Summerfest 2026 brings the “World’s Largest Music Festival” back to Milwaukee’s lakefront in the middle of summer! We’re talking 9 days across three long weekends packed with concerts and fun with over half a million of your closest friends. Choose from over 600 acts across 12 stages on the 75-acre Maier Festival Park grounds. The dates this year, all Thursdays – Saturdays, are June 18-20, June 25-27, and July 2-4, 2026.
Summerfest dates back to 1968 and has since become a key venue for the music industry’s hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites to create unforgettable live music experiences in a world-class festival setting. Running along Milwaukee’s lakefront nestled within downtown, the Historic Third Ward, Discovery World, I-794, and Lake Michigan, Summerfest offers not only music but over 45 food and beverage vendors, four marketplaces offering crafts and wares from all over the world, interactive exhibits, and just cool general fun. Northwestern Mutual Community Park includes a Children’s Stage and play area that offers a fun experience for the kids. Regular shows involving magic, singalongs, and other activities are complemented with plenty of equipment kids can run, swing, climb, and play on. During the day, Summerfest is designed to be very family-friendly. Many of the food and beverage vendors are classic and popular restaurants and bars from around the Milwaukee area, and selections range widely from ethnic food options to a wide variety of craft and classic beers. Several stands also have a full bar with wine and spirits. Check out the latest music and stage lineups below!
Announced Summerfest 2026 lineups by Date, Stage & Time:
Tuesday, June 16th
American Family Insurance Amphitheater 7:30pm – Garth Brooks
Wednesday, June 17th
American Family Insurance Amphitheater 7:30pm – Garth Brooks
Thursday, June 18th
American Family Insurance Amphitheater 7:00pm – Megan Moroney
Miller Lite Oasis 1:15pm IDKCONUNDRUM 2:45pm American Progress 4:30pm Colin Bracewell 6:30pm The Juliana Theory 8:30pm Braid 10:30pm The Academy Is…
Generac Power Stage 12:30pm The Band Solstice 2:00pm Tobacco Road 3:30pm Old Mervs 5:30pm Winyah 7:30pm Penelope Road 9:30pm Flipturn
Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard 1:00pm TBA 2:30pm Noah Richardson 4:00pm SM6 6:00pm GRAHAM 8:00pm Weston Estate 10:00pm Connor Price
T-Mobile Stage 12:45pm Lauren Gottshall 2:30pm Will Terry 4:15pm Rhys Rutherford 6:15pm Scott Wolverton 8:15pm McCoy Moore 10:15pm Nate Smith
Uline Warehouse 12:30pm Milly & The Mayhem 2:00pm Kenneth Brian Band 3:30pm A.J. Croce 5:30pm Trapper Schoepp 7:30pm Don Felder 9:30pm Christopher Cross
Aurora Pavilion 3:15pm Cigarettes @ Sunset 4:30pm Altered By Mom 5:45pm Red Leather 7:00pm Dexter and the Moonrocks
BMO Pavilion 5:30pm Big Daddy Kane 7:15pm Gabriel Jacoby 9:00pm Common
Miller Lite Oasis 1:15pm OUTDrejas 2:45pm Chrystal Gales 4:30pm Vertical Horizon 6:30pm Porch Light 8:30pm Hazlett 10:30pm Kaleo
Generac Power Stage 12:00pm School of Rock 2:00pm School of Rock 4:30pm Booker T. Jones 6:30pm Pat McCurdy 7:30pm Grabbitz 10:00pm Subtronics
Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard 12:00pm School of Rock 2:00pm School of Rock 4:30pm Robert Randolph & The Family Band 6:30pm The Handcuffs 8:30pm Sincere Engineer 10:30pm Kim Gordon
T-Mobile Stage 12:00pm School of Rock 2:00pm School of Rock 4:15pm Wire & Nail 5:15pm Old 97’s 6:15pm Elijah Scott 8:15pm Lanie Gardner 10:15pm Tucker Wetmore
Uline Warehouse 12:00pm School of Rock 2:00pm School of Rock 4:15pm 10,000 Maniacs 5:45pm Lisa Loeb 7:30pm Walk Off the Earth 9:30pm Halestorm
Aurora Pavilion 12:00pm School of Rock 2:00pm School of Rock 3:15pm School of Rock 4:30pm Abby Moeller 5:45pm Boy Golden 7:00pm The Mountain Goats
Friday, June 26th
American Family Insurance Amphitheather 7:30 pm – Cody Johnson with special guest Jesse Murph
BMO Pavilion 5:30pm Alex Sampson 7:15pm The Aces 9:00pmLouis Tomlinson
Miller Lite Oasis 1:15pm Guardrail 2:45pm Harrison Gordon 4:30pm Lake Drive 6:30pm Showoff 8:30pm Lucky Boys Confusion 10:30pm Goldfinger
Generac Power Stage 12:00pm School of Rock 2:00pm School of Rock 4:30pm 7th Heaven 6:30pm Bobby Friss 8:30pm Big Wild 10:00pm Elderbrook
Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard 12:00pm School of Rock 2:00pm School of Rock 4:30pm Blonde 6:15pm KSP 8:00pm Henrik 10:00pm Petey USA
T-Mobile Stage 12:00pm School of Rock 2:00pm School of Rock 4:15pm Sugo 6:15pm Greg Koch & The Koch Marshall Trio 8:15pm Tha Band Loula 10:15pm Marcus King Band
Uline Warehouse 12:00pm School of Rock 2:00pm School of Rock 4:15pm Sons of the Silent Age 5:45pm Two Feet 7:30pm Grouplove 9:30pm The Revivalists
Aurora Pavilion 12:00pm School of Rock 2:00pm School of Rock 3:15pm School of Rock 4:30pm Siobahn Bodrug 5:45pm Harper O’Neill 7:00pm Sudan Archives
Saturday, June 27th
American Family Insurance Amphitheater 7:30 p.m. – Post Malone with special guest Carter Faith
Miller Lite Oasis 1:15pm In The Know 2:45pm King Solomon 4:30pm Left On Sunset 6:30pm The Expendables 8:30pm The Movement 10:30pm Pepper
Generac Power Stage 12:30pm Alley Eyes 5:30pm Jean Dawson 9:30pm Wolfmother
Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard 2:30pm Fuzzysurf 4:00pm Modern Alibi 6:00pm Taz 8:00pm Paw Paw Rod 10:00pm BØRNS
T-Mobile Stage 6:15pm Maris 10:15pm Audrey Nuna
Uline Warehouse 12:30pm The Noize 2:00pm Haley Johnsen 3:30pm Tracy Bonham 5:30pm Hank Azaria and the EZ Street Band 7:30pm Freddy Jones Band 9:30pm Little Feat
Aurora Pavilion 7:00pm Mariachi Sol De Mexico
Thursday, July 2nd
American Family Insurance Amphitheater 7:00 p.m. – Muse
Miller Lite Oasis 4:30pm Scout Speer 6:30pm Adam Warner 8:30pm Chase McDaniel 10:30pm Whiskey Myers
Generac Power Stage 3:30pm Yaya Biggs 5:30pm Edgehill 7:30pm Ax and the Hatchetmen 9:30pm Spoon
Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard 8:00pm DJ Jazzy Jeff 10:00pm Rev Run
T-Mobile Stage 10:15pm Flo Rida
Uline Warehouse 12:30pm Bob Mittnacht & The Crowning Gables 2:00pm Juliana Joy 3:30pm Radio Radio 5:30pm Ken Pomeroy 7:30pm St. Paul & the Broken Bones 9:30pm Gene Simmons Band
Aurora Pavilion 3:15pm Ask Carol 4:30pm Six Foot Blonde 5:45pm The Heavy Heavy 7:00pm Neal Francis
Saturday, July 4th
American Family Insurance Amphitheater 7:30 pm – Jelly Roll with special guest Tyler Hubbard
Miller Lite Oasis 4:30pm The Maiden Voyage 6:30pm Siin 10:30pm Megadeth
Generac Power Stage 3:30pm Nicole Lawrence 5:30pm Soul Asylum 7:30pm The Jayhawks 9:30pm The BoDeans
Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard 8:00pm John Vincent III 10:00pm Jonah Kagen
T-Mobile Stage 4:15pm Carolina Liar 6:15pm Pure Hex 8:15pm Joywave 10:15pm The Temper Trap
Uline Warehouse 12:30pm Victor Jones 2:00pm Porcupine 3:30pm Poi Dog Pondering 5:30pm Jerry Harrison’s TH 50 – “50 Years of Talking Heads” 7:30pm Mindi Abair 9:30pm Straight No Chaser
Aurora Pavilion 5:45pm Tag Team 7:00pm Baha Men
Part of Milwaukee’s skyline hovering above the northern part of the Summerfest Grounds, including the US Cellular Connection Stage, which will now the the T-Mobile Stage for 2026.
