Lake Geneva celebrates winter like no other place. Winterfest is a brouhaha of shopping, dining, music, magic, refreshments, and activities including thrilling helicopter rides over the town and lake running January 28 – February 1, 2026. It’s capped off, of course, by the amazing designs and creativity of the newly-christened America’s Snow Sculpting Invitational, formerly the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Competition. Fifteen teams of the most talented snow sculptors and artists from around the country gather to compete for a national title. The entire competition is open to the public, so Winterfest attendees can actually watch the artists at work!
Be here to witness these teams at work during an epic 72-hour competition where their artistry is put to the test in creating remarkable, larger-than-life snow sculptures.
2026 TEAMS
• Block #1: Illinois – Team Cave People From Space
• Block #2: Michigan 2 – Team Soggy Mitten Boys
• Block #3: Wisconsin 2 – Team Snow Cronies
• Block #4: Mexico – Team Mexico
• Block #5: Wisconsin 1 – Team Sculptora Borealis
• Block #6: Minnesota 1 – Team Doing Our Best
• Block #7: Wisconsin 3 – Team Snow Blind
• Block #8: Turkey – Team Turkey
• Block #9: Pennsylvania – Team Jack of All Lanterns
• Block #10: Minnesota 2 – Team Snow Van Gogh
• Block #11: Alaska – Team AK Department of Snow
• Block #12: Iowa + Vermont – Team A NorEaster in Dubuque
• Block #13: Michigan 1 – Team Smith Family
• Block #14: Wisconsin 4 – Team Up To Snow Good
• Block #15: Colorado – Team Enchanted Forest
In addition to the snow sculpting competition, you’ll find more wintery fun during Winterfest week, including the 6th annual Downtown Ice Sculpture Walk, Bonfires on the Beach, a Cocoa Crawl and many more events, activities and specials around Lake Geneva and the surrounding area. The walk is just steps away from the snow sculpting competition, with dozens of artfully crafted ice sculptures adorning the front faces of shops, restaurants, and other businesses throughout the Downtown district. Ice sculptures will be installed Friday morning, January 30th and remain on display as long as the cold weather permits!
2026 ICE SCULPTURE LOCATIONS
Barrique Bistro & Wine Bar | 835 Wrigley Drive
Bloomingbyrds | 755 W. Main Street
Brick & Mortar Home | 832 Geneva Street
Brick & Mortar Home and Outdoor | 222 Center Street
Clearwater Outdoor Sports | 744 W. Main Street
Cornerstone Shop & Gallery | 214 Broad Street
Egg Harbor Café | 827 W Main Street
Evr drygds | 719 W. Main Street
Fancy Fair Mall | 830 W Main Street
Geneva Gifts | 150 Broad Street
Haberdapper | 253 Broad Street
Harbor Shores on Lake Geneva | 300 Wrigley Drive
Interstate Insurance Group | 811 Wrigley Drive (Popeye’s)
Kilwins | 772 Main Street
Lake Geneva Lifestyle/Donna Brongiel | 703 Main Street
Lake Geneva Motel | 201 Wrigley Drive (Visitor Info Center)
Lake Geneva Spice Company | 255 Broad Street
Marigold | 725 W Main Street
Overland Sheepskin Co. | 752 W. Main Street
Queen Bee Artisan Market | 830 W. Main Street
Sopra Bistro | 724 Main Street
The Bottle Shop | 617 W. Main Street
The Candle Mercantile | 870 W. Main Street
The Olive Oil Shops | 221 Broad Street
Thumbs Up | 260 Broad Street
Winterfest activities focus on downtown Lake Geneva, which lies right along Highway 50. U.S. 12 and Highway 120 are close to the east and Highway 67 is a few miles to the west near Delavan. It’s easy to get to – and a total blast!
A horse-drawn carriage ride through Lake Geneva is perfect on a winter day.
Lake Geneva Winterfest & America’s Snow Sculpting Invitational Address:
Downtown Lake Geneva/Riviera Park
201 Wrigley Drive
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
(262) 248-4416 Website
The Oshkosh Celebration of Lights is back for its 24th year! Once again this lively event is taking place at the EAA Grounds at Wittman Regional Airport, where the EAA AirVenture takes place. That puts it along I-41 between the Highway 26 & 44/91 interchanges for easy access – and it’s just as much fun! This year, it runs from Friday, November 28th through Wednesday, December 31st every evening from 5:30pm to 9:00pm.
Peruse a beautiful stretch of illuminated holiday wonder. A 100-foot tree, sculptured scenes, twinkling animated light displays and accompanying holiday music makes this part of Oshkosh magical during the holidays.
Along with walking or driving through , you can enjoy a horse-pulled wagon ride through the grounds on select nights! You can book and pay for a carriage at 920-303-9200; they reserve rides in half-hour increments from 6pm to 8:30pm on the Monday and Wednesday evenings of December 1st, 3rd, 8th, 10th, 15th, and 17th. Reservations are required. Horse-pulled wagon rides hold up to 16 people and run $15 for adults, $10 for kids 4-18, kids under 4 are free provided they sit on a lap. The ticket also includes the drive through the park.
Santa will also be in his Workshop December 3rd – 23rd from 5:30 – 8:30 pm – Christmas Eve he’ll be out with his reindeer delivering presents, of course!
General Admission per carload is $20.00 with $5.00 off with a donation of a sealed hygiene item or non-perishable in-date food item. Food pantries across the area – scheduled by United Way – benefit from Celebration of Lights, so you’re helping for the holidays, too! You can also enter the Beck’s Meats $50 gift card weekly drawing.
Oshkosh Celebration of Lights is open every day, 5:30pm – 9:00pm. I-41, U.S. 45, and Highways 21, 26, 44, 76, and 91 all bring you to Oshkosh!
Oshkosh Celebration of Lights Address:
EAA Grounds
1858 Neunteufel Avenue
Oshkosh, WI 54902
(920) 303-9200 Website
OVER THREE MILLION LIGHTS. That’s crazy! And beautiful. And festive. And there’s a lot more to see at the La Crosse Rotary Lights, that holiday special event that runs November 28th through December 31st at Riverside Park. The parade kicks everything off at 6pm on the 28th, with the opening ceremony immediately following. Santa will be on hand to throw the switch turning on all these lights (and probably momentarily dimming some others across town – that’s gotta be a huge power draw!), too. Helicopter rides are back this year, too!
Among the splendor is a 140- foot Christmas tree and plenty of animated light displays. Live nativity presentation on weekends until Christmas, although the number of participants will be limited this year. Santa, after opening the festivities, will continue to be there for you and the kids until December 23rd.
Here’s how it works if you choose to drive through it: The line forms down State Street and continues to the North on 2nd Street. On busy nights, the line will back up onto 3rd Street/Copeland Ave/U.S. 53. Roads will be blocked so that you cannot enter from State Street, northbound on Second Street, or from Vine Street. You can tune your car stereo to their local Christmas channel for good musical accompaniment while joining the caravan of onlookers from the comfort – and heat – of your car.
If you prefer to walk or take a carriage ride through the display, you do not need to wait in line. There is usually street parking available near the park or there are several parking ramps within walking distance. Get Parking Ramp Information HERE. Horse-drawn carriages are available most weekends and run $20/couple or $30/family. No Tuesday night hayrides this year, but you can still get free s’mores at the fire pit, where supplies will be individually packaged.. You’ll also still be able to experience the helicopter rides for an amazing view! New additions from last year that they’ve kept include a brand new sleigh for photos, heated restrooms available on both the north and south ends of the park, and the hologram display.
Remember, Santa shows up nightly from 5 – 8 pm until December 23rd (of course, he has to hurry back to the North Pole right after that and get his sleigh ready for that worldwide trip) and there’s no sitting on his lap.
Weather permitting, the Chad Erickson Ice Rink is available for skating, Monday through Friday 5pm-8pm, Saturday Noon to 8pm, and Sunday Noon to 6pm. The warming hut and skate rental are back, and of course you can bring your own skates! A heated igloo will be available if you need to warm up and/or change. You can call (608) 784-9993 to check on Skating Rink Status and information; voicemail messages are updated daily.
New this year is All Abilities Night on Monday, December 1st. They will be adjusting the lights and music to accommodate individuals that may not have been able to experience the show in the past due to flashing lights and loud music.
The hours for La Crosse Rotary Lights are 5-10pm daily. On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, the hours are 5-9pm; New Year’s Eve, it will stay open until 1 am; meaning technically La Crosse Rotary Lights lasts into January 1, 2026.
The whole La Crosse Rotary Lights admission and experience is free of charge, but Rotary Lights does welcome donations; monetary or non-perishable food item donations are strongly encouraged. Get the full Entertainment Schedule of Events here!
La Crosse Rotary Lights Address:
Riverside Park (just off U.S. 53)
410 Veterans Memorial Drive
La Crosse, WI 54601
(608) 784-9993 Website
Marshfield Rotary Winter Wonderland celebrates its 20th year in 2025! Since 2006, Rotary Winter Wonderland has grown to reach over 2,000,000 lights along with dozens of additional displays. It takes place in Marshfield’s beautiful Wildwood Park & Zoo, were you can enjoy the drive-thru route and/or the walking route. Doing both is recommended to fully enjoy all of the lights and displays.
There is no admission charge; however free will donations of food and cash are accepted to help the local food pantries and keep it running. Since it began in 2006, Marshfield Rotary Winter Wonderland has provided over 670,000 food items to food pantries in Marshfield and the surrounding area.
Can you bring your pets? Sure, but only if you have them ride with you in the car on the drive-thru portion of the lights. Since it takes place at Wildwood Zoo, pets are not allowed outside for the sake of the zoo animals’ safety. (You can, however, bring kids!)
Winter Wonderland will be open 7 days a week starting right after Thanksgiving and continuing through New Years Eve. The grounds will be open from 5pm to 9pm. They typically stay open even during inclement weather but you can verify on specific night on their Facebook page.
Wildwood Park & Zoo is easy to access on a road trip; it’s along Central Avenue, the Historic Route of Highway 13, on the south side of Marshfield not too far north of U.S. 10 and Highway 80. Highway 13’s “through-pass” route and the southern terminus of Highway 97 also come near, and a southerly ride on Central past downtown brings you right there. There are walk-in entrances at both the north and south sides of the Zoo, along with parking at each, and a drive through entrance off of W. 17th Street. Parking lot spaces are limited; additional parking can be found along Balboa, Adams and Locust, all which run north to south.
