Survey says, the best place for people watching is outside. The Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market (Phoenix Park, Eau Claire) is packed three times a week in the summer and fall, bursting with fresh, local foodstuffs that can’t wait to be sampled and interesting folks to see. The Northern Wisconsin State Fair (225 Edward St., Chippewa Falls) brings a steady stream of traffic into Chippewa Falls for five days every July as people enjoy fantastic fair food, live music, carnival rides, and even racing pigs. Back to Phoenix Park, the Sounds Like Summer Concert Series electrifies the grassy amphitheater as local bands entertain eager crowds every Thursday night throughout the summertime. – Briana Novacek