The 16th Annual Dairy State Cheese & Beer Festival returns to the legendary Brat Stop in Kenosha on Saturday, April 13th! This fun-filled event features a variety of Wisconsin cheeses, some of the most sought after beers from Wisconsin and beyond and awesome live music!. This is a “don’t miss event” for anybody who likes beer, cheese and music!
The festival typically draws over 900 attendees and features over 100 different styles of beer, a home brew competition, local breweries, live music and of course, unlimited beer and cheese samples. Boys & Toys will headline the event and play in the Parkway Chateau, adjacent to the Brat Stop.
The Dairy State Cheese & Beer Festival has a rather extensive VIP ticket package. For $80 in advance or $85 at the door, VIP fest goers receive a lunch buffet courtesy of Festival Foods, specialty cheese and beers, a VIP beer stein and an extra hour of festing! The food buffet is available for the duration of the fest from noon until 5 p.m.
General admission ticketsare $55 in advance and $60 at the door. All tickets include a commemorative glass, live music and four hours of unlimited beer and cheese samples. Designated driver tickets are $15. This is a 21+ only event.
Last time we checked over 50 different brewers will be there, with everything from Miller, Point, and Lakefront to Schell’s, Bell’s, Toppling Goliath, Bare Bones, Alaskan, and more – plus three local home brew societies. They’ll be pouring samples and providing info about their beers and brewing processes. Of course, great food – including brats – will be part of the sustenance and bands will be playing to serenade your eating, drinking, talking, and enjoying.
Craft beer and bacon lovers, this is for you! Racine Downtown hosts its second annual Downtown Racine Beer & Bacon Walk on Saturday, November 4th, 2023. As you walk the streets of downtown, enjoy beer samples from local breweries, paired with delicious bacon and bacon-infused bites across 20 different locations.
Calling all craft beer and bacon lovers. The Downtown Racine Corporation is hosting their 4th annual Beer & Bacon Walk on Saturday, November 4th from 1pm-6pm. Stroll the sidewalks downtown and sample delicious brews paired with bacon-infused bites at twenty downtown locations. Mark your calendars and set your alarms because tickets are expected to sell out fast!
Tickets are $45 and include:
– Admission to event
– 20 3 oz. samples of beer
– 20 bacon-infused bites
– 16oz pint glass
– One 16 oz full-pour of your choice
Who wouldn’t want to pair mouthwatering bacon-infused bites with craft beer?
Some of the bacon-infused bites to be sampled include: Beer and Bacon Cheese Dip
Whiskey Bacon Brownies
Root beer moonshine-soaked bacon corn dog
Mini Chicken Fried Bacon Bites
Mac ‘n cheese with bacon
Bacon Popcorn
Beer & Bacon Cheese Soup
Bacon Chocolate Chip Cookies
Bacon cupcakes – varied
Some of the beers to be sampled:
Sam Adams Cherry Wheat
Lein Creamy Dark
Bells Eclipse Oberon
Bells Double Cream Stout
Great Lake Christmas Ale
Papa Jacks
New Belg Fruit Force
Whole Hog Oatmeal Pie
Heineken Silver
Alaskan Amber
Hacker-Pschorr Oktobfest 4
Hofbrau Octfest
Lake Louie Badger Club
Alaskan Grizz Coffee
Point Limited Cookies
Hungry yet? Thirsty yet? It all happens Saturday afternoon, November 4th. You can buy them online or get your tickets by calling 262-634-6002.
It’s easy to get to downtown Racine, along the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan. Just head east from I-41/94 via Highway 20 (Exit #333), County K (Exit #329), or Highway 11 (Exit #335) approximately 8 miles; or Highway 38 can bring you in from Milwaukee, and Highway 32 brings you to downtown Racine north from Kenosha and Illinois or south from Oak Creek and Milwaukee’s south suburbs. Lots of options, and lots to do and see once you get there!
Downtown Racine Beer & Bacon Walk Address:
425 Main Street (Highway 20, between Highways 32 & 38)
Racine, WI 53403
(262) 634-6002 Website
It’s one of the largest Oktoberfest celebrations in the country! La Crosse Oktoberfest celebrates 62 years in 2023, having hosted its first big Oktoberfest back in 1961. This time of year both Munich and La Crosse are filled with “merrymaking” and a carnival atmosphere known in both cities as Oktoberfest.
Oktoberfest, USA, is one of the few authentic Old World folk festivals held annually in the United States. You’ll find plenty of beer, music, fun, food, lederhosen, dirndls, and more complemented with a carnival featuring rides, parades featuring the annually-elected “Royal Family,” the 2023 Miss La Crosse/Oktoberfest Pageant, and enough accordions and Munich-style tents to make you feel like you’re in Deutschland.
Downtown Fest Grounds open at 4pm on Thursday, September 28th. The Torchlight Parade will take place at 7pm that evening; Craft Beer Night starts at 4pm and runs until 8pm. For $60 admission, the FestZelt tent will feature over 20 craft brewers and their products – and you can sample ’em all! There’s also a Cornhole Tournament and fireworks – and that’s all on opening night!
The La Crosse Oktoberfest Parade, held Thursday.
Friday night September 29th has the Festmaster Ball at the La Crosse Center’s South Hall, where the Festmaster and Frau will be introduced.
Other events include wiener dog races, live music, special German dinners, Lederhosen Games, and more. Get the latest events list here!
Find out more about Oktoberfest with State Trunk Tour founder Eric Paulsen, who discusses this as co-host of The Cabin, Discover Wisconsin’s official podcast:
TICKETS You can buy a 3-Day Pass for only $20, which gets you in for the whole fest VIP tickets are available for $100
Children 12 and Under Admitted Free
A number of Oktoberfest events require additional ticketed admission. Tickets for most events are available from the Oktoberfest Online Store or at the Oktoberfest office.
La Crosse Oktoberfest USA is a great time in a true beer town. La Crosse is easily reached via U.S. 14, 53, or 61; I-90; and Highways 16, 33, and 35. The drive to and from is gorgeous too, especially at this time of the year!
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28th
7–9 am: SENIOR BREAKFAST | Morrie’s Heritage Hofbräu Haus – Downtown Festgrounds
Free Admission! Pancakes, sausage, eggs, coffee, juice. Featuring live music and WIZM-AM live broadcast
11 am–2:30 pm: SPECIAL FESTER CARNIVAL | Northside Family Festgrounds
4–9 pm: CARNIVAL, NORTHSIDE LA CROSSE, Fest fun with carnival rides and food vendors
4–8 pm: CRAFT BEER NIGHT | Downtown Festgrounds
$90 VIP 4 pm | $60 General Admission, 5 pm. Sample from more than 20 craft breweries. Get tickets.
5-7pm: LEDERHOSEN GAMES | Garden Stage Area – Fest Grounds
Stein races, stein holdings, barrel roll, grain toss, Schokolade essen and scavenger hunt | Play games, have fun and win prizes
7 pm: TORCHLIGHT PARADE | Northside La Crosse, Kane & Gillette Streets to Clinton Street
7:15pm: PACKER PARTY WITH DJ TRIVIA | Morrie’s Heritage Hofbräu Haus – Fest
Cheer on the Green Bay Packers as they compete against the Detroit Lions. Trivia, giveaways, and more!
7:30–11 pm: TORCHLIGHT AFTER GLOW bash| Copeland Park – Loggers Field
Free admission and families welcome! Kick off your Oktoberfest on the Northside with The Swing Crew
Free admission for students 21+ with a valid college student ID, enjoy current dance hits played by Twin Cities cover band, Good for Gary
ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION FESTPLATZ
8–10:30 pm GOOD FOR GARY
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 29th
Hours: 9:30am –midnight
10 am: STEIN HOLDING FINALS | The Remainders Garden Stage
11 am: OPENING CEREMONY | The Remainders Garden Stage The much-anticipated tapping of the Sam Adams Golden Keg
2–4 pm: LEDERHOSEN GAMES | The Remainders Garden Stage Area
Stein races, stein holdings, barrel roll, grain toss, Schokolade essen and scavenger hunt | Play games, have fun and win prizes
4–9 pm: CARNIVAL | Copeland Park – Northside La Crosse
Fest fun with carnival rides and food vendors
Live Music:
ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION FESTPLATZ
11:30 am – 2:30 pm SWING CREW
3 – 5:30 pm PAT MCCURDY
6 – 9 pm RHINO
9:30 pm – Midnight ARCH ALLIES
THE REMAINDERS GARDEN STAGE
11:30 am – 2 pm THE JIMMYS
2:30 pm – 5 pm COPPER BOX OKTOBERFEST EXPERIENCE
5:30 – 8 pm BREWTOWN BEAT
8:30–10:30 pm NATHAN HANSEN MUSIC
LA CROSSE BIERHAUS STAGE INSIDE THE MORRIE’S HERITAGE HOFBRÄU HAUS
11:30am – 2:00 pm MIKE SCHNEIDER BAND
2:30 – 4:30 pm OKTOBERFEST SINGERS
5 – 8 pm GARY BRUEGGEN & THE RIDGELAND DUTCHMAN
8:30 – 10:30 pm RHYTHM PLAYBOYS
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30th
7:00 am: YMCA MAPLE LEAF WALK RUN | Riverside Park
Pre-registration required. Half marathon, 5-mile run, 5k walk and Kid’s Maple Mile. More Info
10 am: MAPLE LEAF PARADE | Northside to Downtown
11 am–midnight: DOWNTOWN FESTGROUNDS OPEN
$15 single-day admission or $20 three-day pass – Get Tickets
Noon – 9 pm: CARNIVAL | Copeland Park – Northside La Crosse
Live Music
ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION FESTPLATZ
12 Noon – 1:30 pm MIKE MCABEE
2pm – 5:30pm PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY
6–9 pm FAILURE TO LAUNCH
9:30 pm–midnight JUNK FM
THE REMAINDERS GARDEN STAGE
1:30 – 3:30 pm BRATWURST BROTHERS
4 –7:30 pm PIANO FONDUE
8–10 pm THE REMAINDERS
LA CROSSE BIERHAUS STAGE INSIDE THE MORRIE’S HERITAGE HOFBRÄU HAUS
1–4 pm BRIAN BRUEGGEN & THE MISSISSIPPI VALLEY DUTCHMEN
4–7:30 pm THE RHYTHM PLAYBOYS
8–10:30 pm KRIS AND THE RIVERBEND DUTCHMEN
Delafield celebrates October’s arrival with its 2nd annual Wine Walk & Brew Fest that covers the downtown streets! Socialize and imbibe as you shop, dine and wine (or brew) your way through Downtown Delafield with walking maps for both wine and beer tickets. If you’re more of a wine connai… conisse… lover, you can enjoy one ounce of red and one ounce of white wine at each designated wine stop, provided by LoDuca Wines. If you’re more of a beer lover, a Microbrew ticket lets you stop at numerous places throughout downtown and enjoy samples of up to 3 different beers from each microbrewery.
General Admission:
Ticket ($30) includes samples at each stop on map, commemorative wine glass or beer stein*
A VIP Ticket ($40) provides:
-Early entrance to the event (starting at 3:00 PM,), samples at each stop, commemorative wine glass or pub glass*, gift bag with exclusive commemorative items
*Commemorative wine glasses and beer glasses ARE SOLD OUT. Orders #712 and below will have wine glasses and commemorative beer glasses
Delafield is a beautiful little city of about 7,000 residents in the heart of Waukesha County’s Lake Country. It’s easy to get to, just off I-94 at Exit #285 (County C) or via Highways 16 or 83.
