The Three Best Wisconsin State Fair Foods to Try This Year

Often referred to as the best 11 days of the summer, the Wisconsin State Fair is truly an event with something for everyone. From rides to exhibits and everything in between, the state fair is a cultural experience for those who call Wisconsin home.

Arguably the biggest draw, however, is the Wisconsin State Fair food scene.

Imagine deep-fried everything, mind-blowing combinations and extraordinary flavors in every direction. This year, the Wisconsin State Fair announced 100 new additions from vendors across the grounds, including the Sporkies and Drinkies – a collection of next-level food and drinks commemorated by 13-foot statues outside of each finalist’s location.

What are Sporkies and Drinkies?

The annual Sporkies and Drinkies event is one of the most highly anticipated parts of the state fair. Each food vendor can submit a food or drink to be judged in hopes of winning the coveted Sporkie or Drinkie award. Businesses participating in the Sporkies and Drinkies judging experience significant profit increases, heightened business awareness and long lines at the fair for their food.

This year marks the thirteenth year of the Sporkies competition. Out of thirty-seven submissions, eight dishes were chosen to be finalists. The entries are judged on appearance, presentation, taste and originality and creativity. The judging panel included Wisconsin chefs, restaurateurs, influencers and television personalities. Out of thirty-seven submissions, eight dishes were chosen to be finalists. Of the eight finalists, three were chosen for top honors.

1. Ube Butter Banana French Toast Lumpia by Lumpia City

The dish includes deep-fried, caramelized bananas, syrup-soaked French toast, and purple ube butter, sprinkled with powdered sugar.

Owned by Alexa Reyes and Samantha Klimaszewski, this is their third year at the fair and only their second time in the competition. Samantha shared what this award means to them:

“It means the world to us. We are so excited and so proud of our team. We can’t wait to share it with everyone…As a small business owner these things matter and we are just so happy.”  

2. Brat Rangoon from WurstBar

This dish combines a classic Wisconsin food with Asian street food. It includes crisp wonton wrappers with bratwurst, cream cheese, green onion and is topped with Nori Komi Furikake seasoning.

The team at WurstBar said:

“We were thrilled just to be nominated and it’s an honor to make it to the podium.”

3. Mexican Street Corn Pizza by Charlie’s Pizza

This dish puts a state fair twist on classic comfort food. Inspired by the flavors of elote, this cheesy pizza features sweet corn, mozzarella, cotija cheese, spicy mayo and fresh lime.

Angelina from Charlie’s Pizza said:

“It’s been such a team effort working together with our family and employees. We got to spend so much time together doing this and learn more about Hispanic culture to make this dish as authentic as possible.”

Wisconsin State Fair Drinkies Winner

The Drinkies competition, started in 2023, is now in its third year has been quickly gaining popularity among fairgoers and vendors. This year, there were four finalists in the Drinkies category.

Drinkies Winner: Purple Rain Refresher from Rock and Roll Beer Garden

These were crowned the best Wisconsin State Fair foods – but what are yours?!  If you check these out in West Allis this week, make sure to tag us on social at @gather.wi and check out Gather Wisconsin at the Wisconsin State Fair Park Foundation Milk House while you’re there! Don’t forget to download our State Fair bingo card before you go!