Happening quarterly, Gallery Night & Day is one of the premier art events in Milwaukee. It’s the “Ultimate Art Weekend,” with over 50 venues throughout the Historic Third Ward and Downtown that serve as showcases for viewing art from paintings to sculptures to other creative outlets. Bars and restaurants stay open later than usual Friday night, while Saturday is a prime time to continue the gallery gallivanting while also enjoying the area’s unique and eclectic selection of shops.
Along with art galleries, Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward is filled with boutique shops like Lela, Bangles & Bags, Shoo, Untuck’d, Stephanie Horne Boutique, MILWORKS, Lizzibeth, Drybar, Too Much Metal, MODA3, and more. You’ll also find Anthropologie, Designs Within Reach, Restoration Hardware, Francesca’s, Mod Gen, Retique, Warby Parker, Lululemon Athletica, and more. You can also stop in Wizard Works Brewing orBroken Bat Brewery for craft beer, or Vino 100 or Thief Wine in the Milwaukee Public Market for a fantastic selection of wines. Numerous restaurants in the Third Ward offer everything from bar food to Asian fusion, American and Korean barbecue, and Italian – plus Shake Shack. The Milwaukee Public Marketdraws visitors from all over and offers takeaway and ready-to-eat food, drinks, and sundries in one dynamic setting.
This quarter, Gallery Night runs Friday and Saturday, April 19th and 20th. Activities begin late afternoon Friday and run through Saturday afternoon. I-43/94, I-794, U.S. 18, and Highway 32 are all amidst where it takes place; Highways 38, 59, and 145 get you close! The city has signs directing you to the Third Ward from the Marquette Interchange. You can also ride The Hop, the local streetcar
Full details and venue listings are available on their website. You’ll find the latest listings of shops, galleries, bars, restaurants, and more – things develop and change quickly in the Third Ward!
Gallery Night & Day Address:
Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward
300 N. Broadway (and all over the area)
Milwaukee, WI 53202 Website
Within the pristine white walls of a contemporary art museum that overlooks Lake Michigan, the Racine Art Museum presents a rather non-traditional exhibition showcasing fluffy, sugar-coated marshmallow PEEPS®. Over the years, many entrants have been become experts in marshmallow candy as a material, using methods like carving, painting, hole punching, gluing, and melting to manipulate PEEPS into incredible shapes. For this show, Richard W. Marklin, Jr. melted a flock of PEEPS to make Raul the Rooster, a realistic barnyard bird; while April Harris and Autumn Kyle assembled the holiday treats into a bust of Black Panther Peeper.
This year, the RAM 15th Annual International PEEPS Art Exhibition takes place now through April 13th; awards will be handed out after. Previous shows have drawn over 4,000 visitors to the museum during its three-week run, setting daily spring attendance records along the way. Previous pieces included Peep Swift: The Marshmallow Era (yes, channeling Taylor); the It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere parrot-looking PEEP with the Jimmy Buffett vibe; Funky Peepcock fashioned in sparkling glass beads and feathers; Pop Art Peeps crafted in glazed stoneware; and Sweet Meets Wild, an inlaid box made of different hardwoods. Inspired by inventive puns, pop culture, sports, and famous artists, many of the PEEPS art entries are by local artists, families, and organizations but quite a few artists from out-of-state also participate.
Vote for Your Favorite PEEPS
Stop by the museum to vote for your favorite PEEPS creation. You will decide who wins the coveted PEEPles Choice Award, announced at the end of the show.
You’ll find the Racine Art Museum along Main Street/Highway 32 in downtown Racine, just blocks from Lake Michigan. Highways 20 and 38 also bring you downtown, and Highway 11 is just to the south. It’s a little over a 10-minute drive east of I-41/94, depending on traffic and how you lit the lights. There is plenty else to see and do there, from picking up a fresh kringle at one of Racine’s famous Danish bakeries to exploring the city’s heritage at the Racine Historical Museum, enjoying the beautiful harbor and waterfront, shopping the stores of 6th Street and Main Street, or grabbing a local brew at Littleport Brewing Company. These are all within walking distance of the Racine Art Museum!
International PEEPS Art Exhibition Address:
Racine Art Museum
441 Main Street (Highway 32)
Racine, WI 53403
(262) 638-8300 Website
PEEPS Exhibit called “Mt. PEEPmore” by Elizabeth Peterson. Yes, it’s a mountain of PEEPs. Photo credit: Christina Lieffring, Racine Journal-Times.
It’s a big party in the Belle City! Party on the Pavement is Racine’s biggest one-day festival, and it happens Saturday, September 16th from noon – 7pm in downtown Racine.
Party on the Pavement features things to see and do along more than 12 city blocks. There’s live music on five stages – see below for a full lineup of performers!
International cuisine can be enjoyed throughout Party on the Pavement – including Spanish, Filipino, Italian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, Mexican, Irish, Jamaican and American – available all day long. There’s also a car show, an arts/crafts show, the Touch a Truck equipment displays, the Division BMX Stunt Team, carnival rides and much more.
Party on the Pavement favorite Touch-a-Truck is back this year. Large construction equipment, agricultural equipment, law enforcement vehicles and more will be located in the former Porter’s Lot on Sixth Street for everyone to touch, feel, and sit in or on.
You can also check out aerial arts performances will be held at the end of Sixth Street in front of Pepi’s Pub & Grill, create hands-on art projects from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Racine Art Museum, and see live glass blowing demonstrations at Hot Shop Glass (239 Wisconsin Avenue.)
Admission to the Party on the Pavement grounds is free! Party on the Pavement takes place throughout downtown on Main Street from State Street to 7th Street and all of 6th Street from Lake Avenue to City Hall.
Party on the Pavement Music Lineup:
SC Johnson Stage – Monument Square
12:00pm-2:00pm
3MF, Jazz
2:30pm-4:30pm
Indigo Canyon, Rock
5:00pm-7:00pm
Stone Theory, 70s Rock
Main Street/State Street Stage
12:00pm-2:00pm
Stoned Blues Band, Blues
2:30pm-4:30pm
Tailspin Band, Rock & Blues
5:00pm-7:00pm
Identity Crisis, 80s/90s Rock
Indian Motorcycle of Racine Stage – 522 6th Street
12:00pm-3:00pm
The Fourcast, Acoustic
3:45pm-6:45pm
All the Kings Men, Elvis
7:30pm-10:30pm
Pat McCurdy, Comedy Guitar
Taste of Soul Stage (7th and Park)
12:00pm-Midnight
DJ Mysta Mack
1:30pm-4:00pm
Stone Jam, Old School
4:15pm-4:45pm
Young Bo & LLil Hawk
5:00pm-7:00pm
Lady A
3:00pm-bar close
DJ Phil (inside)
Mexico Lindo Stage (6th St.)
2:00pm-4:00pm
Mariachi Mexico International
4:30pm-5:00pm
Grupo Folklorico-LaPerla Tapatia
5:00pm-7:00pm
Live Music
Pub on Wisconsin Stage
12:00pm-7:00pm
DJ Devious, All genres
Along the Wisconsin-Illinois border you can go back to the 16th century at the Bristol Renaissance Faire. A plethora of entertainment, great food, performances, and a marketplace filled with crafts, art, musical instruments, clothes, jewelry, and more await. You’ll find plenty of colorful characters in period costumery, performers twirling fire, people mashing their mouths into giant turkey legs, wandering minstrels, swordfights, jousting… the list goes on and on. It’s a great summer weekend activity just west of Kenosha on the Illinois border!
Bristol Renaissance Faire runs Saturdays and Sundays now though Labor Day (yes, it runs that Monday and that’s the only Monday.)
The Kid’s Kingdom is a newer addition, including the Castle Stage where children can get knighted, a face-painting area (don’t worry, it washes off eventually), hobbit houses, an entrance area with five huge thrones that provide great photo opportunities, and an air-conditioned rest area.
A giant turkey leg slathered in barbecue sauce is an essential part of the Bristol Renaissance Faire experience, but they also offer everything from Cornish pasties and bakery goods to vegan items and gelato. The number of entertainment stages now totals sixteen. Comedic sword-fighting, ropewalking, juggling, fire-whipping, acrobatics, chalk art, a variety of musicians, and more. The Marketplace offers the work of nearly 175 artisans and crafters; you can find Scottish kilts, leather masks, bamboo flutes, jester socks, stage-combat-approved swords, steampunkery, and much more. Glass blowing and blacksmithing activities frequently happen in the Marketplace as well as a variety of other crafting.