Delafield Wine Walk & Brew Fest Address:
653 Genesee Street (County C)
Delafield, WI Website
Bacon & Brews Fest combines running, walking, bacon, and beer along the shores of Lake Michigan in Oak Creek’s Lake Vista Park on Saturday, September 5th, 2020. It begins with a 5K run and walk, which you can participate in in person along a twisty, turny course in the park, or participate in virtually from wherever you are. Why the 5th of September? Because that’s International Bacon Day!
After the 5K, at the Lake Vista location they’ll have an after party featuring the aforementioned bacon, brews in the form of great craft beers, plus soda, water, food of all kinds, and more. All participants will receive a finishers medal, Special Swag, a T-shirt, and a bacon/beer filled lunch. The party will include social distancing measures, and masks will be provided if participants don’t have one. But be sure to party after the run… you can bring a chair, enjoy delicious food and beverages, and take in the beautiful views of Lake Vista Park!
This is all happening in Oak Creek, right at the end of Highway 100 just past where it meets with Highway 32, which runs along the shores of Lake Michigan from Milwaukee to Racine, Kenosha, and all points south. When you’re done – or even before you go – check out Drexel Town Square, which offers a ton of shops, bars and restaurants, hotels, and more! They also have their Farmers Market in the Square on Saturdays from 9am – 1pm. You’ll find the whole complex just north of Drexel Avenue just west of Highway 38/Howell Avenue. IKEA also has its only Wisconsin location along Drexel just west of I-41/I-94 (Exit #320). This is all just minutes south of downtown Milwaukee.
Bacon & Brews Fest Address:
Lake Vista Park
4001 E. Lakeside Avenue
Oak Creek, WI 53154 Website Facebook Page
Madison Craft Beer Week promotes Madison’s thriving craft beer culture, enhancing beer knowledge and appreciation by sponsoring a ten-day countywide festival that attracts beer tourism, fosters knowledge of our regional brewing heritage, and serves as a showcase for the Madison area’s breweries, restaurants, pubs, caterers, retailers, entertainers, and other businesses with ties to the craft beer community.
Madison Craft Beer Week features a wide variety of events highlighting Dane County’s vibrant craft beer culture. MCBW features beer dinners, festivals, rare bottle tastings, cheese pairings, brewery tours, classes, movies, and more – there is truly something for everyone, from novices to connoisseurs. Craft beer week activities may include:
The 11th annual Isthmus Beer & Cheese Fest brings a ton of brewers and cheesemakers from around Wisconsin and adjoining states to Madison, where you can meet and mingle with them while sampling hundreds of varieties. This is quite the warm, happy, and fun celebration right in the midst of winter.
The Isthmus is celebrating 11 years of the Beer & Cheese Fest, and in true Spinal Tap salute, they’re “turning it up to 11” with more breweries and cheesemakers than ever! Piano Fondue Dueling Pianos will perform and take requests; Silent Disco will also be there providing entertainment.
General admission tickets ($50) grant festival entry from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. and include unlimited sampling and an Isthmus Beer & Cheese Fest tasting glass. “Premium Tickets” ($85) allow for a more intimate atmosphere with early access to exclusive tappings & tastings from noon – 2 p.m. Premium Ticket purchases also include an official Isthmus Beer & Cheese Fest t-shirt, a tasting glass, and a meal from their Food Court Cart inside the Alliant Energy Center. Either way, it’s a great afternoon experiencing some of Wisconsin’s best eats and drinks.
Tickets tend to sell out every year, so if you want to go, score them sooner rather than later. Of course, you must be 21 to attend. Shuttle rides are available from HopCat (222 W. Gorham Street), Great Dane’s Hilldale location (357 Price Place), and One Barrel Brewing Company (2001 Atwood Avenue.) Parking for the Alliant Energy Center Exhibition Hall is accessible through the Main Gate and costs $7. A coat check (it’ll be January, after all) will be available for $2. You can purchase tickets online here. starting October 3rd, 2019.
You’ll find the Alliant Energy Center on Madison’s south side, right off the Beltline (U.S. 12 & U.S. 18) near Rimrock Road and John Nolen Drive. U.S. 14, 51, and 151 and Highways 30 and 113 are all nearby.
Isthmus Beer & Cheese Fest Address:
Alliant Energy Center
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way
Madison, WI 53713
(608) 251-5627 Website Facebook Event Page
The 10th Annual Lake Geneva Beer & Spirits Festival takes place Saturday, November 16, 2019 at the Ridge Hotel right along Highway 50! Located just west of downtown Lake Geneva and open to the public, the Lake Geneva Beer & Spirits Festival will feature over 35 craft breweries and distilleries with over 120 different beers, spirits, ciders, and malt beverages for sampling. There will also be sample specialty liquors and foods that pair well with beer, plus music and a photo booth.
The 35+ brewers and distillers come from Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana, Utah, Kentucky, Michigan, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Missouri, Ohio, and more.
$60 Early Admission (get in at noon instead of 1pm, commemorative souvenir, three exclusive beer tastings not available after 1pm)
$45 General Admission (commemorative tasting glass, unlimited sampling of craft brewery and distillery offerings)
$15 Designated Driver Ticket (unlimited soda, access to festival amenities)
Lake Geneva Beer & Spirits Festival Address:
The Ridge Hotel
W4240 Highway 50
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
(262) 729-4471 Website
The delightful Swiss-esque (if that’s a word) enclave of New Glarus comes alive with New Glarus Oktoberfest September 26-29, 2019!
Sponsored by the New Glarus Brewery, there’s plenty of lederhosen, live music, and a ceremonial keg tapping of New Glarus Brewery’s Staghorn Oktoberfest beer. You can also enjoy chainsaw wood carving, an antique tractor pull, wagon rides, activities for the kids, food stands, plus a fondue demonstration and tasting on Sunday afternoon. Admission to New Glarus Oktoberfest is FREE!
New Glarus is reached via Highways 39 and 69, just 30 minutes south of Madison.
Get the full lineup and updates at Swisstown.com. Also see the schedule below:
New Glarus Oktoberfest Address:
Downtown New Glarus
418 Railroad Street
New Glarus, WI 53574
(608) 527-2095 Website
7nbsp;
New Glarus Oktoberfest Schedule:
Thursday, Sept. 26
7pm – 11pm Polka music by the Steve Meisner Band (wear your lederhosen and dirndls!)
8;30 pm: King and Queen contest. You could be our Oktoberfest royalty for the weekend! Cash prizes, free beer and food for the King & Queen. Dress in your best Oktoberfest attire and let the people be the judges on best costumes.
Friday, Sept. 27
6pm Beer tent opens
6pm Food stands open
6pm Craft vendors and farmers market open
7:00pm Tap the Wooden Keg Annual Oktoberfest Event! New Glarus Brewing Company will be tapping a wooden keg of Staghorn Oktoberfest
8:00pm – Midnight Madison County Band. Hottest Country Band in Wisconsin!
Hey, all roads lead to Tomah, take one of them (I-90, I-94, US 12, Highway 16, Highway 21, or Highway 131… we weren’t kidding about “all roads”) Saturday, September 14th and check out the Tomah Rotary Kegs Corks & Forks Festival! It was formerly the Tomah Beer & Sausage Festival, but with more food, wine, and more being added, a new name was created. We’re cool with that.
Kegs Corks & Forks takes place from 5-8pm at Tomah Recreational Park’s Ice Hockey Rink, although partying will continue well past that. There will be a Smoked Meat Competition where the competitors are the Tomah Police Department vs. the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department, craft beer sampling, wine tasting, plenty of area food vendors offering samples and food for sale, along with prizes, raffles, drawings, and a post-event concert featuring Lassos and Lace followed by Jay Allen.
Tickets range from $40 for general admission, which starts at 6pm; $60 for VIP admission, which begins at 5pm; you can also get concert-only tickets for $20 ahead of time or $25 the day of the show. You can buy tickets ahead of time here.
Tomah is the seat of Monroe County and the place where all the major roads meet and split. I-90 & I-94 converge here, as do their pre-Interstate compatriots, U.S. 12 and Highway 16. Highway 21 skims Tomah to the north and Highway 131 comes in from the Driftless Area south.
This is the start of “Cranberry Country” too, so check out the nearby bogs, sample fresh cranberries and all kinds of tasty foods made with this remarkable little fruit, and explore the town while you’re there!
Tomah Kegs Corks & Forks Address:
Recreation Park (just off Highway 16)
1625 Butts Avenue
Tomah, WI 54660 Website
You’ll find Recreation Park in Tomah just off Highway 16, once the main highway to La Crosse before I-90 was built. Best exit from I-90 to access Recreation Park is via Exit 41 (Highway 131), then west on Highway 16 to Butts Avenue and the Park.
Great Lakes Brew Fest takes place Saturday, September 14th in Racine. The 2019 Festival Theme is Woodstock’s 50 years! The Fest features unlimited sampling of more than 450 craft beers and sodas from over 100 brewers, plus many food trucks with a variety of food offerings, all on the beautiful shore of Lake Michigan at the Racine Zoological Gardens just north of downtown.
All paid attendees will receive a souvenir tasting glass, and local restaurants will have plenty of menu items available for purchase. Doors open at 3pm; VIP members begin at 2 (they get first crack at everything, you see.) The festival also features live music including performances by the world renowned Kilties Drum and Bugle Corps, the internationally-acclaimed group for whom the Great Lakes Brew Fest helps raise money for. There will be more music from Duosonic.
The Great Lakes Brew Fest also serves as the host of the Schooner Home Brew Championship. Home Brew Island will also welcome groups like the Beer Barons of Milwaukee, the Brain Roasters Guild of Pleasant Prairie, Central Wisconsin Vintners & Brewers from Fond du Lac, Society of Oshkosh Brewers, Chicago Home Brewers Group, Square Kegs Homebrewers from Chicago, Forest City Brewers from Rockford, North Shore Brewers Club from Milwaukee, Dells Unified Frequent Fermenters (D.U.F.F.) from Reedsburg, Racine’s own Belle City Home Brewers, and more.
You must be at least 21 to attend. This is an adult event and all attendees must be of legal drinking age to participate. Children, toddlers, babies or pets are not permitted. However, at other times they are welcome to enjoy the Racine Zoological Gardens, because it’s a terrific zoo!
General Admission tickets are $50; a Basic Designated Driver Fest Pass is $20, which includes admission, a fest pint glass, and complimentary soda and water. A VIP Fest Pass runs $90 and includes early admission (2pm instead of 3pm), a commemorative stein and a pint glass, sausage and cheese sampling, a VIP Lounge area, and secure article check-in, and a $10 voucher off “festival swag.” Get all the ticket details here!
To reach Great Lakes Brew Fest, access Racine via Highways 11, 20, 32, or 38. Downtown Racine is about 8 miles east of I-41/94 and about 4 miles east of Highway 31. The Racine Zoological Gardens is just north of downtown along Lake Michigan via Highway 32, just follow the signs.
The 11th Annual Potosi Brewfest takes place in “Beer’s Hometown” on Saturday, August 24th, 2019. The Brewfest includes samples from more than 60 vendors of craft beer, wine, specialty meat & cheeses – and of course, the local Potosi beers!
Try your hand at the Beer Stein Holding contest or enjoy music along with all those craft beers, wines, meats and cheese – all in the beautiful setting of the Holiday Gardens across from the historic Potosi Brewery. Check out the National Brewery Museum while you’re there and enjoy a trip down Highway 133 on the way to or fro! Highway 35 & U.S. 61 are close by for easy access.
Hold that stein!