Marshfield Rotary Winter Wonderland Address:
Wildwood Park & Zoo
1800 S. Roddis Avenue (for GPS)
Marshfield, WI 54449 Website Facebook Page
The Lincoln Park Zoo is a terrific free zoo in the “Coolest Coast” city of Manitowoc. Every holiday season, Lights In Lincoln Park dazzles with a “twinkly bright drive-thru wonder” November 28th-29th, December 4th-6th, and then EVERY evening from December 11th through the 29th, 2025!
Along with beautiful lights on trees, trellises and more, enjoy over 70 wild animal light displays, many with animated characters. Among them is animated elephant, a wood duck, a standing polar bear, an animated wolf, and whispering pine tree… just to give you an idea of what you’ll get to enjoy. This is the 14th annual Lights in Lincoln Park and they manage to add new features every year.
Admission is $5 donation per car and proceeds go to benefit zoo educational programs and enhancements to the Lincoln Park Zoo. You can enter from Waldo/Lincoln Boulevard, right where U.S. 10 and Highway 42 meet. It’s just north of downtown Manitowoc, about five minutes east of I-43, following the U.S. 10 (Waldo Blvd.) exit. It’s just west of Highway 42/Memorial Drive, which is a beautiful drive along the shores of Lake Michigan between Manitowoc and Two Rivers.
Lights In Lincoln Park Hours:
November 28th – December 6th: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm- Thursday, Friday and Saturday
December 11th – December 29th: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm- Every Night You can visit Santa on Cabin 1 on Friday nights: November 28th and December 5th, 12th, and 19th.
Lights in Lincoln Park Family Night Fun Walks are Tuesday, November 25th, Wednesday, December 3rd, and Tuesday, December 30th, 2025 from 5:00 pm- 8:00 pm, featuring a fun walk through the Lincoln Park Lights. It’s a great way for the whole family to enjoy the lights and get some steps in! Admission for the Family Night Fun Walk is $5/person or $10/family.
Lights In Lincoln Park Address:
Lincoln Park Zoo
900 Quay Street (just off Highway 42, blocks from U.S. 10)
Manitowoc, WI 54220 Website
Sam’s Christmas Village & Light Tour is a HUGE show that claims over 16 MILLION LIGHTS – so it’s probably visible from space. It runs November 28th, 2025 – January 1st, 2026. Sam’s, located right along the Apple River in Somerset, features a 1/2-mile walk-through light tour, plenty of woods with trees adorned with holiday lights, a 500-foot light tunnel, a 50-foot animated tree, and fun for all ages across 40+ acres of holiday beauty. Sam’s also features a European-style Christmas market with plenty of ideas for holiday gifts, treats, and a lot more.
Sam’s Christmas Village & Light Tour is open seven days a week. On select Mondays and Tuesdays, it’s Drive-Thru only; Wednesdays through Sundays, it’s a walk-through. Hours are 5 pm – 9 pm Sundays through Thursdays, 5 pm – 10 pm Fridays and Saturdays.
Tickets range from $15 for adults for the drive-thru $22 for the walk-thru. Kids ages 4-10 are $19; it’s free for kids 3 and younger. Military IDs get your 50% off admission as well. Parking is $10 cash on walk-through nights. You can also buy multi-day passes and there are special evening promotions on occasion, get more details here.
For even more adventure, Sam’s offers S’more Cabins, which you can book starting at $129 and enjoy the heated cabin, a S’more kit for up to 8 people, a campfire starter kit, firewood, and even a special visit from Santa. They have 21 cabins to choose from, and you can book them on drive-thru nights.
You’ll find Sam’s Christmas Village & Light Tour just off Highways 35 and 64 in Somerset, Wisconsin, along the Apple River in St. Croix County.
The Janesville Holiday Light Show at Rotary Botanical Gardens is an annual holiday highlight in Janesville, the “City of Parks.” Follow the illuminated garden pathways on an evening stroll through the 20-acre botanical gardens, where the wintry garden paths are brought to life with more than 2 MILLION lights, themed light displays and animations, beautifully decorated trees, dangling icicle lights hung from the tallest trees in the Garden and more. Santa makes periodic stops (get the dates HERE), and they have other events like Silly Scarf Night, Holiday Sweater Night, and more.
Back by popular demand are the Selfie Stops & Photo Opps, with fun props and amazing backdrops that offer holiday photo opportunities both indoors and out. Step inside to enjoy a warm beverage as you watch the 200′ electric model train display, hand-sewn quilts, festive local musicians and holiday shopping.
NEW in 2025, you are invited to linger and celebrate in their indoor Christmas Market from December 13-23, featuring Artisan vendors with one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, a limited-edition 2025 holiday ornament, and holiday food & drink!
The Holiday Light Show is open from 4:30pm – 9:00pm from November 28th, 2025 through January 3rd, 2026.
Admission is $15 for people age 13 and up online, $18 at the gate. Children 3-12 are $5, kids 2 and under are free. Get Tickets Here!
On-site parking will be available, but you can also take advantage of their FREE shuttle service, beginning at 4:15pm each day of the show. The shuttle picks up visitors at Dawson Field and drops them off at Rotary Botanical Gardens. The shuttle will run throughout the duration of the Holiday Light Show. Dawson Field is located minutes from Rotary Botanical Gardens, at 920 Beloit Ave, Janesville, Wisconsin, 53546.
The Janesville Rotary Gardens are (obviously) in Janesville, where Highways 11, 14, 26, and U.S. 51 all come together, as well as I-39/90.
Janesville Holiday Light Show at Rotary Botanical Gardens Address:
1455 Palmer Drive
Janesville, WI 53545
(608) 752-3885 Website
Chandelier lights over Wisconsin Avenue & Water Street in downtown Milwaukee for the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival.
The annual Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival celebrates its 26th year and once again Milwaukee will sparkle with lights and decorations in venues across downtown, including up and down Wisconsin Avenue, where every intersection features iconic chandeliers.
The Jingle Bus is taking this year off again, but you can enjoy Milwaukee’s joyous, open-air winter fest on foot or by car (heck, even by bike if you want) by visiting all the decorated parks as well as the dazzling downtown decor on foot or in the car.
An earlier podcast called the MKE Jingle Bus Tour featuring Milwaukee Downtown BID CEO Beth Weirick and State Trunk Tour founder Eric Paulsen (who also served as a DJ on 95.7 BIG FM in Milwaukee during this interview) describing the Holiday Lights at each stop is available in five brief, illustrative podcast episodes:
Pere Marquette Park, one of several decorated parks during downtown Milwaukee’s Holiday Lights Festival. Photo credit: Alan Herzberg Jr. via Milwaukee Downtown.
The four decorated parks for the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival include:
“Community Spirit Park presented by Madison Medical Affiliates” at Cathedral Square Park (520 E. Wells Street, U.S. 18 & Highway 32), home to over 100 decorated evergreens along with Santa’s Mailbox presented by Educators Credit Union and Serving Older Adults. Children can drop their letter to Santa in the box through December 13th and receive a personalized response in return.
“Tinsel Town Express” at Pere Marquette Park (900 N. Plankinton Avenue, just south of U.S. 18/State Street) features a lighted scene from the North Pole’s special delivery depot. Plus, visit Ideal Property Management’s festive tree lot to pick up all of your holiday greenery.
“Home Is Where the Hearth Is powered by We Energies” is a favorite destination for photo ops at Zeidler Square (301 W. Michigan Avenue.) Take a snapshot in Santa’s chair and stroll the stunning lighted displays. Plus, in December, Zeidler Union Square will host Jingle Joy Boxes by Milwaukee Food & City Tours!
Red Arrow Park, a block east of the Milwaukee River across the street from the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts, features lights, decorations, and a beautiful ice skating rink in the heart of downtown.
It all kicks off Thursday, November 20th at 6:30pm, where Milwaukee’s ABC affiliate, WISN 12, will feature holiday acts on stage in a televised performance.
The lights and decorations downtown continue all the way through New Year’s Day 2026, because we’re all ready for a new year.
Of course, a TON of road trip routes bring you to downtown Milwaukee: I-94, I-43, I-794, U.S. 18, and Highways 32 and 145 bring you right to it. Highways 38 (Chase Avenue/6th Street), 57 (27th Street/Highland/20th Street), 59 (National Avenue), and 175 (Appleton and Lisbon Avenues, Miller Park Way) all bring you close.
A Country Christmas – it’s Wisconsin’s largest outdoor drive-thru lights display, now in its 30th year! It’s back as big as ever, letting families enjoy everything from the safety and comfort of their cars ! Country Christmas’ popular drive-thru holiday lights display covers the grounds of The Ingleside Hotel in Pewaukee, right along I-94 between County Highways T and G just north of Waukesha. Enjoy unique displays and exhibits like “Bearville,” an area of the trail where you will find giant teddy bears in a church scene, general store, butcher shop, and sausage factory. You can also enjoy Prairieville (Waukesha’s original name) and Old Time Waukesha miniature cities. plus a captivating 200-foot tunnel of 30,000 computerized, pulsating lights!
Road geeks (like us on the State Trunk Tour) love the old Mobilgas pumps along the Country Christmas Tour!
Admission to Country Christmas includes access to the following:
• The Country Christmas Trail features over a million holiday lights festively displayed on over a mile-long trail. As guests drive through the countryside, they will experience enchanting animated figures and holiday scenes from the comfort of their car.
• The Streets of Bethlehem is in a building at the end of the drive-through trail. You can get out of your car and walk through the collection of nearly life-sized Fontanini nativity figurines – a replica of the Pope’s personal collection.
• Christmas Village is another building at the end of the trail that you can get out of your car and visit. At Christmas Village, you can enjoy a hot cup of cocoa or an evening treat while surrounded by a cuddly cast of animated holiday characters. The newly rebuilt working model train display is cool, too!
Also, back by popular demand for the 3rd year, wagon rides will be available on the dates of November 30th-December 2nd & December 4th, December 7th – 11th, and December 14th – 18th. Rides start at 5:15pm, 6pm, 6:45pm, 7:30pm, and 8:15pm and are $20 per person. Wagon rides include hot chocolate and a Christmas cookie; they can be purchased online. Carload admission is not required for wagon rides.
Country Christmas 2025 runs November 14, 2025 through January 3, 2026. Hours for the event are 5pm to 9pm Sunday through Thursday and 5pm to 10pm on Friday, Saturday and Holidays. Admission is $30 per carload Sunday-Thursday, $35 Friday, Saturday, and other peak times. Pricing for large passenger vans and limos is $50 and minibus admission is $60. Senior home minibus admission is available for a discounted rate of $40.
