There is no place quite like the Wisconsin summer festival circuit to experience the raw power of classic rock under the open sky, and this August, the ultimate live music tradition returns to the Moraine Park Main Stage. The Dodge County Fair Association is thrilled to announce that rock and roll icons George Thorogood and The Destroyers will perform on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at 8:00 PM. Fresh off a massive 2025 where they played nearly 90 explosive shows, were honored by the GRAMMY Museum, and saw George’s famed “Bad To The Bone” Gibson ES-125TDC guitar placed on permanent exhibit at The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the band is extending The Baddest Show on Earth Tour into 2026. With 53 years of “playing rock & roll hot enough to melt the polar icecaps,” Thorogood and his long-time bandmates—Jeff Simon, Bill Blough, Jim Suhler, and Buddy Leach—are bringing a “renewed taste for danger” to Beaver Dam. 50+ Years of Rock & Roll Party With more than 15 million albums sold and over 8,000 live shows performed, The Destroyers have earned their reputation as “The All-American rock & roll party band”. Fans can expect a “stage-shaking, roof-raising” setlist featuring the hits that made them cornerstones of Classic Rock:
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:
While the ground might still be frozen, we’re already dreaming of warm August nights, the smell of funnel cakes, and the roar of the grandstands. It’s officially time to gear up for the 2026 Dodge County Fair , running August 19–23 ! To celebrate the countdown to summer, we’re launching an exclusive Limited-Time Ticket Sale . From February 15 through February 27 , you can snag your gate admission at the lowest prices of the year.