Potosi Brewfest runs from 1-5pm Saturday, August 24th.
Tickets: General Admission tickets are $45 and VIP tickets are $55. Designated driver tickets are $10, but you don’t get any beer for obvious reasons.
Potosi Brewfest Address:
Holiday Gardens Event Center
109 Main Street (Highway 133)
Potosi, WI 53820
(608) 763-4002 Event Website
Start:
August 24, 2019 1:00 pm
End:
August 24, 2019 4:30 pm
Venue:
Potosi Brewing Company Holiday Gardens Event Center
Of course, Milwaukee is one of the beer capitals of the world, so you know Milwaukee Beer Week is epic. The city’s longest brewing tradition has risen to a whole new level with an explosion of craft breweries all over the city and suburbs. Participating breweries include Third Space Brewing, Good City Brewing, Milwaukee Brewing Company, New Glarus Brewing Company, 3 Sheeps Brewing from Sheboygan, Central Waters Brewing from Amherst, Founders Brewing, and even some out-of-state craft breweries like Sierra Nevada and Lagunitas.
Milwaukee Beer Week runs Saturday, May 4th – Saturday, May 11th with events at bars and breweries all over the area. A Schedule of Events is below, and you can find out more on their website and also their Facebook page for up-to-date additions and adjustments.
Milwaukee is a fun place to road trip to and around, but if you’re imbibing a lot in Craft Beer Week events remember there are plenty of taxis, Uber and Lyft options, and even some fun, easily rent-able Bublr Bikes you can use to go from event to event. Their hashtag is #MKEBeerWeek.
Milwaukee Craft Beer Week Schedule of Events
2nd Annual Brewers Brunch
May 4 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Stubby’s Gastrogrub and Beer Bar, 2060 N Humboldt Blvd #1 , Milwaukee
Enjoy a flight of coffee infused beer and brunch items including fresh house doughnuts. Local coffee vendors on site sampling and selling their products.
IPA Evolution
May 4 @ 11:00 am – May 11 @ 11:00 pm
Hooligan’s, 2017 E. North Ave. , Milwaukee
Come taste how IPAs have changed over the years with a flight of popular styles. $10.00 Flights and $5.00 Pints.
Haze Craze
May 4 @ 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Rumpus Room, 1030 N Water St., Milwaukee
Stop in and try a huge variety of the latest beer craze, Hazy IPAs. Every draft line will be dedicated to this popular beer style with multiple breweries being represented.
THE GIDDY UP
May 4 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Vanguard, 2659 S Kinnickinnic Avenue, Milwaukee
Vanguard & 3 Sheeps Brewing Co. Present… THE GIDDY UP. Tap Takeover & Patio Party. Beer * Classic Country * Food. Featuring ‘The Long Line Riders’ Performing Live, with ‘Hot Dog’ Classic Country Spin. Plus a whole stable of new and rare beers. FUN.
May the 4th Be With You
May 4 @ 11:00 am – May 5 @ 2:00 am
Oak & Shield Gaming Pub, 600 E Ogden Ave., Milwaukee
One year ago, in a galaxy not so far away…The Oak & Shield Gaming Pub was born. May 4th marks their one hundred and eleventh birthday! (Minus 110 years…) Join Oak & Shield and Milwaukee Brewing Company in celebration with an epic one-year anniversary party, and a kickoff to Craft Beer Week with rare timed trappings all night long, and a Star Wars cosplay contest! 11 AM: Jabba’s Social Game Day- Play big games out on the patio all day…
Water Street Brewery – Throw Back Brewery Tours
May 4 @ 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Water Street Brewery, 1101 N. Water Street, Milwaukee
Visit Milwaukee’s First Brew Pub for tours between 11am-6pm beginning every half hour focusing on the history of the Water Street Brewery and its original three brews Oktoberfest, Victory Amber and Sporten Lager. Throw a few back while you can of the limited release Sporten Lager while on tap for Milwaukee Beer Week. Three Free Samples of WSB Beer included with tours! There will also be free Water Street Brewery swag, and every tour participant receives a free refillable WSB…
FOUNDERS KBS TAPPING
May 4 @ 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Craft Beer Cellar, 1230 George Town Dr. E, Pewaukee
Come join Craft Beer Cellar and the team from Founders Brewing Company for a KBS tapping! Also available will be Blushing Monk, All Day IPA. ad Rubeaus.
Feeling Surly…Throw an Axe
May 4 @ 2:00 pm – May 11 @ 11:00 pm
AXE MKE, 1924 Kenilworth Ave., Milwaukee
Hold an Axe Man in one hand and an Axe in the other while you take out your frustration after a long day. Enjoy a bucket of Surly Brewing cans while you chuck a few axes. Enter for your chance to win a great Surly prize pack.
Tour of WI
May 4 @ 3:00 pm – May 11 @ 8:00 pm
Whos On Third, 1007 N. Old World Third Street, Milwaukee
Stop in all Beer Week long. $15.00 gets you a Usingers brat and a side of cheese curds, paired with pint of any local beer on tap.
MKE Brewing Feature at Groppis
May 4 @ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
G Groppi Food Market, 1441 E Russell Ave., Milwaukee
Join us for a Milwaukee Beer Week kick off sampling at Groppi Food Market. MKE Brewing will be featured on tap and pouring all their best sellers down in the heart of Bay View. Grab some beer before the Derby gets underway.
Beer Week Brunch
May 5 @ 8:00 am – May 11 @ 3:00 pm
Fuel Cafe: Walkers Point, 630 S 5th Street, Milwaukee
Brunch and Beer pairings will be available all week. Tuesday May 7th the Bell’s Rep will be in offering swag, prizes, and samples.
Crafty Cow Burger Pairing
May 5 @ 11:00 am – May 11 @ 10:00 pm
Crafty Cow Bay View, 2675 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee
For the second year in a row, Third Space and Crafty Cow partner up to bring you a brand new burger. This years creation… Morning in Denver. This burger has a beef patty, topped with Canadian bacon, fried egg, friend onions, and sauteed green peppers. This bad boy is paired up with That’s Gold Kolsch. They will also be creating a brand new poutine to be partied with Happy Place Pale Ale.
Half Way to Halloween
May 5 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Draft & Vessel, 4417 N. Oakland Ave., Milwaukee, WI
We’re half way to Halloween. Come celebrate with a special tapping of Third Space Haunted Barrel. This beer is released every Halloween at Third Space Brewing and is an Imperial Porter aged in Bourbon and Rum barrels with cinnamon, vanilla, coconut, and cocoa nibs. Its like trick or treat in a glass.
Drink Third Space Win Prizes
May 5 @ 12:00 pm – May 11 @ 10:00 pm
Cafe Lulu, 2265 S Howell Ave., Milwaukee
All beer week long, Cafe Lulu is partnering with Third Space Brewing. Three different beers will be on tap all week, and for every Third Space beer you buy, receive an extra raffle ticket to win some awesome prizes. Finish beer week strong with a Tap Takeover on Saturday, May 11 starting at 11am. No purchase necessary to enter to win prizes.
Crafts & Drafts – Spring Beer Fest – Sponsored by Discount Liquor
May 5 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Serb Hall, 5101 W. Oklahoma Ave., Milwaukee
This is the 7th Year of Crafts & Drafts and we can’t think of a better way to kick off Milwaukee Beer Week! At Crafts & Drafts, you’ll have a chance to try different beers from an amazing array of breweries, as well as being able to chat with brewery owners, brewmasters, and brewery representatives. Tickets are available for purchase on the Crafts & Drafts website. http://www.craftsanddrafts.org/tickets.html
Good City Tap Takeover
May 5 @ 2:00 pm – 4:05 pm
Smoke Shack, 322 N. Milwaukee Street, Milwaukee
Join us Sunday, May 5th for brunch, lunch, or dinner as we showcase some fun beers brew by Good City Brewing Company. Meet the rep from 2pm to 4pm as she passes out samples and find your favorite beer.
HalfAcre AfterParty Burnhearts
May 5 @ 5:00 pm – May 6 @ 2:00 am
Burnhearts, 2599 S. Logan Ave., Milwaukee
Stop by for our annual Crafts & Drafts after party at Burnhearts featuring a killer line up from Half Acre Beer Co. All welcome, come grab some tasty suds.
Beat the Breweries
May 6 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Up Down, 615 E. Brady Street, Milwaukee
Challenge your favorite brewery to a variety of games, for your chance to win a prize package. $12 gets you a pint from any participating brewery, a slice of pizza and 40 tokens
Three Lions Beer Dinner
May 6 @ 6:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Three Lions Pub, 4515 N Oakland Ave., Milwaukee
Join Three Lions Pub and Third Space Brewing for a one of a kind beer dinner. Specialties and rarities from Third Space Brewing will be paired with brand new creations from Three Lions. Call to reserve your spot today. 414-763-6992.
2nd Annual Wyeast Beer Dinner
May 7 @ 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Wy’east Pizza, 5601 W Vliet St., Milwaukee
For the second year in a row, Third Space Brewing and Wyeast Pizza are teaming up for Milwaukee Beer Week. The amazing kitchen staff at Wyeast will be creating brand new menu items utilizing finished beer, wort, and spent grain. Some rarities, seasonals, and core favorites will be on tap. Come early, and come hungry.
It’s Milwaukee Maifest time! Join the Milwaukee County Park System and neighbors from Milwaukee, Shorewood, Whitefish Bay and other nearby communities for the Official Kick Off to Beer Garden Season with Milwaukee Maifest at Estabrook Park. Festivities get underway on Thursday, May 2 at 5:30pm with the 2019 Maibock Anstich – Followed by Free beer until 6:30pm!
The fun lasts the whole weekend through Sunday, May 5th and includes Live Music, Food, Dance, Contests and Beer! Check out the beautiful trails in the park and the nice views of the Milwaukee River, which flows right past – and below – the Estabook Beer Garden.
The Milwaukee River has a nice rapids as its flows past Estabrook Park and the Beer Garden.
You can easily get to Estabrook Park and the Beer Garden via Estabrook River Parkway, just south of Hampton Avenue and about 3/4 mile north of Highway 190/Capitol Drive. Highway 32 goes along Lake Michigan less than two miles to the east, while Highway 57 and I-43 approach less than two miles to the west. Definitely easy to get to – just look for the huge radio towers in the park!
Milwaukee Maifest Schedule of Events at Estabrook Park Beer Garden
Thursday, May 2, 2019
4:30 PM: Austrian Express Live at Maifest
5:30 PM: 2019 Maibock Anstich – Opening Ceremony, Blessing of the Bock, Keg Tapping
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Free Beer with Friends of Estabrook Mug
6:30 PM: Masskrugstemmen Steinholding Contest
Friday, May 3, 2019
1:30 PM: Kenny Brandt Live in the Beer Garden
5:00 PM: King Solomon Reggae at Milwaukee Maifest
6:30 PM: Masskrugstemmen Steinholding Contest
Saturday, May 4, 2019
1:00 PM: Steve Meisner Band Live at Milwaukee Maifest
2:30 PM: D.A.N.K. German Dance Performance
4:30 PM: Spielmannszug Milwaukee Drum and Bugle Corps
5:00 PM: Blaskapelle Milwaukee Live at Milwaukee Maifest
6:30 PM: Masskrugstemmen Steinholding Contest
Sunday, May 5, 2019
1:00 PM: Squeezettes! Live at Milwaukee Maifest
2:00 PM: German Dance Performance
3:30 PM: Masskrugstemmen Steinholding Contest
EAA Hops & Props is an annual food and beverage-tasting event held at the EAA AirVenture Museum in Oshkosh along I-41. It’s back for its 15th year in a row and happening Saturday, March 9th!