Watch for new announcements, see Summerfest.com/lineup for more lineups the timeliest way possible!
Summerfest Tickets
Single Day General Admission Ticketsrun $30 per day, you can print them at home or put them on your mobile. These tickets are good for the entire grounds and any show with the exception of the American Family Insurance Amphitheater shows. Seniors 62 and over and Children 3-10 can get discount tickets at the gate. Children 2 and under are admitted free. Multi-Day Ticket options include:
A US Cellular Power Pass, which runs $125 and gets you in ALL 9 DAYS of the festival, with the exception of the American Family Insurance Amphitheater shows.
A 6-Day Pass, which gets you in for 6 of 9 days of Summerfest – you choose your 6 days. It runs $105.
A US Cellular 3-Day Pass, which for $60 gets you in to 3 of 9 days of Summerfest, you choose which three.
Parking lots are available just to the west of the grounds and throughout downtown Milwaukee and the Historic Third Ward. The Milwaukee County Transit System also offers “freeway flyer” express buses to and from the grounds from numerous Park & Ride lots in the metro area. The Summerfest Grounds can be accessed directly via I-794, U.S. 18, and Highway 32. I-43/94 and Highways 38, 59, and 145 also bring you within a mile of it – which is how far away some people park! Either way, it’s one of the greatest music festivals on the planet and a definite State Trunk Tour recommendation.
Summerfest 2026 Address:
Henry Maier Festival Park 200 N. Harbor Drive Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 273-2680 Website
The annual Blue Ox Music Festival in Eau Claire, Wisconsin offers an intimate Bluegrass and Americana music experience from June 25-27, 2026. Founded in 2015, both the festival and campgrounds are family owned and operated by a team striving for a music festival experience designed to be welcoming and approachable for people of all ages. Blue Ox features over 35 artists spread across 3 days on three stages and on-site camping.
Blue Ox 2026 Experience/Activities include:
The Soul Sanctuary: A wellness tent featuring yoga, sonic Ceremony, sound healing, meditation, breathwork, reiki and more.
Instrument Workshops: Learn more about Bluegrass, Americana, Roots and traditional string genres of music from instructors who are musicians themselves. 2021 instructors include The High 48s and Nora Brown.
Potluck Pickin Area: Bring your instruments and meetup with fellow musicians for campground jam sessions hosted by the Potluck String Band.
Late Night Sets: From Midnight – 2AM enjoy music on the Backwoods Stage, located in the heart of the campground.
Beverage Options: Blue Ox 2026 official Breweries: Founders Brewery & Summit Brewing. Also on tap: Odell Brewing, New Belgium, Dogfish Head, Earth Rider and Third Space. Seltzers by Founders Brewery and Ciders by Milk & Honey Cider. Wollersheim Wines and Signature cocktails featuring Tattersall distillery Liquor will be available. (Non-alcoholic options will be provided by Food Vendors).
Fire/Flow Performing Artists: The Torch Sisters performing Sat, August 21st at 10PM
Art In the Pines Art Installations: An assortment of unique and engaging art created and installed by regional artists spread around the campground and within the festival bowl.
Over the past years the Blue Ox Music Festival has featured artists such as Bela Fleck and the Flecktones, Greensky Bluegrass, The Sam Bush Band, Peter Rowan, Drive by Truckers, The Del McCoury Band, Billy Strings, Margo Price, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, The Devil Makes Three, Trampled By Turtles, Railroad Earth, Tyler Childers, Son Volt and many more…
You can even check out the Blue Ox Podcast to find out more about the artists, venue, things to do, and more!
Tickets are available in a variety of pricing and combinations, find out more here.
Blue Ox Music Festival Schedule – lineup coming soon!
The Pines Music Park, where Blue Ox Music Festival is held, is just southwest of Eau Claire on the west side of the Chippewa River, opposite Highway 85. I-94 and Highway 37 connections bring you there. U.S. 12, U.S. 53, and Highway 93 also bring you to Eau Claire.
Blue Ox Music Festival Address:
The Pines Music Park
5024 Crescent Avenue
Eau Claire, WI 54703
(715) 602-4440 Website
The 82nd annual Greek Fest Sheboygan takes place Friday – Sunday, June 26-28, 2026 in Sheboygan’s Deland Park on the shores of Lake Michigan! Greek Fest, sponsored by St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church, is three full days of authentic Greek food, pastries, beer and wine, and traditional music.
The dance performances and usual Sunday Liturgy service is back in 2026! There will be activities for kids including inflatables, and a Sunday raffle also offers the opportunity to win prizes.
The Greek food including gyros, spinach pies, baklava, hot honey puffs, rotisserie chicken with Greek spices, flaming cheese, and more. The flaming cheese – called Saganaki – is breaded Sartori Fontina cheese served with pita bread. Enjoy a tantalizing hot honey puff or some baklava-topped ice cream. FREE admission, free parking. Opa!!
Hayward hosts Musky Fest Friday, June 26th through Sunday, June 28th with a huge celebration that offers over 120 handmade art and crafts booths, sidewalk sales, live music on Friday and Saturday nights, kids’ games and entertainment including a carnival, a 5k and 10k run/walk, parade, Musky Queen Scholarship program and the Hayward Lions Club fishing contest. The theme in 2026 is “The Reel Up North!”
As you may know (and if you don’t, now you will), Hayward is home to the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame and includes the World’s Largest Musky that you can explore and even climb up into. Musky Fest is fun for the whole family as it celebrates the musky, fishing, the North Woods, and so much more. U.S. 63 and Highways 27 and 77 bring you to this beautiful town!