Country Christmas at the Ingleside Address:
Ingleside Hotel
2810 Golf Road (County DR, along I-94)
Pewaukee, WI 53072
(262) 547-0201 Website
Craft beer and bacon lovers, this is for you! Racine Downtown hosts its 5th annual Downtown Racine Beer & Bacon Walk on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024 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 $40 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:
Bacon Mac N Cheese
Bacon-Wrapped Cocktail Weenies in ‘Secrect Stadium Sauce’
Bruschetta With Bacon
Smashers Pork Patties
Bacon Chicken Bombs
Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini
Bacon Crack
Porchetta Bacon
Bacon Cheese Bites
Bacon Potato Skins
Cheesy Bacon Flatbread
Bacon Cheddar Corn bread
Bacon BBQ Meatballs
Candied Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Bacon & Parmesan Stuffed Mushrooms
—just a sneak peek of the scrumptious lineup.
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 2nd. 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
Sister Bay has a beautiful marina along the waters of Green Bay. Hit the end of Highway 57 along Highway 42 for Marina Fest, which features live entertainment, plenty of food and drink, a water ski show by the Waterboard Warriors, a fireworks show, easy access to Al Johnson’s show you can watch goats on the roof, and more!
Sister Bay Marina Fest Schedule of Events
SATURDAY, AUG 30th
7:30 – 10 AM: Pancake Breakfast Presented by the Sister Bay & Liberty Grove Fire Department
8 AM – 4 PM: Used Book Sale
9 AM – 4 PM: Vintage Boat Show
9 AM – 5 PM: Arts & Crafts Fair with Stained Glass Mosaic Workshop
10 AM – 6 PM: Kid’s Bouncy Houses
11 AM – 4 PM: Kid’s Boat Building with the Lions Club
11 AM – 8 PM: Food Court
12 – 1:30 PM: Kid’s Ages 4-12 Pedal Tractor Pull – Presented by Peach Barn (Registration begins at 11 AM )
1 – 4 PM: Performance by Mistrial
4 – 7 PM: Performance by Modern Day Drifters
3:30 – 5 PM: Kid’s Ages 4-12 Pedal Tractor Pull Presented by Peach Barn (Registration begins at 2:30 PM)
7 – 10 PM: Performance by Big Mouth and the Power Tool Horns
Dusk: Fireworks Presented by Wild Tomato
SUNDAY, AUG 31st
9 AM – 5 PM: Arts & Crafts Fair
10 AM – 2 PM: Used Book Sale
10 AM – 6 PM: Kid’s Bouncy Houses
11 AM – 8 PM: Food Court
12 – 3 PM: Performance by Conscious Pilot
4 – 7 PM: Performance by Second Hand Stereo
Sister Bay Marina Fest Address:
Marina Park
10733 Wisconsin Highway 42 / Bay Shore Drive
Sister Bay, WI 54234
(920) 854-2812 Website
The World’s Largest celebration of Celtic music and culture, the 43rd Milwaukee Irish Fest happens Thursday, August 14th through Sunday, August 17th on Milwaukee’s lakefront! An amazing array of musical artists in Irish and Celtic music fill several stages.
Other Irish Fest activities include a Baking Contest, Photo and Poetry Contests, and “Red Hair & Freckles” Contest, a “Celtic Canines” exhibit, the Jameson Lounge (for whiskey tastings), a Marketplace filled with Irish crafts and other items from over 90 vendors, a Cultural Village, and much more.
Saturday the 16th features a 5K Run/Walk to benefit the Arthritis Foundation. Later that day you can enjoy the Lesaffre/Red Star Yeast Baking Contest. Dog lovers can check out Milwaukee Irish Fest’s Celtic Canine Area; this unique area gives you the chance to see and pet some of Ireland’s most popular dog breeds, meet and talk with some of the Midwest’s top breeders, and learn about grooming, general care and training. The Irish dog breeds include Irish Wolfhounds, Irish Terriers, Irish Red Setters, Irish Red and White Setters, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers, Irish Water Spaniels, Kerry Blue Terriers and Kerry Beagles. The Celtic Canines will be on display Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., on Saturday from noon to 7 p.m., and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For a full lineup of activities and deals for everything else, check out the Irish Fest website!
You can reach Irish Fest at Henry Maier Festival Park (aka the Summerfest grounds) along Milwaukee’s lakefront via I-794 and U.S. 18 most directly. Highways 32, 38, 59, and 145 all bring you within a mile of the grounds.
Milwaukee Irish Fest Address:
Henry Maier Festival Park (aka Summerfest Grounds)
200 N. Harbor Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53202
(414) 476-3378 Website
Lake Geneva knows how to throw a great party, and the 63rd annual Lake Geneva Venetian Fest – sponsored by the Lake Geneva Jaycees and running from Wednesday, August 13th through Sunday, August 17th – 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 Tournament, 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.
Check out the Lumberjack Show!
New last year the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack show is back and should be yet another great bit of entertainment for families of all sizes and ages. From log rolling, axe throwing, and wood-cutting, to chainsaw vs cross-cut racing, and quick chainsaw carving, there is something for everyone to enjoy. If you want great old-fashioned fun and family entertainment, the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show is where you’ll want to be.
New this year: Car Show! The inaugural Car Show run at Venetian Fest Sunday from 11am-3pm at Seminary Park, a great thing to check out ahead of all the bands, water ski shows, the lighted boat parade, and the fireworks that evening!
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 14th-18th!
Lake Geneva Venetian Fest Address:
Downtown Lake Geneva, centered at Riviera Ballroom
821 Wrigley Drive
Lake Geneva, WI 53147 Website
The Milwaukee Air & Water Show, sponsored by Waterstone Bank, offers one of the top air shows in the Midwest along the city’s gorgeous lakefront. They roar along Milwaukee’s lakefront Saturday, July 19th and Sunday, July 20th.
An “M” for Milwaukee at the Milwaukee Air & Water Show we snapped from Back Bay Park on Milwaukee’s East Side.
Exciting acts having performed in Milwaukee’s skies this July include the U.S. Navy P-8 Poseidon Patrol Aircraft, U.S. Navy Leapfrogs Parachute Team, the USAF T-38 “Talons”in 2-3 ship formation, the return of the U.S. Air Force A-10 Warthogs, the U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super-Hornet Tactical Demonstration Squadron, the Wisconsin Air National Guard KC-135 Stratotanker straight from Milwaukee’s own 128th Air Refueling Wing base, and the Firebirds X-treme Team. Solo aerobatics and stunts have been performed by Bill Stein, Mike Wiscus, Jack Knutson, Matt Chapman, and Lt. Colonel Josh “Tater” Boudreaux of the “Wild Blue Rodeo.”
On the waters of Lake Michigan, you’ve been able to enjoy the USCGC Bristol Bay (WLB), a 225-foot multi-mission buoy tender out of Detroit; a Water Show act from Milwaukee’s own Dennis Pinter, who demonstrated the “Air Chair” on the water! Daredevil and Pro Flyboard competitor Casey “Swizzle” McElwee who performed with his Hydroflyte and Flyboard act. We also hope to see the return of the Milwaukee Fire Department’s “Trident Fireboat,” which demonstrates its capabilities on the water, and witness an HH-60 Jayhawk Rescue Helicopter Air-Sea Rescue Demostration courtesy of the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station out of Traverse City, Michigan.
You can watch from Bradford Beach and many other areas along Milwaukee’s lakefront for free. Ticketed areas offer the closest proximity, the best views, hosted narration, the best access to concessions, and great seating. This is definitely a benchmark summer event in Milwaukee! U.S. 18, Highways 32, 36, 38, 57, 59, 145, 190 and more all bring to within eye (and definitely ear!) shot of the show.
Milwaukee Air & Water Show Schedule of Events (both days):
10 AM: Water Show
12 PM: National Anthem / Army Golden Knights
3 PM: US Navy Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Squadron
Milwaukee Air & Water Show Address:
2272 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53211
(414) 482-2069 Website
The Wisconsin Science Festival is a weeklong celebration of science all across the state, with major events in Madison, Wausau, Fond du Lac, Milwaukee, and more!
The Wisconsin Science Festival is a statewide celebration with activities for people throughout Wisconsin. Events include hands-on science exhibitions, demonstrations, performances, tours, pub nights, workshops and more. The Wisconsin Science Festival welcomes all disciplines utilizing science, technology, or art to explore and nurture curiosity. Each year, we spotlight a specific topic to emphasize its significance and value to the state and its people.
The official festival feature this year is AGRICULTURE! In 2024, the focus aims to showcase its profound impact on our world. Their mission is to illustrate the interconnectedness of agriculture within our state’s economy, society, well-being, and the overall future of humanity through the lens of science, art, and technology.
Wisconsin Science Festival features:
Explore the Fab Lab by taking a Fab Lab Tour Thursday or Friday in Madison.
Learn about the Magnificent Machines of Milwaukee at the Grohmann Museum in downtown Milwaukee (did you even KNOW the typewriter was invented in Milwaukee??) from the QWERTY keyboard to thermostats to motorcycles to outboard motors, Milwaukee’s inventive history with machines is nothing short of amazing. Check out exhibits Thursday-Sunday!
Meet a Wisconsin wooly mammoth, find out how to survive the Ice Age, touch real dinosaur bones and more at the Colossal Fossils Downtown Museum in Wausau Thursday-Saturday!
There are more than just events happening that are tied to the Wisconsin Science Festival! Check out their websitefor full schedules and details. It’s definitely a fun learning experience in locales across Wisconsin – road trip to a bunch of them!
Harvest Fair at Wisconsin State Fair Park features tons of fall-focused events, activities, live entertainment, competitions, scarecrow making and the much anticipated Pumpkin Bowling. It runs September 27-29, 2024 and has FREE admission.
Over 30 vendors will be there, selling everything from tasty food to cool crafts. Since it’s fall, imbibe in a pumpkin spice cream puff; enjoy pies from the Elegant Farmer; grab a cup of Kozie’s Harvest Stew; explore a multitude of Wisconsin cheeses; and The Micro will be offering over 60 varieties of craft beers. Prefer wine? No problem, Wineberry will be serving up red wines, white wines, even wine slushies.
