The dog days of summer sweep in hot temperatures, cicadas and the fair season. People from all over the state come to Milwaukee to compete and sell their animals for top dollar. People also come for the unique variety of food you can purchase and to enjoy the rides. Either or, Wisconsin takes great pride in their state fair, and you’re bound to have a good time.

Even though the days are long and hot while you are at the fair, we end up doing these six things anyway, and we love it.

1. People watching

Just admit it, we all do it, and we all find it insanely entertaining. (Above is a crowd of old people dancing, not something you see every day.)

2. FAIR FOOD

A day full of deep fried Oreos, deep fried butter, deep fried olives, deep fried pizza, deep fried chicken, deep fried cookie dough, deep fried funnel cakes, brats, burgers and cream puffs, only takes a year or two off your life, but at least you lived it to the fullest, right? (pun intended)

3. Rides

What’s a fair without any rides? (You can go carney watching too)

4. Seeing the animals for show

Not every day do you get to see animals auctioned off to the market. The hard work and dedication these farm kids have is inspiring. The competition is serious here.

5. Cream Puffs

Nothing beats state fair cream puffs. NOTHING.

6. Buying the tacky merchandise at the booths

Because who doesn’t want a majestic animal shirt, blow up toys that never are played with, a shirt that says “show me your tits” and have everything bedazzled after that? Yes please. (Cringes internally)

The Wisconsin State fair is always quite the experience, and as always, we can’t wait for next year.