11am – 3pm
Face Painting and Balloon Animals on Second Street sponsored by Frandsen Bank
10am – 5pm
Caricatures by Rachel near the Sevenwinds Casino Main Stage in Downtown Hayward
10am – 5pm
Speed Ball Throw on Third Street presented by the Knights of Columbus
10am – 5pm Fishing Contest Booth Open for Registrations near the Food Court on Main Street – Presented by Muskies Inc. – Hayward Lakes Chapter & Hayward Bass Club
10am – 10pm
Hayward Lions Club and Hayward Rotary Club’s Beer and Brat Tents Open
11am – 3pm
Meet & Greet with Hall of Fame Fisherman Babe Winkelman
11am – 10pm
Carnival Open at the Fuller Building Lot Courtesy of St. Joe’s Catholic Church
12pm – 4pm
Carnival Wrist Band Hours, all ages $25 each
12pm – 4pm
Learn to Fish Event at Shue’s Pond – Courtesy of the Wisconsin DNR
Noon
Mini, Little Miss, & Junior Musky Queen Presentation Presented by the Hayward Dairy Queen on the Sevenwinds Casino Main Stage in Downtown Hayward
4pm Fishing Contest Raffle & Prize Ceremony at the Fishing Contest Booth on Main Street Presented by Muskies Inc. – Hayward Lakes Chapter & Hayward Bass Club
Ellsworth backs up its claim as the “Cheese Curd Capital of Wisconsin” with their annual Cheese Curd Festival this weekend, filled with flavor and fun! We’re talking over 6,000 pounds of curds here.
This free festival offers over 20 cheese curd dishes from Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery for sampling, super-fresh and available battered or not with a variety of pairings, dips, and more.
Also enjoy over 30 craft brews to choose from, along with hard ciders, wines, and other local and regional beverages to try with your curds.
You can also take in eclectic live music performances and other activities for the entire family, including a classic car show, antique tractor show, games, and more. U.S. 10, U.S. 63, and Highway 65 will bring you to town and ensure you don’t leave hungry – or short on calcium.
Ellsworth Cheese Curd Festival Schedule of Events:
FRIDAY, JUNE 27 – 4 – 10 pm
4pm- 7pm Artisan Marketplace
– Part arts and crafts, part farmers market. Browse regional specialties and locally grown, handmade and handcrafted goods.
4pm – 6pm: Craft & Curd, Paired: the ultimate brewery face-off! Five local breweries battle it out for best brew and cheese curd flavor pairing. Who will win? That’s up to you–You’re the judge for this intense (and tasty) competition! Happening at the Tasting Tent
4:30pm – 6:30pm: 3OTT, Point Stage
4:30pm – 7:30pm: Brad Marx, Broadway Street Stage
5pm – Dark: Classic Car Cruise-In & Show, Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery Lot
7:00pm-9:30pm, The Tucker Baker Band, Park Stage
7:00pm – 8:00pm: Corks & Kegs Tasting Event. Plan to take part in the tasting experiences offered during the festival. Kegs & Corks adult tasting experiences feature local and regional craft beer, wine and hard cider. A happy hour like no other, enjoy unlimited sampling and light appetizers while visiting with the brewers, crafters and reps. At the Tasting Tent.
SATURDAY, JUNE 28 – 10am – 10 pm
8am: 5K/10K Run
8am-10am: Pancake Breakfast
9:30am: Run Awards, Park Stage
10am-7pm: Artisan Marketplace. Part arts and crafts, part farmers market. Browse regional specialties and locally grown, handmade and handcrafted goods. Broadway Street
10:00am – 11:30am: Why Worry? & The Fret Band, Point Stage
10:30am-12:30pm: Dave Snyder, Broadway Street Stage
10:30am – 11:30am: Milk & Cookie Pairing (while supplies last) The Milk & Cookie Pairing and Farmer Meet & Greet is not to be missed! A great opportunity shake hands with a real farmer and learn about today’s agriculture and what it takes to put food on the tables of families across America. At the Tasting Tent.
11:00am-12:30pm: Oatmeal Band, Park Stage
12:00pm – 1:30pm: The Dairy Aires, Point Stage
12:30-1:30pm: Ice Cream Tasting, Tasting Tent. Families won’t want to miss the Ice Cream Tasting, a one-hour real dairy flavor celebration featuring creative combinations crafted by the innovative folks from UW-River Falls Food Sciences Department.
1:00pm-3:00pm Sarah Vanvelkenburg, Broadway Street Stage
1:00pm-3:00pm: Dave Snyder, Broadway Street Stage
1:30pm-3:30pm: Half Shebang, Park Stage
1:30pm-2:30pm: Block Party!, Park Stage. One of the largest cheese tastings in the area. Enjoy cheese right off the ‘block’!
2:00pm Cheese Curd Eating Contest
3:00pm – 4:00pm: Corks & Kegs Tasting Event
Plan to take part in the tasting experiences offered during the festival. Kegs & Corks adult tasting experiences feature local and regional craft beer, wine and hard cider. A happy hour like no other, enjoy unlimited sampling and light appetizers while visiting with the brewers, crafters and reps.
3:30pm-5:30pm: Thomas Michael, Broadway Street Stage
3:30pm – 5:30pm: Just Banned, Point Stage
5:00pm-6:30pm: Craft & Curd: Paired. Five regional craft breweries compete for your votes by pairing their favorite craft brew with a custom cheese curd flavor! Which craft and curd pairing will be the winner? That’s up to you when you cast your vote for your favorite. At the Tasting Tent.
4:30pm-6:30pm: L Bell & the Lazy Susan Band
6:00pm-8:00pm: Denny Menter, Broadway Street Stage
6:00pm-8:00pm: The Delta Papas, Point Stage
7:00pm-8:00pm: Corks & Kegs Tasting Event, Tasting Tent. Plan to take part in the tasting experiences offered during the festival. Kegs & Corks adult tasting experiences feature local and regional craft beer, wine and hard cider. A happy hour like no other, enjoy unlimited sampling and light appetizers while visiting with the brewers, crafters and reps.
7:30pm-9:30pm: Justin Barts & The Way Out, Park Stage
Ellsworth Cheese Curd Festival Address:
East End Park
U.S. Highways 10/63 at East Wall Street
Ellsworth, WI 54011
(715) 273-6442 Website
Craving an art-filled weekend brimming with the most luscious summer fruit? Check out the 42nd annual Cedarburg Strawberry Festival, sponsored by BMO Harris Bank, June 27-28, 2026. This free, family-oriented festival is a favorite of many, drawing up to 100,000 people annually to toast the bold and delicious fruit in all its forms, and enjoy some of the most decadent homegrown strawberries in the area.
The Cedarburg Strawberry Festival’s many food vendors are sure to please any palate, boasting about an extensive Food Court near the Community Center, offering everything from summer favorites like hamburgers, chicken, BBQ and roasted corn, to sweet treats and specialty foods. Festival Food Court’s exclusive favorites include the “Original” Strawberry Brat, Strawberry Chicken Wrap, and strawberry shortcake. Wander through the Festival for other locally made delicacies such as strawberry pie, strawberry crepes, strawberry slushies and chocolate-covered strawberries. Schmit’s Berry Farm, a local grower, provides the festival with the most ripe and juicy strawberries, available for purchase by the quart.
For attendees with a taste for wine, Cedar Creek Winery’s Strawberry Blush Wine is a must – this and the winery’s other award-winning wines can be purchased by the glass throughout the Cedarburg Strawberry Festival.
Wander down Washington Avenue and you’ll see why “Art is a Tradition” in Cedarburg. Fondly referred to as “Arts on the Avenue,” Strawberry Festival highlights more than 250 of the best local and Midwest artists who bring their combined perspectives, skills, and thousands of works of arts to the streets of Cedarburg, including paintings, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, fiber art, fine glass, woodwork, mixed media, and photography. Art on the Avenue is a combined effort of four local organizations, the Cedarburg Cultural Center, Cedar Creek Settlement Merchant’s Association, the Ozaukee Art Center and the Cedarburg Art Museum, and offers one-of-a-kind works of art from functional to surreal, from witty to the elegantly decorative, as well as the opportunity to meet most of the artists in person.