Check out the Antique Tractors Display, the Backyard Circus, Camel and Pony Rides, a Farmers’ Market, Free Live Music, Giant Cookie Decorating, Hay Rides, a Kiddie Tractor Maze, “Make Your Own Caramel Apple” fun (they provide a lot of toppings), even a chance for kids to slide down the “World’s Largest Piggy Bank.” Free, lively entertainment is rocking stages all weekend long, including performances by the 5 Card Studs, Too Hype Crew, Rhythm Kings, The Toys and more will be on the Bank Five Nine Amphitheater with nightly entertainment presented by Bud Light. Plus, multiple Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Shows, presented by WaterStone Bank, are also on deck.
A major feature of Harvest Fair is the massive pumpkin patch, big enough to impress Linus from Peanuts (yes, we’re going old school here.)
Wisconsin State Fair Park is in West Allis, minutes west of downtown Milwaukee. I-94 and Highways 59 and 181 border the park; I-41, I-894, U.S. 18, U.S. 45, and Highway 100 all get you close.
Harvest Fair / Maker Faire Address:
Wisconsin State Fair Park
640 S. 84th Street (Highways 181 & 59)
West Allis, WI 53214
(800) 884-3247 Website
Welcome the transition from summer to fall in historic Cedarburg with the annual Cedarburg Wine & Harvest Festival! It happens Saturday, September 21st from 10-6 pm & Sunday, September 22nd from 10-5 pm. Both the abundance of Wisconsin’s homegrown produce and artisan food products plus the award-winning wines of Cedar Creek Winery are what initiated this free, family-oriented arts and crafts event.
The Festival Food Court offers plenty of options for a quick meal and the Farmer’s Market offers foodstuffs such as honey, syrup, cheese, sausage and jellies are available in each Marketplace located at Turner Street, Mill Street and Cleveland Street. Also, the three Marketplaces offers shopping for find unique handbags, hats, skin care products and more.
Cedarburg Wine & Festival fans can kick back and listen to live music all over town including Top Forty, Folk and Rock & Roll bands. The Gruber Law Offices Main Stage is open until 8:30 p.m. on Saturday night.
“Art on the Avenue” also features over 250 juried artist booths presented by the Cedarburg Garden Club, Cedarburg Cultural Center, Cedarburg Art Museum, and Ozaukee Art Center along Washington Avenue. Drop in at both the Cedarburg Cultural Center for the Cedarburg Artists Guild’s annual juried Fall Show and the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts for special exhibits. Take a free haywagon shuttle to their location.
On Saturday from 11am-4pm, check out the third Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off, with some weighing in at well over 1,000 pounds. You can also see oversize watermelons, tomatoes, and gourds – last year somebody brought a 2,145-pound pumpkin!
The annual Giant Pumpkin Charity Regatta will take place on Sunday. Previous regattas are YouTube favorites featuring gigantic, decorated, hollowed-out, floatable pumpkins, piloted by intrepid paddlers’ attempting to race across Cedar Creek to win cash for their favorite charity.
Cedarburg Wine & Harvest Festival also features Ashley’s Candyland for Kids with a variety of activities and entertainment geared for children including Popcorn the Clown, a bouncer, coloring tables, spin art, and Paint a Pumpkin. Pumpkin Carver extraordinaire Steve Dahlke will be turning large pumpkins into grotesque faces at the City Hall Lawn on Saturday.
Cedar Creek Settlement will feature a Courtyard Grill with specialty beers and grilled foods with live music each day. At Cedar Creek Winery, you’ll find wine by the glass or bottle, with tours available. Also at the Shops of Cedar Creek Settlement, the Winery’s Grape Stomp offers stomping fun for both adults and kids each day.
For specific times and a complete list of Cedarburg Wine & Harvest Festival events, a map/schedule will be available at two information booths as well as at most retailers throughout town. Click here for a downloadable version. The information booths are on Washington Avenue at Bridge Road and at Mill Street.
Cedarburg Wine and Harvest Festival Location
Check out some great fall fun in historic Cedarburg, along Historic Highway 57 (Washington Avenue) just north of Highway 167 and south of Highway 60. Highway 181 is just to the west. It’s only about 10-12 minutes off I-43/Highway 32, and it’s a great little town!
Fromm Petfest is a free family event on Milwaukee’s lakefront (yep, the Summerfest grounds!) will host a variety of fun pet-focused attractions and activities. Check out the Bier Garden & Dog Park, the Lure Course, Agility Course, Dock Diving, Doggie Dash, nutritional seminars, grooming competitions, the pet-themed marketplace, contests, live music, food, even a Kids’ Zone. And yes, parking is free too!
By the way, the Bier Garden & Dog Park allows you to enjoy a frosty beverage at their two-level Bier Garden and you can bring your dog over for some supervised off leash play at one of two fully fenced in play areas!
You can explore Adoption Avenue, where some pretty amazing dogs and cats could find their forever homes. Visit with dozens of rescues and non-profits that work tirelessly to better the lives of dogs and cats. Many will have adoptable pets on hand for people to meet along with information on adoption.
Fromm Petfest Music Schedule:
9:30 AM – Chris Esenberg – Chris is a singer/songwriter and Wisconsin native who specializes in pop covers and original songs. Playing everything from Chris Stapleton to David Bowie, Chris plays with a signature style that has made him a local mainstay.
11:30 AM – Kaleb Woods
Hailing from Sauk County, Wisconsin, Kaleb is a singer, guitarist, and songwriter specializing in bringing a fun, upbeat vibe for all to enjoy. Having performed at numerous venues and events throughout the Midwest including The Rave, Crystal Grand Theatre, Pabst Theater, Majestic Theatre, and Summerfest, and sharing his platform with notable artists such as John King, Chris Janson, and Eddie Montgomery of Montgomery Gentry, it’s no surprise that Kaleb was Southeastern Wisconsin’s top streamed musician via Reverbnation, a 2022 Best of Madison finalist, and March 2022’s featured new artist for 99.9 WJVL.
1:30 PM – Mookie Terremoto
Good old fashioned rock and roll from a Riverwest trio! Who is Mookie Terremoto? Find out for yourself.
3:30 PM – Front Porch Rockers
Since 2010 the Front Porch Rockers have been performing acoustic covers of your favorite songs from the 1950s through today. You may have heard them at Summerfest, the Wisconsin State Fair, or various area festivals and beer gardens. The Front Porch Rockers play upbeat music for good times.
Fromm Petfest Main Stage Schedule:
11:00 – 11:45am − MPD K9 Presentation
12:00 – 12:45pm − Noodles the Wonder Dog, a mixed-breed, former shelter dog who has won trick and talents contests across North America, including Good Morning America’s National “Dog vs. Dog” contest.
1:00 – 1:45pm − EmE MaGiC
Prepare to be amazed and entertained by the interactive magic and illusion of EmE MaGiC. The Milwaukee-local magician will bring magic, mentalism and comedy to the Main Stage and will roam the grounds to oohh and aww all two and four-legged guests.
2:00 – 2:45pm − Sailor the Poodle
This amazing canine performer, under the guidance of his trainer Alex “Popeye” Rothacker, jumps rope, walks a tightrope and balances a ball while walking, to name a few of his fun tricks.
3:30 – 4:30pm − Costume Contest and Owner/Pet Look-a-like Contest with Riggs from 103.7 Kiss FM and special guest judges!
Back by popular demand, come to watch or click to enter the Fromm Petfest Pet/Owner Look-a-Like contest or the fan favorite costume contest. Grand prizes include a six-month supply of Fromm pet food and more!
Fromm Petfest Address:
The event is happening right where Summerfest takes place along Milwaukee’s lakefront near downtown and the Historic Third Ward. You can access the grounds via I-794, I-43/94, U.S. 18, and Highways 32, 38, 59, and 145.
200 N. Harbor Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53202 Fromm Petfest Website
Manitowoc celebrates Sputnik Fest due to an out-of-this-world experience on September 5, 1962 when a piece of the Soviet satellite Sputnik IV crashed to earth, just north of downtown right in the middle of 8th Street/U.S. 10/Highway 42. It was still glowing from the heat of re-entry when it landed! A brass ring in the street notes the exact spot of impact. The city celebrates Sputnik Fest to commemorate the glowing visitor’s anniversary, where you’ll see some interesting costumes and space-related activities. Basically at Sputnik Fest, science fiction rules the day – even though Sputnik itself was very real. See 5 Things about Sputnikfest in Manitowoc (and why you should go) for more on that.
Circle marks the spot where a piece of Sputnik landed. It’s the whole reason for Sputnik Fest.
The landing site of that piece of Sputnikfest – which inspired this whole thing – is right in front of the Rahr-West Art Museum, which hosts the event and holds a cast from the original piece of the spacecraft – the original was returned to the Russians – that is available for viewing all year.
The festival draws plenty of space fans – with Star Wars and Star Trek characters well-represented – costume contests, music, go-kart racing down 8th Street (there’s a bit of a hill towards the heart of downtown), food, drinks, and even an “alien drop”, where hundreds of mini-alien figures are dropped from a cherry picker – some with prizes. Even the hosting group, the Rahr-West Art Museum, calls it a “wacky tacky” weekend. Music from bands like Bazooka Joe add to the fun! Family fun continues with the Cosmic Kids Creation Station, which offers tye-dye, clay painting, and rocket building, plus live statues, portrait paintings, and more.
Sputnikfest Schedule of Events:
11:00-2:00PM DJ
11:30AM Photo Op with Sputnikfest Police (courtesy of the Masquers theater company)
12:00-5:00PM Art Space and Children’s Games
12:00-Noon 5K Art Walk/Run (register at: https://runsignup.com/Race/WI/Manitowoc/Sputnikfest5KWalkRun)
1:00-3:00PM Meet and Greet with 501st Wisconsin Garrison
12:00PM Lakeshore 1st Robotics
2:00-6:00PM Musical entertainment by XPOSED 4 HEADS
3:00PM Pet Parade and contest
4:00PM Cosmic Kids Parade and contest
5:00PM Captain Space Debris (Alien Adults) Parade and Contest
6:00PM Alien Raffle Drop
Kites Over Lake Michigan is one of the largest kite festivals in the Midwest and attracts kite fliers from all over. Check out giant show kites, precision stunt kite teams flying dual- and quad-line kites, spectacular and colorful ground displays, running of the bols, and games for kids! Learn how to fly two and quad line stunt kites from the experts.
Kites Over Lake Michigan continues at Two Rivers High School with other activities taking place along Lake Michigan nearby. It will take place Saturday, August 31st and Sunday, September 1st. This includes a night fly on Saturday night, conditions permitting.
