Wisconsin State Fair 2021: New hours, cashless options, no masks required

WEST ALLIS, Wis. (CBS 58) -- Wisconsin State Fair officials announced new operating hours, a cashless parking and admission experience and more updates to the 2021 State Fair.

"We're super excited to open our gates in 42 days, but post-pandemic, we obviously have to have some adjustments," said Kathleen O’Leary, the CEO of Wisconsin State Fair Park.

The fair, which is scheduled for August 5 to 15, will open at 11:00 a.m. daily and will close each night except for Sundays at 11:00 p.m. On Sundays, the fair will close at 10:00 p.m.

In previous years, the fair has opened at 8 a.m.

The shortened hours are due to a number of factors, including increased sanitization protocols that require additional time and the labor shortage currently facing many businesses and organizations.

Masks will not be required, and capacity limits will not be imposed, according to a news release.

Parking in State Fair Park lots will open at 10:30 a.m. daily, and agriculture and competitive exhibit competitions and shows that were scheduled prior to 11 a.m. will continue to take place. All food vendors, shopping, buildings and SpinCity will be open at 11 a.m.

Parking and admissions will be a cashless experience. Fair officials are encouraging people to purchase their general admission tickets before arriving at the fair. There are still several ways to purchase admission tickets in advance using cash or credit cards, including the State Fair Ticket Office and official retail partners. People can also purchase admission tickets and more online at WiStateFair.com. Discounted tickets are available through July 16.

The fair will not be selling new refillable souvenir cups or refilling past year’s cups. The fair will also not be hosting eating contests. 

For more information, CLICK HERE. 

BIG NEWS: new operating hours, cashless parking and admission, masks, capacities, and more. Get the 2021 updates here: https://t.co/3tXLuhdu9Bpic.twitter.com/Nc6x4Obts2

— Wisconsin State Fair (@wistatefair) June 24, 2021