Tickets range from $40 for adults to $15 for children ages 5-12. Seniors (62+) and Military with ID are $38. Kids 4 and under are free. Season passes can be purchased for $225. You can also get discounted tickets at Menard’s and if you join Friends of the Faire you can also get discounts. U.S. 41, I-41/94, Highway 165, and the state line border the “Fairegrounds,” with U.S. 45 and Highway 50 also getting you close!
Bristol Renaissance Faire Location:
12550 120th Avenue
Kenosha, WI 53142
(877) 395-7773 Website
Lake Geneva knows how to throw a great party, and the 61st annual Lake Geneva Venetian Fest – sponsored by the Lake Geneva Jaycees and running from Wednesday, August 16th through Sunday, August 20th – is a prime example. Five days of fun in town and along the shores of Geneva Lake awaits with a carnival, an arts and crafts fair, a Saturday water ski show, and the Sunday lighted boat parade complete with fireworks to cap it all off.
The Arts & Crafts Fair is returning to Venetian Fest and features over 110 exhibitors. It runs Saturday from 10am – 5pm and Sunday from 10am – 4pm in Library Park, right along Highway 50/Main Street along the lake on the west edge of downtown, just down from The Riviera. Details…
The Lake Geneva Venetian Festival Carnival offers family fun via “Mr. Ed’s Magical Midways” and is open every day of the festival: Wednesday-Thursday 5pm to 10:30pm, Friday 5pm – 11:30pm, Saturday Noon to 11:30pm, and Sunday Noon to 10:30pm.
Saturday you can experience the Baggo Tourney, which takes place at the Entertainment Pavilion in Flatiron Park. It’s a double elimination straight to 21. It starts at 11:30am Saturday and runs until about 3pm.
Sunday is the topper, with all the Carnival and Arts & Crafts Fair activities, THREE performers covering live music, and the Lake Geneva Jaycees Water Ski Show featuring the Wonder Lake Ski Team. They’ll perform on Geneva Lake right by the Riviera starting at 6pm. At dusk, the Lighted Boat Parade begins with the theme this year being “Rat Pack” for Lake Geneva Venetian Fest’s 61st anniversary. It concludes with fireworks following the parade.
All of this fun is in downtown Lake Geneva, which is easily accessed via U.S. 12 or Highways 50 and 120. Highway 67 brings you close, as it runs along the west side of Geneva Lake. Make it a road trip destination the weekend of August 16th-20th!
Lake Geneva Venetian Fest Address:
Downtown Lake Geneva, centered at Riviera Ballroom
821 Wrigley Drive
Lake Geneva, WI 53147 Website
West Bend’s Museum of Wisconsin Art hosts its annual Art & Chalk Fest Saturday, August 19th and Sunday, August 20th. This free, outdoor, fine arts festival features 65+ fine artists selling their work and 15+ chalk artists from across the nation creating masterpieces before your eyes!
Art activities for all ages are offered throughout the weekend along with live entertainment and music, food vendors, a beer garden, an art raffle, and free admission for the weekend to the Museum of Wisconsin Art. You can create your own chalk masterpiece on the concrete canvas of Veterans Avenue. Cool off inside the museum with art projects and grab an interactive family guide to explore the Among the Wonders of the Dells exhibition! The MOWA Shop will also be open to shop more Wisconsin art along with an outdoor booth.
The Food and Beer Garden will offer beers from Lakefront Brewery, wines and sangria, soda, water, and more. Food selections include Just Smokin’ Barbecue, the Falafel Guys, Lovely & Tasty Walking Taco, Cousins Subs, Laughing Mountain Popcorn, Nosh Nook, CS Foods, Purple Door Ice Cream, J. Wade Confections, the Nutman Company, and Concoctions.
9:30–12:00 | The Fainting Room
1:00–4:00 | Lead Bottom Band
4:00–4:30 | West Bend Dance Tumbling Troupe
Sunday, July 28, 2019
10:00–12:30 | Matthew Haeffel
1:00–3:30 | The Freques
3:30–4:00 | Awards Ceremony
You’ll find the Museum of Wisconsin Art along the east banks of the Milwaukee River in downtown West Bend. It’s along the Eisenbahn State Trail, just south of Highway 33/Washington Avenue. Highway 144 comes in from the north and west; the U.S. 45 freeway bypass is less than two miles to the west. Nearby, you can also enjoy shopping in downtown West Bend, local brews at the Riverside Brewery, custard at the Toucan on Highway 144, and more.
Art & Chalk Fest Address:
Museum of Wisconsin Art
205 Veterans Avenue
West Bend, WI 53095
(262) 334-9639 Website
Ashley For The Arts celebrates music, art, and supporting nearby communities with a spectacular three-day event August 10-12, 2023. It takes place in Arcadia – home to Ashley Furniture – in the city’s 54-acre Memorial Park, which known for its Soldier’s Walk, one of the premier war memorials in the U.S. outside of Washington, D.C.
Arcadia is right along the Chippewa River nestled in the gorgeous hills of Wisconsin’s Driftless Area, where Highways 93 and 95 meet. The drive alone is worth it! Ashley for the Arts itself is a non-profit event, stacked with a star-studded lineup of musical entertainment as well as numerous family-friendly activities and some new additions to the venue. It’s one of Wisconsin’s largest charity events, growing from 300 attendees in 2009 to more than 50,000, with of course the exception of 2020, when the event had to skip a year.
With four stages this year, you won’t miss a beat! The Main Stage will host headline entertainment, the Amphitheater will portray participating school performances as well as entertaining circus acts, the Pavilion stage hosts early to mid-day side-stage performances and the Soldier’s Walk stage will create a unique ambiance for local bands to perform outdoors the second half of the day.
Ashley for the Arts’ headline lineup will include Sawyer Brown, Trace Adkins, Jake Owen, and REO Speedwagon on Friday, plus Raelynn, Walk the Moon, Tyler Hubbard, and OneRepublic on Saturday. Side Stages will include a wide variety of acts including Restless Road, Boogie & The Yo-Yoz, the Johnny Holm Band, The Mondays, Wonderstate, Last Call, Big Oil, Buckwild, area high school choirs, even an extreme juggling show! Truly something for everyone.
The three-day festival will also feature upbeat musical performances; in addition, 11 area schools will participate in the event’s activities and demonstrate the region’s student talent through performances on Friday and Saturday.
You can also enjoy a variety of off-stage entertainment including a living statue, balloon sculptors, Root Berry juggling and sword swallowing, a mariachi band, silly stilt walkers, an interactive drum circle, Magician Professor Pinkerton, and many more entertaining audiences throughout the grounds.
The park features nearly 100 art and craft vendors, a new interactive art space, a classic car show, two air parks including bouncy houses and obstacle courses, even a kid’s fitness course. Ashley for the Arts also hosts the Pursuit of a Cure 5K run/walk on Thursday and a spectacular firework display on Saturday.
From mini donuts to barbeque to gyros and frybread, an expanded selection of food trucks will decorate Memorial Park Drive along with Arcadia’s staple charcoal chicken, grilled to perfection in North America’s largest indoor chicken pit. A newly added beer garden, next to the main stage, will offer specialty beer and wine options for the adult audience. Event parking is free along with free bus shuttles to and from the grounds; including the county campground (Pietrek Park) just five miles north of Arcadia. Highways 93 and 95 bring you to town!
Ashley For the Arts Address:
Memorial Park
551 Memorial Park Drive
Arcadia, WI 54612
(608) 863-6700 Website
The Lakefront Festival of Art (LFOA) is one of the premier art festivals in the country. This family-friendly festival at the world-famous Milwaukee Art Museum features over 170 national artists with art for sale in a variety of media, including paintings, sculptures, jewelry, photography, printmaking, wood, ceramics, fiber, and more. The artists display and sell right on Milwaukee’s beautiful lakefront, both indoors and outside under a series of white tents. Features on the grounds include a sculpture garden, children’s art activities, entertainment, artist demonstrations and food/beverage vendors.
Since 1963, LFOA has been a primary fundraiser for the Milwaukee Art Museum and organized with the help of Friends of Art volunteers. Over 1,300 individuals volunteer annually to help organize and operate events like the Lakefront Festival of Art. FOA’s fundraising efforts have helped the Museum to bring numerous world-class exhibitions to Milwaukee, acquire several hundred pieces of art for its Collection, underwrite audio guides for visitors, as well as produce artful and educational programming.