Since the High School serves as the festival grounds, Walsh Field (on 22nd Street just before the turn into Neshotah Beach) will serve as the overflow parking area. A shuttle bus service will run between Walsh Field and the high school both days from 11 am to 5 pm. Please note that the bus will be limited to 23 people per trip to allow for social distancing, more if family members living together are present. All those using the shuttle will have to be masked. Also, pets are not allowed anywhere on school property.
Good news: Free kite making for kids will continue, taking place Sunday 9/2/24 at 9.00 am.
Great News: The Fireworks Show WILL take place, and it will happen Saturday evening at 8 pm. Fireworks will be shot off behind the Coast Guard Station, allowing people to spread out over a wide area and still have optimum viewing from various places along the waterfront.
Highway 42 is the road to both Neshotah Beach and Two Rivers High School; Highway 147 brings you to Two Rivers from the north, and Highway 310 provides quick access to and from I-43. Check out this colorful fest (which we need in 2020) September 5th and 6th!
Kites Over Lake Michigan Event Address:
Two Rivers High School
4519 Lincoln Avenue (Highway 42)
Two Rivers, WI 54241
(920) 793-9599 Website
Calendar of Events
Calendar of Events › Family
January 28, 2026 – February 1, 2026
Lake Geneva Winterfest & America’s Snow Sculpting Invitational
Be here to witness these teams at work during an epic 72-hour competition where their artistry is put to the test in creating remarkable, larger-than-life snow sculptures.
2026 TEAMS
• Block #1: Illinois – Team Cave People From Space
• Block #2: Michigan 2 – Team Soggy Mitten Boys
• Block #3: Wisconsin 2 – Team Snow Cronies
• Block #4: Mexico – Team Mexico
• Block #5: Wisconsin 1 – Team Sculptora Borealis
• Block #6: Minnesota 1 – Team Doing Our Best
• Block #7: Wisconsin 3 – Team Snow Blind
• Block #8: Turkey – Team Turkey
• Block #9: Pennsylvania – Team Jack of All Lanterns
• Block #10: Minnesota 2 – Team Snow Van Gogh
• Block #11: Alaska – Team AK Department of Snow
• Block #12: Iowa + Vermont – Team A NorEaster in Dubuque
• Block #13: Michigan 1 – Team Smith Family
• Block #14: Wisconsin 4 – Team Up To Snow Good
• Block #15: Colorado – Team Enchanted Forest
In addition to the snow sculpting competition, you’ll find more wintery fun during Winterfest week, including the 6th annual Downtown Ice Sculpture Walk, Bonfires on the Beach, a Cocoa Crawl and many more events, activities and specials around Lake Geneva and the surrounding area. The walk is just steps away from the snow sculpting competition, with dozens of artfully crafted ice sculptures adorning the front faces of shops, restaurants, and other businesses throughout the Downtown district. Ice sculptures will be installed Friday morning, January 30th and remain on display as long as the cold weather permits!
Barrique Bistro & Wine Bar | 835 Wrigley Drive
Bloomingbyrds | 755 W. Main Street
Brick & Mortar Home | 832 Geneva Street
Brick & Mortar Home and Outdoor | 222 Center Street
Clearwater Outdoor Sports | 744 W. Main Street
Cornerstone Shop & Gallery | 214 Broad Street
Egg Harbor Café | 827 W Main Street
Evr drygds | 719 W. Main Street
Fancy Fair Mall | 830 W Main Street
Geneva Gifts | 150 Broad Street
Haberdapper | 253 Broad Street
Harbor Shores on Lake Geneva | 300 Wrigley Drive
Interstate Insurance Group | 811 Wrigley Drive (Popeye’s)
Kilwins | 772 Main Street
Lake Geneva Lifestyle/Donna Brongiel | 703 Main Street
Lake Geneva Motel | 201 Wrigley Drive (Visitor Info Center)
Lake Geneva Spice Company | 255 Broad Street
Marigold | 725 W Main Street
Overland Sheepskin Co. | 752 W. Main Street
Queen Bee Artisan Market | 830 W. Main Street
Sopra Bistro | 724 Main Street
The Bottle Shop | 617 W. Main Street
The Candle Mercantile | 870 W. Main Street
The Olive Oil Shops | 221 Broad Street
Thumbs Up | 260 Broad Street
Winterfest activities focus on downtown Lake Geneva, which lies right along Highway 50. U.S. 12 and Highway 120 are close to the east and Highway 67 is a few miles to the west near Delavan. It’s easy to get to – and a total blast!
Lake Geneva Winterfest & America’s Snow Sculpting Invitational Address:
Downtown Lake Geneva/Riviera Park
201 Wrigley Drive
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
(262) 248-4416
Website
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November 28, 2025 – December 31, 2025
Oshkosh Celebration of Lights
The Oshkosh Celebration of Lights is back for its 24th year! Once again this lively event is taking place at the EAA Grounds at Wittman Regional Airport, where the EAA AirVenture takes place. That puts it along I-41 between the Highway 26 & 44/91 interchanges for easy access – and it’s just as much fun! This year, it runs from Friday, November 28th through Wednesday, December 31st every evening from 5:30pm to 9:00pm.
Peruse a beautiful stretch of illuminated holiday wonder. A 100-foot tree, sculptured scenes, twinkling animated light displays and accompanying holiday music makes this part of Oshkosh magical during the holidays.
Along with walking or driving through , you can enjoy a horse-pulled wagon ride through the grounds on select nights! You can book and pay for a carriage at 920-303-9200; they reserve rides in half-hour increments from 6pm to 8:30pm on the Monday and Wednesday evenings of December 1st, 3rd, 8th, 10th, 15th, and 17th. Reservations are required. Horse-pulled wagon rides hold up to 16 people and run $15 for adults, $10 for kids 4-18, kids under 4 are free provided they sit on a lap. The ticket also includes the drive through the park.
General Admission per carload is $20.00 with $5.00 off with a donation of a sealed hygiene item or non-perishable in-date food item. Food pantries across the area – scheduled by United Way – benefit from Celebration of Lights, so you’re helping for the holidays, too! You can also enter the Beck’s Meats $50 gift card weekly drawing.
Oshkosh Celebration of Lights is open every day, 5:30pm – 9:00pm. I-41, U.S. 45, and Highways 21, 26, 44, 76, and 91 all bring you to Oshkosh!
Oshkosh Celebration of Lights Address:
EAA Grounds
1858 Neunteufel Avenue
Oshkosh, WI 54902
(920) 303-9200
Website
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November 28, 2025 – January 1, 2026
La Crosse Rotary Lights
OVER THREE MILLION LIGHTS. That’s crazy! And beautiful. And festive. And there’s a lot more to see at the La Crosse Rotary Lights, that holiday special event that runs November 28th through December 31st at Riverside Park. The parade kicks everything off at 6pm on the 28th, with the opening ceremony immediately following. Santa will be on hand to throw the switch turning on all these lights (and probably momentarily dimming some others across town – that’s gotta be a huge power draw!), too. Helicopter rides are back this year, too!
Among the splendor is a 140- foot Christmas tree and plenty of animated light displays. Live nativity presentation on weekends until Christmas, although the number of participants will be limited this year. Santa, after opening the festivities, will continue to be there for you and the kids until December 23rd.
Here’s how it works if you choose to drive through it: The line forms down State Street and continues to the North on 2nd Street. On busy nights, the line will back up onto 3rd Street/Copeland Ave/U.S. 53. Roads will be blocked so that you cannot enter from State Street, northbound on Second Street, or from Vine Street. You can tune your car stereo to their local Christmas channel for good musical accompaniment while joining the caravan of onlookers from the comfort – and heat – of your car.
If you prefer to walk or take a carriage ride through the display, you do not need to wait in line. There is usually street parking available near the park or there are several parking ramps within walking distance. Get Parking Ramp Information HERE. Horse-drawn carriages are available most weekends and run $20/couple or $30/family. No Tuesday night hayrides this year, but you can still get free s’mores at the fire pit, where supplies will be individually packaged.. You’ll also still be able to experience the helicopter rides for an amazing view! New additions from last year that they’ve kept include a brand new sleigh for photos, heated restrooms available on both the north and south ends of the park, and the hologram display.
Remember, Santa shows up nightly from 5 – 8 pm until December 23rd (of course, he has to hurry back to the North Pole right after that and get his sleigh ready for that worldwide trip) and there’s no sitting on his lap.
Weather permitting, the Chad Erickson Ice Rink is available for skating, Monday through Friday 5pm-8pm, Saturday Noon to 8pm, and Sunday Noon to 6pm. The warming hut and skate rental are back, and of course you can bring your own skates! A heated igloo will be available if you need to warm up and/or change. You can call (608) 784-9993 to check on Skating Rink Status and information; voicemail messages are updated daily.
New this year is All Abilities Night on Monday, December 1st. They will be adjusting the lights and music to accommodate individuals that may not have been able to experience the show in the past due to flashing lights and loud music.
The hours for La Crosse Rotary Lights are 5-10pm daily. On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, the hours are 5-9pm; New Year’s Eve, it will stay open until 1 am; meaning technically La Crosse Rotary Lights lasts into January 1, 2026.
The whole La Crosse Rotary Lights admission and experience is free of charge, but Rotary Lights does welcome donations; monetary or non-perishable food item donations are strongly encouraged. Get the full Entertainment Schedule of Events here!
Riverside Park (just off U.S. 53)
410 Veterans Memorial Drive
La Crosse, WI 54601
(608) 784-9993
Website
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November 28, 2025 – December 31, 2025
Marshfield Rotary Winter Wonderland
There is no admission charge; however free will donations of food and cash are accepted to help the local food pantries and keep it running. Since it began in 2006, Marshfield Rotary Winter Wonderland has provided over 670,000 food items to food pantries in Marshfield and the surrounding area.
Can you bring your pets? Sure, but only if you have them ride with you in the car on the drive-thru portion of the lights. Since it takes place at Wildwood Zoo, pets are not allowed outside for the sake of the zoo animals’ safety. (You can, however, bring kids!)
Winter Wonderland will be open 7 days a week starting right after Thanksgiving and continuing through New Years Eve. The grounds will be open from 5pm to 9pm. They typically stay open even during inclement weather but you can verify on specific night on their Facebook page.
