Festival season is always rockin’ in Wisconsin. From festivals dedicated to the most enthusiastic Harry Potter fans to events that will please all music lovers and celebrations devoted to the bratwurst, Wisconsinites sure know how to have a good time. Check out our favorite festivals in the state.
Wisconsin State Fair, Milwaukee, WI
The Wisconsin State Fair is held in Milwaukee. Just like your town fair—but bigger! Big box music names, great beer, deep-fried Oreos, and of course their famous cream puffs. The Wisconsin State fair hosts competitions and a huge fair park for all sorts of play.
Brat Fest, Madison, WI
Brat Fest is the largest bratwurst festival in the world. Every Memorial Day weekend, Madison Wisconsin hosts one of the greatest festivals in the state. Free parking, admission, and music bring the crowds in, but he brats are what keep them around. Totally brats sold last year totaled 163,604.
Wine and Harvest Fest, Cedarburg, WI
The Wine and Harvest Festival, held in Cedarburg in early fall, is a great way to start the summer off on a high note. You can taste wine from Cedar Creek Winery and enjoy savory food choices. Vendors can sell their produce and handmade crafts, and victors listen to live music.
Oktoberfest, La Crosse, WI
For over 60 years La Crosse has been hosting their annual Oktoberfest. This September/October Munich, Germany mimicking based festival. Participants dress the part, while responsibly enjoying featured beers. There are all sorts of activities during Oktoberfest. Parades, food vendors, a craft beer night, and a Festmaster Ball keep this authentic Old World folk festival going.
St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Milwaukee, WI
For over 50 years, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade has been held in Milwaukee. The sidewalks are filled with green while the street hold bagpipe players, marching bands, local celebrities, and of course both Irish and Celtic groups from all over the state. Enjoy green beer and music at this St. Patrick’s Day kick-off.
Cranberry Festival, Warrens, WI
Not only hosting one of the Midwest's largest arts and craft festivals, the Warrens Cranberry Festival is a hot commodity for any Wisconsinite. For over 50 years, the Wisconsin Cranberry Festival has been a nonprofit organization that gives everything back to the community of Warrens. They have fun marsh tours, a parade for the kids, and contests.
Morel Mushroom Festival, Muscoda, WI
The little town of Muscoda yields one of the most interesting festivals. The Morel Mushroom Festival is a town-wide event but mainly takes up the entire main street. Stop in for a beer at their local watering holes while shopping at their kiosks, and buying and selling morels.
German Fest, Milwaukee, WI
German immigrants eventually made their way west and planted their roots in Wisconsin. There are tons of people with German ties in the Milwaukee area, making the German Fest tradition a strongly attended event.
Apple Fest, Bayfield, WI
The Bayfield Apple Fest has been growing in popularity throughout its over 60 years of existence. USA Today raves the Bayfield Apple Fest as “10 Best Fall Harvest Festivals in the Nation.” Pick up an apple pie, enjoy some hot apple cider, and explore all types off treats made with apples.
Dane County Fair, Madison, WI
For a small price you can take the entire family to the Dane County Fair located at the Alliant Energy Center. There are tons of both local and well known bands who perform throughout the day and of course their famous festival foods. 4-H contenders compete for ribbons, while carnival rides are spinning throughout the week.
Summerfest, Milwaukee, WI
Summerfest is Wisconsin’s biggest festival attraction. Dates in June and July bring in thousands of visitors to listen to hundreds of different bands. All genres and brand popularities are featured at Summerfest. Beyond music, Summerfest offers tons of tasty festival foods, beer, and plenty of activities for the family.
Key Insights at a Glance