The Milwaukee Art Museum is home to a rich collection of over 30,000 works of art, the Milwaukee Art Museum is located on the shores of Lake Michigan. Its campus includes the Santiago Calatrava–designed Quadracci Pavilion, annually showcasing three feature exhibitions, and the Eero Saarinen–designed Milwaukee County War Memorial Center and David Kahler‒designed addition. The Museum’s Collection Galleries, having opened in 2017, add nearly 2,500 world-class works of art on view.
Enjoy a fun-filled weekend of art, food, music, and activities for all ages. Support the arts by shopping paintings, ceramics, fiber, metalwork, and jewelry from more than 100 artists from across the nation. Sample Milwaukee flavor from local restaurants, and lounge in the sunshine in the Beer Garden or Wine Garden.
The festival continues, rain or shine. Come prepared by bringing your umbrella. Admission includes access to the Museum—stop in to explore the galleries and join a drop-in tour.
The Lakefront Festival of the Arts runs from 10am-10pm on Friday, June 16th, 10am-7pm on Saturday, June 17th, and 10am-5pm on Sunday, June 18th.
You’ll find this beautiful art festival right at the end of U.S. 18, with I-794, I-43/94, and Highways 32, 38, 59, and 145 all bringing you close!
Admission:
Advance tickets $17 (click here to buy online)
Adults $22
Seniors/students $17
Museum Members $10
Three-day pass $30
Free for kids age 12 and under, veterans, active military, and Wisconsin K-12 teachers (with ID)
Lakefront Festival of Art Address:
Milwaukee Art Museum
700 N. Art Museum Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53202 Website
Start:
June 16, 2023 10:00 am
End:
June 18, 2023 5:00 pm
Venue:
Milwaukee Art Museum
Phone:
414-224-3200
Address:
700 N. Art Museum Drive, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, United States
The Fall Art Tour is perfect for State Trunk Tourers with a love of the Driftless Area and art. It’s a self-guided driving tour where you can meet up to 45 area artists and watch them at work as you make your way through Baraboo, Spring Green, Dodgeville and Mineral Point!
Potters, weavers, glassblowers, woodworkers, painters, jewelers, quilters, photographers & sculptors are all part of it. Meet the artists, experience their work spaces, and witness as they create unique works of art. A wide variety of high-quality artwork is available for purchase in every price range. This is their 22nd Anniversary Tour and it’s become one of the most popular art events in the Midwest.
Highways 33, 130, 136, and 23 figure in this tour, as do many county and side roads. It’s a beautiful drive through the Driftless Area and a great behind-the-scenes look at artists’ studios!
Fall Art Tour Details:
More details can be had by calling (608) 356-9048 or checking out their website, http://www.fallarttour.com/.
Also, check out this video for a sample of what you’re in for!
Artstreet showcases over 200 artists from throughout the country as they descend on Green Bay. They’re in a new location this year: Ashwaubomay Park on South Broadway! Take in music, dance, theatrical and literary performances on stage and in the park. View artists demonstrating their work during the creative process. Savor an array of specialty foods, enjoy cultural displays, children’s art activities, and more.
Music Lineup
MAIN STAGE
Friday 8/26/22 3:00-4:00pm Grup KN Zavor [Latin]
4:30-6:00pm 7000apart [Indie Rock]
6:30-8:00pm Dan Rodriguez [Pop|Rock|Soul]
8:30-10:00pm Vegabonds [South Rock]
Sunday 8/28/22 10:00-11:00am Mark Ringwelski [Gospel]
11:30-12:30pm Hannah Rose Trio [Classic Country]
12:45-1:45pm Jerimiah Jams Band [Jam|Rock]
2:00-5:00pm Brass Differential [Jazz|Blues|Funk|R&B]
COMMUNITY STAGE
Friday 8/26/22 3:00-3:45pm Brad Garrity [Covers|Mashups|Original Music]
3:45-4:15pm Master Sand Sculptor Bill Knight [Sculpting Demo]
4:15-5:00pm Navah Mirage [Belly Dancing]
5:15-6:15pm Dz Blue – DJ [Pop|House|EDM Music]
Saturday 8/27/22 10:00-11:30am Emerald Brass Quintet [Jazz]
12:00-12:45pm Garden of Eden* [Variety of Dance]
12:45-1:15pm Master Sand Sculptor Bill Knight [Sculpting Demo]
1:30-2:30pm Bernie Rocheleau* [Variety]
3:00-4:15pm Navah Mirage [Belly Dancing]
5:00-6:00pm Sweet Acoustics [Original Folk | Soul and Blues | Bluegrass Music]
6:00-6:30pm Master Sand Sculptor Bill Knight [Sculpting Demo]
Sunday 8/28/22 10:15-10:45am Boys/Girls Choir [Folk | Ethnic | Sacred | Secular Music]
11:00-12:00pm Strategic [Children’s]
12:00-12:45pm Comedy City Production [Performance]
1:00-2:00pm Strategic [Acoustic Originals]
2:15-2:45pm SOL: Baile Folklórico de Nicolet [Mexican Folkloric Dances]
3;00-3:45pm GardenofEden Dance Revue* [Variety of Dance]
4:00-5:00pm Morgan Piontek [Original Pop] *Note: Schedule as of August 19, 2022 – Subject to Change
Ashwaubomay Park is an 84 acre park, conveniently located between the National Railroad Museum and the Brown County Fairgrounds, at 2881 South Broadway, 54304.
Artstreet Admission is free; donations, of course, are welcomed! You can get to downtown Green Bay via I-41 or I-43 via U.S. 141, or Highways 29, 32, 54, 57, or 172.
Artstreet Hours:
Friday, August 26 | 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm (music until 10 pm)
Saturday, August 27 | 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (music until 9 pm)
Sunday, August 28 | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Artstreet Address:
Ashwaybomay Park
2882 S. Broadway
Green Bay, WI 54304
(920) 435-5220 Website
Downtown Waukesha, along with being a crazy maze of streets, offers up a lot of fun places. That includes art galleries. For the Waukesha Art Crawl, over 175 artisans at 20 galleries and showplaces, live music, gift shops and more are featured at this seasonal event. Walk the downtown streets to discover your next artistic treasure, shop the boutiques, listen to live music or indulge in food and drink.
The next Waukesha Art Crawl on Saturday, May 7th has the theme “Mother of All Crawls”, celebrating Mother’s Day weekend. This crawls takes place throughout downtown Waukesha from 2pm – 8pm.
The Waukesha Art Crawl for 2022 takes place on the following Saturdays:
August 6th
October 1st
December 3rd
How do you get into Waukesha? I-94 and Highway 16 bring you to the north side; Highways 59 and 164 round the south and east sides. U.S. 18 cuts right through, take that or East or St. Paul Avenues.
Waukesha Art Crawl Address:
Downtown Waukesha
337 W. Main Street
Waukesha, WI 53186
(262) 542-1522 Website
Arti Gras presents an eclectic display of the arts in Green Bay. This fine arts festival offers patrons a chance to view and purchase the works of 100 eclectic artists and craftpersons from across the Midwest. Original works representing a variety of media will be for sale. Artist demonstrations take place throughout the event, providing a rare view of artists and their work during the creative process.
Outstanding performances are a highlight at the event including exciting classical music, powerful jazz, and dance. Children can get hands-on art experience through participation in a variety of creative art and music activities. The event also boasts an array of special gourmet items to choose from. The “Cultural Corner” features information booths and special exhibits by area organizations giving visitors valuable information about the many community cultural opportunities in and around the Green Bay region.
Arti Gras runs Saturday and Sunday, March 5-6 this year. Saturday hours are 10am – 5pm and Sunday hours are 10am – 5pm. Arti Gras is at the Resch Expo, across from Lambeau Field. Admission is $6 for adults in advance, $7 at the door. Kids 12 and under get in for $4. Get all the details on artists, booths, music, offerings, and more on the Arti Gras website.