Wildwood Park & Zoo is easy to access on a road trip; it’s along Central Avenue, the Historic Route of Highway 13, on the south side of Marshfield not too far north of U.S. 10 and Highway 80. Highway 13’s “through-pass” route and the southern terminus of Highway 97 also come near, and a southerly ride on Central past downtown brings you right there. There are walk-in entrances at both the north and south sides of the Zoo, along with parking at each, and a drive through entrance off of W. 17th Street. Parking lot spaces are limited; additional parking can be found along Balboa, Adams and Locust, all which run north to south.
Marshfield Rotary Winter Wonderland Address:
Wildwood Park & Zoo
1800 S. Roddis Avenue (for GPS)
Marshfield, WI 54449
Website
Facebook Page
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November 28, 2025 – December 30, 2025
Lights in Lincoln Park, Manitowoc
The Lincoln Park Zoo is a terrific free zoo in the “Coolest Coast” city of Manitowoc. Every holiday season, Lights In Lincoln Park dazzles with a “twinkly bright drive-thru wonder” November 28th-29th, December 4th-6th, and then EVERY evening from December 11th through the 29th, 2025!
Along with beautiful lights on trees, trellises and more, enjoy over 70 wild animal light displays, many with animated characters. Among them is animated elephant, a wood duck, a standing polar bear, an animated wolf, and whispering pine tree… just to give you an idea of what you’ll get to enjoy. This is the 14th annual Lights in Lincoln Park and they manage to add new features every year.
Admission is $5 donation per car and proceeds go to benefit zoo educational programs and enhancements to the Lincoln Park Zoo. You can enter from Waldo/Lincoln Boulevard, right where U.S. 10 and Highway 42 meet. It’s just north of downtown Manitowoc, about five minutes east of I-43, following the U.S. 10 (Waldo Blvd.) exit. It’s just west of Highway 42/Memorial Drive, which is a beautiful drive along the shores of Lake Michigan between Manitowoc and Two Rivers.
Lights In Lincoln Park Hours:
November 28th – December 6th: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm- Thursday, Friday and Saturday
December 11th – December 29th: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm- Every Night
You can visit Santa on Cabin 1 on Friday nights: November 28th and December 5th, 12th, and 19th.
Lights in Lincoln Park Family Night Fun Walks are Tuesday, November 25th, Wednesday, December 3rd, and Tuesday, December 30th, 2025 from 5:00 pm- 8:00 pm, featuring a fun walk through the Lincoln Park Lights. It’s a great way for the whole family to enjoy the lights and get some steps in! Admission for the Family Night Fun Walk is $5/person or $10/family.
Lights In Lincoln Park Address:
Lincoln Park Zoo
900 Quay Street (just off Highway 42, blocks from U.S. 10)
Manitowoc, WI 54220
Website
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November 28, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Sam’s Christmas Village & Light Tour, Somerset
Sam’s Christmas Village & Light Tour is a HUGE show that claims over 16 MILLION LIGHTS – so it’s probably visible from space. It runs November 28th, 2025 – January 1st, 2026. Sam’s, located right along the Apple River in Somerset, features a 1/2-mile walk-through light tour, plenty of woods with trees adorned with holiday lights, a 500-foot light tunnel, a 50-foot animated tree, and fun for all ages across 40+ acres of holiday beauty. Sam’s also features a European-style Christmas market with plenty of ideas for holiday gifts, treats, and a lot more.
Sam’s Christmas Village & Light Tour is open seven days a week. On select Mondays and Tuesdays, it’s Drive-Thru only; Wednesdays through Sundays, it’s a walk-through. Hours are 5 pm – 9 pm Sundays through Thursdays, 5 pm – 10 pm Fridays and Saturdays.
Tickets range from $15 for adults for the drive-thru $22 for the walk-thru. Kids ages 4-10 are $19; it’s free for kids 3 and younger. Military IDs get your 50% off admission as well. Parking is $10 cash on walk-through nights. You can also buy multi-day passes and there are special evening promotions on occasion, get more details here.
For even more adventure, Sam’s offers S’more Cabins, which you can book starting at $129 and enjoy the heated cabin, a S’more kit for up to 8 people, a campfire starter kit, firewood, and even a special visit from Santa. They have 21 cabins to choose from, and you can book them on drive-thru nights.
You’ll find Sam’s Christmas Village & Light Tour just off Highways 35 and 64 in Somerset, Wisconsin, along the Apple River in St. Croix County.
Sam’s Christmas Village & Light Tour Address:
710 Spring Street
Somerset, WI 54025
(715) 247-5099
Website
Instagram Page
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November 28, 2025 – January 3, 2026
Janesville Holiday Light Show at Rotary Botanical Gardens
The Janesville Holiday Light Show at Rotary Botanical Gardens is an annual holiday highlight in Janesville, the “City of Parks.” Follow the illuminated garden pathways on an evening stroll through the 20-acre botanical gardens, where the wintry garden paths are brought to life with more than 2 MILLION lights, themed light displays and animations, beautifully decorated trees, dangling icicle lights hung from the tallest trees in the Garden and more. Santa makes periodic stops (get the dates HERE), and they have other events like Silly Scarf Night, Holiday Sweater Night, and more.
Back by popular demand are the Selfie Stops & Photo Opps, with fun props and amazing backdrops that offer holiday photo opportunities both indoors and out. Step inside to enjoy a warm beverage as you watch the 200′ electric model train display, hand-sewn quilts, festive local musicians and holiday shopping.
NEW in 2025, you are invited to linger and celebrate in their indoor Christmas Market from December 13-23, featuring Artisan vendors with one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, a limited-edition 2025 holiday ornament, and holiday food & drink!
The Holiday Light Show is open from 4:30pm – 9:00pm from November 28th, 2025 through January 3rd, 2026.
Admission is $15 for people age 13 and up online, $18 at the gate. Children 3-12 are $5, kids 2 and under are free. Get Tickets Here!
On-site parking will be available, but you can also take advantage of their FREE shuttle service, beginning at 4:15pm each day of the show. The shuttle picks up visitors at Dawson Field and drops them off at Rotary Botanical Gardens. The shuttle will run throughout the duration of the Holiday Light Show. Dawson Field is located minutes from Rotary Botanical Gardens, at 920 Beloit Ave, Janesville, Wisconsin, 53546.
The Janesville Rotary Gardens are (obviously) in Janesville, where Highways 11, 14, 26, and U.S. 51 all come together, as well as I-39/90.
Janesville Holiday Light Show at Rotary Botanical Gardens Address:
1455 Palmer Drive
Janesville, WI 53545
(608) 752-3885
Website
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November 20, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival
The annual Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival celebrates its 26th year and once again Milwaukee will sparkle with lights and decorations in venues across downtown, including up and down Wisconsin Avenue, where every intersection features iconic chandeliers.
The Jingle Bus is taking this year off again, but you can enjoy Milwaukee’s joyous, open-air winter fest on foot or by car (heck, even by bike if you want) by visiting all the decorated parks as well as the dazzling downtown decor on foot or in the car.
An earlier podcast called the MKE Jingle Bus Tour featuring Milwaukee Downtown BID CEO Beth Weirick and State Trunk Tour founder Eric Paulsen (who also served as a DJ on 95.7 BIG FM in Milwaukee during this interview) describing the Holiday Lights at each stop is available in five brief, illustrative podcast episodes:
Episode 1: Community Spirit Park at Cathedral Square Park:
Episode 2: HiBEARnation Station at Pere Marquette Park:
Episode 3: Red Arrow Park:
Episode 4: Home Is Where the Hearth Is powered by We Energies at Zeidler Union Square:
Episode 5: Wisconsin Avenue – Vel R. Phillips Avenue to Prospect Avenue:
The four decorated parks for the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival include:
“Community Spirit Park presented by Madison Medical Affiliates” at Cathedral Square Park (520 E. Wells Street, U.S. 18 & Highway 32), home to over 100 decorated evergreens along with Santa’s Mailbox presented by Educators Credit Union and Serving Older Adults. Children can drop their letter to Santa in the box through December 13th and receive a personalized response in return.
“Tinsel Town Express” at Pere Marquette Park (900 N. Plankinton Avenue, just south of U.S. 18/State Street) features a lighted scene from the North Pole’s special delivery depot. Plus, visit Ideal Property Management’s festive tree lot to pick up all of your holiday greenery.
“Home Is Where the Hearth Is powered by We Energies” is a favorite destination for photo ops at Zeidler Square (301 W. Michigan Avenue.) Take a snapshot in Santa’s chair and stroll the stunning lighted displays. Plus, in December, Zeidler Union Square will host Jingle Joy Boxes by Milwaukee Food & City Tours!
Red Arrow Park, a block east of the Milwaukee River across the street from the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts, features lights, decorations, and a beautiful ice skating rink in the heart of downtown.
It all kicks off Thursday, November 20th at 6:30pm, where Milwaukee’s ABC affiliate, WISN 12, will feature holiday acts on stage in a televised performance.
The lights and decorations downtown continue all the way through New Year’s Day 2026, because we’re all ready for a new year.
Download their full guide (.pdf) or keep up on their website for more as we go through the holiday!
Of course, a TON of road trip routes bring you to downtown Milwaukee: I-94, I-43, I-794, U.S. 18, and Highways 32 and 145 bring you right to it. Highways 38 (Chase Avenue/6th Street), 57 (27th Street/Highland/20th Street), 59 (National Avenue), and 175 (Appleton and Lisbon Avenues, Miller Park Way) all bring you close.
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November 14, 2025 – January 3, 2026
Country Christmas at the Ingleside, Pewaukee
A Country Christmas – it’s Wisconsin’s largest outdoor drive-thru lights display, now in its 30th year! It’s back as big as ever, letting families enjoy everything from the safety and comfort of their cars ! Country Christmas’ popular drive-thru holiday lights display covers the grounds of The Ingleside Hotel in Pewaukee, right along I-94 between County Highways T and G just north of Waukesha. Enjoy unique displays and exhibits like “Bearville,” an area of the trail where you will find giant teddy bears in a church scene, general store, butcher shop, and sausage factory. You can also enjoy Prairieville (Waukesha’s original name) and Old Time Waukesha miniature cities. plus a captivating 200-foot tunnel of 30,000 computerized, pulsating lights!
Admission to Country Christmas includes access to the following:
• The Country Christmas Trail features over a million holiday lights festively displayed on over a mile-long trail. As guests drive through the countryside, they will experience enchanting animated figures and holiday scenes from the comfort of their car.
• The Streets of Bethlehem is in a building at the end of the drive-through trail. You can get out of your car and walk through the collection of nearly life-sized Fontanini nativity figurines – a replica of the Pope’s personal collection.