They say beer tastes better in Oshkosh. Find out for yourself by spending an evening sampling beverages from over 75 breweries from around the world. Microbreweries are present to provide their personal brewing process and history, while entertainment from live bands provides a backdrop for this fun and exciting tasting event.
Go from being a Beer Lover to a Master of Brews by upgrading to VIP status, which includes early admission to a gourmet, five-course meal featuring delectable food and beer pairings including the VIP brewery. Dinner begins at 4:30 p.m.; tickets are close to being sold out!
Please note that you must be 21 years of age or older to attend this event. Admission price also includes museum entrance and commemorative beer glass. I mean, hey, drink for a cause! All funds will support museum activities offered by EAA – programs that engage families in educational opportunities and experiences that motivate and inspire participants of all ages.
Please note that no large bags will be allowed into the museum; all bags are subject to search.
Full details on everything are available on EAA’s Hops & Props website. You can reach the EAA AirVenture Museum via I-41 and Highways 26, 44, or 91; U.S. 45 and Highways 21 and 76 also bring you to Oshkosh. Enjoy – safely!
Feel free to check out the rest of Oshkosh while you’re there. Prime outlet shopping is just across I-41 and there are plenty of fun things to see and do in this college town, including the Paine Art Museum.
Don’t forget EAA’s AirVenture, happening July 22-28 this year, featuring the Blue Angels! Wittman Field will become one of the world’s busiest airports for a week and you’ll get to see and experience everything from historic to cutting-edge experimental aviation machines. There will be military fighters, classic airplanes, commercial jets, and creative inventions everywhere.
EAA Hops & Props Address:
EAA AirVenture Museum
3000 Poberezny Road
Oshkosh, WI 54902
(920) 426-6541 Website
Start:
March 9, 2019 4:30 pm
End:
March 9, 2019 10:00 pm
Venue:
EAA AirVenture Museum
Phone:
920-426-6541
Address:
3000 Poberezny Road, Oshkosh, WI, 54902, United States
Belle City Brewfest convenes in downtown Racine Saturday, March 9th! Over 90 varieties of craft brews from 40 breweries will descend on Festival Hall at the Civic Centre showcasing their brands for unlimited tastings of beer and cider, including newer local breweries like Racine Brewing Company just down the street, R’Noggin Brewing of Kenosha, and more! There will also be live entertainment and beer seminars; judge the Homebrew Competition, enjoy live music from Mean Jake, and all in all just have a great Saturday!
Tickets are $25 in advance or $35 at the gate. Tickets include a souvenir cup and live entertainment along with a complete festival guide. Designated drivers can get in for $8 and get free soda or water plus full access to all beer seminars and the live entertainment. You can go to the Belle City Brewfest website or buy them directly from Ticketmaster here. A portion of the proceeds benefit Veterans Outreach of Wisconsin.
Belle City Brewfest will take place inside Festival Hall at Racine Civic Centre, which is right downtown and close to other favorite venues like the Racine Art Museum, Reefpoint Marina, even the Kewpee for burgers. Stay updated with their Facebook page.
You can get to downtown Racine from I-41/94 or Highway 31 via Highways 11, 20, 32, and 38.
Belle City Brewfest Address:
Festival Hall, Racine Civic Centre
5 5th Street
Racine, WI 53403
(262) 636-9229 Website
Minocqua will again beat as the heart and soul of the Wisconsin craft beer industry once again at the 21st Annual Ice Cold Beer Fest will be held in downtown Minocqua, Saturday, February 9, 2019. Beer, food and live music all available under a heated big top tent on the Island of Minocqua. Last year, fest goers were able to sample more than 250 different craft beers that included breweries from Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan and Illinois. All proceeds from the Ice Cold Beer Fest benefit their local Dr. Kate Hospice.
PREMIER TASTING — Only 200 Premier Tasting Tickets will be sold. This event delegates those ticket holders to a prime sampling from noon to 1 p.m., to include beers not-to-be released to the general admission crowd. Private bathrooms are also available to these ticket holders ONLY. Included in the price is an individually number commemorative tasting glass along with prime tasting of food to include shrimp, steak and desserts. Cost for premier tasting is $80 and includes the full five-hour festival.
GENERAL ADMISSION — A total of 600 General Admission tickets will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis. Tickets are available for $50. There will be NO ADDITIONAL TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE GATE.
INFORMATION — All persons must have a valid ID, and be 21-and-over to enter festival. This goes for designated drivers as well. No one under 21-years of age will be permitted on the grounds. The Ice Cold Beer Festival reserves the right to refuse entrance to anyone. No re-entry into tent without wristband.
You can get to Minocqua via U.S. 51 or Highways 47 or 70. Check out the beautiful downtown, the World’s Largest Penny in nearby Woodruff, and the North Woods surroundings on your way to or fro!
Check their website for the full list and all the details.
Ice Cold Beer Fest Address:
Minocqua Brewing Company
238 Lakeshore Drive (just off U.S. 51)
Minocqua, WI 54548
(715) 356-2600 Website
Start:
February 9, 2019 12:00 pm
End:
February 9, 2019 5:00 pm
Venue:
Minocqua Brewing Company
Phone:
715-356-2600
Address:
238 Lakeshore Drive, Minocqua, WI, 54548, United States
Green Bay hosts the Northeast Wisconsin Craft Beer Festival in Shopko Hall Saturday, October 6th. So raise your stein, it’s drinking time! With more than 200 beers, 50 breweries and unlimited sampling, you’re bound to have fun. Beer lovers will receive a commemorative sampling glass and have access to unlimited two-ounce samples of beer and food.
Be ready for the Sam Adams Stein Hoisting Competition, live music from Noah John & Ringing Iron, a Beard Competition with Level-Up Beard Company where categories include mustache, partial beard and full beard, and all kinds of festive fun.
The Stein Hoisting Competition, presented by Samuel Adams, includes qualifying rounds for both men and women at 6:30, 7:15 and 8:00 with the final at 8:30. Prizes include $100-value Packer memorabilia, official Sam Adams ceramic mugs and gift cards to Festival Foods!
General admission opens at 6pm at Green Bay’s Shopko Hall. First Call ticket holders (think VIP here) get admission at 5pm, the opportunity to sample special edition selections before they run out, and a commemorative glass beer boot.
Northeast Wisconsin Craft Beer Festival Address:
Shopko Hall
1901 S. Oneida Street
Green Bay, WI 54304
(800) 895-0071 Website
You’ll find Shopko Hall in Green Bay’s Titletown District, a stone’s throw from Lambeau Field. I-41, I-43, U.S. 141, and Highways 29, 32, 54, 57, and 172 all bring you to Green Bay. Look for Lambeau towering in the air… Shopko is just across the way!
Start:
October 6, 2018 6:00 pm
End:
October 6, 2018 9:00 pm
Venue:
Shopko Hall
Phone:
800-895-0071
Address:
1901 S. Oneida Street, Green Bay, WI, 54304, United States
Black River Falls and the Jackson County Fairgrounds get into the Gemütlichkeit spirit with Black River Area Oktoberfest! This 12th annual music, beer, food, and fun-filled event takes place Friday, October 5th and Saturday, October 6th.
The Kick-Off Party is Friday evening from 6-9 pm at Sand Creek Brewing in Black River Falls, with live music and plenty of food and locally-brewed craft beer to kick off Black River Falls Oktoberfest.
Saturday features tons of music and entertainment at the Jackson County Fairgrounds, from 10am – 10pm. Artists and bands include Dave Kiral, Gary’s Ridgeland Dutchmen, and evening headliner Copper Box. The “Tapping of the Golden Keg” will happen at 1pm. There will be plenty of food and drink vendors, a caricature artist, children’s inflatables, games and face painting, a photo booth, horse-drawn wagon rides, alpacas from Fevolden Farm, a giant pumpkin you can guess the weight of to win prizes, and of course plenty of German celebrations and bier specialties. Free shuttles will run from Sand Creek Brewing to the Jackson County Fairgrounds throughout the day Saturday from 10am – 5pm.
The “Things That Roll” Car Show also takes place on the Jackson County Fairgrounds Saturday, with cars, trucks, motorcycles, tractors, classic RVs, ATVs and more. Many are classics; some are sport; all are fun to explore. It’s a motor paradise as part of the Black River Falls Oktoberfest.
Black River Falls is along I-94, U.S. 12, and Highways 27 and 54. The Jackson County Fairgrounds are right along Highway 54 on the southwest edge of town.
Black River Area Oktoberfest Address:
Jackson County Fairgrounds
388 Melrose Street
Black River Falls, WI 54615
(715) 284-4658 Website
Click to read the full size poster!
Start:
October 5, 2018 6:00 pm
End:
October 6, 2018 10:00 pm
Venue:
Jackson County Fairgrounds
Phone:
715-284-4658
Address:
388 Melrose Street, Black River Falls, WI, 54615, United States
Milwaukee is one of the most Germanic cities in the U.S., so why wouldn’t it host one of the oldest Bavarian Oktoberfests in the Midwest? And this year, Milwaukee Oktoberfest is the FIRST event held on the Plaza of the new Fiserv Forum (or “fiserv.forum,” stylized) October 5-7, 2018!
The Milwaukee Oktoberfest has moved toward the new Fiserv Forum so you can experience the new plaza area. It’s still sponsored by Spaten. The fun includes traditional German brass bands, sing-alongs and spontaneous dancing for everyone. Delicious and authentic German food is available, from huge pretzels and brats to a variety of specialties from the Levy Restaurant Group. Of course there’s plenty of beer/bier on tap imported and domestic – as well as wine, soft drinks and, yes, even coffee.
Hey, the mustard is healthy… there’s turmeric in it.
Check out live music from the Mike Schneider Band, the Klaberheads, the Jeff Winard Band, Austrian Express, Polka Floyd, the Jay Fox Band, and Blaskapelle. Also check out the Wiener Dog Show, a Bags Tournament, the Miss Oktoberfest Competition, a Brat-Eating Contest, the Stein Hoisting Competition, and more.
The Milwaukee Brat House will host the Official After Party each night of the 9th annual Milwaukee Oktoberfest!
Das Boot Bar Tour festivities on Saturday extend Oktoberfest up along Old World Third Street.
Don’t forget the “Das Boot Bar Tour” on Saturday, hosted on Old World Third Street from noon-6pm. Each bar will decorate with a German theme and participants will have the chance to try a different Oktoberfest Beer, essentially making it a bar tour and beer festival combined. Along with the Bar Tour, there will of course be liter size Das Boots for each person on the tour. These will allow you to receive drink specials during the tour and only during the tour. Attendees are more than welcome to bring their boots back to refill at the Main Event!
It’s all based in downtown Milwaukee, at the plaza in front of the new Fiserv Forum, near State Street (U.S. 18), 6th Street/McKinley Avenue (Highway 145) Old World 3rd Street and the Milwaukee River. I-43/94, I-794, and Highway 32 also bring you close. Prosit!
Milwaukee Oktoberfest Address:
The Plaza in front of the Fiserv Forum, as well as on adjacent blocks (Old World Third Street, State Street, Highland Avenue)
901 N. 4th Street (Vel Phillips Avenue)
Milwaukee, WI 53202 Website
Start:
October 5, 2018 5:00 pm
End:
October 7, 2018 6:00 pm
Venue:
Plaza outside of the Fiserv Forum
Phone:
262-949-6903
Address:
901 N. Vel Phillips Street, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, United States
Calendar of Events
Calendar of Events › Beer
April 13, 2024
Dairy State Cheese & Beer Festival
The 16th Annual Dairy State Cheese & Beer Festival returns to the legendary Brat Stop in Kenosha on Saturday, April 13th! This fun-filled event features a variety of Wisconsin cheeses, some of the most sought after beers from Wisconsin and beyond and awesome live music!. This is a “don’t miss event” for anybody who likes beer, cheese and music!