Arti Gras Address:
Resch Expo
840 Armed Forces Drive
Green Bay, WI 54304
(920) 435-5220 Website
I-41, U.S. 141, and Highways 29, 32, 54, 57, and 172 all get you close to the Resch Expo, which you’ll find at Oneida Street & Lombardi Avenue in the Titletown District, right across from Lambeau Field. Nearby, you can enjoy the Oneida Nation Walk of Legends, the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame (inside Lambeau), Badger State Brewing Company, Hinterland Brewing, Ariens Hill, the National Railroad Museum, Heritage Hill State Park, and more with downtown Green Bay not far away via Highways 32 or 57. Enjoy!
The 36th annual Great Hartford Craft Exposition brings over 100 exhibitors to Hartford Union High School to give visitors a chance to find great holiday gifts and creative items for your home. It takes place Saturday, November 13th, 2021 from 9am to 3pm, as part of a full day of local celebrations in Hartford. The day includes the annual Hartford Lions Pancake Dinner as well as the local holiday parade, which kicks off at 3pm.
You’ll find Hartford Union High School on Cedar Street, west of Highway 83 and south of Highway 60 in Hartford. Nearby attractions include the Wisconsin Automotive Museum, Pike Lake Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, Holy Hill, and more! It’s about 10 minutes west of I-41 at the Highway 60 exit, too.
Great Hartford Craft Expo Address:
Hartford Union High School
805 Cedar Street
Hartford, WI 53027
(262) 719-5871 Website
Down The Rabbit Hole is a top-notch musical, visual, and performing artist festival sweeping you away into the woods on the beautiful, lazy Apple River for a non-stop, magical, fantastical experience you will never forget.
Happening Friday, October 15th through Monday, October 18th along the Apple River in Somerset, Down The Rabbit Hole features:
Rarely seen musical acts that are local, national and International on multiple Stages + Silent Disco
Non-stop multi-genre art and music
A Mad Tea Party
Costume Contest
Trippy Trail
Freak Show
Art, Craft & Music Workshops
Yoga
Healing Arts
Hare’s Hayride
Live Act + DJ Contest
Apple Race
Petting Zoo
Aerial, Rope, Flow, Fire & Pole Performances
Riverside Camping with glamping options, cabins + day & re-entry passes for the semi-home bodies
Ice Baths and Saunas
Eat Me, Drink Me: Delicious food and beverage options for everyone including vegetarian and vegan choices, coffee, tea, kombucha, beer, wine, booze, CBD, fantastic foodie feasts and more
Live painting, art class and crafting
A PLURR Squad + Kandi Making
Medics and Top-Notch Security you know and love
SafeWord Drinks
Cart Escort Service
Sensory Overload/Chill Zones
Charging Areas, Lockers, Family/Quiet Camping and MORE
Performer lineup includes:
Cabins and campground sites are available, part of a variety of ticket packages that range from $10-$150. Admission for kids 6 & under is FREE.
Down The Rabbit Hole takes place at Apple River Hideaway in Somerset. It’s an incredibly popular area for tubing and recreation all summer, and you’ll find it just of Highways 35 and 64.
Down The Rabbit Hole Festival Address:
Apple River Hideaway Campground
712 170th Avenue
Somerset, WI 54025 Website
Downtown Baraboo Fair on the Square happens semi-annually, in May and October. The October event takes place Saturday, October 12th from 9 am to 4 pm on the Sauk County Courthouse Square. Over 150 artists and crafters from all over the Midwest will be there, along with plenty of food, a farmer’s market, live music, family entertainment, and more.
The farmer’s market will begin at 7:30 am and run through 1 pm. Children’s activities include face painting, bounce houses, and more lasting for the duration of the Baraboo Fair on the Square.
Surrounding the square, you’ll find plenty of shops, the Al. Ringling Theater, and more. U.S. 12 skirts the west side of Baraboo, Highways 33 and 113 bring you right downtown.
Downtown Baraboo Fair on the Square Address:
Courthouse Square, Sauk County Courthouse
515 Oak Street
Baraboo, WI 53913
(608) 448-3490 Website
Enjoy this once-a-year chance to get an up close and personal look at some of Southeastern Wisconsin’s finest artists and the spaces in which they work. Presented by the Cedarburg Artists Guild, the Covered Bridge Art Studio Tour is celebrating 39 years of offering art enthusiasts a chance to visit the studio spaces of 50 members. Visit the studios and get a glimpse into their creative process. The art tour is always held on the second full weekend of October, so here in 2021 it runs Friday, October 8th through Sunday, October 10th. The artists will be creating art during the event and are happy to explain their artistic process and inspirations.
The Tour is FREE. Your tour begins anywhere YOU want to visit. No tickets, No reservations.
Plan your own tour itinerary! Opt for a rural drive between locations encompassing the fall splendor of rural Wisconsin: Farm fields, pumpkin patches, Lake Michigan shoreline, picturesque small towns and even an historic wooden covered bridge. Or, if you aren’t in the mood for a leisurely drive, there is easy access between most of the spaces. The studio spaces are as unique and varied as the art. A spare bedroom in a suburban ranch home, an industrial garage, a 19th century barn, an 1850‘s stone mill, a walkout basement, or a tent are all creative spaces where sculpture, jewelry, photography, pottery, blacksmithing, woodworking, weaving, stain glass, encaustics, collage, prints, paintings in all mediums and styles, and fiber arts are brought to life. This is your chance to purchase a unique piece of art directly from the artist along with its “story of creation”. Please be prepared to wear a mask in some of their spaces.
Look for the red arrows
While on the tour, be sure to watch for the red arrows to direct you towards the open studios. Get a map of the studios here!
Highway 57’s historic route (now Green Bay Road and Washington Streets) cut right through Cedarburg; Highway 60 is just to the north and Highway 181 is just to the west. I-43 is several miles east; use County C or W to access Cedarburg from there!
The 63rd annual Art Fair on the Square surrounds the Wisconsin State Capitol the weekend of September 25-26, 2021. This is one of the Midwest’s most popular and highly regarded outdoor celebrations of the arts. With its mix of music, entertainment, and outdoor dining, as well as nearly 500 artists exhibiting paintings, prints, photographs, sculpture, jewelry, handmade clothing and accessories, and fine craft, the fair draws nearly 200,000 visitors to Madison’s Capitol Square.
2021 Madison Art Fair on the Square Hours:
Saturday, September 25th (9 am–6 pm)
Sunday, September 26th (10 am–5 pm)
2021 Madison Art Fair on the Square Address:
Capitol Square
2 E. Main Street
Madison, WI 53703
Info: (608) 257-0158 Website
Downtown Waukesha, along with being a crazy maze of streets, offers up a lot of fun places. That includes art galleries. For the Waukesha Art Crawl, over 175 artisans at 20 galleries and showplaces, live music, gift shops and more are featured at this seasonal event. Walk the downtown streets to discover your next artistic treasure, shop the boutiques, listen to live music or indulge in food and drink.
The “Mother of All Crawls” is the theme for the next one on Saturday, August 7th, 2021.
The Waukesha Art Crawl for 2021 takes place on the following Saturdays:
May 1st
August 7th
October 2nd
December 4th
How do you get into Waukesha? I-94 and Highway 16 bring you to the north side; Highways 59 and 164 round the south and east sides. U.S. 18 cuts right through, or take East or St. Paul Avenues.
Waukesha Art Crawl Address:
Downtown Waukesha
337 W. Main Street
Waukesha, WI 53186
(262) 542-1522 Website
An artful way to spend part of Memorial Day weekend is to head to beautiful Port Washington and explore the Port Washington Art Walk downtown. From 11 am to 4pm on Sunday, May 30th, at least 15 business in Port Washington’s downtown will host a variety of fine artists, mixed media artists, photographers, musicians, ceramists, and more. Some artists will demonstrate their craft in real-time; all will have their art and craft work on display and for sale. Weather permitting, the artists will be outdoors; otherwise they will be inside their hosting business. Gallery 224 will host the current artist on exhibit, Kelly Alexander, from their ARTservancy program. A variety of Port’s local bars and restaurants will also run art-themed specials that day. Look for the children’s art area for kids to make their own art, along with some great music! It’s free to attend.
You can access downtown Port Washington via Highways 32 or 33 from I-43 or Highway 57. While you’re there, check out Coal Dock Park, the walkways in the marina, the Port Exploreum (a great maritime museum), Inventors Brewpub (located in a VFW hall with a lake view), and the shops, restaurants, and more up and down the streets!
