The Wisconsin State Fair shut down early on Saturday, August 9, as severe storms and flash flooding hit the Milwaukee area. The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning at 8:30 p.m., in effect until 2 a.m., for Milwaukee, West Allis, and Wauwatosa, following an earlier flood watch for most of southern Wisconsin.
Fairgoers Urged to Exit Safely
In an urgent Facebook post, organizers wrote:
“Attention Fairgoers! The State Fair Park is closing. Please use caution as you make your way to the nearest exit as safely as possible and follow the directions of the Fair Park staff and police as you exit.”
They later confirmed that Tunnel Entrance F was closed due to the storm, advising attendees to use either the Main Stage or Turn 4 exits to access parking lots.
Flash Flood Scenes Circulate on Social Media
Videos from fairgoers showed vehicles trapped in deep rainwater and people making their way out in the downpour.
One clip captured a man wading through waist-high water, saying: “It’s the only way out.”
Another voice in the video added: “Unbelievable.”
Lynyrd Skynyrd Concert Canceled
The southern rock band Lynyrd Skynyrd was scheduled to perform at 7:30 p.m. on the Bank Five Nine Main Stage, but the show was canceled after weather delays.
In a statement, the fair said:
“While we tried everything within our control to allow this show to go on, for the safety of our artists, team, and Fairgoers, we cannot host this concert.”
Ticket refunds will be processed as follows:
- Etix purchases: Automatically refunded within 7–14 days.
- State Fair Ticket Office purchases: Refunds available Monday–Friday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., with valid ID and original tickets.
Public Safety Remains a Priority
Officials continue to monitor conditions, urging residents to stay alert for additional weather advisories. The Wisconsin State Fair has not yet announced if any scheduled events will be rescheduled.