The festival typically draws over 900 attendees and features over 100 different styles of beer, a home brew competition, local breweries, live music and of course, unlimited beer and cheese samples. Boys & Toys will headline the event and play in the Parkway Chateau, adjacent to the Brat Stop.
The Dairy State Cheese & Beer Festival has a rather extensive VIP ticket package. For $80 in advance or $85 at the door, VIP fest goers receive a lunch buffet courtesy of Festival Foods, specialty cheese and beers, a VIP beer stein and an extra hour of festing! The food buffet is available for the duration of the fest from noon until 5 p.m.
General admission tickets are $55 in advance and $60 at the door. All tickets include a commemorative glass, live music and four hours of unlimited beer and cheese samples. Designated driver tickets are $15. This is a 21+ only event.
Last time we checked over 50 different brewers will be there, with everything from Miller, Point, and Lakefront to Schell’s, Bell’s, Toppling Goliath, Bare Bones, Alaskan, and more – plus three local home brew societies. They’ll be pouring samples and providing info about their beers and brewing processes. Of course, great food – including brats – will be part of the sustenance and bands will be playing to serenade your eating, drinking, talking, and enjoying.
Proceeds benefit Boys & Girls Clubs of Kenosha. Check the Dairy State Cheese & Beer Festival Website for tickets, continued updates, and other details!
You’ll find the Brat Stop right along Highway 50, just west of the I-41/94 interchange. It’s a Wisconsin staple, after all.
Dairy State Cheese & Beer Festival Address:
The Brat Stop
12304 75th Street (Highway 50)
Kenosha, WI 53140
(262) 653-7304
Website
Buy Tickets Here
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
November 4, 2023
Downtown Racine Beer & Bacon Walk
Craft beer and bacon lovers, this is for you! Racine Downtown hosts its second annual Downtown Racine Beer & Bacon Walk on Saturday, November 4th, 2023. As you walk the streets of downtown, enjoy beer samples from local breweries, paired with delicious bacon and bacon-infused bites across 20 different locations.
Calling all craft beer and bacon lovers. The Downtown Racine Corporation is hosting their 4th annual Beer & Bacon Walk on Saturday, November 4th from 1pm-6pm. Stroll the sidewalks downtown and sample delicious brews paired with bacon-infused bites at twenty downtown locations. Mark your calendars and set your alarms because tickets are expected to sell out fast!
Tickets are $45 and include:
– Admission to event
– 20 3 oz. samples of beer
– 20 bacon-infused bites
– 16oz pint glass
– One 16 oz full-pour of your choice
Who wouldn’t want to pair mouthwatering bacon-infused bites with craft beer?
Some of the bacon-infused bites to be sampled include:
Beer and Bacon Cheese Dip
Whiskey Bacon Brownies
Root beer moonshine-soaked bacon corn dog
Mini Chicken Fried Bacon Bites
Mac ‘n cheese with bacon
Bacon Popcorn
Beer & Bacon Cheese Soup
Bacon Chocolate Chip Cookies
Bacon cupcakes – varied
Some of the beers to be sampled:
Sam Adams Cherry Wheat
Lein Creamy Dark
Bells Eclipse Oberon
Bells Double Cream Stout
Great Lake Christmas Ale
Papa Jacks
New Belg Fruit Force
Whole Hog Oatmeal Pie
Heineken Silver
Alaskan Amber
Hacker-Pschorr Oktobfest 4
Hofbrau Octfest
Lake Louie Badger Club
Alaskan Grizz Coffee
Point Limited Cookies
Hungry yet? Thirsty yet? It all happens Saturday afternoon, November 4th. You can buy them online or get your tickets by calling 262-634-6002.
It’s easy to get to downtown Racine, along the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan. Just head east from I-41/94 via Highway 20 (Exit #333), County K (Exit #329), or Highway 11 (Exit #335) approximately 8 miles; or Highway 38 can bring you in from Milwaukee, and Highway 32 brings you to downtown Racine north from Kenosha and Illinois or south from Oak Creek and Milwaukee’s south suburbs. Lots of options, and lots to do and see once you get there!
Downtown Racine Beer & Bacon Walk Address:
425 Main Street (Highway 20, between Highways 32 & 38)
Racine, WI 53403
(262) 634-6002
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
September 30, 2023
La Crosse Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest, USA, is one of the few authentic Old World folk festivals held annually in the United States. You’ll find plenty of beer, music, fun, food, lederhosen, dirndls, and more complemented with a carnival featuring rides, parades featuring the annually-elected “Royal Family,” the 2023 Miss La Crosse/Oktoberfest Pageant, and enough accordions and Munich-style tents to make you feel like you’re in Deutschland.
Downtown Fest Grounds open at 4pm on Thursday, September 28th. The Torchlight Parade will take place at 7pm that evening; Craft Beer Night starts at 4pm and runs until 8pm. For $60 admission, the FestZelt tent will feature over 20 craft brewers and their products – and you can sample ’em all! There’s also a Cornhole Tournament and fireworks – and that’s all on opening night!
Friday night September 29th has the Festmaster Ball at the La Crosse Center’s South Hall, where the Festmaster and Frau will be introduced.
Other events include wiener dog races, live music, special German dinners, Lederhosen Games, and more. Get the latest events list here!
Find out more about Oktoberfest with State Trunk Tour founder Eric Paulsen, who discusses this as co-host of The Cabin, Discover Wisconsin’s official podcast:
TICKETS
You can buy a 3-Day Pass for only $20, which gets you in for the whole fest
VIP tickets are available for $100
Children 12 and Under Admitted Free
A number of Oktoberfest events require additional ticketed admission. Tickets for most events are available from the Oktoberfest Online Store or at the Oktoberfest office.
La Crosse Oktoberfest USA is a great time in a true beer town. La Crosse is easily reached via U.S. 14, 53, or 61; I-90; and Highways 16, 33, and 35. The drive to and from is gorgeous too, especially at this time of the year!
Check the La Crosse Oktoberfest USA website for additional details!
La Crosse Oktoberfest Schedule of Events:
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28th
7–9 am: SENIOR BREAKFAST | Morrie’s Heritage Hofbräu Haus – Downtown Festgrounds
Free Admission! Pancakes, sausage, eggs, coffee, juice. Featuring live music and WIZM-AM live broadcast
11 am–2:30 pm: SPECIAL FESTER CARNIVAL | Northside Family Festgrounds
4–11 pm: DOWNTOWN FESTGROUNDS OPEN, $20 three-day pass or $100 VIP tickets available
4-11 pm: STUDENT NIGHT | Downtown Festgrounds
4–9 pm: CARNIVAL, NORTHSIDE LA CROSSE, Fest fun with carnival rides and food vendors
4–8 pm: CRAFT BEER NIGHT | Downtown Festgrounds
$90 VIP 4 pm | $60 General Admission, 5 pm. Sample from more than 20 craft breweries. Get tickets.
5-7pm: LEDERHOSEN GAMES | Garden Stage Area – Fest Grounds
Stein races, stein holdings, barrel roll, grain toss, Schokolade essen and scavenger hunt | Play games, have fun and win prizes
7 pm: TORCHLIGHT PARADE | Northside La Crosse, Kane & Gillette Streets to Clinton Street
7:15pm: PACKER PARTY WITH DJ TRIVIA | Morrie’s Heritage Hofbräu Haus – Fest
Cheer on the Green Bay Packers as they compete against the Detroit Lions. Trivia, giveaways, and more!
7:30–11 pm: TORCHLIGHT AFTER GLOW bash| Copeland Park – Loggers Field
Free admission and families welcome! Kick off your Oktoberfest on the Northside with The Swing Crew
Free admission for students 21+ with a valid college student ID, enjoy current dance hits played by Twin Cities cover band, Good for Gary
Thursday’s Live Music
LA CROSSE BIERHAUS STAGE INSIDE THE MORRIE’S HERITAGE HOFBRÄU HAUS
4-6:30 pm BRIAN BRUEGGEN AND THE MISSISSIPPI VALLEY DUTCHMEN
ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION FESTPLATZ
8–10:30 pm GOOD FOR GARY
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 29th
Hours: 9:30am –midnight
10 am: STEIN HOLDING FINALS | The Remainders Garden Stage
11 am: OPENING CEREMONY | The Remainders Garden Stage The much-anticipated tapping of the Sam Adams Golden Keg
2–4 pm: LEDERHOSEN GAMES | The Remainders Garden Stage Area
Stein races, stein holdings, barrel roll, grain toss, Schokolade essen and scavenger hunt | Play games, have fun and win prizes
4–9 pm: CARNIVAL | Copeland Park – Northside La Crosse
Fest fun with carnival rides and food vendors
Live Music:
ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION FESTPLATZ
11:30 am – 2:30 pm SWING CREW
3 – 5:30 pm PAT MCCURDY
6 – 9 pm RHINO
9:30 pm – Midnight ARCH ALLIES
THE REMAINDERS GARDEN STAGE
11:30 am – 2 pm THE JIMMYS
2:30 pm – 5 pm COPPER BOX OKTOBERFEST EXPERIENCE
5:30 – 8 pm BREWTOWN BEAT
8:30–10:30 pm NATHAN HANSEN MUSIC
LA CROSSE BIERHAUS STAGE INSIDE THE MORRIE’S HERITAGE HOFBRÄU HAUS
7:00 am: YMCA MAPLE LEAF WALK RUN | Riverside Park
Pre-registration required. Half marathon, 5-mile run, 5k walk and Kid’s Maple Mile. More Info
10 am: MAPLE LEAF PARADE | Northside to Downtown
11 am–midnight: DOWNTOWN FESTGROUNDS OPEN
$15 single-day admission or $20 three-day pass – Get Tickets
Noon – 9 pm: CARNIVAL | Copeland Park – Northside La Crosse
2–4 pm: LEDERHOSEN GAMES | Garden Stage Area
9 pm: 62ND OKTOBERFEST FIREWORKS CELEBRATION | Downtown Festgrounds
Live Music
ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION FESTPLATZ
12 Noon – 1:30 pm MIKE MCABEE
2pm – 5:30pm PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY
6–9 pm FAILURE TO LAUNCH
9:30 pm–midnight JUNK FM
THE REMAINDERS GARDEN STAGE
1:30 – 3:30 pm BRATWURST BROTHERS
4 –7:30 pm PIANO FONDUE
8–10 pm THE REMAINDERS
LA CROSSE BIERHAUS STAGE INSIDE THE MORRIE’S HERITAGE HOFBRÄU HAUS
1–4 pm BRIAN BRUEGGEN & THE MISSISSIPPI VALLEY DUTCHMEN
4–7:30 pm THE RHYTHM PLAYBOYS
8–10:30 pm KRIS AND THE RIVERBEND DUTCHMEN
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
October 2, 2021
Delafield Wine Walk & Brew Fest
Delafield celebrates October’s arrival with its 2nd annual Wine Walk & Brew Fest that covers the downtown streets! Socialize and imbibe as you shop, dine and wine (or brew) your way through Downtown Delafield with walking maps for both wine and beer tickets. If you’re more of a wine connai… conisse… lover, you can enjoy one ounce of red and one ounce of white wine at each designated wine stop, provided by LoDuca Wines. If you’re more of a beer lover, a Microbrew ticket lets you stop at numerous places throughout downtown and enjoy samples of up to 3 different beers from each microbrewery.
