Wisconsin summer is in full swing and its sunburn-worthy rays are sparing no one this year – the Chippewa Valley cracked 90º this past weekend – not even Northern Wisconsin State Fair (NWSF) patrons. Good thing there's always a jumbo cup of lemonade around just about every corner, there! 

An 125-plus year annual tradition for folks of all ages, this year's NWSF, held July 8-12, brought the heat in more than one way. A brand-new carnival ride, the Sky Screamer, joined the midway's 30-plus rides and iconic ferris wheel; live music from local and national names lit up the Leinenkugel's Main Stage and other venues across the fairgrounds; and, of course, plenty of finger-lickin' fair food and drink. 

While that summertime heat (and bouts of weekday rain) may have attributed to slightly below-average turnout, Executive Director Brian Maki told WEAU 13 News, the tens of thousands who returned to the Chippewa Falls fairgrounds had their fill of both attractions and foodie goodness. 

"Witnessing all those smiles and the bonding going on with family and friends," Maki said, "Man, that's what it's all about, that communal feeling." 

Keep up with the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds organization all year (and learn about its other events, including Chippewa Falls Oktoberfest and BBQ Fest) online at nwsfa.com.