Walworth County Fair

The 177th Walworth County Fair delivers classic Midwest summer fair experience in Elkhorn, just 15 minutes from Lake Geneva. Livestock shows anchor the agricultural side (dairy cattle, pigs, horses, rabbits), while carnival rides, demolition derbies, tractor pulls, and live music fill the grandstand and midway with the kind of energy that makes state fairs addictive. 4-H kids show their projects with pride, food vendors sling corn dogs and cheese curds, and the whole operation feels authentically local despite drawing regional crowds.

The fair runs for five days in late August or early September, typically Wednesday through Sunday, with different events anchoring each day. Demolition derbies and grandstand concerts happen evenings and require separate tickets beyond general admission. Gates open mid-morning and run until 10 or 11 p.m., with livestock shows happening throughout the day and carnival rides operating afternoon through closing. Bring cash for midway games and food vendors (ATMs available but lines get long), and dress for heat and dust since late August in Wisconsin can hit the 80s with humidity. Parking is plentiful and free at the fairgrounds, with shuttles running from overflow areas on peak nights.

This pairs perfectly with a Lake Geneva stay. Book a lakeside rental on Lake.com near the southern or western shore to split the difference between Elkhorn and the water. Spend mornings and early afternoons on the lake when it’s hot (swimming, kayaking, pontoon rides), then head to the fair when gates open for evening events and cooler temperatures. The combination of agricultural Americana and lakeside relaxation makes for a late-summer weekend that captures multiple facets of southern Wisconsin without feeling rushed. If you’re traveling with kids, the fair’s petting zoo and carnival rides complement lake activities perfectly, giving you variety that keeps everyone engaged.