Every summer, the Wisconsin State Fair, presented by T-Mobile, serves as the ultimate destination for hardworking farm families and rural neighbors looking to celebrate our state’s rich agricultural heritage.
Spanning nearly 200 acres, this year’s 175th anniversary event (running Thursday, Aug. 6 – Sunday, Aug. 16, 2026) features a massive lineup of local homegrown flavors. Because of this milestone anniversary, Wisconsin’s culinary artists know the assignment, blending deep-fried traditions with fresh dairy innovations.
The Gold Standard: Ellsworth Named Official Wisconsin Cheese Curds
Perhaps the biggest news of the year centers around the fair’s legendary snacks. Specifically, Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery has officially been declared the provider of the Official Wisconsin Cheese Curds of the Wisconsin State Fair.
As a farmer-owned cooperative based in Ellsworth, they supply the squeaky, fresh Wisconsin cheese curds that local concession stands batter and deep-fry to golden perfection.
Exclusive 2026 Fresh Pouches
In addition to the classic fried favorites, Ellsworth is introducing something brand new for the 175th anniversary. For the first time ever, you can grab pre-packaged, made-fresh-for-the-fair 2-oz Wisconsin cheese curds pouches.
These convenient, grab-and-go snacks are available exclusively at the Brad & Harry’s location. Stop to stock up on the five bold flavors featured:
- Natural Cheddar
- Garlic
- Pizza
- Jalapeño
- Dill Pickle
On the Menu: Over 80 Brand-New Food and Beverage Options
Beyond dairy, Wisconsin State Fair food vendors are pushing boundaries with more than 80 new items. If you’re looking for an epicurean adventure, here are a few hearty mashups to add to your must-eat list:
- Bloody Mary Mac Daddy: A savory bowl of mac n’ cheese made with Pop’s Bloody Mary Mix. Topped with a tangy bloody mary relish and chopped Wisconsin cheese curds and string cheese.
- Chimi-Brat-Changa: A deep-fried twist on the classic chimichanga. This one with bratwurst.
- Smoked Pork Pierogi Sliders: Slow-smoked pork paired with savory pierogies for a perfect handheld meal between livestock shows.
Ag Village Traditions: 2026 Agricultural Pavilion Highlights
Meanwhile, the heart and soul of the fair remains deeply rooted in its agricultural exhibits. Make sure toenjoy the Ag Village! This year’s features include:
- The Wisconsin Building: Formerly known as the Wisconsin Products Pavilion, this staple destination is still your go-to, air-conditioned hub for home-grown flavors.
- Faces of Farming Display: Located on the south side of the Coliseum, this special 2026 commemorative photo gallery honors the multi-generational farm families in the state.
- Camp of Champions: Friday, August 14, head down to the Lower Cattle Barn to see the winners from the Grand Champion Drive. All be part of the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Livestock Auction.
- Dairy Lane & Discovery Barnyard: Don’t forget to stop by the southeast end of the cattle barns for live milking demonstrations, interactive dairy industry exhibits, and a first-hand look at the baby farm animals.
Map Out Your Meal: Use the 2026 State Fair Food Finder
Ultimately, with hundreds of food vendors and thousands of champion animals across the grounds, plotting your route ahead of time keeps you from missing out on the best parts of the fair.
Thus, before you hook up the trailer and head to West Allis, visit the Wisconsin State Fair Website to use the official Food Finder. This custom online search engine allows you to easily search by vendor, food type, or ingredient—making it simple to locate every spot serving up iconic Wisconsin cheese curds.
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