Port Washington Art Walk Address:
Downtown Port Washington
100 N. Franklin Street (Highway 32)
Port Washington, WI 53074
(262) 268-1132 Website
Check out the Sturgeon Bay Fine Art Fair on Memorial Day weekend in downtown Sturgeon Bay! 2021 marks the 23rd annual Fine Art Fair, a juried multi-media art show featuring fine art from over 100 exhibitors and artists from across the U.S.
Stroll along Martin Park and 3rd Avenue in downtown Sturgeon Bay, watching artists create, buying one-of-a-kind pieces of artwork, and soaking in the gorgeous setting. Visit with artists in 2 and 3 dimensional categories. Art includes sculpture, glass, paintings, jewelry, fiber, photography, wood, watercolor, oil, paper… there is plenty to see and admire. Food, beverages, beer, and wine will be available for purchase, including from a wide variety of local producers. Free balloon art for the kids each day, along with plenty of children’s activities.
Happening in a new location – Martin Park right by Business Highways 42 and 57 – it runs Saturday, May 29th from 10am – 5pm and Sunday, May 30th from 10am – 4pm. You’re within steps of the Steel Bridge Creative District and new art galleries and studios on 3rd Avenue. Free admission!
While you’re there, check out some great shopping along 3rd Avenue along with plenty of restaurants, Door County Confectionary, the Door County Maritime Museum with their new lookout tower, even two breweries: Starboard Brewing on 3rd Avenue, and Bridge Up Brewingacross the bay via the Oregon Street Bridge or the classic Steel Bridge. All of this can be accessed by following the “Business” (i.e. historic/city) routes of Highway 42 and Highway 57 through Sturgeon Bay. Check it out if you’re headed to Door County for Memorial Day weekend!
Sturgeon Bay Fine Art Fair Address:
Martin Park
207 S. 3rd Avenue (Business 42/57)
Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
(920) 743-6246 Website
Calendar of Events
Calendar of Events › Art
April 19, 2024 – April 20, 2024
Gallery Night & Day, Milwaukee
Happening quarterly, Gallery Night & Day is one of the premier art events in Milwaukee. It’s the “Ultimate Art Weekend,” with over 50 venues throughout the Historic Third Ward and Downtown that serve as showcases for viewing art from paintings to sculptures to other creative outlets. Bars and restaurants stay open later than usual Friday night, while Saturday is a prime time to continue the gallery gallivanting while also enjoying the area’s unique and eclectic selection of shops.
Along with art galleries, Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward is filled with boutique shops like Lela, Bangles & Bags, Shoo, Untuck’d, Stephanie Horne Boutique, MILWORKS, Lizzibeth, Drybar, Too Much Metal, MODA3, and more. You’ll also find Anthropologie, Designs Within Reach, Restoration Hardware, Francesca’s, Mod Gen, Retique, Warby Parker, Lululemon Athletica, and more. You can also stop in Wizard Works Brewing or Broken Bat Brewery for craft beer, or Vino 100 or Thief Wine in the Milwaukee Public Market for a fantastic selection of wines. Numerous restaurants in the Third Ward offer everything from bar food to Asian fusion, American and Korean barbecue, and Italian – plus Shake Shack. The Milwaukee Public Market draws visitors from all over and offers takeaway and ready-to-eat food, drinks, and sundries in one dynamic setting.
This quarter, Gallery Night runs Friday and Saturday, April 19th and 20th. Activities begin late afternoon Friday and run through Saturday afternoon. I-43/94, I-794, U.S. 18, and Highway 32 are all amidst where it takes place; Highways 38, 59, and 145 get you close! The city has signs directing you to the Third Ward from the Marquette Interchange. You can also ride The Hop, the local streetcar
Full details and venue listings are available on their website. You’ll find the latest listings of shops, galleries, bars, restaurants, and more – things develop and change quickly in the Third Ward!
Gallery Night & Day Address:
Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward
300 N. Broadway (and all over the area)
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Website
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March 21, 2024 – April 13, 2024
International PEEPS Art Exhibition at the Racine Art Museum
Within the pristine white walls of a contemporary art museum that overlooks Lake Michigan, the Racine Art Museum presents a rather non-traditional exhibition showcasing fluffy, sugar-coated marshmallow PEEPS®. Over the years, many entrants have been become experts in marshmallow candy as a material, using methods like carving, painting, hole punching, gluing, and melting to manipulate PEEPS into incredible shapes. For this show, Richard W. Marklin, Jr. melted a flock of PEEPS to make Raul the Rooster, a realistic barnyard bird; while April Harris and Autumn Kyle assembled the holiday treats into a bust of Black Panther Peeper.
Vote for Your Favorite PEEPS
Stop by the museum to vote for your favorite PEEPS creation. You will decide who wins the coveted PEEPles Choice Award, announced at the end of the show.
You’ll find the Racine Art Museum along Main Street/Highway 32 in downtown Racine, just blocks from Lake Michigan. Highways 20 and 38 also bring you downtown, and Highway 11 is just to the south. It’s a little over a 10-minute drive east of I-41/94, depending on traffic and how you lit the lights. There is plenty else to see and do there, from picking up a fresh kringle at one of Racine’s famous Danish bakeries to exploring the city’s heritage at the Racine Historical Museum, enjoying the beautiful harbor and waterfront, shopping the stores of 6th Street and Main Street, or grabbing a local brew at Littleport Brewing Company. These are all within walking distance of the Racine Art Museum!
International PEEPS Art Exhibition Address:
Racine Art Museum
441 Main Street (Highway 32)
Racine, WI 53403
(262) 638-8300
Website
PEEPS Exhibit called “Mt. PEEPmore” by Elizabeth Peterson. Yes, it’s a mountain of PEEPs. Photo credit: Christina Lieffring, Racine Journal-Times.
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September 16, 2023
Party on the Pavement, Racine
It’s a big party in the Belle City! Party on the Pavement is Racine’s biggest one-day festival, and it happens Saturday, September 16th from noon – 7pm in downtown Racine.
Party on the Pavement features things to see and do along more than 12 city blocks. There’s live music on five stages – see below for a full lineup of performers!
International cuisine can be enjoyed throughout Party on the Pavement – including Spanish, Filipino, Italian, Korean, Thai, Japanese, Mexican, Irish, Jamaican and American – available all day long. There’s also a car show, an arts/crafts show, the Touch a Truck equipment displays, the Division BMX Stunt Team, carnival rides and much more.
Party on the Pavement favorite Touch-a-Truck is back this year. Large construction equipment, agricultural equipment, law enforcement vehicles and more will be located in the former Porter’s Lot on Sixth Street for everyone to touch, feel, and sit in or on.
You can also check out aerial arts performances will be held at the end of Sixth Street in front of Pepi’s Pub & Grill, create hands-on art projects from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Racine Art Museum, and see live glass blowing demonstrations at Hot Shop Glass (239 Wisconsin Avenue.)
Admission to the Party on the Pavement grounds is free! Party on the Pavement takes place throughout downtown on Main Street from State Street to 7th Street and all of 6th Street from Lake Avenue to City Hall.
Party on the Pavement Music Lineup:
SC Johnson Stage – Monument Square
12:00pm-2:00pm
3MF, Jazz
2:30pm-4:30pm
Indigo Canyon, Rock
5:00pm-7:00pm
Stone Theory, 70s Rock
Main Street/State Street Stage
12:00pm-2:00pm
Stoned Blues Band, Blues
2:30pm-4:30pm
Tailspin Band, Rock & Blues
5:00pm-7:00pm
Identity Crisis, 80s/90s Rock
Indian Motorcycle of Racine Stage – 522 6th Street
12:00pm-3:00pm
The Fourcast, Acoustic
3:45pm-6:45pm
All the Kings Men, Elvis
7:30pm-10:30pm
Pat McCurdy, Comedy Guitar
Taste of Soul Stage (7th and Park)
12:00pm-Midnight
DJ Mysta Mack
1:30pm-4:00pm
Stone Jam, Old School
4:15pm-4:45pm
Young Bo & LLil Hawk
5:00pm-7:00pm
Lady A
3:00pm-bar close
DJ Phil (inside)
Mexico Lindo Stage (6th St.)
2:00pm-4:00pm
Mariachi Mexico International
4:30pm-5:00pm
Grupo Folklorico-LaPerla Tapatia
5:00pm-7:00pm
Live Music
Pub on Wisconsin Stage
12:00pm-7:00pm
DJ Devious, All genres
It’s all presented by the Downtown Racine Corporation. Highway 20, 32, and 38 are right there!