General Admission:
Ticket ($30) includes samples at each stop on map, commemorative wine glass or beer stein*
A VIP Ticket ($40) provides:
-Early entrance to the event (starting at 3:00 PM,), samples at each stop, commemorative wine glass or pub glass*, gift bag with exclusive commemorative items
*Commemorative wine glasses and beer glasses ARE SOLD OUT. Orders #712 and below will have wine glasses and commemorative beer glasses
Delafield is a beautiful little city of about 7,000 residents in the heart of Waukesha County’s Lake Country. It’s easy to get to, just off I-94 at Exit #285 (County C) or via Highways 16 or 83.
Delafield Wine Walk & Brew Fest Address:
653 Genesee Street (County C)
Delafield, WI
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
September 5, 2020
Bacon & Brews Fest, Oak Creek
Bacon & Brews Fest combines running, walking, bacon, and beer along the shores of Lake Michigan in Oak Creek’s Lake Vista Park on Saturday, September 5th, 2020. It begins with a 5K run and walk, which you can participate in in person along a twisty, turny course in the park, or participate in virtually from wherever you are. Why the 5th of September? Because that’s International Bacon Day!
After the 5K, at the Lake Vista location they’ll have an after party featuring the aforementioned bacon, brews in the form of great craft beers, plus soda, water, food of all kinds, and more. All participants will receive a finishers medal, Special Swag, a T-shirt, and a bacon/beer filled lunch. The party will include social distancing measures, and masks will be provided if participants don’t have one. But be sure to party after the run… you can bring a chair, enjoy delicious food and beverages, and take in the beautiful views of Lake Vista Park!
This is all happening in Oak Creek, right at the end of Highway 100 just past where it meets with Highway 32, which runs along the shores of Lake Michigan from Milwaukee to Racine, Kenosha, and all points south. When you’re done – or even before you go – check out Drexel Town Square, which offers a ton of shops, bars and restaurants, hotels, and more! They also have their Farmers Market in the Square on Saturdays from 9am – 1pm. You’ll find the whole complex just north of Drexel Avenue just west of Highway 38/Howell Avenue. IKEA also has its only Wisconsin location along Drexel just west of I-41/I-94 (Exit #320). This is all just minutes south of downtown Milwaukee.
Bacon & Brews Fest Address:
Lake Vista Park
4001 E. Lakeside Avenue
Oak Creek, WI 53154
Website
Facebook Page
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
April 24, 2020 – May 3, 2020
Madison Craft Beer Week
Madison Craft Beer Week promotes Madison’s thriving craft beer culture, enhancing beer knowledge and appreciation by sponsoring a ten-day countywide festival that attracts beer tourism, fosters knowledge of our regional brewing heritage, and serves as a showcase for the Madison area’s breweries, restaurants, pubs, caterers, retailers, entertainers, and other businesses with ties to the craft beer community.
Check madcraftbeerweek.com for updates. This year, it runs April 24 – May 3, 2020!
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
January 18, 2020
Isthmus Beer & Cheese Fest
The 11th annual Isthmus Beer & Cheese Fest brings a ton of brewers and cheesemakers from around Wisconsin and adjoining states to Madison, where you can meet and mingle with them while sampling hundreds of varieties. This is quite the warm, happy, and fun celebration right in the midst of winter.
The Isthmus is celebrating 11 years of the Beer & Cheese Fest, and in true Spinal Tap salute, they’re “turning it up to 11” with more breweries and cheesemakers than ever! Piano Fondue Dueling Pianos will perform and take requests; Silent Disco will also be there providing entertainment.
General admission tickets ($50) grant festival entry from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. and include unlimited sampling and an Isthmus Beer & Cheese Fest tasting glass. “Premium Tickets” ($85) allow for a more intimate atmosphere with early access to exclusive tappings & tastings from noon – 2 p.m. Premium Ticket purchases also include an official Isthmus Beer & Cheese Fest t-shirt, a tasting glass, and a meal from their Food Court Cart inside the Alliant Energy Center. Either way, it’s a great afternoon experiencing some of Wisconsin’s best eats and drinks.
Tickets tend to sell out every year, so if you want to go, score them sooner rather than later. Of course, you must be 21 to attend. Shuttle rides are available from HopCat (222 W. Gorham Street), Great Dane’s Hilldale location (357 Price Place), and One Barrel Brewing Company (2001 Atwood Avenue.) Parking for the Alliant Energy Center Exhibition Hall is accessible through the Main Gate and costs $7. A coat check (it’ll be January, after all) will be available for $2. You can purchase tickets online here. starting October 3rd, 2019.
You’ll find the Alliant Energy Center on Madison’s south side, right off the Beltline (U.S. 12 & U.S. 18) near Rimrock Road and John Nolen Drive. U.S. 14, 51, and 151 and Highways 30 and 113 are all nearby.
Isthmus Beer & Cheese Fest Address:
Alliant Energy Center
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way
Madison, WI 53713
(608) 251-5627
Website
Facebook Event Page
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
November 16, 2019
Lake Geneva Beer & Spirits Festival
The 10th Annual Lake Geneva Beer & Spirits Festival takes place Saturday, November 16, 2019 at the Ridge Hotel right along Highway 50! Located just west of downtown Lake Geneva and open to the public, the Lake Geneva Beer & Spirits Festival will feature over 35 craft breweries and distilleries with over 120 different beers, spirits, ciders, and malt beverages for sampling. There will also be sample specialty liquors and foods that pair well with beer, plus music and a photo booth.
The 35+ brewers and distillers come from Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana, Utah, Kentucky, Michigan, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Missouri, Ohio, and more.
Tickets:
$60 Early Admission (get in at noon instead of 1pm, commemorative souvenir, three exclusive beer tastings not available after 1pm)
$45 General Admission (commemorative tasting glass, unlimited sampling of craft brewery and distillery offerings)
$15 Designated Driver Ticket (unlimited soda, access to festival amenities)
Lake Geneva Beer & Spirits Festival Address:
The Ridge Hotel
W4240 Highway 50
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
(262) 729-4471
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
September 26, 2019 – September 29, 2019
New Glarus Oktoberfest
The delightful Swiss-esque (if that’s a word) enclave of New Glarus comes alive with New Glarus Oktoberfest September 26-29, 2019!
Sponsored by the New Glarus Brewery, there’s plenty of lederhosen, live music, and a ceremonial keg tapping of New Glarus Brewery’s Staghorn Oktoberfest beer. You can also enjoy chainsaw wood carving, an antique tractor pull, wagon rides, activities for the kids, food stands, plus a fondue demonstration and tasting on Sunday afternoon. Admission to New Glarus Oktoberfest is FREE!
New Glarus is reached via Highways 39 and 69, just 30 minutes south of Madison.
Get the full lineup and updates at Swisstown.com. Also see the schedule below:
New Glarus Oktoberfest Address:
Downtown New Glarus
418 Railroad Street
New Glarus, WI 53574
(608) 527-2095
Website
7nbsp;
New Glarus Oktoberfest Schedule:
Thursday, Sept. 26
7pm – 11pm Polka music by the Steve Meisner Band (wear your lederhosen and dirndls!)
8;30 pm: King and Queen contest. You could be our Oktoberfest royalty for the weekend! Cash prizes, free beer and food for the King & Queen. Dress in your best Oktoberfest attire and let the people be the judges on best costumes.
Friday, Sept. 27
6pm Beer tent opens
6pm Food stands open
6pm Craft vendors and farmers market open
7:00pm Tap the Wooden Keg Annual Oktoberfest Event! New Glarus Brewing Company will be tapping a wooden keg of Staghorn Oktoberfest
8:00pm – Midnight Madison County Band. Hottest Country Band in Wisconsin!
Saturday, Sept. 28
8am 5K/10K Run & 2 Mile Walk
11am Beer tent opens
11am Craft vendors and farmers market opens
11am Food stands open
Noon – 6pm Antique Tractor Pul
Noon – 3:00pm Mex Drexler Bavarian Brass Band
1pm – 4pm Chainsaw wood carver
4pm – 7pm Wheelhouse Band
7:00pm Tap the Wooden Keg Annual Oktoberfest Event! New Glarus Brewing Company will be tapping a wooden keg of Staghorn Oktoberfest
8pm – Midnight Music by Boogie & the Yo-Yo’z
Sunday, Sept. 29
7am Chili Cook-off starts
11am Beer tent opens
11am Food stands open
11am Craft vendors and farmers market opens
11am – 2pm DJ music
3pm – 6pm The Jimmys wrap up our Oktoberfest celebration!
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
September 14, 2019
Tomah Kegs, Corks & Forks
Hey, all roads lead to Tomah, take one of them (I-90, I-94, US 12, Highway 16, Highway 21, or Highway 131… we weren’t kidding about “all roads”) Saturday, September 14th and check out the Tomah Rotary Kegs Corks & Forks Festival! It was formerly the Tomah Beer & Sausage Festival, but with more food, wine, and more being added, a new name was created. We’re cool with that.
Kegs Corks & Forks takes place from 5-8pm at Tomah Recreational Park’s Ice Hockey Rink, although partying will continue well past that. There will be a Smoked Meat Competition where the competitors are the Tomah Police Department vs. the Monroe County Sheriff’s Department, craft beer sampling, wine tasting, plenty of area food vendors offering samples and food for sale, along with prizes, raffles, drawings, and a post-event concert featuring Lassos and Lace followed by Jay Allen.
Tickets range from $40 for general admission, which starts at 6pm; $60 for VIP admission, which begins at 5pm; you can also get concert-only tickets for $20 ahead of time or $25 the day of the show. You can buy tickets ahead of time here.
Tomah is the seat of Monroe County and the place where all the major roads meet and split. I-90 & I-94 converge here, as do their pre-Interstate compatriots, U.S. 12 and Highway 16. Highway 21 skims Tomah to the north and Highway 131 comes in from the Driftless Area south.
This is the start of “Cranberry Country” too, so check out the nearby bogs, sample fresh cranberries and all kinds of tasty foods made with this remarkable little fruit, and explore the town while you’re there!
Tomah Kegs Corks & Forks Address:
Recreation Park (just off Highway 16)
1625 Butts Avenue
Tomah, WI 54660
Website
You’ll find Recreation Park in Tomah just off Highway 16, once the main highway to La Crosse before I-90 was built. Best exit from I-90 to access Recreation Park is via Exit 41 (Highway 131), then west on Highway 16 to Butts Avenue and the Park.
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
Great Lakes Brew Fest
Great Lakes Brew Fest takes place Saturday, September 14th in Racine. The 2019 Festival Theme is Woodstock’s 50 years! The Fest features unlimited sampling of more than 450 craft beers and sodas from over 100 brewers, plus many food trucks with a variety of food offerings, all on the beautiful shore of Lake Michigan at the Racine Zoological Gardens just north of downtown.
All paid attendees will receive a souvenir tasting glass, and local restaurants will have plenty of menu items available for purchase. Doors open at 3pm; VIP members begin at 2 (they get first crack at everything, you see.) The festival also features live music including performances by the world renowned Kilties Drum and Bugle Corps, the internationally-acclaimed group for whom the Great Lakes Brew Fest helps raise money for. There will be more music from Duosonic.