Cedar Creek Settlement events at the north end of town include live bands, food, and features a new Cedar Creek Marketplace as well as a merchant’s marketplace and indoor shopping. The Sunday Morning Strawberry Pancake Breakfast will be worth checking out. The popular breakfast takes place on the north end of the Festival grounds from 8:00-11:00 a.m. and is served by the Cedar Creek Settlement merchants. More than 1,000 customers get their fill of mouthwatering strawberry pancakes while listening to live music outside along Cedar Creek.
Live music all over the Festival’s Historic District satisfies every audiophile all day Saturday and Sunday. The best place to enjoy the live music is at the Gruber Law Office Main Stage – Festival Food Court which will feature rockin’ fun cover bands like Our House and Life in a Tree. Enjoy live music into the evening with extended hours until 8:30 p.m on Saturday, June 27th. The Beer Garden offers shaded seating and is in close proximity to the main Festival Food Court.
For the littlest strawberry-lovers, Henry’s Kids Korner at Cedar Creek Park offers Jo-Don Farms pony rides and petting zoo, inflatable bounce houses, food and tons of other activities and vendors. One of the most popular events is the CedarQuacker 500 sponsored by Port Washington State Bank, where hundreds of rubber ducks are launched into the creek in a race to the finish Saturday and Sunday at 1 and 3 p.m.
You can check out a little more of Historic Cedarburg with the Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Ozaukee County’s “Berry Big” 5K Run/Walk, which kicks off in Cedar Creek Park on Saturday at 8:15 a.m. for the timed runners and 8:25 a.m. for fun runners/walkers. The route circles through the neighborhoods that surround the downtown area.
If you tire of walking, take a ride on the Country Aire Rides Tractor Hayride Shuttle that travels around the festival route. Off the festival footprint, the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts will feature exhibits and fun family activities.
Cedarburg Strawberry Festival Live Music Schedule:
You’ll find the Cedarburg Strawberry Festival in Cedarburg’s historic downtown along Washington Avenue (historic Highway 57), a few miles north of Highway 167, just east of Highway 181, and south of Highway 60.
Cedarburg Strawberry Festival Address:
Downtown Cedarburg
Washington Avenue
Cedarburg, WI 53012
(262) 377-5856 Website
The Northern Wisconsin State Fair is always a fun-filled, family event that brings folks back year after year to Chippewa Falls, right along Historic U.S. 53 and today’s Highway 124. In 2026, it runs Wednesday July 8th through Sunday, July 12th!
The five days of the fair feature midway carnival excitement, numerous exhibits, animal judging, contests for milk drinking, pie eating, karaoke, animal shows including a draft horse show, a pedal tractor pull, and much more that you would expect from a fair like this. Furthermore, you can check out or participate in the Lego Pre-Build Contest, talent competitions, and of course, the food is always a highlight. A Schedule of Events is below!
The fairgrounds are indicated by this formation of stones right along Highway 124.
Adult 5 Day Admission: $25 (covers all five days)
One Day Admission: $10
Children 5 and Under: FREE
Parking: $5 per vehicle
Active/Retired Military and Veterans: Free with Active/Retired Military ID Card, DD214
The Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds are right along Highway 124 in Chippewa Falls, just a hop, skip, and a jump north of the Leinenkugel Brewery and across from beautiful Irvine Park and the Irvine Park Zoo. Highways 29 and U.S. 53 bring you close by.
Northern Wisconsin State Fair Schedule of Events coming soon!
Northern Wisconsin State Fair Address:
Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds
225 Edward Street (just off Highway 124)
Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
(715) 723-2861 Website
It’s Milwaukee’s annual French festival, one of the largest French celebrations in the United States, and it’s tres magnifique! This FREE four-day bash attracts over 250,000 visitors each year. In 2026, Bastille Days runs Thursday, July 9th through Sunday, July 12th. Set around Cathedral Square on the east side of downtown, Bastille Days begins with a 5K “Storm the Bastille” run on Thursday night and then plenty of live music, an international marketplace, chef and wine demos, French and Cajun cuisine, roaming busker entertainment and a signature 43-foot Eiffel Tower replica offering hourly light shows.
The event is known for the impromptu street performers, roaming minstrels, and a variety of interactive and musical entertainment. Bastille Days also boasts a wide variety of some of the best restaurant vendors in Milwaukee!
Check out Bastille Days wine tastings where you can let your taste buds explore and compare delicious wines from around the world! A wine specialist will guide you through the taste test with selected wines from 5 countries. A separate ticket is needed for each tasting, and seating is limited to 76 per tasting. You’ll find all these tastings at the NE corner of Cathedral Square Park along Jackson Street – look for the tent!
The festival covers the blocks around Cathedral Square, including along Wells, Kilbourn, Jefferson, and Jackson Streets. U.S. 18 and Highway 32 actually detour around the festival, which is one of the largest French festivals in the nation. I-43/94, I-794, and Highways 38, 59, and 145 all bring you close. Grab your beret and check it out!
Thousands line up for the “Storm the Bastille” 5K Run & Walk at Bastille Days in Milwaukee
Bastille Days Hours:
Thursday July 9- 11am-11:30pm
Friday July 10- 11am-11:30pm
Saturday July 11- 10am-11:30pm
(Kid’s Day Activities 10am – 3pm)
Sunday July 12- 11am-8pm
Bastille Days Address:
825 N. Jefferson Street/Cathedral Square
Milwaukee, WI 53202 Website
Festa Italiana is “your ticket to Italy” once again when it hits Milwaukee’s lakefront July 10th-12th, 2026! Amazing Italian food, great entertainment, and the loudest fireworks around. This year, Festa Italiana celebrates 48 years along Milwaukee’s beautiful lakefront.
Check out Flag-Throwers of the Florentine, direct from Italy. For music, check out great acts across six stages, including the Children’s Stage. Headliners include Anthony Crivello, George Busateri’s Spider George and the Web, Louis Vanaria, The Sicilian Tenors featuring Aaron Caruso, Sam Vitale, and Vincent Riccardi, Agne, Tre Bella, Cory Pesaturo, Graziana Maria Lazzaro, and FLEMT – straight from Italy. Longtime favorite Rick D’Amore makes his return, too!
Magic tricks, food demonstrations, comedians Vince Carone and Carmen Vallone, singers from the Florentine Opera, and more are all performing each day. The UW Marching Band will perform on Sunday, and the Children’s Stage will have all kinds of entertainment throughout the day.
You can also enjoy a romantic gondola ride on the cove, play bocce ball, watch the Copa Festa Italiana Futsal tournament, or compete in Italian Idol. Classic Italian fare and wine tastings, Kids Pizza Making Contest and annual Cannoli Eating Contest. There’s also a traditional Sunday Mass at 11am.
The fireworks go off every Festa evening around 10pm, and they’re a blast! (No pun intended. Okay, fine, pun intended.)
Admission tickets are $13 in advance, $15 at the door; Children 12 and under are admitted free all three days when accompanied by an adult. Festa Italiana is a cashless festival – no cash will be accepted at the box office, ticket windows, or on the grounds.
