Celebrating Wisconsin’s rich diversity of cultures since 1943, the fair’s 2025 theme, Celebrate the Culture of Traditional Music, explores how music and heritage are intertwined.

“Traditional music is a tool for the expression of a culture and its beliefs, history, and values,” said Dr. Paul F. Trebian, president & CEO of the International Institute of Wisconsin, presenter of the fair. “While the world exhibits a wide array of traditional music, sound is a universal form of human expression.”

EXHIBITS
Explore interactive exhibits highlighting cultural traditions at Heritage Lane, which includes a children’s area where young people explore their heritage. Other exhibits include an artisan corner, the Dirty Kettle Native American Interactive Display, murals painted by Milwaukee students, the Wisconsin Woodturners, a bonsai exhibit and a photography exhibit. 

FOOD
Enjoy delicious ethnic cuisine at the World Cafe or watch talented local chefs prepare a variety of cuisines at the Culinary Federation Chef’s Stage. This year the fair features Celebratory Cultural Foods. According to Trebian “There’s nothing that brings people together like food. It’s the vessel that helps introduce people from different backgrounds and helps us understand one another.” 

PERFORMANCES
Visitors can enjoy vibrant dance performances and music from cultural groups around the globe at the Tanzhauz and All Nations Theater. Live music and baked goods can be found at the Coffee House. 

SHOPPING
Treat yourself to a dynamic shopping experience at the International Bazaar, which features dozens of vendors selling crafts, artisan goods and more. 

MORE
Other events include: a naturalization ceremony Nov. 21, a youth chess tournament 
Nov. 22 and an interdenominational religious service Nov. 23.

Hours: 
Fri. 2-9pm, Sat. 10am-9pm
Sun. 10am-6pm
Tickets: 
$13 Advance Tickets 
at folkfair.org/admission:
Gate admission: 
$16 for ages 8-61
$14 for 62 and over. 
Free for 7 and under and military personnel
Parking: 
General Parking $10.
Exposition Center
at Wisconsin State Fair Park
8200 W. Greenfield Ave.
(414) 727-8840
See details at FolkFair.org.