by Kelsie Barlow | August 14th, 2026

All images are from Lindsay Stirling at the Wisconsin State Fair in West Allis, WI on 8/14/26.

On the 9th day of the Wisconsin State Fair out of 11 total, Lindsey Stirling wowed fairgoers with a sonically stimulating and theatrical show, including support from PVRIS. Wisconsinites piled into the old racetrack where the main stage was with full stomachs and hearts from all of the delicious fair food as excitement buzzed through the air. PVRIS was first to take the stage, and they did not disappoint.

As a long-time fan of the band, I knew that they’d wow, and they proved that they’ve only gotten better with time. Lead singer Lynn Gunn left the audience speechless with her powerful vocals and their earworm-filled discography. They hit the audience with the deep cut Ghosts and played other hits, including Snakes, ANIMAL, and Use Me. Lynn had some fun banter with the audience and inquired about the fairgoer experience, asking if anyone had seen a cow or thrown up on a ride yet. The band closed their set with Goddess and dedicated the song to the girls, gays, and they’s. PVRIS continues to impress as a favorite of mine, and a staple in the alternative music scene.

Lindsey Stirling took the stage next, building anticipation throughout the crowd with a grandiose video introduction that outlined stories of fantasy and wonder that were about to be told through music. The concert had the entire crowd captivated from start to finish as she performed Kashmir and Underground while dancing, doing high kicks, and spinning. Her commanding stage presence and production made this show one I couldn’t take my eyes off. Lindsey played Sandstorm and shared that it was the song that first got her into EDM music, which is a genre she has drawn inspiration from and weaves into her own songs.

Stirling continued to be vulnerable with the audience when sharing the meaning of the show, and that the theme of “the hero's journey” was heavily inspired by her father, who sadly passed away, and his amazing ability as a storyteller. This touching moment between Lindsey and the audience led her to also tell us the meaning of her song Serenity Found. This song highlights her struggle with anxiety in life and onstage, and how her journey with breathwork helped her to heal. Along with the deeper moments of the performance, the audience was treated to numbers with fantastical themes like Jack and the Beanstalk and Little Red Riding Hood. Her performance included aerial stunts done by herself and background dancers, choreographed numbers, costume changes, and dynamic lighting. Lindsey Stirling is more than a triple threat and continues to drop the jaws of audiences all around the world with her multi-faceted shows and apparent passion for her art.