Police Officer Seriously Injured at Wisconsin State Fair

A 46 year old police officer who responded to a #mobtakeover at the #WisconsinStateFair Sunday night suffered a severely broken leg that required a tourniquet to control bleeding.
Check out the scoop from #TheHeartlandPost here: https://t.co/ewPsIKdYlV pic.twitter.com/ts8QDf15Zl

— The Heartland Post (@HeartlandPostWI) August 17, 2026

From the Heartland Post:

A police officer who responded to a mob takeover at the Wisconsin State Fair Sunday night suffered a severely broken leg that required a tourniquet to control bleeding.

The officer, 46, was transported to the hospital with a severely broken lower leg that caused a major open wound, police scanner reports indicate.

Wisconsin State Fair - Statement

Wisconsin State Fair officials say that, on the fair’s final night, seven people were arrested, an officer was hit, and a security guard was injured. @WISN12News pic.twitter.com/z9AIrkV2GR

— Kendall Keys (@KendallKeysTV) August 17, 2026

Only seven arrests!

From the Wisconsin State Fair Facebook page:

Sunday evening, near the close of the annual State Fair, Wisconsin State Fair Park Police, with the support of the Milwaukee and West Allis Police Departments, responded to disturbances on and around Wisconsin State Fair Park. This included individuals attempting to gain unauthorized access to the Fair, as well as disturbances involving groups on the grounds. Law enforcement and security staff responded quickly as these incidents occurred.

No serious injuries to Fairgoers were reported. Despite initial reports circulating Sunday evening, law enforcement has confirmed there were no gunshots associated with the incidents at the Wisconsin State Fair.

For 11 days, hundreds of thousands of guests came together for a safe and successful Wisconsin State Fair. The incidents Sunday evening were isolated to the final hours of the Fair and are not representative of the experience our guests enjoyed throughout the event. The behavior is always unacceptable and is not what we expect or will tolerate at the Wisconsin State Fair Park.

We had enhanced security and additional law enforcement resources in place throughout the Fair, including support from the Milwaukee and West Allis police departments, State Troopers, Milwaukee Police District 3, MPD Major Events Response Team, mounted and bicycle patrols, and drone coverage. Those resources allowed our security and public safety teams to respond quickly Sunday evening. We continually review our security plans with our law enforcement partners and look for ways to make the Fair even safer for our guests.

The safety of our Fairgoers, vendors, exhibitors and employees is always our highest priority. We are grateful to Wisconsin State Fair Park Police and all of our law enforcement partners for their response Sunday evening and their work throughout the Fair.

Violence at Wisconsin State Fair

🚨#BREAKING: Absolute CHAOS broke out at the Wisconsin State Fair as "teens" began BEATING ANYONE IN SIGHT.

MULTIPLE police officers were badly beaten, as families with kids were seen RUNNING FOR THEIR LIVES as teens began brawling.

WE DON'T HAVE TO LIVE LIKE THIS!!! pic.twitter.com/gBbE73ph3f

— Matt Van Swol (@mattvanswol) August 17, 2026

Terrible.

We hadn't seen anything like this at the Wisconsin State Fair for years. It's awful that thugs running wild brought national attention to the last night of the fair.

There is a policy requiring juveniles to be accompanied by an adult during the evening hours to prevent this sort of chaos. It appears that broke down or those involved in the violence were adults.

The Wisconsin State Fair is such a wonderful event. This year, the fair was celebrating 175 years of annual summer fun. What a horrible way for it to close!

As of right now, JSOnline, Fox 6, Channel 12 and Channel 4 all have nothing on their websites on the violence last night at the State Fair. This is a media blackout and it is deliberate https://t.co/lJxNhBwbZf

— Mark Belling (@MarkBellingShow) August 17, 2026

I saw this story on X late last night, that multiple fights broke out at the State Fair. I checked local Milwaukee media sites for more information and found nothing.

Accoring to Mark Belling, as of 10:30 this morning, there was still no coverage. This is a major story. It shouldn't take until the afternoon for local outlets to offer reports. For more than twelve hours, it was ignored. That is unacceptable.