• Christmas Village is another building at the end of the trail that you can get out of your car and visit. At Christmas Village, you can enjoy a hot cup of cocoa or an evening treat while surrounded by a cuddly cast of animated holiday characters. The newly rebuilt working model train display is cool, too!
Country Christmas 2025 runs November 14, 2025 through January 3, 2026.
Hours for the event are 5pm to 9pm Sunday through Thursday and 5pm to 10pm on Friday, Saturday and Holidays.
Admission is $30 per carload Sunday-Thursday, $35 Friday, Saturday, and other peak times. Pricing for large passenger vans and limos is $50 and minibus admission is $60. Senior home minibus admission is available for a discounted rate of $40.
Country Christmas at the Ingleside Address:
Ingleside Hotel
2810 Golf Road (County DR, along I-94)
Pewaukee, WI 53072
(262) 547-0201
Website
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November 1, 2025
Downtown Racine Beer & Bacon Walk
Craft beer and bacon lovers, this is for you! Racine Downtown hosts its 5th annual Downtown Racine Beer & Bacon Walk on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024 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 $40 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:
—just a sneak peek of the scrumptious lineup.
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 2nd. 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
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August 30, 2025 – August 31, 2025
Marina Fest
Sister Bay has a beautiful marina along the waters of Green Bay. Hit the end of Highway 57 along Highway 42 for Marina Fest, which features live entertainment, plenty of food and drink, a water ski show by the Waterboard Warriors, a fireworks show, easy access to Al Johnson’s show you can watch goats on the roof, and more!
Sister Bay Marina Fest Schedule of Events
7:30 – 10 AM: Pancake Breakfast Presented by the Sister Bay & Liberty Grove Fire Department
8 AM – 4 PM: Used Book Sale
9 AM – 4 PM: Vintage Boat Show
9 AM – 5 PM: Arts & Crafts Fair with Stained Glass Mosaic Workshop
10 AM – 6 PM: Kid’s Bouncy Houses
11 AM – 4 PM: Kid’s Boat Building with the Lions Club
11 AM – 8 PM: Food Court
12 – 1:30 PM: Kid’s Ages 4-12 Pedal Tractor Pull – Presented by Peach Barn (Registration begins at 11 AM )
1 – 4 PM: Performance by Mistrial
4 – 7 PM: Performance by Modern Day Drifters
3:30 – 5 PM: Kid’s Ages 4-12 Pedal Tractor Pull Presented by Peach Barn (Registration begins at 2:30 PM)
7 – 10 PM: Performance by Big Mouth and the Power Tool Horns
Dusk: Fireworks Presented by Wild Tomato
SUNDAY, AUG 31st
9 AM – 5 PM: Arts & Crafts Fair
10 AM – 2 PM: Used Book Sale
10 AM – 6 PM: Kid’s Bouncy Houses
11 AM – 8 PM: Food Court
12 – 3 PM: Performance by Conscious Pilot
4 – 7 PM: Performance by Second Hand Stereo
Sister Bay Marina Fest Address:
Marina Park
10733 Wisconsin Highway 42 / Bay Shore Drive
Sister Bay, WI 54234
(920) 854-2812
Website
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August 14, 2025 – August 17, 2025
Irish Fest Milwaukee
The World’s Largest celebration of Celtic music and culture, the 43rd Milwaukee Irish Fest happens Thursday, August 14th through Sunday, August 17th on Milwaukee’s lakefront! An amazing array of musical artists in Irish and Celtic music fill several stages.
Other Irish Fest activities include a Baking Contest, Photo and Poetry Contests, and “Red Hair & Freckles” Contest, a “Celtic Canines” exhibit, the Jameson Lounge (for whiskey tastings), a Marketplace filled with Irish crafts and other items from over 90 vendors, a Cultural Village, and much more.
Saturday the 16th features a 5K Run/Walk to benefit the Arthritis Foundation. Later that day you can enjoy the Lesaffre/Red Star Yeast Baking Contest. Dog lovers can check out Milwaukee Irish Fest’s Celtic Canine Area; this unique area gives you the chance to see and pet some of Ireland’s most popular dog breeds, meet and talk with some of the Midwest’s top breeders, and learn about grooming, general care and training. The Irish dog breeds include Irish Wolfhounds, Irish Terriers, Irish Red Setters, Irish Red and White Setters, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers, Irish Water Spaniels, Kerry Blue Terriers and Kerry Beagles. The Celtic Canines will be on display Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., on Saturday from noon to 7 p.m., and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For a full lineup of activities and deals for everything else, check out the Irish Fest website!
You can reach Irish Fest at Henry Maier Festival Park (aka the Summerfest grounds) along Milwaukee’s lakefront via I-794 and U.S. 18 most directly. Highways 32, 38, 59, and 145 all bring you within a mile of the grounds.
Milwaukee Irish Fest Address:
Henry Maier Festival Park (aka Summerfest Grounds)
200 N. Harbor Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53202
(414) 476-3378
Website
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August 13, 2025 – August 17, 2025
Lake Geneva Venetian Fest
The Entertainment Pavilion includes a beer tent and stage for live music. Here’s the Music Schedule:
Wednesday 8/14: Sons of Sconnie, 8pm-midnight
Thursday 8/15: Rok Brigade, 8pm-midnight
Friday 8/18: Kelly Daniels, 8pm-midnight
Saturday 8/19: Rebecca and the Grey Notes, 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: Venetian All-Stars, 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 Tournament, 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.
Check out the Lumberjack Show!
New last year the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack show is back and should be yet another great bit of entertainment for families of all sizes and ages. From log rolling, axe throwing, and wood-cutting, to chainsaw vs cross-cut racing, and quick chainsaw carving, there is something for everyone to enjoy. If you want great old-fashioned fun and family entertainment, the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show is where you’ll want to be.
New this year: Car Show! The inaugural Car Show run at Venetian Fest Sunday from 11am-3pm at Seminary Park, a great thing to check out ahead of all the bands, water ski shows, the lighted boat parade, and the fireworks that evening!
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 14th-18th!
Lake Geneva Venetian Fest Address:
Downtown Lake Geneva, centered at Riviera Ballroom
821 Wrigley Drive
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
Website
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July 19, 2025 – July 20, 2025
Milwaukee WaterStone Bank Air & Water Show
The Milwaukee Air & Water Show, sponsored by Waterstone Bank, offers one of the top air shows in the Midwest along the city’s gorgeous lakefront. They roar along Milwaukee’s lakefront Saturday, July 19th and Sunday, July 20th.
Exciting acts having performed in Milwaukee’s skies this July include the U.S. Navy P-8 Poseidon Patrol Aircraft, U.S. Navy Leapfrogs Parachute Team, the USAF T-38 “Talons”in 2-3 ship formation, the return of the U.S. Air Force A-10 Warthogs, the U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super-Hornet Tactical Demonstration Squadron, the Wisconsin Air National Guard KC-135 Stratotanker straight from Milwaukee’s own 128th Air Refueling Wing base, and the Firebirds X-treme Team. Solo aerobatics and stunts have been performed by Bill Stein, Mike Wiscus, Jack Knutson, Matt Chapman, and Lt. Colonel Josh “Tater” Boudreaux of the “Wild Blue Rodeo.”
On the waters of Lake Michigan, you’ve been able to enjoy the USCGC Bristol Bay (WLB), a 225-foot multi-mission buoy tender out of Detroit; a Water Show act from Milwaukee’s own Dennis Pinter, who demonstrated the “Air Chair” on the water! Daredevil and Pro Flyboard competitor Casey “Swizzle” McElwee who performed with his Hydroflyte and Flyboard act. We also hope to see the return of the Milwaukee Fire Department’s “Trident Fireboat,” which demonstrates its capabilities on the water, and witness an HH-60 Jayhawk Rescue Helicopter Air-Sea Rescue Demostration courtesy of the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station out of Traverse City, Michigan.
You can watch from Bradford Beach and many other areas along Milwaukee’s lakefront for free. Ticketed areas offer the closest proximity, the best views, hosted narration, the best access to concessions, and great seating. This is definitely a benchmark summer event in Milwaukee! U.S. 18, Highways 32, 36, 38, 57, 59, 145, 190 and more all bring to within eye (and definitely ear!) shot of the show.
Milwaukee Air & Water Show Schedule of Events (both days):
10 AM: Water Show
12 PM: National Anthem / Army Golden Knights
3 PM: US Navy Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Squadron
Milwaukee Air & Water Show Address:
2272 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53211
(414) 482-2069
Website
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October 14, 2024 – October 20, 2024
Wisconsin Science Festival
The Wisconsin Science Festival is a statewide celebration with activities for people throughout Wisconsin. Events include hands-on science exhibitions, demonstrations, performances, tours, pub nights, workshops and more. The Wisconsin Science Festival welcomes all disciplines utilizing science, technology, or art to explore and nurture curiosity. Each year, we spotlight a specific topic to emphasize its significance and value to the state and its people.
The official festival feature this year is AGRICULTURE! In 2024, the focus aims to showcase its profound impact on our world. Their mission is to illustrate the interconnectedness of agriculture within our state’s economy, society, well-being, and the overall future of humanity through the lens of science, art, and technology.
Wisconsin Science Festival features:
There are more than just events happening that are tied to the Wisconsin Science Festival! Check out their website for full schedules and details. It’s definitely a fun learning experience in locales across Wisconsin – road trip to a bunch of them!
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September 27, 2024 – September 29, 2024
Harvest Fair
Harvest Fair at Wisconsin State Fair Park features tons of fall-focused events, activities, live entertainment, competitions, scarecrow making and the much anticipated Pumpkin Bowling. It runs September 27-29, 2024 and has FREE admission.
Over 30 vendors will be there, selling everything from tasty food to cool crafts. Since it’s fall, imbibe in a pumpkin spice cream puff; enjoy pies from the Elegant Farmer; grab a cup of Kozie’s Harvest Stew; explore a multitude of Wisconsin cheeses; and The Micro will be offering over 60 varieties of craft beers. Prefer wine? No problem, Wineberry will be serving up red wines, white wines, even wine slushies.
Check out the Antique Tractors Display, the Backyard Circus, Camel and Pony Rides, a Farmers’ Market, Free Live Music, Giant Cookie Decorating, Hay Rides, a Kiddie Tractor Maze, “Make Your Own Caramel Apple” fun (they provide a lot of toppings), even a chance for kids to slide down the “World’s Largest Piggy Bank.” Free, lively entertainment is rocking stages all weekend long, including performances by the 5 Card Studs, Too Hype Crew, Rhythm Kings, The Toys and more will be on the Bank Five Nine Amphitheater with nightly entertainment presented by Bud Light. Plus, multiple Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Shows, presented by WaterStone Bank, are also on deck.
