State Fair 2022 kicks off with big crowd, beautiful weather

WEST ALLIS, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The wait is finally over and one of Wisconsin's staple summer traditions is underway.

Thousands filed into State Fair Park in West Allis for day one of eleven for the 2022 Wisconsin State Fair. Cindy Lachman and her husband, Mark, made the short trip from Hales Corners and were one of the first in line to enter the grounds when gates opened at 10 a.m. Thursday, Aug. 4.

"I used to come here with my grandmother and she would always, we'd have to share a cream puff together. It means a lot for me to be here," Cindy said. "The cream puff, some cheese curds, a little beer; yeah, it'll be good."

Her husband couldn't agree more.

"It's just a great experience to be out here," Mark said. "Beautiful day, sunshine, try and see a lot of things, eat a lot of food."

Whether attending for the food, the rides, to check out the animals or just to take it all in, the fair is sure to have a little bit of something for everyone. Kyle Sprague and his wife, Jenny, brought their two young daughters, Cora and June, to make some family memories.

"The animals, the slide, the sun, the food. What else? What's not to like?" Kyle exclaimed. "The people watching. We've got an interesting crowd of people here all the time."

After taking the two young girls down the fan-favorite Giant Slide, the Sprague family was headed to check out the animals on display.

"Usually we come at least twice," Jenny said, holding her daughter. "Pretty excited about the bunnies and the cows."

Along with the food, rides and agriculture fun, musicians Jamey Johnson and Alex Miller are set to rock the State Fair Main Stage starting at 7:30 p.m., with several other free music stages providing entertainment throughout the day and night.

State fair runs through Aug. 14.