May 30, 2026

Calendar of Events

Calendar of Events › Festival

October 18, 2024 – October 20, 2024

Fall Art Tour in the Driftless

The Fall Art Tour is perfect for State Trunk Tourers with a love of the Driftless Area and art. It’s a self-guided driving tour where you can meet up to 45 area artists and watch them at work as you make your way through Baraboo, Spring Green, Dodgeville and Mineral Point!

Potters, weavers, glassblowers, woodworkers, painters, jewelers, quilters, photographers & sculptors are all part of it. Meet the artists, experience their work spaces, and witness as they create unique works of art. A wide variety of high-quality artwork is available for purchase in every price range.  This is their 24th Anniversary Tour and it’s become one of the most popular art events in the Midwest.

Fall Art Tour Artisans

Highways 33, 130, 136, and 23 figure big in this tour, as do many county and side roads. It’s a beautiful drive through the Driftless Area and a great behind-the-scenes look at artists’ studios!

Fall Art Tour Details:

More details can be had by calling (608) 356-9048 or checking out their website, http://www.fallarttour.com/.




Also, check out this video for a sample of what you’re in for!




Back to StateTrunkTour.com



Start: October 18, 2024
End: October 20, 2024

October 18, 2024 – October 20, 2024

Sister Bay Fall Fest



Sister Bay Fall Fest is the “granddaddy” of Door County festivals is celebrating its 78th year! The streets of this lovely Door County town along Highway 42 where Highway 57 ends will be packed with fun. Check out a Saturday Parade, a huge arts and crafts fair, plenty of food and live entertainment, and great activities for children of all ages.

Check out live music at Husby’s (which also has great Bloody Marys and is a Sister Bay Fall Fest institution – plus, check out the awesome and huge 1920 Wisconsin state map they have in there!) as well as Door County Creamery, Stabbur, and the Boathouse on the Bay, and more. The Lion’s Club Fish Boil is a yearly favorite along with Saturday’s Pancake Breakfast followed by the annual Fall Fest Parade. Explore nearly 100 different artisans’ creations and high-quality handmade crafts. These include media, fine photography, wood carvers, furniture, unique jewelry, cozy mittens & sweaters, customized signs, and fine milled soaps & lotions. Be sure to watch the Wooden Shoe carver, too! Sunday – well before the Packers-Bears game kicks off – is the return of the Derby Race. The race is held right on Highway 42 in downtown Sister Bay where girls and boys ages 7 to 13 can build (with assistance from an adult) and then race in their gravity powered cars. Get the full schedule here or on the picture to the left

Of course, businesses all over town will have specials and it’s always great to check out Sister Bay’s gorgeous shoreline, marina, and the goats on the roof at Al Johnson’s Swedish Butik & Restaurant!

Enjoy Sister Bay Fall Fest all weekend. Just take Highways 42 or 57 and you’ll get there!

Sister Bay Fall Fest Address:

Waterfront Park
2362 Mill Road
Sister Bay, WI 54234
Website




Back to StateTrunkTour.com



Start: October 18, 2024
End: October 20, 2024
Venue: Waterfront Park
Phone: 920-854-2812
Address:
2362 Mill Road, Sister Bay, WI, 54234, United States

October 17, 2024

Sugar River Bourbon Fest


Seven Acre Dairy Company in Paoli hosts its 2nd annual Sugar River Bourbon Fest Wednesday, October 16th through Sunday, October 20th. It’s a five-day celebration of all things bourbon that highlights the country’s top distilleries and chefs. Imbibe in amazing meals and pair them with delicious food complements and beverages – including some amazing Bourbon and whiskey beverages. It features a welcome dinner with chef Joe Heppe and Driftless Glen Distillery, a signature dinner with nine-time James Beard Award nominee chef Edward Lee and Dancing Goat Distillery, a fish fry featuring Blue Ash Farm Craft Spirits, and a special bourbon brunch with J. Henry.

Seven Acre Dairy Company in Paoli, Wisconsin
Seven Acre Dairy in Paoli, host of the 2nd annual Sugar River Bourbon Festival. The Sugar River is right along the property.

 

These evenings lead up to the main event: the Sugar River Bourbon Tasting Festival on Saturday, October 19th. You can enjoy samplings and meet with over 25 distilleries and distillers, including award-winning local and national distilleries Heaven Hill, Bardstown 45th parallel, Green River, Old Forester, Dancing Goat, J. Henry, and more.

There will be live music, along with burgers, hot dogs and barbeque available for purchase from Seven Acre Dairy Company and Knoche’s Meats; a portion of the proceeds benefit the Belleville Food Pantry.