A major feature of Harvest Fair is the massive pumpkin patch, big enough to impress Linus from Peanuts (yes, we’re going old school here.)
And, a lot more! Check their website for full schedules and details.
Wisconsin State Fair Park is in West Allis, minutes west of downtown Milwaukee. I-94 and Highways 59 and 181 border the park; I-41, I-894, U.S. 18, U.S. 45, and Highway 100 all get you close.
Harvest Fair / Maker Faire Address:
Wisconsin State Fair Park
640 S. 84th Street (Highways 181 & 59)
West Allis, WI 53214
(800) 884-3247
Website
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September 21, 2024 – September 22, 2024
Cedarburg Wine & Harvest Fest
Welcome the transition from summer to fall in historic Cedarburg with the annual Cedarburg Wine & Harvest Festival! It happens Saturday, September 21st from 10-6 pm & Sunday, September 22nd from 10-5 pm. Both the abundance of Wisconsin’s homegrown produce and artisan food products plus the award-winning wines of Cedar Creek Winery are what initiated this free, family-oriented arts and crafts event.
The Festival Food Court offers plenty of options for a quick meal and the Farmer’s Market offers foodstuffs such as honey, syrup, cheese, sausage and jellies are available in each Marketplace located at Turner Street, Mill Street and Cleveland Street. Also, the three Marketplaces offers shopping for find unique handbags, hats, skin care products and more.
Cedarburg Wine & Festival fans can kick back and listen to live music all over town including Top Forty, Folk and Rock & Roll bands. The Gruber Law Offices Main Stage is open until 8:30 p.m. on Saturday night.
On Saturday from 11am-4pm, check out the third Giant Pumpkin Weigh-Off, with some weighing in at well over 1,000 pounds. You can also see oversize watermelons, tomatoes, and gourds – last year somebody brought a 2,145-pound pumpkin!
The annual Giant Pumpkin Charity Regatta will take place on Sunday. Previous regattas are YouTube favorites featuring gigantic, decorated, hollowed-out, floatable pumpkins, piloted by intrepid paddlers’ attempting to race across Cedar Creek to win cash for their favorite charity.
Cedarburg Wine & Harvest Festival also features Ashley’s Candyland for Kids with a variety of activities and entertainment geared for children including Popcorn the Clown, a bouncer, coloring tables, spin art, and Paint a Pumpkin. Pumpkin Carver extraordinaire Steve Dahlke will be turning large pumpkins into grotesque faces at the City Hall Lawn on Saturday.
Cedar Creek Settlement will feature a Courtyard Grill with specialty beers and grilled foods with live music each day. At Cedar Creek Winery, you’ll find wine by the glass or bottle, with tours available. Also at the Shops of Cedar Creek Settlement, the Winery’s Grape Stomp offers stomping fun for both adults and kids each day.
For specific times and a complete list of Cedarburg Wine & Harvest Festival events, a map/schedule will be available at two information booths as well as at most retailers throughout town. Click here for a downloadable version. The information booths are on Washington Avenue at Bridge Road and at Mill Street.
Cedarburg Wine and Harvest Festival Location
Check out some great fall fun in historic Cedarburg, along Historic Highway 57 (Washington Avenue) just north of Highway 167 and south of Highway 60. Highway 181 is just to the west. It’s only about 10-12 minutes off I-43/Highway 32, and it’s a great little town!
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Fromm Petfest
Fromm Petfest is a free family event on Milwaukee’s lakefront (yep, the Summerfest grounds!) will host a variety of fun pet-focused attractions and activities. Check out the Bier Garden & Dog Park, the Lure Course, Agility Course, Dock Diving, Doggie Dash, nutritional seminars, grooming competitions, the pet-themed marketplace, contests, live music, food, even a Kids’ Zone. And yes, parking is free too!
By the way, the Bier Garden & Dog Park allows you to enjoy a frosty beverage at their two-level Bier Garden and you can bring your dog over for some supervised off leash play at one of two fully fenced in play areas!
You can explore Adoption Avenue, where some pretty amazing dogs and cats could find their forever homes. Visit with dozens of rescues and non-profits that work tirelessly to better the lives of dogs and cats. Many will have adoptable pets on hand for people to meet along with information on adoption.
Fromm Petfest Music Schedule:
9:30 AM – Chris Esenberg – Chris is a singer/songwriter and Wisconsin native who specializes in pop covers and original songs. Playing everything from Chris Stapleton to David Bowie, Chris plays with a signature style that has made him a local mainstay.
11:30 AM – Kaleb Woods
Hailing from Sauk County, Wisconsin, Kaleb is a singer, guitarist, and songwriter specializing in bringing a fun, upbeat vibe for all to enjoy. Having performed at numerous venues and events throughout the Midwest including The Rave, Crystal Grand Theatre, Pabst Theater, Majestic Theatre, and Summerfest, and sharing his platform with notable artists such as John King, Chris Janson, and Eddie Montgomery of Montgomery Gentry, it’s no surprise that Kaleb was Southeastern Wisconsin’s top streamed musician via Reverbnation, a 2022 Best of Madison finalist, and March 2022’s featured new artist for 99.9 WJVL.
1:30 PM – Mookie Terremoto
Good old fashioned rock and roll from a Riverwest trio! Who is Mookie Terremoto? Find out for yourself.
3:30 PM – Front Porch Rockers
Since 2010 the Front Porch Rockers have been performing acoustic covers of your favorite songs from the 1950s through today. You may have heard them at Summerfest, the Wisconsin State Fair, or various area festivals and beer gardens. The Front Porch Rockers play upbeat music for good times.
Fromm Petfest Main Stage Schedule:
11:00 – 11:45am − MPD K9 Presentation
12:00 – 12:45pm − Noodles the Wonder Dog, a mixed-breed, former shelter dog who has won trick and talents contests across North America, including Good Morning America’s National “Dog vs. Dog” contest.
1:00 – 1:45pm − EmE MaGiC
Prepare to be amazed and entertained by the interactive magic and illusion of EmE MaGiC. The Milwaukee-local magician will bring magic, mentalism and comedy to the Main Stage and will roam the grounds to oohh and aww all two and four-legged guests.
2:00 – 2:45pm − Sailor the Poodle
This amazing canine performer, under the guidance of his trainer Alex “Popeye” Rothacker, jumps rope, walks a tightrope and balances a ball while walking, to name a few of his fun tricks.
3:30 – 4:30pm − Costume Contest and Owner/Pet Look-a-like Contest with Riggs from 103.7 Kiss FM and special guest judges!
Back by popular demand, come to watch or click to enter the Fromm Petfest Pet/Owner Look-a-Like contest or the fan favorite costume contest. Grand prizes include a six-month supply of Fromm pet food and more!
Fromm Petfest Address:
The event is happening right where Summerfest takes place along Milwaukee’s lakefront near downtown and the Historic Third Ward. You can access the grounds via I-794, I-43/94, U.S. 18, and Highways 32, 38, 59, and 145.
200 N. Harbor Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Fromm Petfest Website
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September 7, 2024
Sputnik Fest
The festival draws plenty of space fans – with Star Wars and Star Trek characters well-represented – costume contests, music, go-kart racing down 8th Street (there’s a bit of a hill towards the heart of downtown), food, drinks, and even an “alien drop”, where hundreds of mini-alien figures are dropped from a cherry picker – some with prizes. Even the hosting group, the Rahr-West Art Museum, calls it a “wacky tacky” weekend. Music from bands like Bazooka Joe add to the fun! Family fun continues with the Cosmic Kids Creation Station, which offers tye-dye, clay painting, and rocket building, plus live statues, portrait paintings, and more.
Sputnikfest Schedule of Events:
11:00-2:00PM DJ
11:30AM Photo Op with Sputnikfest Police (courtesy of the Masquers theater company)
12:00-5:00PM Art Space and Children’s Games
12:00-Noon 5K Art Walk/Run (register at: https://runsignup.com/Race/WI/Manitowoc/Sputnikfest5KWalkRun)
1:00-3:00PM Meet and Greet with 501st Wisconsin Garrison
12:00PM Lakeshore 1st Robotics
2:00-6:00PM Musical entertainment by XPOSED 4 HEADS
3:00PM Pet Parade and contest
4:00PM Cosmic Kids Parade and contest
5:00PM Captain Space Debris (Alien Adults) Parade and Contest
6:00PM Alien Raffle Drop
Get more details here.
Sputnikfest Address:
Rahr-West Art Museum
610 N. 8th Street (8th & Park, U.S. 10 & Business 42)
Manitowoc, WI 54220
Website
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August 31, 2024 – September 1, 2024
Kites Over Lake Michigan
Kites Over Lake Michigan is one of the largest kite festivals in the Midwest and attracts kite fliers from all over. Check out giant show kites, precision stunt kite teams flying dual- and quad-line kites, spectacular and colorful ground displays, running of the bols, and games for kids! Learn how to fly two and quad line stunt kites from the experts.
Kites Over Lake Michigan continues at Two Rivers High School with other activities taking place along Lake Michigan nearby. It will take place Saturday, August 31st and Sunday, September 1st. This includes a night fly on Saturday night, conditions permitting.
Since the High School serves as the festival grounds, Walsh Field (on 22nd Street just before the turn into Neshotah Beach) will serve as the overflow parking area. A shuttle bus service will run between Walsh Field and the high school both days from 11 am to 5 pm. Please note that the bus will be limited to 23 people per trip to allow for social distancing, more if family members living together are present. All those using the shuttle will have to be masked. Also, pets are not allowed anywhere on school property.
Good news: Free kite making for kids will continue, taking place Sunday 9/2/24 at 9.00 am.
Great News: The Fireworks Show WILL take place, and it will happen Saturday evening at 8 pm. Fireworks will be shot off behind the Coast Guard Station, allowing people to spread out over a wide area and still have optimum viewing from various places along the waterfront.
Highway 42 is the road to both Neshotah Beach and Two Rivers High School; Highway 147 brings you to Two Rivers from the north, and Highway 310 provides quick access to and from I-43. Check out this colorful fest (which we need in 2020) September 5th and 6th!
Kites Over Lake Michigan Event Address:
Two Rivers High School
4519 Lincoln Avenue (Highway 42)
Two Rivers, WI 54241
(920) 793-9599
Website
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