by Summer in the Northland means one thing — county fair season is back across Northern Minnesota and Northern Wisconsin! From carnival rides and live music to rodeos and tractor pulls, the 2025 line-up promises something for everyone, with events running from early July through mid-August.
Here’s a rundown of the major fairs in the region and what attendees can expect this summer:
South St. Louis County Fair
July 2–6, 2025 | Proctor, MN
Kick off the fair season with a petting zoo, pony rides, and carnival fun.
- Rodeo: Bulls & Barrels on Thursday
- Live Music: Todd Eckart (Thursday), Backstreet Detour (Friday), Aftershock (Saturday)
- Stock Car Racing: Sunday
- Daily 4H events, cornhole games, and more
- $5 daily, $15 weekly pass
Aitkin County Fair
July 9–12, 2025 | Aitkin, MN
Celebrating its 134th year with a mix of racing, rodeos, and foam parties.
- Grandstand Events: Bus & stock car races (Thursday), Baja races (Friday), Rodeo (Saturday)
- Live Music: Chicago tribute band DTA (Friday)
- Free daily foam party
- Free admission | $5 parking per day
Washburn County Fair
July 24–27, 2025 | Spooner, WI
The 113th fair offers both tradition and quirky fun.
- Horse show (Thursday), Marvin the Mechanical Bull (Friday–Saturday)
- Kiddy tractor pull, veterans’ program, comedy show
- Veggie 500, Whips & Wheels, talent show (Sunday)
- $10 gate fee ($5 pre-sale), $15 season pass ($10 pre-sale)
Head of the Lakes Fair
July 29–August 2, 2025 | Superior, WI
Big-name acts and local talent light up the stage.
- July 31: REO Speedwagon’s Gary Richrath with Richrath Project 3:13
- August 1: Eddie Montgomery of Montgomery Gentry
- Full schedule of music, rides, and family-friendly entertainment
Don’t miss your chance to enjoy classic summer fun, local talent, thrilling rides, and unforgettable memories at a county fair near you!