You can find the grounds under (literally, under) I-794 along Milwaukee’s lakefront. U.S. 18 ends right by the North Gate, and swinging nearby are I-43, I-94, and Highways 32, 38, 57, 59, and 145.
Festa Italiana Address:
Henry Maier Festival Park
200 N. Harbor Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53202
414-223-2808 Website
Start:
July 10, 2026 5:00 pm
End:
July 12, 2026 9:00 pm
Venue:
Henry Maier Festival Park
Phone:
414-223-2808
Address:
200 N. Harbor Drive, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, United States
Along the Wisconsin-Illinois border you can go back to the 16th century at the Bristol Renaissance Faire. A plethora of entertainment, great food, performances, and a marketplace filled with crafts, art, musical instruments, clothes, jewelry, and more await. You’ll find plenty of colorful characters in period costumery, performers twirling fire, people mashing their mouths into giant turkey legs, wandering minstrels, swordfights, jousting… the list goes on and on. It’s a great summer weekend activity just west of Kenosha on the Illinois border!
Bristol Renaissance Faire runs Saturdays and Sundays July 5th though Labor Day, September 1st (yes, it runs that Monday and that’s the only Monday.)
The Kid’s Kingdom features the Castle Stage where children can get knighted, a face-painting area (don’t worry, it washes off eventually), hobbit houses, an entrance area with five huge thrones that provide great photo opportunities, and an air-conditioned rest area.
A giant turkey leg slathered in barbecue sauce is an essential part of the Bristol Renaissance Faire experience, but they also offer everything from Cornish pasties and bakery goods to vegan items and gelato. The number of entertainment stages now totals sixteen. Comedic sword-fighting, ropewalking, juggling, fire-whipping, acrobatics, chalk art, a variety of musicians, and more. The Marketplace offers the work of nearly 175 artisans and crafters; you can find Scottish kilts, leather masks, bamboo flutes, jester socks, stage-combat-approved swords, steampunkery, and much more. Glass blowing and blacksmithing activities frequently happen in the Marketplace as well as a variety of other crafting.
Tickets range from $40 for adults to $15 for children ages 5-12. Seniors (62+) and Military with ID are $38. Kids 4 and under are free. Season passes can be purchased for $225. You can also get discounted tickets at Menard’s and if you join Friends of the Faire you can also get discounts. U.S. 41, I-41/94, Highway 165, and the state line border the “Fairegrounds,” with U.S. 45 and Highway 50 also getting you close!
Bristol Renaissance Faire Location:
12550 120th Avenue
Kenosha, WI 53142
(877) 395-7773 Website
Elkhorn hosts Wisconsin’s largest BBQ Festival with Ribfest, which take place on the Walworth County Fairgrounds July 15-19, 2026!
Check out FIVE days of unbelievably delicious, mouth-watering barbecue and entertainment on the beautiful Walworth County Fairgrounds. This event features world-renowned professional BBQ champions, great entertainment, backyard grillers, an artisan village, and a ton of great live entertainment. Not only will you experience some of the best grillers and BBQers in the country, but plenty of other fun including beer and live music with plenty of family fun, including carnival rides and other kids’ activities!
FREE Admission and parking! Even free Wi-Fi, courtesy of Edge Broadband.
Music headliners include (the list will be growing, too!):
Wednesday, July 15th:
Cherry Pie
Thursday, July 16th:
Bella Cain
Friday, July 17th:
Madison County
Saturday, July 18th:
Rival 5
Kashmir: The Led Zeppelin Show
Buster Daizy
Sunday, July 19th:
TBA
Ribfest Hours are 3 pm – 11pm Wednesday, 11 am – 11 pm Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and 11am – 9pm Sunday.
You’ll find the Walworth County Fairgrounds just east of downtown Elkhorn, the seat of Walworth County. The grounds can be accessed off Court Street (Highway 11) just west of the U.S. 12 freeway and just northwest of the U.S. 12/I-43 interchange. Highway 67 is just to the west.
Elkhorn Ribfest Address:
411 East Court Street (Highway 11)
Elkhorn, WI 53121
(262) 723-3228 Website
Hayward hosts the 66th annual Lumberjack World Championships July 15-18, 2026! The Lumberjack World Championships began in 1960 as a way to acknowledge the rich history of the logging industry across the United States. Once again, over 21 events will offer international competition showcasing the best sawing, chopping, speed climbing, log rolling, boom-running & more! It’s great family fun.
More than 100 lumberjacks and lumberjills vie for more than $50,000 in prize money, making this one of the largest paybacks for lumberjack competition in the world – and of course, world records in these events could be set – they often have!
Up to 12,000 spectators enjoy the action in Hayward.
Opening night – Thursday, July 15th – is Mountain Dew Family Night, with special family pricing for admission ($45 for two adults and up to four children) and other specials. Other ticket packages run around $53 for three days’ worth of admission.
Getting to Hayward means a beautiful drive through the North Woods – just what we like! Hayward is along U.S. 63 on the drive from Spooner to Ashland; it’s also where Highways 27 and 77 meet up. While in town, check out the great trails, shopping, the World’s Largest Musky at the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame, the Angry Minnow Brewpub, and more!
Hayward Lumberjack World Championships Address:
15670 West County Road B
Hayward, WI 54843
(715) 634-2484 Website
Lumberjack World Championships Schedule of Events
Thursday, July 16
Quarterfinal Competition
8:00 – 11:00am – Amateur Log Rolling
11:30am – LWC Festival Grounds Open to Ticket Holders, Swinging Axe Beer Tent open, Food & Unique Vendors, All Day Family Fun, Try Log Rolling!
11:35am – Qualifying Competitions for Chopping and Sawing Events; ongoing
Noon – Professional Log Rolling Preliminaries
3:00pm-5:00pm – Happy Hour & Live Music in Swinging Axe Beer Garden by Steve Beguhn, American Idol Finalist
3:45pm – Boom Running Qualifiers
5:30pm – Opening Ceremonies and Professional Quaterfinal Competition
Hot Saw
60-Foot Speed Climb
Women’s Underhand Chop
Men’s Log Roll
60-Foot Speed Climb
Men’s Standing Block Chop
Jill & Jill Cross Cut Sawing
Women’s Boom Run
Springboard Chop
90-Foot Speed Climb
Master’s Underhand Chop
Intermission
90-Foot Speed Climb
Women’s Standing Block Chop
Men’s Single Buck Saw
Women’s Log Roll
Jack & Jill Double Buck Saw
90-Foot Speed Climb
Men’s Log Roll
Women’s Single Buck Saw
Men’s Underhand Chop
Men’s Boom Run
Team Relay
Friday, July 17
Semifinal Competition
8:00 – 11:00am – Amateur Log Rolling
11:30am – LWC Festival Grounds Open to Ticket Holders, Swinging Axe Beer Tent open, Food & Unique Vendors, All Day Family Fun, Try Log Rolling!