Party on the Pavement Address:
It covers 12 blocks, but it’s centered on Monument Square, 534 Main Street
Racine, WI 53403
(262) 634-6002
Website
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September 2, 2023 – September 4, 2023
Bristol Renaissance Faire
Bristol Renaissance Faire runs Saturdays and Sundays now though Labor Day (yes, it runs that Monday and that’s the only Monday.)
The Kid’s Kingdom is a newer addition, including the Castle Stage where children can get knighted, a face-painting area (don’t worry, it washes off eventually), hobbit houses, an entrance area with five huge thrones that provide great photo opportunities, and an air-conditioned rest area.
A giant turkey leg slathered in barbecue sauce is an essential part of the Bristol Renaissance Faire experience, but they also offer everything from Cornish pasties and bakery goods to vegan items and gelato. The number of entertainment stages now totals sixteen. Comedic sword-fighting, ropewalking, juggling, fire-whipping, acrobatics, chalk art, a variety of musicians, and more. The Marketplace offers the work of nearly 175 artisans and crafters; you can find Scottish kilts, leather masks, bamboo flutes, jester socks, stage-combat-approved swords, steampunkery, and much more. Glass blowing and blacksmithing activities frequently happen in the Marketplace as well as a variety of other crafting.
Tickets range from $40 for adults to $15 for children ages 5-12. Seniors (62+) and Military with ID are $38. Kids 4 and under are free. Season passes can be purchased for $225. You can also get discounted tickets at Menard’s and if you join Friends of the Faire you can also get discounts. U.S. 41, I-41/94, Highway 165, and the state line border the “Fairegrounds,” with U.S. 45 and Highway 50 also getting you close!
Bristol Renaissance Faire Location:
12550 120th Avenue
Kenosha, WI 53142
(877) 395-7773
Website
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August 20, 2023
Lake Geneva Venetian Fest
The Entertainment Pavilion includes a beer tent and stage for live music. Here’s the Music Schedule:
Wednesday 8/16: Bella Cain, 8pm-midnight
Thursday 8/17: Modern Day Romeos, 8pm-midnight
Friday 8/18: Kelly Daniels, 8pm-midnight
Saturday 8/19: Jack Whittle Band, 3pm-6pm
Saturday 8/19: Too Hype Crew, 8pm-midnight
Sunday 8/20: Rock Central, Noon-3pm
Sunday 8/20: Big Al Wetzel Band, 3pm-6pm
Sunday 8/20: Dirty Canteen, 8pm-midnight
The Arts & Crafts Fair is returning to Venetian Fest and features over 110 exhibitors. It runs Saturday from 10am – 5pm and Sunday from 10am – 4pm in Library Park, right along Highway 50/Main Street along the lake on the west edge of downtown, just down from The Riviera. Details…
The Lake Geneva Venetian Festival Carnival offers family fun via “Mr. Ed’s Magical Midways” and is open every day of the festival: Wednesday-Thursday 5pm to 10:30pm, Friday 5pm – 11:30pm, Saturday Noon to 11:30pm, and Sunday Noon to 10:30pm.
Saturday you can experience the Baggo Tourney, which takes place at the Entertainment Pavilion in Flatiron Park. It’s a double elimination straight to 21. It starts at 11:30am Saturday and runs until about 3pm.
Sunday is the topper, with all the Carnival and Arts & Crafts Fair activities, THREE performers covering live music, and the Lake Geneva Jaycees Water Ski Show featuring the Wonder Lake Ski Team. They’ll perform on Geneva Lake right by the Riviera starting at 6pm. At dusk, the Lighted Boat Parade begins with the theme this year being “Rat Pack” for Lake Geneva Venetian Fest’s 61st anniversary. It concludes with fireworks following the parade.
All of this fun is in downtown Lake Geneva, which is easily accessed via U.S. 12 or Highways 50 and 120. Highway 67 brings you close, as it runs along the west side of Geneva Lake. Make it a road trip destination the weekend of August 16th-20th!
Lake Geneva Venetian Fest Address:
821 Wrigley Drive
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
Website
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August 19, 2023 – August 20, 2023
Art & Chalk Fest, West Bend
West Bend’s Museum of Wisconsin Art hosts its annual Art & Chalk Fest Saturday, August 19th and Sunday, August 20th. This free, outdoor, fine arts festival features 65+ fine artists selling their work and 15+ chalk artists from across the nation creating masterpieces before your eyes!
Art activities for all ages are offered throughout the weekend along with live entertainment and music, food vendors, a beer garden, an art raffle, and free admission for the weekend to the Museum of Wisconsin Art. You can create your own chalk masterpiece on the concrete canvas of Veterans Avenue. Cool off inside the museum with art projects and grab an interactive family guide to explore the Among the Wonders of the Dells exhibition! The MOWA Shop will also be open to shop more Wisconsin art along with an outdoor booth.
The Food and Beer Garden will offer beers from Lakefront Brewery, wines and sangria, soda, water, and more. Food selections include Just Smokin’ Barbecue, the Falafel Guys, Lovely & Tasty Walking Taco, Cousins Subs, Laughing Mountain Popcorn, Nosh Nook, CS Foods, Purple Door Ice Cream, J. Wade Confections, the Nutman Company, and Concoctions.
Live Entertainment Schedule:
Saturday, July 27, 2019
9:30–12:00 | The Fainting Room
1:00–4:00 | Lead Bottom Band
4:00–4:30 | West Bend Dance Tumbling Troupe
Sunday, July 28, 2019
10:00–12:30 | Matthew Haeffel
1:00–3:30 | The Freques
3:30–4:00 | Awards Ceremony
You’ll find the Museum of Wisconsin Art along the east banks of the Milwaukee River in downtown West Bend. It’s along the Eisenbahn State Trail, just south of Highway 33/Washington Avenue. Highway 144 comes in from the north and west; the U.S. 45 freeway bypass is less than two miles to the west. Nearby, you can also enjoy shopping in downtown West Bend, local brews at the Riverside Brewery, custard at the Toucan on Highway 144, and more.
Art & Chalk Fest Address:
Museum of Wisconsin Art
205 Veterans Avenue
West Bend, WI 53095
(262) 334-9639
Website
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August 10, 2023 – August 12, 2023
Ashley for the Arts
Ashley For The Arts celebrates music, art, and supporting nearby communities with a spectacular three-day event August 10-12, 2023. It takes place in Arcadia – home to Ashley Furniture – in the city’s 54-acre Memorial Park, which known for its Soldier’s Walk, one of the premier war memorials in the U.S. outside of Washington, D.C.
With four stages this year, you won’t miss a beat! The Main Stage will host headline entertainment, the Amphitheater will portray participating school performances as well as entertaining circus acts, the Pavilion stage hosts early to mid-day side-stage performances and the Soldier’s Walk stage will create a unique ambiance for local bands to perform outdoors the second half of the day.
Ashley for the Arts’ headline lineup will include Sawyer Brown, Trace Adkins, Jake Owen, and REO Speedwagon on Friday, plus Raelynn, Walk the Moon, Tyler Hubbard, and OneRepublic on Saturday. Side Stages will include a wide variety of acts including Restless Road, Boogie & The Yo-Yoz, the Johnny Holm Band, The Mondays, Wonderstate, Last Call, Big Oil, Buckwild, area high school choirs, even an extreme juggling show! Truly something for everyone.
The three-day festival will also feature upbeat musical performances; in addition, 11 area schools will participate in the event’s activities and demonstrate the region’s student talent through performances on Friday and Saturday.
You can also enjoy a variety of off-stage entertainment including a living statue, balloon sculptors, Root Berry juggling and sword swallowing, a mariachi band, silly stilt walkers, an interactive drum circle, Magician Professor Pinkerton, and many more entertaining audiences throughout the grounds.
The park features nearly 100 art and craft vendors, a new interactive art space, a classic car show, two air parks including bouncy houses and obstacle courses, even a kid’s fitness course. Ashley for the Arts also hosts the Pursuit of a Cure 5K run/walk on Thursday and a spectacular firework display on Saturday.