Here’s how the evenings work out on the weekends:

Friday, October 18th: Blue Ash Farm Craft Spirit’s Bourbon Lover’s Fish Fry

Join Seven Acre chefs and Blue Ash Farm Craft Spirits for the last outdoor fish fry along the Sugar River of the season. Seven Acre chefs will cook up all-you-can-eat cod, perch and walleye, alongside seasonal sides, salads and desserts. Blue Ash Farm Craft Spirits of Argyle will be crafting cocktails from their award-winning farmstead spirits. The fish fry will take place in a heated, open air tent. Fire pits will be lit and lawn games will be out.

Saturday, October 19th: The Sugar River Bourbon Tasting Festival

Regular admission is $55 per person from 1-4 p.m. This includes samplings and meet and greets with over 25 distilleries, live music, unique bourbon bottle sales and food for purchase.

VIP admission is $100 per person from noon to 4 p.m. This includes exclusive access to the Makers Mark/Jim Beam VIP Tasting Tent, VIP appetizers, a copy of Edward Lee’s best-selling book “Bourbon Land,” first access to unique bourbon bottle sales, plus access to all other areas of the festival.

Sunday, October 20th: J. Henry Maple Bourbon Brunch

Join Seven Acre chefs and J. Henry for a one-of-a-kind bourbon brunch. Seven acre chefs will be cooking up some of Edward Lee’s favorite brunch recipes alongside some of their favorite bourbon brunch cocktails. Don’t miss your chance to sample the infamous Maple Bourbon made by J. Henry and your chances to take a bottle home. The maple bourbon was only available on the farm this year and sold out in under an hour.

For more information and tickets, visit sevenacredairyco.com.

You’ll find the lovely little burg of Paoli along County PB, right near State Trunk Highway 69, less than 10 minutes south of Verona off U.S. 18/151.

Sugar River Bourbon Fest Address:

Seven Acre Dairy Company
6858 Paoli Road
Belleville, WI 53508
(608) 416-4023
Website




Back to StateTrunkTour.com



Start: October 17, 2024 8:00 am
End: October 17, 2024 5:00 pm

October 14, 2024 – October 20, 2024

Wisconsin Science Festival

Wisconsin Science Festival logoThe 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:

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!




Back to StateTrunkTour.com

Start: October 14, 2024
End: October 20, 2024
Venue: UW Discovery Building
Phone: 608-316-4382
Address:
330 N. Orchard Street, Madison, WI, 53715, United States

October 4, 2024 – November 2, 2024

Wisconsin Fear Fest

Wisconsin Fear Fest continues weekends through November 2nd this year at Road America with TONS of Halloween fun… and spooky stuff!

Explore the ultimate thrill at Wisconsin Fear Fest at Road America! Dare to explore three spine-tingling haunted houses (Carnival Chaos, Cellblock 13, and the Slaughter Shack) that promise to send shivers down your spine. Unleash your adventurous spirit with exhilarating activities like paintball, axe throwing, mini escape rooms, the Rage Experience, live music on Saturdays, food, drinks and beer! Parking is free. It runs the next few weekends and hours vary by day.

Buy your in tickets online in advance and you get a $5 discount!

For just $39.00, you can experience every attraction, including:

  • Three haunted houses
  • Escape Room
  • Axe Throwing
  • Haunted Hayride
  • Paintball Gallery
  • The Midway
  • and much more!

You can also get the Speed Pass Ticket for $54, which get you through the haunted houses faster.

The dates remaining are Friday-Sunday, October 18th-20th, Thursday, October 24th through Sunday, October 27th, and Thursday, October 31st through Saturday, November 2nd.

Wisconsin Fear Fest is right between Plymouth and Elkhart Lake in Sheboygan County. Highway 67 brings you right there!

Wisconsin Fear Fest Address:

Road America
N7390 Highway 67
Plymouth, WI 53073
(904) 510-9873
Website




Back to StateTrunkTour.com



Start: October 4, 2024 7:00 pm
End: November 2, 2024 11:00 pm

October 4, 2024 – October 6, 2024

Bayfield Apple Festival

Wisconsin Weekend: Bayfield Apple Festival



Bayfield Apple Festival

The Bayfield Apple Festival is hailed as one of the 10 Best Fall Harvest Festivals in the nation by USA Today!  Bayfield celebrates its Apple Festival every October and in 2024 it will take place October 4th through the 6th.