11:35am – Qualifying Competitions for chopping and sawing; ongoing
Noon – Professional Log Rolling Competitions
3:00pm – 5:00pm – Happy Hour & Live Music – Swinging Axe Beer Garden Music by Molly & the Danger Band
5:30pm – Opening Ceremonies and Professional Semi-Final Competition
Hot Saw
60-Foot Speed Climb
Men’s Log Roll
60-Foot Speed Climb
Women’s Underhand Chop
Women’s Boom Run
Men’s Standing Block Chop
Jill & Jill Double Buck Saw
Springboard Chop
Master’s Underhand Chop
Intermission
90-Foot Speed Climb
Men’s Single Buck Saw
Women’s Standing Block Chop
Women’s Log Roll
90-Foot Speed Climb
Jack & Jill Double Buck Saw
90-Foot Speed Climb
Men’s Log Roll
Women’s Single Buck Saw
Men’s Underhand Chop
Men’s Boom Run
Team Relay
Saturday, July 18
Final World Championship Competition
8:00am – Lumberjack Run 5K Run/Walk – Start and Finish at the Lumberjack Bowl (15670 W County Road B, Hayward, WI 54843)
11:30am – LWC Festival Grounds Open to Ticket Holders, Swinging Axe Beer Tent open, Food & Unique Vendors, All Day Family Fun, Try Log Rolling!
Noon – Professional Log Rolling Competitions and Small Finals Wood Chopping Competitions
1:30pm – Axe Throwing Competition
3:00pm – 5:00pm – Happy Hour & Live Music – Swinging Axe Beer Garden with Live Music by Little Way
5:30pm – Opening Ceremonies and World Championships Finals Competition
Marshfield is known as “Hub City” and its 20th annual Hub City Days celebrates the city’s heritage, present, and future. Check out a weekend of fun July 23-25, 2026, including a big screen movie shown right on Central Avenue and Wenzel Family Plaza!
The massive Car & Bike Show, Family Zone with bounce houses and kids’ games, the Craft Show, the Brew Fest and Beer Garden, tons of live music and more are all ready!
The Hub City Brew Fest will feature craft beers from all over Wisconsin and the Midwest! The Car Show will be right on Central Avenue (Historic Highway 13).
You can reach Marshfield via U.S. 10 or Highways 13, 80, and 97. It’s right in the center of Wisconsin, hence the name “Hub City”!
Hub City Days Schedule:
Thursday, July 23rd
DOWNTOWN BUSINESS AFTER 5
5 – 7 PM | Elk’s Club
Main Street welcomes MACCI’s monthly business networking event downtown to kick off Hub City Days! Enjoy live music with Curtis Samuel, appetizers, and drinks.
Questions? Contact MACCI: (715) 384-3454
MOVIE IN THE PLAZA
Dusk | Wenzel Family Plaza
Grab some fundraiser concessions alfresco in the Wenzel Family Plaza. Don’t forget your lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and your fam! Movie hint: “Smile, Smile,”, Rated PG
Books will be given to kids in attendance thanks to the generosity of the Friends of Marshfield Public Library. (One per household while supplies last.)
Friday, July 24th
SHOP HOP
5 – 7 PM | Downtown Marshfield
Streets will be closed to traffic Central Ave – Veteran’s to 4th St. for pedestrians to enjoy evening shopping and dining downtown.
+ Wander the streets to discover more!
Win Hub City Brew Fest tickets! *Shop downtown this evening and bring your receipt to the Main Street Marshfield tent at Wenzel Family Plaza between 7-9 p.m. You’ll receive an entry for each receipt you show with your 21+ ID. Winners will be announced at 9 p.m. Tickets will be held at Hub City Brew Fest for those not present for the announcement.*
BIKE CRUISE & BIKE ACTIVITIES
5:30-7 PM | Downtown Marshfield
Enjoy a group bicycle ride into downtown from a predetermined Marshfield trail location (TBD). Once downtown, park your bike to shop & dine or enjoy a variety of bike activities set up on Central Ave, including a safety station, local trail updates, summer community ride info, and the bikeshare program. All group ride participants earn a free ice cream at Hiller’s Ice Cream Bike, located near Northside Cycle.
HUB CITY CONCERT SERIES FEATURING ADAM GRUEL AND THE SPACE BURRITOS
7 – 10 PM | Wenzel Family Plaza
Grab your picnic blanket or lawn chairs for a leisurely night out on the grass. Main Street Marshfield will be selling beer, seltzer, and soft drinks to raise funds for downtown events and programming!
Saturday, July 25th
CAR SHOW
10 AM – 3 PM | Downtown Marshfield
The Hub City Days Car Show spans over 10 city blocks, features 500+ car/bike entries, a live DJ, kids games, tons of door prizes, free t-shirts for veterans, veteran appreciation raffle (2 PM), and kids-only raffle (2 PM). It’s the car show you can’t miss! Car show vehicle awards are presented at 3 PM. Car show vehicle registration is free with a suggested donation of a non-perishable food item.
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT & BEER GARDEN
11 AM – 11 PM | Wenzel Family Plaza
Enjoy live music with no cover charge! Bands will play 11 AM to 11 PM thanks to our day stage sponsor, Prevail Bank, and main stage sponsors, Marshfield Insurance & West Bend.
11 AM – 3 PM Live Music: Modern Throwback
3 – 7 PM Live Music: Tim Dorsey
7 – 11 PM Live Music: Shirts and Skins
Rain location: Central WI Fairgrounds Expo Building
HUB CITY BREW FEST
12 – 3 PM | Wenzel Family Plaza
Participants receive a souvenir pint glass. Enjoy seating and beer tasting exclusive to Brew Fest attendees. $30/ticket. Tickets on sale here: eventbrite.com
Rain location: Central WI Fairgrounds Expo Building
HORSE POWER SHOW
10 AM – 3 PM | Upham Mansion
Visit the Governor Upham House and walk through an exhibit of horse-drawn carriages dating from the early 1900s.
FAMILY ZONE
10 AM – 3 PM | Veteran’s Park
Find family fun at the Family Zone! Kiddie Cars, Marshfield Fire Dept, Hiller’s Bounce Houses, face painting, and more all in the relaxing shade of Veteran’s Park. Reis Martial Arts’ demonstrations will begin at 11AM. Performances by Main Street Conservatory of Dance will begin at 12PM and 1PM.
NEW: HUB CITY DAYS CRAFT SHOW
10 AM – 3 PM | 100 Block of South Central Avenue Peruse local craft vendors conveniently located near live music and the start of the car show. Wander through the sidewalks to see what local shops have in store for the day and take something home to commemorate the event.
You can easily reach Marshfield via U.S. 10 or Highways 13, 80, and 97. Head to the Hub!
Check out our State Trunk Tour Marshfield Podcast with Matt McLean from VISIT Marshfield, where we talk Hub City Days, the city and all the things to do and see in it, here or stream it below!
All over Kenosha’s beautiful harbor area, you’ll find the Taste of Wisconsin July 24th-26th this year. There’s plenty to eat, drink, and do with over 40 food vendors, four beverage gardens, 75+ musical artists playing across four different stages, and a Kid Zone. The Demonstration Center offers a look at all kinds of foods and products for making awesome culinary delights – or just quick, tasty meals – from a number of chefs and others who show you how to make magic in the kitchen… or on the grill, at the campsite – wherever you want to prepare food.
Admission is FREE for everybody! And while you can enjoy great food, music, and more, you can also explore the HarborPark area, the Kenosha Public Museum, the Civil War Museum, the Dinosaur Discovery Museum, the Southport Light Station & Museum, take rides on the Kenosha Trolley, and more! Taste of Wisconsin happens in Kenosha’s HarborPark area on the edge of downtown. You’ll find it just east of Highway 32 between the east ends of Highways 50 and 158. Enjoy!
Taste of Wisconsin covers a lot of ground in Kenosha’s HarborPark area, right downtown. They need a lot of room for all that food and music! Photo courtesy of the Kenosha News.