From mini donuts to barbeque to gyros and frybread, an expanded selection of food trucks will decorate Memorial Park Drive along with Arcadia’s staple charcoal chicken, grilled to perfection in North America’s largest indoor chicken pit. A newly added beer garden, next to the main stage, will offer specialty beer and wine options for the adult audience. Event parking is free along with free bus shuttles to and from the grounds; including the county campground (Pietrek Park) just five miles north of Arcadia. Highways 93 and 95 bring you to town!
Ashley For the Arts Address:
Memorial Park
551 Memorial Park Drive
Arcadia, WI 54612
(608) 863-6700
Website
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June 16, 2023 – June 18, 2023
Lakefront Festival of Art
Since 1963, LFOA has been a primary fundraiser for the Milwaukee Art Museum and organized with the help of Friends of Art volunteers. Over 1,300 individuals volunteer annually to help organize and operate events like the Lakefront Festival of Art. FOA’s fundraising efforts have helped the Museum to bring numerous world-class exhibitions to Milwaukee, acquire several hundred pieces of art for its Collection, underwrite audio guides for visitors, as well as produce artful and educational programming.
Enjoy a fun-filled weekend of art, food, music, and activities for all ages. Support the arts by shopping paintings, ceramics, fiber, metalwork, and jewelry from more than 100 artists from across the nation. Sample Milwaukee flavor from local restaurants, and lounge in the sunshine in the Beer Garden or Wine Garden.
The festival continues, rain or shine. Come prepared by bringing your umbrella. Admission includes access to the Museum—stop in to explore the galleries and join a drop-in tour.
The Lakefront Festival of the Arts runs from 10am-10pm on Friday, June 16th, 10am-7pm on Saturday, June 17th, and 10am-5pm on Sunday, June 18th.
You’ll find this beautiful art festival right at the end of U.S. 18, with I-794, I-43/94, and Highways 32, 38, 59, and 145 all bringing you close!
Admission:
Advance tickets $17 (click here to buy online)
Adults $22
Seniors/students $17
Museum Members $10
Three-day pass $30
Free for kids age 12 and under, veterans, active military, and Wisconsin K-12 teachers (with ID)
Lakefront Festival of Art Address:
Milwaukee Art Museum
700 N. Art Museum Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Website
October 14, 2022 – October 16, 2022
Fall Art Tour in the Driftless
The Fall Art Tour is perfect for State Trunk Tourers with a love of the Driftless Area and art. It’s a self-guided driving tour where you can meet up to 45 area artists and watch them at work as you make your way through Baraboo, Spring Green, Dodgeville and Mineral Point!
Potters, weavers, glassblowers, woodworkers, painters, jewelers, quilters, photographers & sculptors are all part of it. Meet the artists, experience their work spaces, and witness as they create unique works of art. A wide variety of high-quality artwork is available for purchase in every price range. This is their 22nd Anniversary Tour and it’s become one of the most popular art events in the Midwest.
Highways 33, 130, 136, and 23 figure in this tour, as do many county and side roads. It’s a beautiful drive through the Driftless Area and a great behind-the-scenes look at artists’ studios!
Fall Art Tour Details:
More details can be had by calling (608) 356-9048 or checking out their website, http://www.fallarttour.com/.
Also, check out this video for a sample of what you’re in for!
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August 28, 2022
Artstreet
Music Lineup
MAIN STAGE
Friday 8/26/22
3:00-4:00pm Grup KN Zavor [Latin]
4:30-6:00pm 7000apart [Indie Rock]
6:30-8:00pm Dan Rodriguez [Pop|Rock|Soul]
8:30-10:00pm Vegabonds [South Rock]
Saturday 8/27/22
10:00-11:30am Gerry Sloan [Irish]
12:00-1:30pm Island Magic [Caribbean]
2:00-5:00pm Brass Differential [Jazz|Blues|Funk|R&B]
5:30-7:00pm Big Mouth [Funk|Soul|Rock]
7:30-9:00pm EMN [Hard Rock]
Sunday 8/28/22
10:00-11:00am Mark Ringwelski [Gospel]
11:30-12:30pm Hannah Rose Trio [Classic Country]
12:45-1:45pm Jerimiah Jams Band [Jam|Rock]
2:00-5:00pm Brass Differential [Jazz|Blues|Funk|R&B]
COMMUNITY STAGE
Friday 8/26/22
3:00-3:45pm Brad Garrity [Covers|Mashups|Original Music]
3:45-4:15pm Master Sand Sculptor Bill Knight [Sculpting Demo]
4:15-5:00pm Navah Mirage [Belly Dancing]
5:15-6:15pm Dz Blue – DJ [Pop|House|EDM Music]
Saturday 8/27/22
10:00-11:30am Emerald Brass Quintet [Jazz]
12:00-12:45pm Garden of Eden* [Variety of Dance]
12:45-1:15pm Master Sand Sculptor Bill Knight [Sculpting Demo]
1:30-2:30pm Bernie Rocheleau* [Variety]
3:00-4:15pm Navah Mirage [Belly Dancing]
5:00-6:00pm Sweet Acoustics [Original Folk | Soul and Blues | Bluegrass Music]
6:00-6:30pm Master Sand Sculptor Bill Knight [Sculpting Demo]
Sunday 8/28/22
10:15-10:45am Boys/Girls Choir [Folk | Ethnic | Sacred | Secular Music]
11:00-12:00pm Strategic [Children’s]
12:00-12:45pm Comedy City Production [Performance]
1:00-2:00pm Strategic [Acoustic Originals]
2:15-2:45pm SOL: Baile Folklórico de Nicolet [Mexican Folkloric Dances]
3;00-3:45pm Garden of Eden Dance Revue* [Variety of Dance]
4:00-5:00pm Morgan Piontek [Original Pop]
*Note: Schedule as of August 19, 2022 – Subject to Change
Ashwaubomay Park is an 84 acre park, conveniently located between the National Railroad Museum and the Brown County Fairgrounds, at 2881 South Broadway, 54304.
Artstreet Admission is free; donations, of course, are welcomed! You can get to downtown Green Bay via I-41 or I-43 via U.S. 141, or Highways 29, 32, 54, 57, or 172.
Artstreet Hours:
Friday, August 26 | 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm (music until 10 pm)
Saturday, August 27 | 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (music until 9 pm)
Sunday, August 28 | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm
Artstreet Address:
Ashwaybomay Park
2882 S. Broadway
Green Bay, WI 54304
(920) 435-5220
Website
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May 7, 2022
Waukesha Art Crawl
Downtown Waukesha, along with being a crazy maze of streets, offers up a lot of fun places. That includes art galleries. For the Waukesha Art Crawl, over 175 artisans at 20 galleries and showplaces, live music, gift shops and more are featured at this seasonal event. Walk the downtown streets to discover your next artistic treasure, shop the boutiques, listen to live music or indulge in food and drink.
The next Waukesha Art Crawl on Saturday, May 7th has the theme “Mother of All Crawls”, celebrating Mother’s Day weekend. This crawls takes place throughout downtown Waukesha from 2pm – 8pm.
Check out WaukeshaArt.com for all the updates and details!
The Waukesha Art Crawl for 2022 takes place on the following Saturdays:
August 6th
October 1st
December 3rd
How do you get into Waukesha? I-94 and Highway 16 bring you to the north side; Highways 59 and 164 round the south and east sides. U.S. 18 cuts right through, take that or East or St. Paul Avenues.
Waukesha Art Crawl Address:
Downtown Waukesha
337 W. Main Street
Waukesha, WI 53186
(262) 542-1522
Website
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March 5, 2022 – March 6, 2022
Arti Gras
Outstanding performances are a highlight at the event including exciting classical music, powerful jazz, and dance. Children can get hands-on art experience through participation in a variety of creative art and music activities. The event also boasts an array of special gourmet items to choose from. The “Cultural Corner” features information booths and special exhibits by area organizations giving visitors valuable information about the many community cultural opportunities in and around the Green Bay region.
Arti Gras runs Saturday and Sunday, March 5-6 this year. Saturday hours are 10am – 5pm and Sunday hours are 10am – 5pm. Arti Gras is at the Resch Expo, across from Lambeau Field. Admission is $6 for adults in advance, $7 at the door. Kids 12 and under get in for $4. Get all the details on artists, booths, music, offerings, and more on the Arti Gras website.
