by As the final planes soar out of Oshkosh following the famed airshow week, the city quickly shifts gears to welcome another summer spectacle. The 170th Winnebago County Fair kicks off July 30 and runs through August 3 at the Sunnyview Expo Center, transforming the grounds into a vibrant celebration of community, tradition, and summer fun.
This year’s fair promises a five-day whirlwind of entertainment, delicious food, thrilling rides, and family-friendly events. From demolition derbies to pig races, rodeos to tractor pulls, the event brings together the best of Midwestern fair culture.
What to Expect at the Fair
- Carnival Rides and Attractions:
The midway comes to life with colorful rides and games, open:- July 30–31: 4 to 10:30 p.m.
- August 1: 1 to 10:30 p.m.
- August 2: Noon to 10:30 p.m.
- August 3: Noon to 4 p.m.
- Live Entertainment and Grandstand Shows:
Each evening, grandstand events begin at 6 p.m., showcasing rodeos, demolition derbies, and other crowd-pleasers. - Food and Fun:
Classic fair food booths, magic shows, racing pigs, and more ensure there’s something for everyone. - Animal Barns and Youth Exhibits:
The barns, open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., will feature animals raised and shown by local 4-H and FFA youth, along with indoor exhibits at the Expo Center, which runs from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Ticket Information
- Advance Tickets (available through July 29):
- Daily pass: $12
- Weekly pass: $35 (includes unlimited carnival rides)
- At-the-Gate Tickets:
- Daily pass: $15
- Weekly pass: $40 (does not include carnival rides)
- Children age 3 and under: Free
- Special Admission Offers:
- August 1: Free admission for veterans and active-duty service members
- Discounted $8 tickets for veterans’ families via Winnebago County Veterans Service Office
- Youth exhibitors: $8 weekly admission
With a history spanning nearly two centuries, the Winnebago County Fair continues to be a cornerstone of summer in Oshkosh. Whether you’re there for the funnel cakes, livestock, rides, or music, the 170th edition promises to be a celebration to remember.
