6 Things You Can't-Miss at the 96th Annual Lake County Fair

By: Stephanie Wylie 07/16/2025

The scent of funnel cakes in the air signals that the 96th Annual Lake County Fair is almost here! Telling visitors to "Cape Up and Chow Down" as the fair promises a week of family fun at the Lake County Fairgrounds & Event Center. Conveniently located on Illinois Route 83, it's a perfect addition to your Lake County road trip. The fair runs from July 23-27, 2025, so don’t miss out.

Check out the top six must-see activities at the 96th Annual Lake County Fair as the event draws near. Consider extending your visit by staying at the DoubleTree by Hilton Libertyville-Mundelein, the fairground’s preferred hotel.

Pro Bull Riding and livestock events

Livestock takes center stage at the Lake County Fair with barns opening daily at 8 a.m. Cattle, swine, sheep and goats will be featured in a series of 4-H, junior and open shows beginning Wednesday, July 23. Highlights include the Swine Jackpot Show on Friday morning, the Goat Milking demos on Saturday and the always-creative Livestock Costume Contest on Thursday evening. Saturday’s events also include the annual Livestock Auction, with registration starting at noon and bidding kicking off at 2 p.m. For a twist of fun and friendly chaos, the Crazy Cow Relay Race will take place Friday. And don’t miss the main event—professional bull riding roars into the Grandstand Arena with high-stakes action and unrelenting energy that’s sure to thrill.

Pro Bull Riding and Barrel Racing takes place Sunday, July 27 at 3 p.m. Livestock shows take place Wednesday-Saturday at various times. Crazy Cow Relay Race begins at 2 p.m. on Friday, July 25. Livestock Costume Contest starts on Thursday, July 24 at 5:30 p.m.

Demo Derbies, Motocross, 406FMX High Air tour and Monster Truck Show

The Lake County Fair brings high-octane excitement to the arena with a lineup of action-packed events included with general admission. From the roaring engines of the demolition derby to the jaw-dropping aerial feats of the 406FMX High Air Tour, there’s no shortage of thrills for motorsports fans. The demolition derby lights up the Grandstand Arena with a full evening of crushing collisions, obstacle courses and head-to-head vehicle battles. Motocross riders take over the South Arena with heart-stopping stunts and high-speed turns that showcase extreme skill and daring. The Monster Truck Throwdown delivers thunderous jumps and raw power following a fan-friendly pit party, promising an unforgettable night of sensory-shaking fun. Capping off the adrenaline rush is the gravity-defying freestyle of top X-Games and Nitro Circus athletes, taking the fair’s entertainment to sky-high levels.

The Monster Truck Show is Friday and Saturday, July 25-26 at 7 p.m., while the Motocross occurs Wednesday-Thursday, July 23-24 at 7 p.m. The Demo-Derby is Wednesday, July 23 at 6 p.m. The 406FMX High Air Tour is Thursday, July 24 at 7 p.m.

Timberworks Lumberjack Show and The Canine Stars Stunt Show

The Lake County Fair delivers family-friendly thrills with two action-packed shows that celebrate skill, strength and heart. The Timberworks Lumberjack Show brings high-energy competition to the fairgrounds in Grayslake, featuring axe throwing, logrolling and tree climbing as professional lumberjacks demonstrate raw power and time-honored timber skills. Throughout the fair, guests can catch The Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show, a crowd favorite seen on "America's Got Talent," where talented rescue dogs perform high-flying feats in freestyle disc, agility racing, dock diving and more. With inspiring adoption stories and athletic stunts, The Canine Stars capture the hearts of all ages. Whether you're cheering on the lumberjacks or falling for a four-legged performer, these events promise unforgettable moments at the 96th annual Lake County Fair.

Timberworks Lumberjack Show: Sunday, July 27 at 12-12:30 p.m. The Canine Stars Stunt Dog Show: Friday, July 25 at 2:30 p.m.

Live Music

Live music takes center stage at the Lake County Fair, offering a dynamic soundtrack to summer fun with performances spanning multiple genres and showcasing both local talent and regional acts. From country and classic rock to pop hits and tribute bands, the fair’s music lineup delivers something for every taste. Concerts are held throughout the week on various stages. Continue scrolling to get a taste of who's gracing the Grayslake stage:

Operation Glow Taylor Swift Party July 23 at 8 p.m.
The Dixon Bandits July 24 at 5 p.m.
Alien Eyes July 24 at 5 p.m.
Brass from the Past July 24 at 8 p.m.
Big Boss and the Toes Band July 25 at 3:30 p.m.
The Noize July 26 at 5 p.m.
Second Hand Soul July 25 at 6 p.m.
Chapel Hill July 25 at 9 p.m.
Hi Infidelity July 25 at 9 p.m.
School of Rock: Libertyville July 26 at 1:30 p.m.
Peter and the Versatiles July 26 at 2 p.m.
Blue Marlin July 26 at 4:30 p.m.
Beyond the Blonde July 26 at 6 p.m.
No Limit July 26 at 9 p.m.
Roger That July 27 at 1 p.m.
Tropixplosion July 27 at 2:30 p.m.
Chicago Latin Groove July 27 5 p.m.
Classical Blast July 27 at 5:30 p.m.
and so much more...

Midway Carnival Rides and Games

The Lake County Fair’s Midway brings bright lights, big thrills and classic carnival fun for all ages, with rides and games operated by Skinner's Amusements. Open daily starting Wednesday, July 23, the Midway features everything from high-flying attractions to kid-friendly favorites, plus an array of traditional games that challenge your aim and luck. Tickets are $1 each and available at booths throughout the fairgrounds, with each ride requiring a varying number of tickets. For those looking to maximize the fun, all-you-can-ride wristbands are available during select hours Wednesday through Friday for $30, offering unlimited access to the excitement. The Midway opens at noon Thursday through Sunday and closes as late as 11 p.m. on peak nights. Whether you're chasing thrills, spinning through the sky, or trying to win a giant stuffed animal, the Midway is a can’t-miss part of the fair experience.

Unique Fair Fare

The Lake County Fair isn't just about rides and shows; it's a paradise for your taste buds. The air is thick with the enticing aromas of classic fairground treats, from sweet funnel cakes and savory foot-long corn dogs to tempting popcorn and candy apples. But that's just the start. Head over to Food Truck Alley for an even wider array of unique and delicious eats, showcasing a variety of mouth-watering options like:

Corn Dogs
Corn on the Cobb
Cotton Candy
Bucket of Fries
Cheese Curds
Funnel Cake
Deep Fried Oreos
Mini Donuts
and more...

BONUS: Don't Miss These Highlights at the 96th Annual Lake County Fair

Beyond the main attractions, the Lake County Fair offers a huge variety of experiences for everyone. Here are some of the top things you won't want to miss:

Flower Hour
Beer Garden
Miss, Junior Miss and Little Miss Lake County Fair Queen Pageants
Kidbucks Game Show
Show Me Swine Pig Races
K9 Demonstrations by Lake County Sheriff’s Office
Face Painting by Audra
John Measner Magic Show
Beekeeper Demonstration
Glass Blowing Demonstration
Friendship Bracelet Making Party
The Strolling DJ
Beer Tent Bingo
Fermentable Food Class