Taste of Wisconsin Address:
HarborPark
5400 6th Avenue
Kenosha, WI 53140
(262) 496-9400 Website
Get Your Deutsch On! Celebrating over 45 years, German Fest returns to Milwaukee’s lakefront the weekend of July 24th-26th. Plenty of great German food and live music, bier (of course) and a lot of fun events. The 19th annual Dachshund Derby runs – literally – at 1pm Saturday.
Dachshunds get competitive in their races.
Check out United for Kids, where you can visit with The MACC Fund, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, Make-A-Wish® Wisconsin and Ronald McDonald House of Eastern Wisconsin, Inc. on Saturday, July 25th and Sunday, July 26th inside of the Sports Area. They’ll have games, prizes, information and fun for the whole family! A portion of Sunday’s ticket sales will benefit these four charities.
You can also check out Carousel Organ Association of America’s providing some of the “happy” instrumentation as you dance to music. Children can participate in the Fairy Tale Parade Sunday at 3:30pm and Dance Showcase at 4pm on the Sprecher Oktoberfest Stage. Fireworks will fill the sky Friday and Saturday night starting around 10:30pm.
TICKETS for German Fest are only $3 Friday! General Admission Saturday & Sunday run tickets run $12 in advance and $15 at the gate; children under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult. Find out more admission specials here.
German Fest takes place on the Summerfest Grounds in Milwaukee – also known as Henry Maier Festival Park. The grounds are in close proximity to U.S. 18, I-43/94, and Highways 32, 38, 57, 59, 145, and 190.
Prosit!
Milwaukee German Fest Address:
Henry Maier Festival Grounds
200 N. Harbor Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53202
(414) 464-9444 Website
Start:
July 24, 2026 3:00 pm
End:
July 26, 2026 11:00 pm
Venue:
Henry Maier Festival Park
Phone:
414-464-9444
Address:
200 N. Harbor Drive, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, United States
Appleton’s “Mile of Music” Festival (X/Twitter: @MileofMusicFest) serves up original singer-songwriters, combos and multi-piece bands showcasing Americana music at both its most colorful and its very best. Genres include roots and indie rock, country, gospel, soul, R&B, jazz and folk. This year’s Mile of Music 11 takes place July 30 – August 2, 2026.
This grassroots festival was co-founded by Appleton marketing executive Dave Willems and Appleton/Nashville-based national recording artist and Grammy nominee Cory Chisel in 2013. Willems Marketing & Events continues to run Mile of Music, with the support of over 100 community organizations and sponsors. Presenting sponsor Fox Communities Credit Union and other major sponsors have allowed this event to be FREE.
Mile of Music is noted as a “handcrafted artisan festival” with over 200 artists and acts across 40 venues spanning a mile… of music (hence the name!)
Brett Newski performs at Mile of Music in Appleton.
Venues vary and include coffee shops, bars, parks, restaurants, museums and other public spaces. with more of them outdoors in the wake of the pandemic we all had to deal with. Some of Mile 13’s biggest artists will perform at the Main Stage in Houdini Plaza, one of the festival’s most popular venues. Remember, Harry Houdini spent time in Appleton and claimed it as his hometown!
Local brewpub Stone Arch will offer up its artisan Mile of Music Americana Pale Ale to add to the flavor of the festival. Music fans who love bicycling can work off those beer calories and indulge their music passions with Bike to the Beat. Added fun includes the Tub of Tunes giveaway, where one lucky attendee will win a bathtub full of CDs and vinyl from Mile 10 artists.
Check it out all weekend in Appleton. Their website has the complete lineup, and you can also download their special app for updates, details on all the events, and more. You can also get the full schedule here – it’s a busy one!
Appleton is easily accessible via I-41, U.S. 10, Highways 15, 47, 96, or, of course 125 – because if you’re on Highway 125, you’re in Appleton already. Highway 441 provides a bypass around the city that allows you to enter from points east and south.
Sheboygan is the “Bratwurst Capital of the World” so it’s only fitting that Brat Days is one of their biggest celebrations! Taking place the first Saturday of August, Brat Days dates back to 1953. It’s back again for 2026, and this year it’s back to a TWO-DAY festival! Admission is still free and the activities are plentiful.
Check out a wide variety of tasty brats served up in buns, on sticks, in tacos, on pizza, egg rolls, jambalaya, even as a corn dog. Dance or rock out with plenty of live music. The Brat Days Parade kicks off at 9am Saturday and runs through downtown Sheboygan. The famous Brat-Eating Contest, featured on channels like ESPN, takes place Saturday at 1pm. Games are available for adults and kids alike; kids’ activities include a petting zoo and carnival.
Brat Days is held in Kiwanis Park on the west bank of the Sheboygan River. The park is accessible just west of Highway 28 via New Jersey Avenue. You can also reach Kiwanis Park by heading south from the ends of Highways 23 and 42 via 17th Street. It’s all about three miles east of I-43.
For more details on bands, events, activities and more, check out the Brat Days website. Brat Days is sponsored by Johnsonville, which of course has its headquarters just west of town.
While in Sheboygan, check out the downtown area along 8th Street, theJohn Michael Kohler Arts Center, 3 Sheeps Brewing, City Green, South Pier with all of its activities, the World’s Tallest American Flagpole (along I-43 at Acuity Insurance headquarters), nearby Kohler, the marina and lovely lakefront, nearby Kohler-Andrae State Park, and more.
Brat Days Address:
Kiwanis Park
726 N. 17th Street
Sheboygan, WI 53081
(920) 893-8980 Website
One of the nation’s great fairs, the Wisconsin State Fair runs August 6-16, 2026 on the Wisconsin State Fair Park grounds in West Allis. Everything from the animals to rides, concerts, exhibits, and tasty food and beverages are yours for the taking!
Updates to the Central Mall area include with a new look and ample seating. The rides and games at SpinCity are in full swing, and they include a super assortment of over 40 rides and 25 games with chances to win plenty of prizes!
The Fairgrounds will have plenty of street performers and entertainers, but of course the excellent live music is a huge draw. There are two primary performance stages at Wisconsin State Fair: the Main Stage, which uses the Milwaukee Mile track and bleachers for seating, and the Bank Five Nine Amphitheater, which is near the Central Mall.
Thursday, Aug. 6: Sixteen Candles, 8:30 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 7: Here Come the Mummies, 8:30 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 8: Here Come the Mummies, 8:30 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 9: So Good: The Neil Diamond Experience with Claire Sardina, 8 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 10: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone, 8 p.m.
Tuesday, Aug. 11: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone, 8 p.m.
Wednesday, Aug. 12: Hairbangers Ball, 8 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 13: Too Hype Crew, 8:30 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 14: The Gufs, 8:30 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 15: Let’s Sing Taylor — An Unofficial Live Tribute Show, 8:30 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 16: Pat McCurdy, 5:30 p.m.
As always, the State Fair will feature a huge variety of animals from farms all across the state, letting you learn more about and even interact with some – from cows to chickens and rabbits to llamas, ostrich, goats, and more! Check out prize-winning exhibits, including art competitions, farming competitions, even one for the best alcohol-infused pie. Other exhibits include those for barn quilts, horticulture, textile, craft, and culinary exhibits, and even the Young People’s Art Exhibit.
ALL. THE. FOOD.