Officers Assaulted at Wisconsin State Fair

BREAKING: We've learned multiple police officers were assaulted at State Fair Park tonight and several fights broke out. @tjjdysart is on scene right now working to learn more. @WISN12News pic.twitter.com/XryJDLzsqk

— Kendall Keys (@KendallKeysTV) August 17, 2026

West Allis WI - State Fair Park - Clearing out Spin City at the fair due to multiple fights. #WestAllis

— USFiR2015 (@USFiR2015) August 17, 2026

West Allis WI - Sounds like it’s getting out of hand at Spin City at the State Fair. Fair officers requested shields and additional help. WAPD also moving additional squads. #WestAllis

— USFiR2015 (@USFiR2015) August 17, 2026

These thugs should receive appropriate punishment, more than a slap on the wrist.

Wisconsin State Fair Closed

After last night’s flash flooding resulted in the early closure of State Fair Park, Wisconsin State Fair officials have determined the Fair Park will not reopen for Sunday, August 10. We understand the disappointment you may feel as our team works all year for these 11 days.… pic.twitter.com/NZOhPAU3mT

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) August 10, 2025

Wisconsin State Fair 2023

We've got talented folks here in Wisconsin!

Take your knowledge to the next level in Grand Champion Hall by experiencing live demonstrations or stroll through our exhibitor's best displays of textiles, crafts, photographs, quilts, and culinary creations. pic.twitter.com/T9CZQ0SoqK

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) August 10, 2023

Love it!

And they're off!

Saz’s Racing Pigs, presented by @mkeadmirals, features Mimi, Natalie, Harrison, and Clara Mae. Which pig will you be cheering on? pic.twitter.com/NZ1yavJuCf

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) August 11, 2023

Went to the races, of course!

Have you noticed the new landmark, 1851 Steel & Stone, in Central Park?

This picturesque feature hosts a variety of Wisconsin based materials including river rock, steel, clear stone, and it holds an incredible 2,000 gallons of water! pic.twitter.com/BrxZiTa29w

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) August 8, 2023

Yes!

Dessert with a twist? The Dill Pickle Donut is the best bite for you!

Find this funky treat at Fluffy's Hand Cut Donuts on South Grandstand Avenue 🍩 pic.twitter.com/iBSIZ5PbfP

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) August 4, 2023

No!

We know you can't wait to try a Sporkie and why not pair it with a Drinkie while you're at it!

After you take a bite, cast your vote on which dish or beverage should be the 2023 Fairgoer Fave! We'll announce the winner next Thursday 🏆

VOTE NOW: https://t.co/47ji7juUTQ pic.twitter.com/4Sbnz7J2ko

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) August 3, 2023

Had the Beer Cheese Wisconsin Lava Cake. Good choice!

First stop, Cream Puffs 😋 pic.twitter.com/A7F17FsfJv

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) August 3, 2023

While sometimes the first stop, we always have a cream puff before leaving the fair after a day of fun.

Loads of wonderful memories made the Wisconsin State Fair this year. Looking forward to making more in 2024!

Scott Presler - Wisconsin State Fair

They call this retail politics, but I love it.

Meeting voters where they are & bringing a positive vision for the future.

Thank you to @HilarioDeleon12 for having me. Please make sure to join the Milwaukee GOP.

Wisconsin wins the White House. pic.twitter.com/WxYmW1o0AE

— #ThePersistence (@ScottPresler) August 13, 2023

The Wisconsin State Fair is lit.

I met Dr. Fauci.

He didn’t like my shirt. pic.twitter.com/6kHpmK2ufV

— #ThePersistence (@ScottPresler) August 12, 2023

Wisconsin State Fair - Opening Day

Good morning and happy opening day from the Wisconsin State Fair 🌅 pic.twitter.com/GJgPzn9zs8

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) August 3, 2023

Opening Day Fair Forecast ⬇️
🎟️ Save at the Gate: @WellsFargo $5 Day, benefiting @hungertaskforce - Donate two cans of healthy fruits or vegetables for a $5 ticket 'til 4pm.
🎤 Main Stage: @TheAlabamaBand with @exileofficial

Check out the daily schedule: https://t.co/tyMisnkori pic.twitter.com/fbMpMVHNqg

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) August 3, 2023

Scott Presler Returns to Wisconsin

Just got off the phone w/ Wisconsin & I’m so gosh darn excited to return for the State Fair in August.

See you soon, Milwaukee, Kenosha, Racine, Waukesha, & Ozaukee!

— #ThePersistence (@ScottPresler) July 8, 2023

Scott Presler is amazing.

The RNC should invite him to speak at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee in 2024.

