Wisconsin State Fair Closes Early, Cancels Lynyrd Skynyrd Concert Due to Severe Flooding
WEST ALLIS, Wis. — The Wisconsin State Fair closed its gates hours early Saturday night after flash flooding swept across Milwaukee County, forcing the cancellation of the highly anticipated Lynyrd Skynyrd concert and stranding hundreds of fairgoers in rising waters, according to WISN News.
Flash Flooding Forces Early Closure
Organizers announced just before 9 p.m. that the fairgrounds would be shut down, several hours earlier than the scheduled midnight closing. The decision followed a flash flood warning issued for both Milwaukee and Waukesha counties that extended into the early hours of Sunday.
“For the safety of our artists, team, and Fairgoers, we cannot host this concert,” fair officials explained in a statement shared on Wisconsin State Fair’s website.
Attendees described chaotic scenes as water pooled throughout the fairgrounds, particularly near the Milwaukee Mile parking lots where vehicles were partially submerged. Some fairgoers were forced to wade through water to reach safety, according to The Sun.
Lynyrd Skynyrd Concert Canceled
The evening’s headline act featuring Lynyrd Skynyrd was officially canceled shortly after the flooding worsened.
“While we tried everything within our control to allow this show to go on, for the safety of everyone involved we had no choice but to cancel,” officials stated.
Refunds will be issued automatically for tickets purchased through Etix, while those who purchased at the ticket office with cash may request refunds in person during weekday business hours, according to Wisconsin State Fair officials.
Historic Rainfall Across Milwaukee
The downpour brought over 6.6 inches of rain in a single day, making it the second-wettest day in Milwaukee’s history, according to New York Post. Some suburbs reported rainfall totals exceeding 10 inches within just a few hours, flooding major intersections and neighborhoods.
“We’ve seen some unprecedented flooding across southeast Wisconsin,” meteorologist Stephanie Barichello said of the storm.
Governor Tony Evers declared a state of emergency to mobilize recovery efforts, as cleanup crews worked overnight to clear debris and assist stranded residents.
Community Impact and Safety Concerns
The flooding left behind damaged vehicles, impassable roadways, and disrupted travel across southeastern Wisconsin. Fairgoers expressed disappointment at missing the concert but acknowledged safety had to come first.
“It was disappointing to lose the show, but with water coming in so fast, it just wasn’t safe for anyone,” one attendee said.
Officials emphasized that public safety remains the top priority as crews assess storm damage and prepare for more unsettled weather this week.
The sudden closure and concert cancellation highlight how quickly severe weather can disrupt major events in the Midwest. For more updates on local events, severe weather, and community coverage, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.