The three day event features a farm market featuring local producers, over 60 orchard and food booths selling Bayfield’s apples, apple delicacies, and festival food favorites! There is plenty to buy and see at the 140 art, craft and vendor booths. Kids carnival rides and games, an apple peeling contest, fish fry & dance round out the offerings.

You can also catch Big Top Chautauqua’s Blue Canvas Orchestra perform throughout the weekend on the Grandstand stage. The festival culminates with the Grand Parade on Sunday, which features a 400 member “Mass Band” finale.

Bayfield is located along Highway 13 on the shores of Lake Superior, about 15 minutes north of U.S. 2. U.S. 63 brings you towards Bayfield from the Hayward, Spooner, and Twin Cities areas; U.S. 51 north through the North Woods sends you toward U.S. 2 for the connection to Bayfield, too. Enjoy the fall colors on your ride!

Bayfield Apple Festival Address:

Downtown Bayfield & Memorial Park
42 South Broad Street
Bayfield, WI 54814
(715) 779-3335
Website


Read about additional “things to know” below!




More Bayfield Apple Festival features and things to know:

  • Over 60 orchard and food booths selling Bayfield’s apples and apple desserts and delicacies; Caramel apples, apple pies, apple tortes, dumplings or tarts, apple sundaes, apple cider, bags and bushels of apples – even apple bratwurst, mustard, and butter.
  • A kids’ carnival with games, rides and favorite foods.
  • Plenty to buy and see including nearly 140 arts and crafts booths.
  • Pipes and Drums of Thunder Bay wake up concert at Port Superior Marina, Saturday at 10am
  • Fine art exhibitors on South Second Street, featuring pottery, paintings, glassworks, photography, wood crafts and fiber arts.
  • A Grand Parade on Sunday featuring a 400+ member “Mass Band” finale
  • Big Top Chautauqua’s Blue Canvas Orchestra will perform throughout the weekend on the Essentia Health Grand Stand stage. Hear the original Apple Festival song!
  • The annual Apple Dumpling Gang for the little ones. Click here for Registration Form.
  • Bus shuttles for easy parking at Hauser’s Superior View Farm and Legendary Waters Casino.
  • Bayfield Fire Department offers a traditional fish fry dinner on Saturday afternoon at Lakeside Pavilion followed by a Saturday evening dance.
  • Boat cruises of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.
  • Musical entertainment at many local pubs and Legendary Waters Resort & Casino
  • Drive 5 minutes outside of town and tour the 15 local orchards and farms, many with pick-your-own apples and pumpkins.

 

Back to StateTrunkTour.com



Start: October 4, 2024 10:00 am
End: October 6, 2024 5:00 pm
Venue: Downtown Bayfield
Phone: 715-779-3335
Address:
42 S. Broad Street, Bayfield, WI, 54814, United States
Cost: Free

September 27, 2024 – September 29, 2024

Harvest Fair

Wisconsin Weekend: Harvest Fair in West Allis

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




Back to StateTrunkTour.com



Start: September 27, 2024
End: September 29, 2024
Venue: Wisconsin State Fair Park
Phone: 800-884-3247
Address:
640 S. 84th Street, West Allis, WI, 53214, United States
Cost: Free

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.

Cedarburg Wine Harvest Festival Art on the Avenue“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!




Back to StateTrunkTour.com



Start: September 21, 2024 10:00 am
End: September 22, 2024 6:00 pm
Venue: Downtown Cebarburg
Phone: 262-377-3891
Address:
Washington Avenue, Cedarburg, WI, 53012, United States
Cost: Free

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.

milwaukee-frommpetfest2

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




Back to StateTrunkTour.com



Start: September 21, 2024 9:00 am
End: September 21, 2024 5:00 pm
Venue: Henry Maier Festival Park
Phone: 920-350-3378
Address:
200 N. Harbor Drive, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, United States
Cost: Free

September 13, 2024 – September 15, 2024

Wo-Zha-Wa Days

“Wo-Zha-Wa” means “fun time” in the Ho-Chunk language, and Wisconsin Dells offers just that September 13-15! As one of the largest festivals in Wisconsin, Wo-Zha-Wa is a three day extravaganza with delicious food, a 100-unit parade, rousing live music, and arts and crafts that everyone can enjoy.

Wo-Zha-Wa’s flea market (Maxwell Street Days) always has new novel items to check out including gourmet dog treats, hand-made works of art, custom pieces of jewelry, organic cosmetics, and wood flowers made before your eyes. You can stroll through all these different stalls while chowing down on some of the festival’s favorite culinary treats, like kettle corn and alligator on a stick.