Charlie Berens at the State Fair

Can I count on your vote? 🗳 pic.twitter.com/HuFc9kwVmB

— Charlie Berens (@CharlieBerens) August 10, 2022

"If you need me I'll be in the bathroom doin a line of Tums." #ManitowocMinute #WisconsinStateFair pic.twitter.com/69VvyjQ7ZK

— Charlie Berens (@CharlieBerens) August 6, 2018

Wisconsin State Fair Opens at 10:00 AM

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO!
💳 Cashless at Parking & Admission
🕛 Updated hours
👜 Bags must be 9"x10"x12" or smaller, some exceptions apply
🚙 Most parking lots open at 9am
🐖 Select entrances open at 7am for ag shows
💧 Sealed water bottles are permitted

INFO: https://t.co/Rz9QKI53Ez pic.twitter.com/pEHUpEZejU

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) August 1, 2022

Wisconsin State Fair - No Bucks Milk House

Love the icy cold flavored milk offered from the Milwaukee Bucks Milk House at the Wisconsin State Fair?

Not this year.

From the Milwaukee Bucks:

As our memorable season extended far into the summer, the Bucks are unable to open our Milk House at this year’s State Fair. While we are disappointed to miss the return of the State Fair, we look forward to continuing our partnership in 2022.

What?

I find it hard to believe that those involved with the State Fair milk operation were unable to get their act together because of the Bucks' extended season.

It's not like Bucks players and coaches work the stand.

I assume the plans for the annual event remain in place from year to year. I can't imagine why the playoffs and championship series would prevent preparation for the Fair.

This would be the best year ever to celebrate the Bucks and Wisconsin dairy farmers.

Wisconsin State Fair!

We are excited to announce the 170th Wisconsin State Fair will take place in accordance with health guidelines at the time of the Fair, Thursday, Aug. 5 – Sunday, Aug. 15! DETAILS: https://t.co/2h93kmFXtY pic.twitter.com/MbgzJHZGrH

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) April 28, 2021

Great news!

Wisconsin State Fair - Cancelled

For the first time in 75 years, the Wisconsin State Fair is cancelled.

Another nail in the coffin of Summer 2020.

The Wisconsin State Fair is so much more than just a fair, it is tradition, it is celebration, it is the showcase of everything we are so proud of in Wisconsin. This is why our hearts are heavy as we bring you this news. (1/7)

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) May 28, 2020

For the safety of our fairgoers, staff, vendors, entertainers, exhibitors, sponsors, suppliers and the broader community, the 2020 Wisconsin State Fair has been canceled. (2/7)

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) May 28, 2020

For months we have continued to closely monitor the COVID-19 pandemic, including local, state and federal health agencies’ recommendations on preventing the spread of this disease. (3/7)

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) May 28, 2020

Several agencies continue to offer strict guidelines advising against mass gatherings, and as the largest event in the State of Wisconsin this guidance weighed heavily in this decision. (4/7)

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) May 28, 2020

We understand the magnitude of disappointment you may be feeling. We feel it too. However, under these guidelines we could not create the welcoming, safe, educational and enjoyable experience that you have come to know and love. (5/7)

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) May 28, 2020

Safety is our number one priority, and we cannot compromise this under any circumstances, including the ones we are living with today. (6/7)

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) May 28, 2020

We thank you for your unwavering support and will look forward to celebrating the 2021 Wisconsin State Fair, presented by U.S. Cellular, August 5 – 15. Refunds, FAQs and Other Information https://t.co/6gc3zO8RHU (7/7) pic.twitter.com/zppmKwL7Bf

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) May 28, 2020

So all the big events that define summer in Wisconsin are not happening.

With our long winters, I cherish all the activities of summer. I need summer to survive the rest of the year. That sweet season is always too short. I appreciate every beautiful moment.

The summer of 2020 will be marked by festivals and fairs and fireworks not happening.

Depressing beyond belief.

WI State Fair Bans LGBT and NRA T-Shirt

STUPID: Wisconsin State Fair orders vendor to remove two pro Trump/pro-2A t-shirts. https://t.co/sYLc4z846U @sheriffclarke

— Vicki McKenna (@VickiMcKenna) August 8, 2019

If you're shopping for a funny and/or provocative t-shirt, a vendor at the Wisconsin State Fair will probably offer what you want.

Is it possible that someone might be offended by the designs?

Yes.

Does that mean the State Fair should ban shirts?