The Great Lakes Brew Fest also serves as the host of the Schooner Home Brew Championship. Home Brew Island will also welcome groups like the Beer Barons of Milwaukee, the Brain Roasters Guild of Pleasant Prairie, Central Wisconsin Vintners & Brewers from Fond du Lac, Society of Oshkosh Brewers, Chicago Home Brewers Group, Square Kegs Homebrewers from Chicago, Forest City Brewers from Rockford, North Shore Brewers Club from Milwaukee, Dells Unified Frequent Fermenters (D.U.F.F.) from Reedsburg, Racine’s own Belle City Home Brewers, and more.
General Admission tickets are $50; a Basic Designated Driver Fest Pass is $20, which includes admission, a fest pint glass, and complimentary soda and water. A VIP Fest Pass runs $90 and includes early admission (2pm instead of 3pm), a commemorative stein and a pint glass, sausage and cheese sampling, a VIP Lounge area, and secure article check-in, and a $10 voucher off “festival swag.” Get all the ticket details here!
To reach Great Lakes Brew Fest, access Racine via Highways 11, 20, 32, or 38. Downtown Racine is about 8 miles east of I-41/94 and about 4 miles east of Highway 31. The Racine Zoological Gardens is just north of downtown along Lake Michigan via Highway 32, just follow the signs.
TICKETS ARE ALMOST GONE – CLICK HERE TO GET YOURS!
Great Lakes Brew Fest Address:
200 Goold Street
Racine, WI 53402
(262) 634-2100
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
August 24, 2019
Potosi Brewfest
The 11th Annual Potosi Brewfest takes place in “Beer’s Hometown” on Saturday, August 24th, 2019. The Brewfest includes samples from more than 60 vendors of craft beer, wine, specialty meat & cheeses – and of course, the local Potosi beers!
Try your hand at the Beer Stein Holding contest or enjoy music along with all those craft beers, wines, meats and cheese – all in the beautiful setting of the Holiday Gardens across from the historic Potosi Brewery. Check out the National Brewery Museum while you’re there and enjoy a trip down Highway 133 on the way to or fro! Highway 35 & U.S. 61 are close by for easy access.
Potosi Brewfest runs from 1-5pm Saturday, August 24th.
Tickets: General Admission tickets are $45 and VIP tickets are $55. Designated driver tickets are $10, but you don’t get any beer for obvious reasons.
Potosi Brewfest Address:
Holiday Gardens Event Center
109 Main Street (Highway 133)
Potosi, WI 53820
(608) 763-4002
Event Website
May 4, 2019 – May 11, 2019
Milwaukee Beer Week
Milwaukee Beer Week runs Saturday, May 4th – Saturday, May 11th with events at bars and breweries all over the area. A Schedule of Events is below, and you can find out more on their website and also their Facebook page for up-to-date additions and adjustments.
Milwaukee is a fun place to road trip to and around, but if you’re imbibing a lot in Craft Beer Week events remember there are plenty of taxis, Uber and Lyft options, and even some fun, easily rent-able Bublr Bikes you can use to go from event to event. Their hashtag is #MKEBeerWeek.
Milwaukee Craft Beer Week Schedule of Events
2nd Annual Brewers Brunch
May 4 @ 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Stubby’s Gastrogrub and Beer Bar, 2060 N Humboldt Blvd #1 , Milwaukee
Enjoy a flight of coffee infused beer and brunch items including fresh house doughnuts. Local coffee vendors on site sampling and selling their products.
IPA Evolution
May 4 @ 11:00 am – May 11 @ 11:00 pm
Hooligan’s, 2017 E. North Ave. , Milwaukee
Come taste how IPAs have changed over the years with a flight of popular styles. $10.00 Flights and $5.00 Pints.
Haze Craze
May 4 @ 11:00 am – 3:00 pm
Rumpus Room, 1030 N Water St., Milwaukee
Stop in and try a huge variety of the latest beer craze, Hazy IPAs. Every draft line will be dedicated to this popular beer style with multiple breweries being represented.
THE GIDDY UP
May 4 @ 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
Vanguard, 2659 S Kinnickinnic Avenue, Milwaukee
Vanguard & 3 Sheeps Brewing Co. Present… THE GIDDY UP. Tap Takeover & Patio Party. Beer * Classic Country * Food. Featuring ‘The Long Line Riders’ Performing Live, with ‘Hot Dog’ Classic Country Spin. Plus a whole stable of new and rare beers. FUN.
May the 4th Be With You
May 4 @ 11:00 am – May 5 @ 2:00 am
Oak & Shield Gaming Pub, 600 E Ogden Ave., Milwaukee
One year ago, in a galaxy not so far away…The Oak & Shield Gaming Pub was born. May 4th marks their one hundred and eleventh birthday! (Minus 110 years…) Join Oak & Shield and Milwaukee Brewing Company in celebration with an epic one-year anniversary party, and a kickoff to Craft Beer Week with rare timed trappings all night long, and a Star Wars cosplay contest! 11 AM: Jabba’s Social Game Day- Play big games out on the patio all day…
Water Street Brewery – Throw Back Brewery Tours
May 4 @ 11:00 am – 6:00 pm
Water Street Brewery, 1101 N. Water Street, Milwaukee
Visit Milwaukee’s First Brew Pub for tours between 11am-6pm beginning every half hour focusing on the history of the Water Street Brewery and its original three brews Oktoberfest, Victory Amber and Sporten Lager. Throw a few back while you can of the limited release Sporten Lager while on tap for Milwaukee Beer Week. Three Free Samples of WSB Beer included with tours! There will also be free Water Street Brewery swag, and every tour participant receives a free refillable WSB…
FOUNDERS KBS TAPPING
May 4 @ 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
Craft Beer Cellar, 1230 George Town Dr. E, Pewaukee
Come join Craft Beer Cellar and the team from Founders Brewing Company for a KBS tapping! Also available will be Blushing Monk, All Day IPA. ad Rubeaus.
Feeling Surly…Throw an Axe
May 4 @ 2:00 pm – May 11 @ 11:00 pm
AXE MKE, 1924 Kenilworth Ave., Milwaukee
Hold an Axe Man in one hand and an Axe in the other while you take out your frustration after a long day. Enjoy a bucket of Surly Brewing cans while you chuck a few axes. Enter for your chance to win a great Surly prize pack.
Tour of WI
May 4 @ 3:00 pm – May 11 @ 8:00 pm
Whos On Third, 1007 N. Old World Third Street, Milwaukee
Stop in all Beer Week long. $15.00 gets you a Usingers brat and a side of cheese curds, paired with pint of any local beer on tap.
MKE Brewing Feature at Groppis
May 4 @ 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm
G Groppi Food Market, 1441 E Russell Ave., Milwaukee
Join us for a Milwaukee Beer Week kick off sampling at Groppi Food Market. MKE Brewing will be featured on tap and pouring all their best sellers down in the heart of Bay View. Grab some beer before the Derby gets underway.
Beer Week Brunch
May 5 @ 8:00 am – May 11 @ 3:00 pm
Fuel Cafe: Walkers Point, 630 S 5th Street, Milwaukee
Brunch and Beer pairings will be available all week. Tuesday May 7th the Bell’s Rep will be in offering swag, prizes, and samples.
Crafty Cow Burger Pairing
May 5 @ 11:00 am – May 11 @ 10:00 pm
Crafty Cow Bay View, 2675 S. Kinnickinnic Ave., Milwaukee
For the second year in a row, Third Space and Crafty Cow partner up to bring you a brand new burger. This years creation… Morning in Denver. This burger has a beef patty, topped with Canadian bacon, fried egg, friend onions, and sauteed green peppers. This bad boy is paired up with That’s Gold Kolsch. They will also be creating a brand new poutine to be partied with Happy Place Pale Ale.
Half Way to Halloween
May 5 @ 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Draft & Vessel, 4417 N. Oakland Ave., Milwaukee, WI
We’re half way to Halloween. Come celebrate with a special tapping of Third Space Haunted Barrel. This beer is released every Halloween at Third Space Brewing and is an Imperial Porter aged in Bourbon and Rum barrels with cinnamon, vanilla, coconut, and cocoa nibs. Its like trick or treat in a glass.
Drink Third Space Win Prizes
May 5 @ 12:00 pm – May 11 @ 10:00 pm
Cafe Lulu, 2265 S Howell Ave., Milwaukee
All beer week long, Cafe Lulu is partnering with Third Space Brewing. Three different beers will be on tap all week, and for every Third Space beer you buy, receive an extra raffle ticket to win some awesome prizes. Finish beer week strong with a Tap Takeover on Saturday, May 11 starting at 11am. No purchase necessary to enter to win prizes.
Crafts & Drafts – Spring Beer Fest – Sponsored by Discount Liquor
May 5 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Serb Hall, 5101 W. Oklahoma Ave., Milwaukee
This is the 7th Year of Crafts & Drafts and we can’t think of a better way to kick off Milwaukee Beer Week! At Crafts & Drafts, you’ll have a chance to try different beers from an amazing array of breweries, as well as being able to chat with brewery owners, brewmasters, and brewery representatives. Tickets are available for purchase on the Crafts & Drafts website. http://www.craftsanddrafts.org/tickets.html
Good City Tap Takeover
May 5 @ 2:00 pm – 4:05 pm
Smoke Shack, 322 N. Milwaukee Street, Milwaukee
Join us Sunday, May 5th for brunch, lunch, or dinner as we showcase some fun beers brew by Good City Brewing Company. Meet the rep from 2pm to 4pm as she passes out samples and find your favorite beer.
HalfAcre AfterParty Burnhearts
May 5 @ 5:00 pm – May 6 @ 2:00 am
Burnhearts, 2599 S. Logan Ave., Milwaukee
Stop by for our annual Crafts & Drafts after party at Burnhearts featuring a killer line up from Half Acre Beer Co. All welcome, come grab some tasty suds.
Beat the Breweries
May 6 @ 6:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Up Down, 615 E. Brady Street, Milwaukee
Challenge your favorite brewery to a variety of games, for your chance to win a prize package. $12 gets you a pint from any participating brewery, a slice of pizza and 40 tokens
Three Lions Beer Dinner
May 6 @ 6:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Three Lions Pub, 4515 N Oakland Ave., Milwaukee
Join Three Lions Pub and Third Space Brewing for a one of a kind beer dinner. Specialties and rarities from Third Space Brewing will be paired with brand new creations from Three Lions. Call to reserve your spot today. 414-763-6992.
2nd Annual Wyeast Beer Dinner
May 7 @ 4:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Wy’east Pizza, 5601 W Vliet St., Milwaukee
For the second year in a row, Third Space Brewing and Wyeast Pizza are teaming up for Milwaukee Beer Week. The amazing kitchen staff at Wyeast will be creating brand new menu items utilizing finished beer, wort, and spent grain. Some rarities, seasonals, and core favorites will be on tap. Come early, and come hungry.
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
May 2, 2019 – May 5, 2019
Milwaukee Maifest at Estabrook Park Beer Garden
It’s Milwaukee Maifest time! Join the Milwaukee County Park System and neighbors from Milwaukee, Shorewood, Whitefish Bay and other nearby communities for the Official Kick Off to Beer Garden Season with Milwaukee Maifest at Estabrook Park. Festivities get underway on Thursday, May 2 at 5:30pm with the 2019 Maibock Anstich – Followed by Free beer until 6:30pm!
The fun lasts the whole weekend through Sunday, May 5th and includes Live Music, Food, Dance, Contests and Beer! Check out the beautiful trails in the park and the nice views of the Milwaukee River, which flows right past – and below – the Estabook Beer Garden.