Arti Gras Address:
Resch Expo
840 Armed Forces Drive
Green Bay, WI 54304
(920) 435-5220
Website
I-41, U.S. 141, and Highways 29, 32, 54, 57, and 172 all get you close to the Resch Expo, which you’ll find at Oneida Street & Lombardi Avenue in the Titletown District, right across from Lambeau Field. Nearby, you can enjoy the Oneida Nation Walk of Legends, the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame (inside Lambeau), Badger State Brewing Company, Hinterland Brewing, Ariens Hill, the National Railroad Museum, Heritage Hill State Park, and more with downtown Green Bay not far away via Highways 32 or 57. Enjoy!
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November 13, 2021
Great Hartford Craft Exposition
The 36th annual Great Hartford Craft Exposition brings over 100 exhibitors to Hartford Union High School to give visitors a chance to find great holiday gifts and creative items for your home. It takes place Saturday, November 13th, 2021 from 9am to 3pm, as part of a full day of local celebrations in Hartford. The day includes the annual Hartford Lions Pancake Dinner as well as the local holiday parade, which kicks off at 3pm.
You’ll find Hartford Union High School on Cedar Street, west of Highway 83 and south of Highway 60 in Hartford. Nearby attractions include the Wisconsin Automotive Museum, Pike Lake Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, Holy Hill, and more! It’s about 10 minutes west of I-41 at the Highway 60 exit, too.
Great Hartford Craft Expo Address:
805 Cedar Street
Hartford, WI 53027
(262) 719-5871
Website
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October 15, 2021 – October 18, 2021
Down The Rabbit Hole Festival
Down The Rabbit Hole is a top-notch musical, visual, and performing artist festival sweeping you away into the woods on the beautiful, lazy Apple River for a non-stop, magical, fantastical experience you will never forget.
Happening Friday, October 15th through Monday, October 18th along the Apple River in Somerset, Down The Rabbit Hole features:
Performer lineup includes:
Cabins and campground sites are available, part of a variety of ticket packages that range from $10-$150. Admission for kids 6 & under is FREE.
Down The Rabbit Hole takes place at Apple River Hideaway in Somerset. It’s an incredibly popular area for tubing and recreation all summer, and you’ll find it just of Highways 35 and 64.
Down The Rabbit Hole Festival Address:
Apple River Hideaway Campground
712 170th Avenue
Somerset, WI 54025
Website
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October 9, 2021
Downtown Baraboo Fair on the Square
Downtown Baraboo Fair on the Square happens semi-annually, in May and October. The October event takes place Saturday, October 12th from 9 am to 4 pm on the Sauk County Courthouse Square. Over 150 artists and crafters from all over the Midwest will be there, along with plenty of food, a farmer’s market, live music, family entertainment, and more.
The farmer’s market will begin at 7:30 am and run through 1 pm. Children’s activities include face painting, bounce houses, and more lasting for the duration of the Baraboo Fair on the Square.
Surrounding the square, you’ll find plenty of shops, the Al. Ringling Theater, and more. U.S. 12 skirts the west side of Baraboo, Highways 33 and 113 bring you right downtown.
Downtown Baraboo Fair on the Square Address:
Courthouse Square, Sauk County Courthouse
515 Oak Street
Baraboo, WI 53913
(608) 448-3490
Website
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October 8, 2021 – October 10, 2021
Covered Bridge Studio Art Tour
The Covered Bridge Art Studio Tour
Enjoy this once-a-year chance to get an up close and personal look at some of Southeastern Wisconsin’s finest artists and the spaces in which they work. Presented by the Cedarburg Artists Guild, the Covered Bridge Art Studio Tour is celebrating 39 years of offering art enthusiasts a chance to visit the studio spaces of 50 members. Visit the studios and get a glimpse into their creative process. The art tour is always held on the second full weekend of October, so here in 2021 it runs Friday, October 8th through Sunday, October 10th. The artists will be creating art during the event and are happy to explain their artistic process and inspirations.
The Tour is FREE. Your tour begins anywhere YOU want to visit. No tickets, No reservations.
Plan your own tour itinerary! Opt for a rural drive between locations encompassing the fall splendor of rural Wisconsin: Farm fields, pumpkin patches, Lake Michigan shoreline, picturesque small towns and even an historic wooden covered bridge. Or, if you aren’t in the mood for a leisurely drive, there is easy access between most of the spaces. The studio spaces are as unique and varied as the art. A spare bedroom in a suburban ranch home, an industrial garage, a 19th century barn, an 1850‘s stone mill, a walkout basement, or a tent are all creative spaces where sculpture, jewelry, photography, pottery, blacksmithing, woodworking, weaving, stain glass, encaustics, collage, prints, paintings in all mediums and styles, and fiber arts are brought to life. This is your chance to purchase a unique piece of art directly from the artist along with its “story of creation”. Please be prepared to wear a mask in some of their spaces.
While on the tour, be sure to watch for the red arrows to direct you towards the open studios. Get a map of the studios here!
Highway 57’s historic route (now Green Bay Road and Washington Streets) cut right through Cedarburg; Highway 60 is just to the north and Highway 181 is just to the west. I-43 is several miles east; use County C or W to access Cedarburg from there!
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September 25, 2021 – September 26, 2021
Art Fair on the Square, Madison
2021 Madison Art Fair on the Square Hours:
Saturday, September 25th (9 am–6 pm)
Sunday, September 26th (10 am–5 pm)
2021 Madison Art Fair on the Square Address:
Capitol Square
2 E. Main Street
Madison, WI 53703
Info: (608) 257-0158
Website
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August 7, 2021
Waukesha Art Crawl
Downtown Waukesha, along with being a crazy maze of streets, offers up a lot of fun places. That includes art galleries. For the Waukesha Art Crawl, over 175 artisans at 20 galleries and showplaces, live music, gift shops and more are featured at this seasonal event. Walk the downtown streets to discover your next artistic treasure, shop the boutiques, listen to live music or indulge in food and drink.
The “Mother of All Crawls” is the theme for the next one on Saturday, August 7th, 2021.
Check out WaukeshaArt.com for all the updates and details!
The Waukesha Art Crawl for 2021 takes place on the following Saturdays:
May 1st
August 7th
October 2nd
December 4th
How do you get into Waukesha? I-94 and Highway 16 bring you to the north side; Highways 59 and 164 round the south and east sides. U.S. 18 cuts right through, or take East or St. Paul Avenues.
Waukesha Art Crawl Address:
Downtown Waukesha
337 W. Main Street
Waukesha, WI 53186
(262) 542-1522
Website
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May 30, 2021
Port Washington Art Walk
You can access downtown Port Washington via Highways 32 or 33 from I-43 or Highway 57. While you’re there, check out Coal Dock Park, the walkways in the marina, the Port Exploreum (a great maritime museum), Inventors Brewpub (located in a VFW hall with a lake view), and the shops, restaurants, and more up and down the streets!
Port Washington Art Walk Address:
Downtown Port Washington
100 N. Franklin Street (Highway 32)
Port Washington, WI 53074
(262) 268-1132
Website
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May 29, 2021 – May 30, 2021
Sturgeon Bay Fine Art Fair
Check out the Sturgeon Bay Fine Art Fair on Memorial Day weekend in downtown Sturgeon Bay! 2021 marks the 23rd annual Fine Art Fair, a juried multi-media art show featuring fine art from over 100 exhibitors and artists from across the U.S.
Stroll along Martin Park and 3rd Avenue in downtown Sturgeon Bay, watching artists create, buying one-of-a-kind pieces of artwork, and soaking in the gorgeous setting. Visit with artists in 2 and 3 dimensional categories. Art includes sculpture, glass, paintings, jewelry, fiber, photography, wood, watercolor, oil, paper… there is plenty to see and admire. Food, beverages, beer, and wine will be available for purchase, including from a wide variety of local producers. Free balloon art for the kids each day, along with plenty of children’s activities.
While you’re there, check out some great shopping along 3rd Avenue along with plenty of restaurants, Door County Confectionary, the Door County Maritime Museum with their new lookout tower, even two breweries: Starboard Brewing on 3rd Avenue, and Bridge Up Brewing across the bay via the Oregon Street Bridge or the classic Steel Bridge. All of this can be accessed by following the “Business” (i.e. historic/city) routes of Highway 42 and Highway 57 through Sturgeon Bay. Check it out if you’re headed to Door County for Memorial Day weekend!
Sturgeon Bay Fine Art Fair Address:
Martin Park
207 S. 3rd Avenue (Business 42/57)
Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
(920) 743-6246
Website
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