Absolutely not.

From WISN-TV:

Wisconsin State Fair officials had a vendor remove a T-shirt featuring President Donald Trump's face.

"We didn't ask them to take it down, we said, 'Take it down. Remove it,'" fair CEO Kathleen O'Leary said Wednesday.

The vendor is known for selling leather goods and novelty T-shirts.

The shirt in question said "LGBT" accompanied with pictures of the Statue of Liberty, guns, beer and Trump.

It's the first time O'Leary said they've put a stop to a vendor selling controversial T-shirts.

The decision was made after officials said they received several complaints Tuesday about the shirt being offensive.

Another shirt portraying a gun was also removed from sale.

"Certainly with the firearms, the shirts, messages that were on that, in light of the sensitivity of the unthinkable things that have happened, it isn't what we want here at the Wisconsin State Fair," O'Leary said.

The manager of the store said the shirts were not meant to be offensive, but funny.

...O'Leary said the state fair has an otherwise good relationship with the vendor that sold the shirt.

She expects the vendor to return next year.

Oh, good grief.

When I'm at the fair, the last thing I'm thinking about is complaining about a silly t-shirt.

What sort of miserable people find it necessary to complain?

Move on. Go get a cream puff. Look at the cows and chickens.

No t-shirt is going to ruin your time at the fair if you're a well-balanced individual.

This really is nuts. Never before has the State Fair demanded that a shirt be removed.

If O'Leary wants to get into banning offensive shirts, she certainly shouldn't stop with the two she chose to ban. She shouldn't be proud of her decision.

The banned t-shirts are still available online.





Can you go on with your life after seeing these?

Are you strong enough to deal with the existence of these shirts?

I hope so.

Good luck.

Wisconsin State Fair 2019

The Wisconsin State Fair opens today!

Opening Day! 2 cans of peaches or pears in 100% juice gets you into the Fair for just $2. Thanks, @WellsFargo! #WIStateFair https://t.co/Yf3CLHyN9K

— Hunger Task Force (@hungertaskforce) July 31, 2019

Here's a list of 65 new foods at the fair.

State Fair 2018

It was a beautiful evening - the perfect end to 11 WonderFair days! Thank you to everyone who attended the 2018 Wisconsin State Fair. See you next summer! #WIStateFair pic.twitter.com/WsJ1pyOf81

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) August 13, 2018

I never like the Wisconsin State Fair to close. It signals that the summer is winding down.

Summer is never long enough for me.

Darron Breeden - Cheese Curds: 5 Lbs 2 Oz in 6 Minutes

Darron Breeden is the cheese curd eating champion of the WORLD!

BREAKING: Joey Chestnut finishes 3rd in the cheese curd eating championship at Wisconsin State Fair. pic.twitter.com/LaR7LB5Y1z

— Ben Hutchison (@WISNBennyHutch) August 11, 2018

DOWN GOES CHESTNUT! DOWN GOES CHESTNUT! @DarronEats upset No. 1-ranked @joeyjaws in today's @eatingcontest Cheese Curd Eating Championship at the @AssociatedBank Amphitheater, setting a new World Record with 5.2 pounds of cheese curds eaten in six minutes. #WIStateFair pic.twitter.com/1w412n0sjD

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) August 11, 2018

YOUR @wistatefair CHEESE CURDS KING! Hail, @DarronEats His first record! 5lb 2oz in 6 mins! pic.twitter.com/I0RPJ538kC

— Major League Eating (@eatingcontest) August 11, 2018

RESULTS! @wistatefair All in 8oz servings:
1 Darron Breeden 10.25 (5lb, 2oz)
2 Gideon Oji 9.75
3 Joey Chestnut 9.5
4 Darrien Thomas 5.25
5 Matthew Raible and Eric Hucke 3.125
7 Wild Bill 2.875
8 Andrew Kogutkiewicz and Amanda Reitenbach 2.75
10 Keith Branch 2.5
11 Meliss Klabel 2

— Major League Eating (@eatingcontest) August 11, 2018

It was a first for the Wisconsin State Fair and it featured the state's squeaky cheese curds. Competitive eater Darron Breeden won the Cheese Curd Eating Championship. See more photos at https://t.co/2sTQRzbrya pic.twitter.com/p6ongCnDfZ

— Journal Sentinel (@journalsentinel) August 11, 2018

The cheese curds weren't fried!

