State Fair continues this month with the annual Harvest Fair Sept. 23-25 and the World Beef Expo Sept. 22-25, both on the grounds of Wisconsin State Fair Park.

The 11th annual Harvest Fair offers many family activities, from hayrides to interactive games and craft, five free entertainment stages and rides in the Mighty Midway. A Harvest Bazaar and Farmers' Market offers the opportunity to purchase fresh produce, while vendors satisfy appetites on the spot with apple pies, pumpkin ice cream, hearty soups and baked potatoes. Benno's Big Top offers more than 50 microbrews and imported beers, just as it did at the State Fair in August.

There is no admission charge for Harvest Fair, which is open from 4-11 p.m. Friday, Sept. 23; 10 a.m.-11 p.m. Sept. 24 and 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Sept. 25.

The World Beef Expo features 15 different breeds of beef cattle, from the well-known Angus and Hereford breeds to the more unusual Belted Galloways and Maine Anjous.

Open shows are scheduled for 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Sept. 23 & 24, with a junior show from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday Sept. 25.  The Expo also includes a trade show and the chance to view livestock sales.

For additional information on both of these early fall events, visit www.wistatefair.com.