The whole family can enjoy themselves at Wo-Zha-Wa. The yearly Wo-Zha-Wa parade is a spectacle filled with floats, performers, and music that fills the entire street. The carnival rides are always a hit with the kids, who always get a thrill on the rides’ twists, turns, and spins.

When you attend, you’re invited to participate in a street carnival with refreshment concessions and the Wo-Zha-Wa Run, Wisconsin’s oldest long-distance race. Runners can take part in the challenging half-marathon course, or the fast-paced four-mile run.

Festival admission is free, so there is no reason why you shouldn’t go to this Wisconsin favorite!
All activities located in Downtown Wisconsin Dells & Bowman Park.

You can get to the Dells easily, of course: I-90/94, U.S. 12, or Highways 13, 16, or 23 all bring you there. Check their website for full details!

Here’s a video from a ways back of Wo-Zha-Wa Days (not that it’s much different now) to give you an idea:

Schedule of Events:

Friday, September 13th

All Day Concessions and Carnival Rides
8 am – 5 pm Maxwell Street Days
8 am – 6 pm Antique & Collectibles Market
Noon – 5 pm Arts & Crafts Fair
Noon – 5 pm Funtime Bounce Houses and Obstacle Course
3:30-5:30pm Kindschi Pedal Pulls

Saturday, September 14th

Day Concessions and Carnival Rides
Wo-Zha-Wa Run
8 am – 5 pm Maxwell Street Days
8 am Race for the Future Run Visit the website
8 am – 6 pm Antique & Collectibles Market
9am – 5 pm Arts & Crafts Fair
9am – 5pm Funtime Bounce Houses and Obstacle Course

Sunday, September 15th

All Day Concessions and Carnival Rides
8 am – 3 pm Maxwell Street Days
8 am – 3 pm Antique & Collectibles Market
9 am – 3 pm Arts & Crafts Fair
9 am – 3pm Funtime Bounce Houses and Obstacle Course
1:30 pm PARADE
Post Parade South Shore Performance at the Elm Street Plaza

Wo-Zha-Wa Days Website





Wo-Zha-Wa Days map, Wisconsin Dells

Back to StateTrunkTour.com

Start: September 13, 2024
End: September 15, 2024
Venue: Downtown Wisconsin Dells
Address:
Wisconsin Dells, WI, United States
Cost: Free

September 7, 2024

Oconomowoc Fall Festival


Celebrate the coming of fall with the Oconomowoc Fall Festival. This lovely town at the western edge of Waukesha County’s Lake Country has a bustling downtown nestled around Fowler Lake and Lac La Belle, and the big party is on Saturday, September 7th from 9am – 8pm, rain or shine.

There will be over 80 street vendors, lots of food, shopping, kids’ events, dancing, and festivities including a Beer Garden.  Some details are still being adjusted, but for now there’s still a Chili Pepper Eating Contest in the afternoon, along with kayak races you can watch, or even participate in! Live music will punctuate the fun afternoon into evening.

Here’s the music lineup:
12:30pm – Candy Cigarette
2pm – The Stangs
4:15pm – Throw Back Stereo
7pm – Kingfish Band

An outdoor movie begins at dusk, extending the Oconomowoc Fall Festival well into the evening. While in Oconomowoc, check out the Wizard of Oz display in Oz Plaza along Wisconsin Avenue (the movie’s official premiere took place there on August 12, 1939), a great classic drive-in called The Kiltie, as well as craft breweries like Brewfinity and SteelTank.

You can get to Oconomowoc via Highway 16 or Highway 67. Forget the bypass routes; follow the original roads right into downtown. That includes Main Street, Summit Avenue, and Wisconsin Avenue. The downtown is three miles north of I-94, via Exit 282 – which is Highway 67.

Oconomowoc Fall Festival Address:

Wisconsin Avenue & Main Street (“city” Highways 16 & 67)
133 E. Wisconsin Avenue
Oconomowoc, WI 53066
(262) 567-1826
Website




Back to StateTrunkTour.com



Start: September 7, 2024 9:00 am
End: September 7, 2024 8:00 pm
Venue: Downtown Oconomowoc
Phone: 262-567-1826
Address:
100 E. Wisconsin Avenue, Oconomowoc, WI, 53066, United States
Cost: Free

Sputnik Fest

Sputnik Fest logoManitowoc 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.

Sputnik crash site, center of Sputnik Fest
Circle marks the spot where a piece of Sputnik landed. It’s the whole reason for Sputnik Fest.