You can easily get to Estabrook Park and the Beer Garden via Estabrook River Parkway, just south of Hampton Avenue and about 3/4 mile north of Highway 190/Capitol Drive. Highway 32 goes along Lake Michigan less than two miles to the east, while Highway 57 and I-43 approach less than two miles to the west. Definitely easy to get to – just look for the huge radio towers in the park!
Scroll down for a Schedule of Events.
Estabrook Park Beer Garden
4620 Estabrook Parkway
Milwaukee, WI 53217
(414) 219-9065
Website
Estabrook Park Beer Garden Facebook Page
Milwaukee Maifest Schedule of Events at Estabrook Park Beer Garden
Thursday, May 2, 2019
4:30 PM: Austrian Express Live at Maifest
5:30 PM: 2019 Maibock Anstich – Opening Ceremony, Blessing of the Bock, Keg Tapping
5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Free Beer with Friends of Estabrook Mug
6:30 PM: Masskrugstemmen Steinholding Contest
Friday, May 3, 2019
1:30 PM: Kenny Brandt Live in the Beer Garden
5:00 PM: King Solomon Reggae at Milwaukee Maifest
6:30 PM: Masskrugstemmen Steinholding Contest
Saturday, May 4, 2019
1:00 PM: Steve Meisner Band Live at Milwaukee Maifest
2:30 PM: D.A.N.K. German Dance Performance
4:30 PM: Spielmannszug Milwaukee Drum and Bugle Corps
5:00 PM: Blaskapelle Milwaukee Live at Milwaukee Maifest
6:30 PM: Masskrugstemmen Steinholding Contest
Sunday, May 5, 2019
1:00 PM: Squeezettes! Live at Milwaukee Maifest
2:00 PM: German Dance Performance
3:30 PM: Masskrugstemmen Steinholding Contest
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
March 9, 2019
EAA Hops & Props
They say beer tastes better in Oshkosh. Find out for yourself by spending an evening sampling beverages from over 75 breweries from around the world. Microbreweries are present to provide their personal brewing process and history, while entertainment from live bands provides a backdrop for this fun and exciting tasting event.
Go from being a Beer Lover to a Master of Brews by upgrading to VIP status, which includes early admission to a gourmet, five-course meal featuring delectable food and beer pairings including the VIP brewery. Dinner begins at 4:30 p.m.; tickets are close to being sold out!
Please note that you must be 21 years of age or older to attend this event. Admission price also includes museum entrance and commemorative beer glass. I mean, hey, drink for a cause! All funds will support museum activities offered by EAA – programs that engage families in educational opportunities and experiences that motivate and inspire participants of all ages.
Please note that no large bags will be allowed into the museum; all bags are subject to search.
Full details on everything are available on EAA’s Hops & Props website. You can reach the EAA AirVenture Museum via I-41 and Highways 26, 44, or 91; U.S. 45 and Highways 21 and 76 also bring you to Oshkosh. Enjoy – safely!
Feel free to check out the rest of Oshkosh while you’re there. Prime outlet shopping is just across I-41 and there are plenty of fun things to see and do in this college town, including the Paine Art Museum.
Don’t forget EAA’s AirVenture, happening July 22-28 this year, featuring the Blue Angels! Wittman Field will become one of the world’s busiest airports for a week and you’ll get to see and experience everything from historic to cutting-edge experimental aviation machines. There will be military fighters, classic airplanes, commercial jets, and creative inventions everywhere.
EAA Hops & Props Address:
EAA AirVenture Museum
3000 Poberezny Road
Oshkosh, WI 54902
(920) 426-6541
Website
Belle City Brewfest
Belle City Brewfest convenes in downtown Racine Saturday, March 9th! Over 90 varieties of craft brews from 40 breweries will descend on Festival Hall at the Civic Centre showcasing their brands for unlimited tastings of beer and cider, including newer local breweries like Racine Brewing Company just down the street, R’Noggin Brewing of Kenosha, and more! There will also be live entertainment and beer seminars; judge the Homebrew Competition, enjoy live music from Mean Jake, and all in all just have a great Saturday!
Tickets are $25 in advance or $35 at the gate. Tickets include a souvenir cup and live entertainment along with a complete festival guide. Designated drivers can get in for $8 and get free soda or water plus full access to all beer seminars and the live entertainment. You can go to the Belle City Brewfest website or buy them directly from Ticketmaster here. A portion of the proceeds benefit Veterans Outreach of Wisconsin.
Belle City Brewfest will take place inside Festival Hall at Racine Civic Centre, which is right downtown and close to other favorite venues like the Racine Art Museum, Reefpoint Marina, even the Kewpee for burgers. Stay updated with their Facebook page.
You can get to downtown Racine from I-41/94 or Highway 31 via Highways 11, 20, 32, and 38.
Belle City Brewfest Address:
Festival Hall, Racine Civic Centre
5 5th Street
Racine, WI 53403
(262) 636-9229
Website
Participating brewers include:
…and more!
More from Real Racine
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
February 9, 2019
Ice Cold Beer Fest
Minocqua will again beat as the heart and soul of the Wisconsin craft beer industry once again at the 21st Annual Ice Cold Beer Fest will be held in downtown Minocqua, Saturday, February 9, 2019. Beer, food and live music all available under a heated big top tent on the Island of Minocqua. Last year, fest goers were able to sample more than 250 different craft beers that included breweries from Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan and Illinois. All proceeds from the Ice Cold Beer Fest benefit their local Dr. Kate Hospice.
PREMIER TASTING — Only 200 Premier Tasting Tickets will be sold. This event delegates those ticket holders to a prime sampling from noon to 1 p.m., to include beers not-to-be released to the general admission crowd. Private bathrooms are also available to these ticket holders ONLY. Included in the price is an individually number commemorative tasting glass along with prime tasting of food to include shrimp, steak and desserts. Cost for premier tasting is $80 and includes the full five-hour festival.
GENERAL ADMISSION — A total of 600 General Admission tickets will be available on a first-come-first-serve basis. Tickets are available for $50. There will be NO ADDITIONAL TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE GATE.
INFORMATION — All persons must have a valid ID, and be 21-and-over to enter festival. This goes for designated drivers as well. No one under 21-years of age will be permitted on the grounds. The Ice Cold Beer Festival reserves the right to refuse entrance to anyone. No re-entry into tent without wristband.
You can get to Minocqua via U.S. 51 or Highways 47 or 70. Check out the beautiful downtown, the World’s Largest Penny in nearby Woodruff, and the North Woods surroundings on your way to or fro!
Check their website for the full list and all the details.
Ice Cold Beer Fest Address:
Minocqua Brewing Company
238 Lakeshore Drive (just off U.S. 51)
Minocqua, WI 54548
(715) 356-2600
Website
October 6, 2018
Northeast Wisconsin Craft Beer Festival
Green Bay hosts the Northeast Wisconsin Craft Beer Festival in Shopko Hall Saturday, October 6th. So raise your stein, it’s drinking time! With more than 200 beers, 50 breweries and unlimited sampling, you’re bound to have fun. Beer lovers will receive a commemorative sampling glass and have access to unlimited two-ounce samples of beer and food.
Be ready for the Sam Adams Stein Hoisting Competition, live music from Noah John & Ringing Iron, a Beard Competition with Level-Up Beard Company where categories include mustache, partial beard and full beard, and all kinds of festive fun.
The Stein Hoisting Competition, presented by Samuel Adams, includes qualifying rounds for both men and women at 6:30, 7:15 and 8:00 with the final at 8:30. Prizes include $100-value Packer memorabilia, official Sam Adams ceramic mugs and gift cards to Festival Foods!
General admission opens at 6pm at Green Bay’s Shopko Hall. First Call ticket holders (think VIP here) get admission at 5pm, the opportunity to sample special edition selections before they run out, and a commemorative glass beer boot.
Northeast Wisconsin Craft Beer Festival Address:
Shopko Hall
1901 S. Oneida Street
Green Bay, WI 54304
(800) 895-0071
Website
You’ll find Shopko Hall in Green Bay’s Titletown District, a stone’s throw from Lambeau Field. I-41, I-43, U.S. 141, and Highways 29, 32, 54, 57, and 172 all bring you to Green Bay. Look for Lambeau towering in the air… Shopko is just across the way!
October 5, 2018 – October 6, 2018
Black River Area Oktoberfest & “Things That Roll” Car Show
Black River Falls and the Jackson County Fairgrounds get into the Gemütlichkeit spirit with Black River Area Oktoberfest! This 12th annual music, beer, food, and fun-filled event takes place Friday, October 5th and Saturday, October 6th.
The Kick-Off Party is Friday evening from 6-9 pm at Sand Creek Brewing in Black River Falls, with live music and plenty of food and locally-brewed craft beer to kick off Black River Falls Oktoberfest.
Saturday features tons of music and entertainment at the Jackson County Fairgrounds, from 10am – 10pm. Artists and bands include Dave Kiral, Gary’s Ridgeland Dutchmen, and evening headliner Copper Box. The “Tapping of the Golden Keg” will happen at 1pm. There will be plenty of food and drink vendors, a caricature artist, children’s inflatables, games and face painting, a photo booth, horse-drawn wagon rides, alpacas from Fevolden Farm, a giant pumpkin you can guess the weight of to win prizes, and of course plenty of German celebrations and bier specialties. Free shuttles will run from Sand Creek Brewing to the Jackson County Fairgrounds throughout the day Saturday from 10am – 5pm.
Black River Falls is along I-94, U.S. 12, and Highways 27 and 54. The Jackson County Fairgrounds are right along Highway 54 on the southwest edge of town.
Black River Area Oktoberfest Address:
Jackson County Fairgrounds
388 Melrose Street
Black River Falls, WI 54615
(715) 284-4658
Website
October 5, 2018 – October 7, 2018
Milwaukee Oktoberfest
The Milwaukee Oktoberfest has moved toward the new Fiserv Forum so you can experience the new plaza area. It’s still sponsored by Spaten. The fun includes traditional German brass bands, sing-alongs and spontaneous dancing for everyone. Delicious and authentic German food is available, from huge pretzels and brats to a variety of specialties from the Levy Restaurant Group. Of course there’s plenty of beer/bier on tap imported and domestic – as well as wine, soft drinks and, yes, even coffee.
Check out live music from the Mike Schneider Band, the Klaberheads, the Jeff Winard Band, Austrian Express, Polka Floyd, the Jay Fox Band, and Blaskapelle. Also check out the Wiener Dog Show, a Bags Tournament, the Miss Oktoberfest Competition, a Brat-Eating Contest, the Stein Hoisting Competition, and more.
The Milwaukee Brat House will host the Official After Party each night of the 9th annual Milwaukee Oktoberfest!
Don’t forget the “Das Boot Bar Tour” on Saturday, hosted on Old World Third Street from noon-6pm. Each bar will decorate with a German theme and participants will have the chance to try a different Oktoberfest Beer, essentially making it a bar tour and beer festival combined. Along with the Bar Tour, there will of course be liter size Das Boots for each person on the tour. These will allow you to receive drink specials during the tour and only during the tour. Attendees are more than welcome to bring their boots back to refill at the Main Event!
It’s all based in downtown Milwaukee, at the plaza in front of the new Fiserv Forum, near State Street (U.S. 18), 6th Street/McKinley Avenue (Highway 145) Old World 3rd Street and the Milwaukee River. I-43/94, I-794, and Highway 32 also bring you close. Prosit!
Milwaukee Oktoberfest Address:
The Plaza in front of the Fiserv Forum, as well as on adjacent blocks (Old World Third Street, State Street, Highland Avenue)
901 N. 4th Street (Vel Phillips Avenue)
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Website