DODGE COUNTY FAIR

Country Icon Phil Vassar to Bring Hits and Heart to the Dodge County Fair

Fair Assoc • February 19, 2026

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Man in a straw hat and sunglasses sitting on a beach with turquoise water and a bright sky behind him

The Dodge County Fair is thrilled to announce that multi-award-winning country artist Phil Vassar will perform live on the Moraine Park Main Stage on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 8:00 PM. This highly anticipated outdoor concert is free to all fairgoers with paid gate admission, offering fans an incredible opportunity to experience a Nashville legend in the heart of Wisconsin.


With a career spanning over 25 years, Vassar has evolved from a prolific songwriter into one of country music’s most engaging live performers. After penning chart-topping hits for icons like Alan Jackson, Tim McGraw, and Jo Dee Messina, Vassar launched his own solo career, racking up 10 No. 1 singles and 27 Top 40 tracks. Fans can expect a high-energy setlist featuring signature classics such as “Carlene,” “Six-Pack Summer,” and the timeless anthem “Just Another Day in Paradise.


Beyond the accolades—including two ASCAP Songwriter of the Year awards and ACM’s Top New Male Vocalist—Vassar brings a renewed sense of gratitude to the stage this year. Following a life-altering heart attack in 2023, he has embraced a calmer perspective, focusing on the joy of the moment and the authentic connection he shares with his audience. “When I go on stage, the world fades away,” Vassar shares. “It’s just about having fun and connecting with the fans.”


The concert is a centerpiece of the 2026 Dodge County Fair, known for its “Free Grandstand” tradition. Admission to the fair is just $10 before 12:00 PM and $15 after noon, while children age nine and under are free. For the best value, fans can purchase a season pass for $35 in advance, bringing the daily cost down to just $7.


Don’t miss this chance to see a master storyteller perform his greatest hits under the summer stars. Seating is first-come, first-served, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early to enjoy the full fair experience—from world-class livestock exhibits to classic fair food—before the show begins at 8:00 PM.


Event Summary:

  • Artist: Phil Vassar
  • Date: Thursday, August 20, 2026
  • Time: 8:00 PM
  • Location: Moraine Park Main Stage, Dodge County Fairgrounds
  • Cost: FREE with paid Fair Admission ($10–$15 daily; $35 season pass)

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