Sputnik Fest, recreation of where cops stoodThe 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

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




Manitowoc & Two Rivers CVB

 

Back to StateTrunkTour.com



Date: September 7, 2024
Venue: Rahr-West Art Museum
Phone: 920-686-3090
Address:
610 N. 8th Street, Manitowoc, WI, 54220, United States

August 31, 2024 – September 1, 2024

Taste of Madison

Taste of Madison logoIt happens over Labor Day weekend every year, and it’s a lot of tasty fun! Taste of Madison features over 80 local restaurants, 20 beverage stands and three entertainment stages. The participating restaurants sell a vast variety of both unique and traditional dishes to the estimated 225,000 attendees over the two-day period – you should be one of them. Most food items are in the $2 to $5 range! Best of all, admission – which includes hours and hours of live entertainment – is free and open to the public.

Taste of Madison sammie

Taste of Madison happens on the Capitol Square, one of the most dynamic and beautiful places in Wisconsin with the shops, restaurants, bars, museums, and more surrounding our gorgeous State Capitol. U.S. 151/Washington Avenue brings you closest, although U.S. 12, U.S. 14, U.S. 18, U.S. 51, and Highways 30 and 113 all bring you to Madison.

Taste of Madison music

Taste of Madison Hours:

Saturday, August 31st 2pm – 9pm
Sunday, September 5th: 11am – 7pm

Get the full list of participating restaurants (with address and phone where available) below or from the Taste of Madison website!




All Star Catering
Arod’s Tex-Mex
Banzo
Bel-Air Cantina
Ben’s Soft Pretzels
Bob’s BBQ Emporium
Buraka East African Cuisine
Cafe Costa Rica – Mango Man Cooks
Caracas Arepas/Caracas Empenadas
Chez Moi
Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Company
Common Pasta
Cooper’s Hawk
Culinarynirvana
Curd Girl
Daddy Rocks
David’s Jamaican Cuisine
DonutNV
Draper Brothers Chophouse
El Gran Taco Gato
El Sabor de Puebla
Ernie’s Kettle Korn
Famous Dave’s
Fresh Mart
Gigi’s Cupcakes
Glazed
Gyros Express
Hibachi Hut
Hong Kong Cafe
Jakarta Cafe
JDs Taste of Chicago
Just Veggiez
KC Taste Asian Cuisine
Kerol’s Kitchen
Keur Fatou Catering
Kona Ice of Madison
La Pollera Columbiana
La Taguara
Lao Laan-Xang
Les Delices de Awa
Little Orbits Mini Donuts
Little Tibet Madison
Lombardino’s Restaurant

Melting Pot
6816 Odana Rd., Madison
608-833-5676

Milano Ice
6816 Odana Rd., Madison
608-572-5543

Mirch Masala
449 State St., Madison
608-665-3667

Monona Bakery & Eatery
4544 Monona Drive, Madison
608-720-1133

Native Food Network – Mobile Farmers Market
7 N. Pickney, Suite 235, Madison
608-280-1267

Natural Juice
7 N. Pinckney, Suite 235, Madison
608-628-9280

North & South Seafood & Smokehouse
6604 Mineral Point Rd., Madison
608-829-0093

The Old Fashioned
23 N. Pinckney, Madison
608-310-4545

Pagoda Smoothie Food Cart

People’s Bakery
2810 E. Washington Ave., Madison
608-245-0404

The Post
24 S. Carroll St., Madison
608-327-1101

Poke Poke
600 Williamson St., Madison
608-665-3306

RibMasters WI
Food Truck, Madison
608-669-0955

The Rigby Pub and Grill
119 E Main St, Madison
608-442-1112

The Rodeo Wagon
Food Cart

Roll Play

The Roman Candle
1054 Williamson St., Madison
608-258-2000

Sabor Queretano
4512 E. Washington Ave., Madison
608-209-0643

Savi Cafe & Catering
215 S. Hamilton, Madison
608-283-4903

Schultz’s Sugar River Kettle Corn
N9560 Hwy. 92, Belleville
608-217-9137

Smokin’ Cantina
Madison Food Cart
608-438-9643

Smokin’ Dragons

Soho Gourmet Cuisines
2990 Cahill Main #106, Madison
608-960-4011

Steak Escape
212 East Towne Mall, Madison
608-333-1103

Surco Peruvian
515 Cottage Grove Rd., Madison
608-957-1716

Tavernakaya
27 E. Main St., Madison
608-286-1548

Teriyaki Samurai
Food Cart, Madison
608-338-5660

The Globe
309 N. Henry St., Madison
608-640-4435

TnT’s Coffee & Cafe
729 N High Point Rd, Madison
608-831-2298

Toast
728 State Street, Madison
608-692-4549

Toppers
1368 Regent St., Madison

Ugly Apple
Food Cart
608-352-8459

 

