Fair Director Dale Christiansen Brings Experience and Expertise to Central Wisconsin
Dale Christiansen is no stranger to fairs, and is excited to bring his expertise and experience to the Central Wisconsin State Fair in Marshfield. With more than twenty-five years at Lincoln County Fair in Merrill, WI, fifteen as Board President and twelve as Fair Manager, Christiansen has also been involved with the Wisconsin Association of Fairs, where he served six years (two as President).
Christiansen is looking forward to the challenges of managing a larger fair.
“I had several friends in the Marshfield area that reached out to me and asked if I would be interested in the Executive Director position that had come open,” he said. “Having a love for the Fair business and always wanting the challenge of a larger Fair, I expressed the interest, and here I am today.”
Combining decades of Fair experience with his introduction to the Central Wisconsin State Fair, Christiansen brings a unique outlook to Marshfield.
“I am coming into this position with a fresh perspective, a new set of eyes, and looking at the way things have been done,” he said. “Sometimes not knowing the details as to how and why helps in finding the solution that gets us to where we want to be.”
His biggest immediate challenge involves time limitations. Upon beginning his new position on June 1, he discovered many tasks behind schedule. Despite the initial setbacks, Christiansen assures fair-goers that this year’s fair is now on track.
“It has been a bit of an uphill battle, but with the enthusiastic new staff and great community minded volunteers coming in our door every day, this year will be fine,” he said, adding that the future is bright for the Fair.
“We have set our goals very high and the groundwork for major changes in our future have already been put in place,” he said. “This year’s Fair we inherited, but next year’s Fair and the Fairs to come in the future are ours. We will start by living up to our name. When I say Central Wisconsin State Fair, what jumps out at me is that this is the place I want to be and I don’t want to miss it!”
His goal is to help exhibitors, vendors, sponsors, and Fair-goers feel as enthusiastic as he does about the Fair.
“We have our work cut out for us, but I am confident we will get this accomplished,” he said. “In my short time here, I have met a lot of great people. I am looking forward to getting better antiquated with the Marshfield area and getting to know all of you.”
With Christiansen’s guidance, Central Wisconsin State Fair has made major changes in the way they are going to be conducting business.
“It started June 1st, and will continue into the future. This Fair has great tradition, and we intend to build upon that tradition,” he said. “Change is coming, and it’s going to be a lot of fun for everyone. Come out to this year’s Fair and join us! Get involved and help us make the Central Wisconsin State Fair everything it could and should be! See you at the Fair!”
