Organizers of the Wisconsin Valley Fair have revealed the grandstand entertainment lineup for the 2026 fair, featuring country music stars, a rock concert, rodeo events, and a demolition derby. The fair will take place August 4–9, 2026 at Marathon Park in Wausau, Wisconsin.

The grandstand shows are among the biggest attractions each year, bringing live music and high-energy events to thousands of fair visitors.

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2026 Grandstand Performance Schedule

Here is the announced entertainment schedule:

Date Event / Performer
Aug. 4 Country star Chris Janson
Aug. 5 Country group Shenandoah
Aug. 6 Rock band Skillet
Aug. 7–8 Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association rodeo events
Aug. 9 Dirt Dash Demolition Derby finale

The entertainment lineup mixes music, rodeo sports, and motorsport action, giving visitors something different to enjoy each night of the fair.

Music Highlights

The fair begins with two nights of country music:

  • Chris Janson is known for energetic hits like “Buy Me a Boat” and “Good Vibes.”
  • The band Shenandoah gained fame in the 1980s and 1990s with songs like “Two Dozen Roses.”

The third night shifts to rock music with Skillet, a popular band known for high-energy performances and songs like “Monster” and “Hero.”

These concerts typically draw large crowds and are some of the most anticipated events during the fair.

Rodeo and Motorsports

After the music performances, the grandstand will host two nights of rodeo action sanctioned by the PRCA. Rodeos often feature events such as:

  • Bull riding
  • Barrel racing
  • Saddle bronc riding
  • Team roping

The fair will wrap up with the Dirt Dash Demolition Derby, where drivers compete by crashing vehicles until only one car remains operational.

Tickets and Seating

  • Most grandstand shows are included with daily fair admission.
  • A limited number of reserved seats will also be available for purchase closer to the event.

Fair organizers recommend buying reserved seats early because popular acts often sell out quickly.

About the Wisconsin Valley Fair

The Wisconsin Valley Fair is one of the largest summer events in central Wisconsin. The annual fair usually features:

  • Carnival rides and games
  • Food vendors and local specialties
  • Agricultural exhibits and livestock shows
  • Live entertainment at the grandstand

The 2026 edition will mark another year of the fair’s long tradition of bringing family entertainment and live music to the region.

In Short

  • The 2026 Wisconsin Valley Fair runs August 4–9 in Wausau, Wisconsin.
  • Headlining acts include Chris Janson, Shenandoah, and Skillet.
  • The lineup also features PRCA rodeos and a demolition derby finale.
  • Most grandstand shows are included with fair admission.
Ryan Lenett

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