Back to StateTrunkTour.com

 




Start: August 31, 2024
End: September 1, 2024
Venue: Capitol Square
Phone: 608-276-9797
Address:
2 E. Main Street, Madison, WI, 53703, United States
Cost: Free

August 28, 2024 – September 2, 2024

Walworth County Fair

Walworth County Fair

It’s the oldest county fair in Wisconsin – this will be its 175th year! The Walworth County Fair features livestock judging, exhibits, carnival rides, bull riding, concessions, harness racing, tractor and truck pulls, demolition derby, and free grandstand shows. Every long Labor Day weekend, the fair draws thousands of visitors to Elkhorn for this 6-day extravaganza, making it the single biggest event in Elkhorn and Walworth County.

“Stars, Stripes, and Fair Delights!” is the theme this year. Grandstand Events this year include:

  • Rice Professional Rodeo
  • Tractor Truck Pull
  • Demolition Derby
  • Main Stage Concerts including:
    • Nelly on Friday, August 30th
    • Brantley Gilbert on Saturday, August 31st
    • Crowder on Sunday, September 1st

There’s also the Strut Your Stuff Recipe Challenge, Rooster Crowing Contests, Barnyard Races, Fairest of the Fair, Bull Riding, a series of Horse Events, the Farmers Market & Old World Artisan Village, a Sunday morning Classic Car & Tractor Parade, and Kiddieland featuring barnyard adventures and kids’ entertainment. Plenty to do, see, eat, and enjoy at this historic venue!

I-43, U.S.  12, and Highways 11 and 67 all bring you to Elkhorn for the fun. Their website has all the updates and details, including a very full schedule!

Walworth County Fair Address:

411 E. Court Street
Elkhorn, WI 53121
(262) 723-3228
Website




Back to StateTrunkTour.com

Start: August 28, 2024
End: September 2, 2024
Venue: Walworth County Fairgrounds
Phone: 262-723-3228
Address:
411 Court Street, Elkhorn, WI, 53121, United States

August 23, 2024 – August 24, 2024

Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival

Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival

Dragon boat racing is not only one of the fastest growing water sports in the world; it is also one of the most exciting! As one of the largest festivals of its kind, The Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival in Superior holds this community-building tradition on Friday, August 23rd and Saturday, August 24th, 2024.

Watch the races at Barker’s Island, feast on fantastic food, enjoy celebratory music, song and dance, shop the craft fair, and commemorate the weekend with a time-honored awards ceremony.

On the first festival day, Barker’s Island is transformed into a small city where thousands of people from the Midwest U.S. and central Canada join in community, camaraderie and competition. It’s a weekend of live music and dancing, fantastic food and food trucks, hay rides, children’s crafts and entertainment, and an awards ceremony. Fireworks will light the sky that night, too!

Saturday the 24th begins early with the Optimists Club Breakfast and of course, more boats and parades. Children’s activities begin at 8am, and Dragon Boat Racing begins at 9am. There’s also the Craft Fair, the Stterlling Silver Dance Studio , the Rose Petal Ceremony, Korean Sword Demonstrations, Mark Rubin performing as he does every year, and of course the final race heats and the closing awards ceremony.

Get the full guide here!

You’ll find the Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival in Superior just off U.S. 2/53 (2nd Street) close to Highways 13, 35, and I-535.

Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival Address:

Barker’s Island
300 Marina Drive
Superior, WI 54880
(715) 395-6169
Website




 

Back to StateTrunkTour.com

Start: August 23, 2024 4:00 pm
End: August 24, 2024 10:00 pm
Venue: Barker's Island
Phone: 715-395-6169
Address:
300 Marina Drive, Superior, WI, 54880, United States

August 23, 2024 – August 25, 2024

Artstreet

Artstreet logo - smallArtstreet showcases over 200 artists from throughout the country as they descend on Green Bay. They’re once again located at Ashwaubomay Park on South Broadway! Take in music, dance, theatrical and literary performances on stage and in the park. View artists demonstrating their work during the creative process. Savor an array of specialty foods, enjoy cultural displays, children’s art activities, and more.

