DODGE COUNTY FAIR

Free Concert, Endless Fun: Catch Phil Vassar Live at the Dodge County Fair!

Dale Norenberg • July 28, 2026

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Your gate admission unlocks an entire day of classic fair traditions, youth livestock sales, and a world-class country performance.

Get ready for an unforgettable summer night in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin! Country music icon Phil Vassar is heading to the Moraine Park Main Stage on Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 8:00 PM.


Known for his piano-pounding, high-energy live shows and timeless songwriting, Vassar is bringing over 25 years of country hits to the Dodge County Fair. The best part? His concert is completely FREE with your paid fair gate admission!


Hits, Heart, and Unforgettable Energy

Before launching his own multi-platinum solo career, Phil Vassar was the creative powerhouse behind defining anthems for country legends like Alan Jackson, Tim McGraw, and Jo Dee Messina. As a solo artist, he’s earned 10 No. 1 singles, 27 Top 40 tracks, two ASCAP Songwriter of the Year titles, and the ACM Award for Top New Male Vocalist.

Fans can look forward to singing along to classic favorites including:

  • "Carlene"
  • "Six-Pack Summer"
  • "Just Another Day in Paradise"

Following a life-altering heart attack in 2023, Vassar brings a deep sense of gratitude and renewed passion to every performance. "When I go on stage, the world fades away," Vassar shares. "It's just about having fun and connecting with the fans."


What’s Happening on Thursday at the Fair

Thursday at the Dodge County Fair is packed from morning to night with classic family traditions, youth competitions, and entertainment across the grounds:

  • Youth & Livestock Judging: Explore the Youth Building and Livestock Buildings to support local youth showing off their hard work.
  • Good Karma Park Activities: Enjoy live broadcasts, music, and interactive fun throughout the day.
  • 6:00 PM – Annual Meat Animal Sale: Head to the Farm Progress Arena where local business owners show support for youth exhibitors during this signature fair event.
  • Free Family Stage Shows: Catch popular ongoing attractions throughout the day, including:
  • Nick’s Kids Show
  • Chainsaw Carving Demonstrations
  • Wild World of Animals
  • Pleasure Valley’s Pig, Duck, and Goat Races
  • 8:00 PM – Phil Vassar in Concert: Cap off your night at the Moraine Park Main Stage! Seating is first-come, first-served, so plan to grab your spot early.


Plan Your Day: Fair Admission Pricing

Experiencing the Dodge County Fair is incredibly affordable, especially if you plan your arrival right. Check out the daily gate admission rates below:

  • Before Noon: $10
  • After Noon: $15
  • Sunday Special: $10 all-day rate
  • Children 9 and Under: FREE!

Every admission ticket includes free parking and full access to all grandstand events—including concerts and tractor pulls. Just remember that no carry-ins are allowed, so leave the coolers at home and save room for some classic fair food!


Lock In the Best Value with Season Passes

If you plan on enjoying more than a couple of days of great music, food, and high-octane entertainment, a season ticket is your ticket to massive savings.

  • In Advance: $35
  • At the Gate: $40


Where to Buy Your Tickets

Ready to skip the long lines on Thursday? Grab your advance tickets online or at a local retailer near you.


⚡ Option 1: Buy Online (Fastest Route)

Get in the gate quickly by purchasing your advance tickets digitally. Head right over to Scan2Scan to lock in your tickets from your phone or computer.


🏢 Option 2: Buy Locally at the Fairgrounds Office or Local Banks

You can pick up physical advance tickets at the Fairgrounds Office, or stop by one of the following local bank branches throughout the region:

  • Associated Bank (Beaver Dam, Watertown)
  • Horicon Bank (Juneau, Neosho, Horicon, Randolph)
  • Farmers & Merchants (Juneau, Columbus, Fall River)
  • State Bank of Reeseville (Watertown, Reeseville)
  • Also available at: Hustisford Bank, National Exchange Bank, Mayville Savings Bank, TSB Bank, BMO Harris, and Ergo Bank.


🛒 Option 3: Grab Tickets On Your Grocery Run

Pick up your gate admission while checking off your errand list at these convenient local spots:

  • Piggly Wiggly (Juneau, Beaver Dam)
  • The Market (Beaver Dam)
  • LeRoy Meats (Horicon, Fox Lake)



Don’t wait until the last minute—grab your advance tickets today, rally your friends and family, and get ready for an unforgettable night of country music under the stars. Whether you're coming for the classic fair food, supporting local youth at the Meat Animal Sale, or singing along at the top of your lungs to "Six-Pack Summer," Thursday at the Dodge County Fair is guaranteed to be a highlight of your season. We’ll see you at the grandstand!

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