Eating them fresh and squeaky is more difficult than tossing down fried cheese nuggets.

Congratulations, Darron!

Joey Chestnut at the State Fair - Cheese Curds

THE CHAMP. @joeyjaws

Coming off 74 hot dogs on the 4th of July—The #1 ranked competitive eater in the world is in Milwaukee.

I introduced him to cheese curds today, tomorrow he’ll compete at the State Fair. @WISN12News pic.twitter.com/be0IIVVQtH

— Ben Hutchison (@WISNBennyHutch) August 11, 2018

At noon today at the Wisconsin State Fair, Joey Chestnut, competitive eater extraordinaire, takes on cheese curds.

From the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:

The competition will take place at noon Aug. 11 at the Associated Bank Amphitheater at State Fair Park.

Chestnut, of San Jose, California, is the 11-time winner of Nathan's Famous International Hot Dog Eating Contest.

..."Success will need to be earned at The Wisconsin State Fair Cheese Curd Eating Championship,” Major League Eating emcee Sam Barclay said in a statement. “Hand speed will be key, capacity will be a challenge — and every eater’s ability to overcome their dairy tolerance will be put to the ultimate test."

The competition will last 6 minutes. The total prize purse is $4,000.

From Major League Eating:

Major League Eating is proud to partner with Wisconsin State Fair to bring cheese enthusiasts the event of the summer – the inaugural Wisconsin State Fair World Cheese Curd Eating Championship. This event will mark the first time a world record in the cheese curd-eating discipline will be set. Fairgoers and curd nerds alike will rejoice in this gooey goodness, and Major League Eaters from near and far are encouraged to sign up to compete in this history-making event.

The 2018 Wisconsin State Fair, presented by U.S. Cellular, will take place Thursday, Aug. 2 – Sunday, Aug. 12. These 11 days will feature fair favorites like the Giant Slide, Original Cream Puffs, livestock shows in the Case IH Coliseum, flavored milk in the Bucks Milk House and so much more. Although these traditions are must-dos every year, make new traditions this summer with the unique experiences awaiting you at the 2018 Wisconsin State Fair – like the World Cheese Curd Eating Championship.

...Agriculture is not only the backbone of the Wisconsin State Fair, but a cherished tradition. The dairy industry is central in this great state, and this can be seen throughout the Wisconsin State Fair in agriculture exhibits, food products and competitions. Wisconsin cheese has been an agricultural and economic staple since the 1800s. As the #1 producer of cheese in the nation, the dairy industry is a highlight of the Wisconsin State Fair. Home to multiple dairy product competitions, as well as the nation’s largest junior dairy show, Wisconsin State Fair has it all. Whether beer-battered, shredded, grilled or deep-fried, America’s Dairyland is the perfect place for the Cheese Curd Eating Contest of the year. Seriously, no one knows cheese curds like a Wisconsinite.

Who will claim the Wisconsin State Fair World Cheese Curd Eating Championship? Who will walk away with $2,000? Will you be the first woman or man to set a world record in the cheese curd-eating discipline? This is the Wisconsin State Fair World Cheese Curd Eating Championship — at the table or in the crowd, you don’t want to miss it!

Joey Chestnut is ranked first in the world.

On the Fourth of July, he won his 11th title at Nathan's Hot Dog Eating Contest by downing 74 hot dogs and buns in ten minutes.

How many cheese curds can Chestnut consume in six minutes?

From Food & Wine:

“It's going to be way more cheese than I've ever had,” Chestnut told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Apparently, though he’s eaten cheese curds as a part of a record-breaking poutine eating session, he’s never had the Wisconsin specialty in a competition on their own. He said that he’s been chowing down on chopped up mozzarella to practice.

Though the Major League Eating site has a laundry list of official eating records—including things like cheesecake, chili cheese fries, and Philly cheesesteaks—apparently little precedent for cheese curds exists. Still, Chestnut has his goal set: at least a pound of curds per minute. “If I could do eight pounds, I’d be happy,” he was quoted as saying. “Ten pounds would be really tough.”

Eight pounds?

Yikes!

Wisconsin State Fair 2018

The Wisconsin State Fair opens today!

How many have YOU done? 100 things to do at the @wistatefair #wistatefair https://t.co/UseTqr8rjD pic.twitter.com/F7F38HvPS4

— OnMilwaukee (@onmilwaukee) August 1, 2018