Artstreet in Green Bay

Music Lineup 

MAIN STAGE
Friday 8/23/24
TBA

Saturday 8/24/24
TBA

Sunday 8/25/24
TBA

COMMUNITY STAGE
Friday 8/23/24
TBA

Saturday 8/24/24
TBA

Sunday 8/25/24
TBA

Ashwaubomay Park is an 84 acre park, conveniently located between the National Railroad Museum and the Brown County Fairgrounds, at 2881 South Broadway, 54304. 

Artstreet Admission is free; donations, of course, are welcomed! You can get to downtown Green Bay via I-41 or I-43 via U.S. 141, or Highways 29, 32, 54, 57, or 172.

Artstreet Hours:

Friday, August 23 | 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm (music until 10 pm)
Saturday, August 24 | 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (music until 9 pm)
Sunday, August 25 | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm

Artstreet Address:

Ashwaybomay Park
2882 S. Broadway
Green Bay, WI 54304
(920) 435-5220
Website

 





Back to StateTrunkTour.com


Start: August 23, 2024 3:00 pm
End: August 25, 2024 5:00 pm
Venue: Ashwaybomay Park
Phone: 920-435-5220
Address:
2882 S. Broadway, Green Bay, WI, 54304, United States
Cost: Free

August 23, 2024 – August 25, 2024

Great River Folk Festival



The annual Great River Folk Festival is a family-friendly Saturday featuring outdoor contemporary and traditional folk music right in La Crosse’s beautiful Riverside Park. Along with the music, you can enjoy demonstrations of traditional crafts and plenty of craft items for sale from artists across the spectrum, ethnic food and children’s activities. The Driftless Folk School will be demonstrating Spoon Carving, Spindle Spinning and Small Basket weaving throughout the day—11 and 5 pm.

Check out the full music lineup below. Ticket prices range from $10 or Sunday only to $55 for all three days and nights of the festival (if you buy by August 18th, they’re $75 at the gate for all three days), with numerous options in between. Get details here.

Riverside Park is a beautiful space along the Mississippi River on the west edge of downtown La Crosse. Along with the Great River Folk Festival you’ll find historic and contemporary statutes, beautiful views of the river and bluffs, access to riverboats, restaurants, hotels, the Turtle Stack Brewing Company, and plenty of hotels to spend the night – all within easy walking distance.

Great River Folk Festival Music Schedule:

Activities in Riverside Park include:

  • Traditional arts and craft fair
  • Craft demonstrations
  • Children’s activities
  • Food from a wide variety of vendors
  • Music Performances and Workshops at three stages

Great River Folk Festival lineup for August 23-25, 2024 in La Crosse, Wisconsin

U.S. 14, 53, and 61, as well as Highways 16, 33, 35, and I-90 all bring you to La Crosse, which has plenty of other fun things to check out, too!

Great River Folk Festival Address:

Riverside Park
100 State Street
La Crosse, WI 54601
(608) 784-3033
Website




Back to StateTrunkTour.com

&nbsp


Start: August 23, 2024
End: August 25, 2024
Venue: Riverside Park
Phone: 608-784-3033
Address:
100 State Street, La Crosse, WI, 54601, United States

August 23, 2024 – August 25, 2024

Lake Geneva Maxwell Street Days



Lake Geneva is a great place to visit and shop, and Maxwell Street Days offers “Hot Deals for Those Hot Summer Days”!

Maxwell Street Days Annual Summer Sidewalk Sale returns with the best shopping steals of the year Friday, August 23rd through Sunday, August 25th with more than 25 years of great bargains on clothing, shoes, jewelry, gifts, artwork, sporting goods, books and more, plus fabulous food and entertainment from downtown shops and restaurants. Dine al fresco, enjoy live music, and celebrate the end of summer! offers extra opportunities to find bargains on some great stuff! Check out the list of participating locations here.

U.S. 12 and Highways 50 and 120 bring you to Lake Geneva, home to plenty of fun activities. Enjoy the downtown shops and restaurants, craft breweries like Topsy Turvy Brewing and MashTun Brewing, the beautiful beach along the shores of Geneva Lake, shows from the internationally-renown Tristan Crist Magic Theater to The Belfry, amazing golf courses including Geneva National and the Grand Geneva, winter skiing at Alpine Valley, The Mountaintop at Grand Geneva, and Wilmot Mountain… the list goes on!

