Blog
Darlene Murphy
July 16, 2025
You have arrived at the Wisconsin State Fair, excitement is in the air, and your stomach is already growling. The scent of cheese curds and cream puffs wafts through the air, and you are off. But what if we said that the key to really getting to indulge in all of those special fair treats comes down to what you eat before the Wisconsin State Fair even opens?
We’ve found that getting in nutritious bites before hitting the fair doesn’t hold you back. It helps you have your best possible day there. When you fill up on whole, energizing foods ahead of time, you can enjoy every bite and avoid feeling uncomfortable afterward.
Heading to the Wisconsin State Fair? Here’s how to fuel up beforehand with fresh, feel-good food that helps you enjoy every bite at the fair.
Fair food is supposed to be a splurge, and that’s part of the fun. However, those cream puffs and brats taste even better when you’re not fending off an energy crash 30 minutes later or taming an upset stomach. Starting your days with healthy foods sets your body up to handle whatever delicious challenges the fair may throw your way.
Imagine walking across fairgrounds, waiting in long lines, and pushing your way through the crowds. With all of that going on, your bodies need steady energy, hydration, and digestion support to keep it feeling good. Also, when you’re not battling hunger pangs or sugar crashes, you can be more selective with the fair treats you really want.
Choosing healthy options before heading off to the Wisconsin State Fair keeps you feeling your best. When you begin with whole, plant-based foods, you’ll stay mentally present, in a good mood, and tuned into all the sensory joys that make the fair so great.
We’ve found a simple formula that works for almost everyone: build a meal that includes protein, some fiber, hydration, and healthy fat. This combo gives energy for standing and walking and keeps digestion on track.
The best salads in Wisconsin are built this way: light enough to keep you comfortable and substantial enough to provide lasting fuel.
Here are the simple, go-to guidelines you can follow when building a meal before heading to the fair. Think of them as your foundation for energy, comfort, and all-day enjoyment.
1. Hydrating Ingredients to Beat the Heat
Summers in Wisconsin can be hot, and we often spend hours in the sun. You’ll find items that include water-dense food like cucumbers, fresh melons, leafy greens, and refreshing citrus drinks to start quenching dehydration before even hitting the fairgrounds.
2. Lean Proteins to Fuel You Through the Day
Proteins like chickpeas, feta, local chicken, or eggs balance energy without feeling heavy and sluggish. These proteins provide sustained fuel to keep you energized from morning through evening.
3. Complex Carbs for Lasting Energy
Instead of processed snacks, go for whole grains like quinoa or black rice. These release energy slowly, helping you avoid the crashes that derail a fair day.
4. Healthy Fats That Won't Weigh You Down
Avocados, nuts, and seeds are nutritious and satisfying in small portions. These healthy fats show up often in great salads in Wisconsin. They keep you feeling fuller without upsetting your stomach.
5. Freshness is Key: Local, Seasonal, Raw or Lightly Cooked
The best ingredients are seasonal, fresh, or lightly cooked. Local, minimally processed food retains nutrients and is easier to digest. Look for local farmers’ markets or farm-to-table options that focus on seasonal produce.
Some foods can ruin your fair day before it even begins. Sure, they might be quick, but they often bring energy crashes, digestion issues, or simply discomfort.
Choosing clean, energizing food first thing sets the tone for a better day, mentally and physically.
Look for menus that offer energizing meal ideas perfect before a fair day:
Whole grains, fresh veggies, and tahini or lemon dressings. Grain bowls like Fiesta, Power, and Thai bowls are filling, hydrating, and energizing without being heavy.
Fresh-made wraps like the Southwest Ranch or Chicken Bacon Caesar are packed with clean protein, crisp veggies, and bold flavor. Perfect to grab and go.
Need something extra filling? Try the Japanese BBQ plate with black rice, roasted veggies, and savory meatballs, or the Golden Greek plate with hot honey chicken, quinoa, and creamy tzatziki. Both plates are satisfying without slowing you down.
The seasonal salads include local greens, roasted vegetables, pickled vegetables, and toppings like hard boiled eggs, goat cheese, and dressings. From classics like Chicken Caesar and Cultured Cobb to veggie-packed options like Local Roots and the seasonal Southwest Ranch, our salads are fresh, hearty, and perfect before a big day out.
For a refreshing, gut-friendly drink that supports digestion and hydration, Forage Kitchen offers house-brewed kombucha and tepache. Both are crisp, naturally fizzy, and energizing, making them the perfect light sips before heading to the fair.
How and when you eat matters, too. Opt for a light but hearty meal about 1-2 hours before going to the fair. That gives digestion time and keeps hunger at bay.
Tips for Staying Energized Through the Day:
These healthy options before the Wisconsin State Fair help you to fully enjoy the experience without any distractions.
Eating smart before the fair lets you truly enjoy it without energy dips or digestive discomfort. With nourishing food as our foundation, you can get the most out of every moment.
At Forage Kitchen, we believe clean, seasonal food powers better days. From filling grain bowls to hydrating and flavorful drinks, our menu is built to fuel your day, whether you’re heading to the Wisconsin State Fair or soaking in summer festivities around the town.
Plan ahead and fuel your day the smart way before heading to the Wisconsin State Fair. Order fresh, energizing food from Forage Kitchen!
Darlene is the co-owner of Forage and an expert in restaurant and food marketing, brand development, and public relations for small businesses. She specializes in creating compelling marketing materials, including ad copy, websites, and catalogs, to help brands connect with their audience.