Visit Lake Geneva: It's always been the place for Adventure

Lake Geneva Maxwell Street Days Address:

Downtown Lake Geneva, centered on Highway 50 (Main Street) at Broad Street (see map)
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
Info: (262) 248-4416
Website

Back to StateTrunkTour.com



Start: August 23, 2024
End: August 25, 2024
Venue: Downtown Lake Geneva
Phone: 262-248-4637
Address:
Highway 50, Lake Geneva, WI, 53147, United States
Cost: Free

August 22, 2024 – August 25, 2024

West Bend GERMANFest


West Bend GERMANfest

Welcome to the 38th Annual West Bend GERMANfest! This celebration of German Heritage and Gemütlichkeit takes place Thursday, August 22nd through Sunday, August 25th, 2024.  GERMANfest is an outdoor festival featuring two stages of continuous ethnic and other music, authentic German food and dancing, Sheepshead tournaments, Kinderzone, fine selection of beer and wine, souvenirs, daily raffles, and more.

Take in all the food, fun, and Festlichkeit that awaits you and others as you enjoy the huge outdoor, tented danced floor, fabulous array of musical guests and of course excellent food and beverages. West Bend Germanfest is easy to find, located centrally on the corners of Walnut and Main Street in the heart of downtown West Bend, rich with history. Highways 33 and 144 meet in downtown West Bend, a few miles east of the U.S. 45 bypass of the city. The original U.S. 45, as Main Street, cuts right past the GERMANfest grounds. Check out Riverside Brewery while you’re there!

West Bend GERMANfest Address:

5th Avenue & Walnut Street
West Bend, WI 53095
(262) 338-0690
Website




2024 West Bend GERMANfest Music Lineup

Thursday, August 22nd
Liquid Crush 5:00pm – 7:30pm
Rebel Grace 8:00pm – 11:00pm

Friday, August 23rd
Cedar Singers 10:00-11:00am
Goodtime Dutchmen 11:00am-12:00pm, 1:00-2:00pm
John Dietz & the Twin Lakes Trio 12:00-1:00pm, 2:00-3:00pm
Ryan Kautzer Band 3:00pm-4:00pm, 5:00pm-6:00pm
Copper Box 4:00-5:00pm, 6:00-8:00pm
The Nix 8:00pm-11:00pm

Saturday, August 24th
Pommersche Tanzdeel Freistadt 10:00-11:00am
RiverCity Blaskapelle 11:00am-12:00pm, 1:00-2:00pm
Dave Austin Band 12:00-1:00pm, 2:00pm-3:00pm
Brian and the Mississippi Valley Dutchmen 3:00pm-4:00pm, 5:30-6:30pm
Lynn Marie and the Nashville Polka Guys 4:15pm-5:30pm, 6:45pm-8:00pm
Alex Meixner Band 8:00-11:00pm

Sunday, August 25th
The Mike Schneider Band 10:00am-11:00am, 11:45am-1:00pm
Pint Sixed Polkas 11am-11:45am
Lynn Marie and the Nashville Polka Guys 1:00pm-2:30pm, 4:00pm-5:30pm
Alex Meixner Band 2:30pm-4:00pm, 5:30pm-8:00pm

Back to StateTrunkTour.com



Start: August 22, 2024 8:00 am
End: August 25, 2024 5:00 pm
Venue: Regner Park
Address:
800 N. Main Street, West Bend, WI, 53090, United States

August 22, 2024 – August 25, 2024

Rutabaga Festival, Cumberland


Let’s face it: the Rutabaga doesn’t get enough recognition. Cumberland rectifies that with their annual Rutabaga Festival Thursday, August 22nd through Sunday, August 25th!

Happening since 1932, Cumberland’s Rutabaga Festival includes live entertainment, a pedal tractor pull, pepper-eating contest, basketball shootout, craft show, morning bike tour, a grand parade… and rutabagas. (Which we think are what makes a pasty so much better!)

Schedule of Events at the 2024 Cumberland Rutabaga Festival

Come enjoy the Cumberland Rutabaga Festival Run on Saturday morning! Choose from a half marathon, 5K run, or 2 mile fun run/walk. All races start at 8 am at the Cumberland High School. You can also just watch if you prefer and cheer everyone on.

You’ll find Cumberland – aka “The Island City” – along U.S. 63 and Highway 48 in northwestern Barron County. Check out the amazing selection at Louie’s Finer Meats in town while you’re there! It’s a State Trunk Tour favorite.

Cumberland Rutabaga Festival Address:

Downtown Cumberland
Cumberland, WI 54829
(715) 822-FEST
Website




Back to StateTrunkTour.com



Start: August 22, 2024
End: August 25, 2024
Venue: Downtown Cumberland
Phone: 715-822-3378
Address:
1345 2nd Avenue, Cumberland, WI, 54829, United States