You will not go hungry: favorite foods at the Fair include the roasted corn, corn dogs, flavored milks, all kinds of creative deep-fried foods, sausages, as much as you can imagine on a stick, and the legendary Wisconsin cream puffs that become a “must have” for attendees needing their true dairy (and carb) fix! They get more eclectic with things like deep-fried bull testicles (listed as “Rocky Mountain Oysters” on the menu at Big Sky Country Bar & Grill), ants on a stick (literally), and earthworm and cricket jerky. But hey, it’s up to you. Last year’s “Sporkies” winner was the Deep Fried Lemonade Bites from Saz’s BBQ.
OTHER FOODS at State Fair include an Apple Crunch Cheesecake Quesadilla from the Mexican Grill, BBQ Mac Tater Tots from Jayme’s Chipstix, the Caramel Turtle Pretzel at Gertrude’s Fresh Pretzels, Loaded Baked Potato with Bacon Pizza from Pistol Pete’s, Prime Rib Sliders at Leadfoots Race Bar & Grill, the Unicorn Beer Float at Slim McGinn’s Irish Pub, and about 60 other choices!
The Milwaukee Mile race track, which hosts races, auto testing, and more throughout the year is just one of the places you can park – which is cool, since you can walk on and check out this legendary oval, the oldest continuously operating raceway in the world.
Get more details here. This is definitely one of the best State Fairs in the nation!
Check out this map of Wisconsin State Fair… you can enlarge it by clicking on it or get a printable .pdf HERE.
Wisconsin State Fair Park is in West Allis, less than ten minutes from downtown Milwaukee. Bordered on the south by Highway 59/Greenfield Ave., on the west by Highway 181/84th Street, on the north by I-94, and on the east by 76th Street. U.S. 18/Bluemound Road comes close to the north, I-41/U.S. 45 and then Highway 100 skim by 2 miles to the west, and Highway 175 is about 2 miles east as it passes Miller Park. There are a lot of great ways to get to the Park!
Wisconsin State Fair Address:
Wisconsin State Fair Park
640 S. 84th Street (Highway 181 at Highway 59)
West Allis, WI 53214
(414) 266-7000 Website
Experience art in the heart of the city at ArtFest Green Bay! The streets of Downtown Green Bay will come alive with an art fair, musical performances, food, demonstrations, and interactive activities.
Discover works from a wide variety of local, regional, and national artists at the Art Fair, in partnership with NWTC Artisan and Business Center. Artists will showcase their diverse range of mediums and shoppers are sure to find something that captures their imagination. From paintings to sculptures, photography to mixed media, artists will inspire attendees with their creativity and talent.
You can step into the Experience Zone at ArtFest, a vibrant space where creativity comes to life. Engage in interactive art activities, watch live demonstrations, enjoy performances, and connect with arts non-profits. It’s a perfect space for kids and families. Whether you’re an artist or just curious, this is your chance to engage, explore, and create, so feel free to dive in and get your hands dirty in a beautiful way.
Live music Saturday by FBI & The Untouchable Horns, Sunday by Copper Box!
ArtFest activities take place August 22nd & 23rd, 2026 along Cherry and Jefferson Streets in downtown Green Bay, wedged in by Walnut Street (Highway 29) and Pine Street. Parking in the area is FREE!
One of three “State Fairs” in Wisconsin, the Central Wisconsin State Fair takes place in Marshfield August 25-30, 2026 on the grounds that also feature the “World’s Largest Round Barn.” The Central Wisconsin State Fair has also been refreshing its equipment with new rides and games to enhance the experience!
Headliners include:
TBA Wednesday night, August 26th
TBA Thursday night, August 27th
TBA Friday night, August 28th
TBA Saturday night, August 29th
Rice Rodeo, Sunday, August 30th at 3pm
This Fair also features 4-H and open class exhibits, free grandstand entertainment with gate admission, the Round Barn Express train, Junior Fair Market Animal Sale, 13th annual Kiss a Critter Contest, the Dress-A-Cow Contest, midway carnival rides, commercial exhibits and special programs, food and beer gardens, and more. This six-day extravaganza is definitely worth checking out if you want to hit the lovely city of Marshfield in the central part of the state (hence, the event’s name).
Central Wisconsin State Fair’s Round Barn Express Train
U.S. 10 and Highways 13, 80, and 97 all hit Marshfield, Wisconsin (“Hub City”) and the Central Wisconsin State Fair grounds are on the south side of town, a few blocks east of Central Avenue (Bus. Hwy 13) and the Wildwood Zoo. Also check out Central Avenue and the downtown district, the Blue Heron Brewpub, and a plenty of other things and to see and do around Hub City. Get more ideas from Visit Marshfield here!
Check their website for the complete entertainment lineup, ticket specials, and more!
Central Wisconsin State Fair Address:
Wood County Fairgrounds
513 E. 17th Street
Marshfield, WI 54449
(715) 387-1261 Website
Calendar of Events
Upcoming Events › Festival
June 18, 2026 – July 4, 2026
Summerfest 2026
Summerfest 2026 brings the “World’s Largest Music Festival” back to Milwaukee’s lakefront in the middle of summer! We’re talking 9 days across three long weekends packed with concerts and fun with over half a million of your closest friends. Choose from over 600 acts across 12 stages on the 75-acre Maier Festival Park grounds. The dates this year, all Thursdays – Saturdays, are June 18-20, June 25-27, and July 2-4, 2026.
Summerfest dates back to 1968 and has since become a key venue for the music industry’s hottest stars, emerging talent and local favorites to create unforgettable live music experiences in a world-class festival setting. Running along Milwaukee’s lakefront nestled within downtown, the Historic Third Ward, Discovery World, I-794, and Lake Michigan, Summerfest offers not only music but over 45 food and beverage vendors, four marketplaces offering crafts and wares from all over the world, interactive exhibits, and just cool general fun. Northwestern Mutual Community Park includes a Children’s Stage and play area that offers a fun experience for the kids. Regular shows involving magic, singalongs, and other activities are complemented with plenty of equipment kids can run, swing, climb, and play on. During the day, Summerfest is designed to be very family-friendly. Many of the food and beverage vendors are classic and popular restaurants and bars from around the Milwaukee area, and selections range widely from ethnic food options to a wide variety of craft and classic beers. Several stands also have a full bar with wine and spirits. Check out the latest music and stage lineups below!
Announced Summerfest 2026 lineups by Date, Stage & Time:
Tuesday, June 16th
American Family Insurance Amphitheater
7:30pm – Garth Brooks
Wednesday, June 17th
American Family Insurance Amphitheater
7:30pm – Garth Brooks
Thursday, June 18th
American Family Insurance Amphitheater
7:00pm – Megan Moroney
BMO Pavilion
7:15pm Dannyboy
9:00pm Charlie Wilson
Miller Lite Oasis
1:15pm From Ashes To Embers
2:45pm Current Comfort
4:30pm Vial
6:30pm Nicholas Tremulis & The Prodigals
10:30pm Tash Sultana
Generac Power Stage
5:30pm The Dream Syndicate
7:30pm Modern English
9:30pm Echo & The Bunnymen
Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard
6:00pm Morgan St. Jean
8:00pm Dora Jar
10:00pm Holly Humberstone
T-Mobile Stage
6:15pm Venus & the Flytraps
8:15pm Marlon Funaki
10:15pm Passion Pit
Uline Warehouse
2:00pm Supertaste
3:30pm Post Sex Nachos
5:30pm Taylor Acorn
7:30pm The Bends
9:30pm Third Eye Blind
Aurora Pavilion
7:00pm Alejandro Escovedo
Friday, June 19th
American Family Insurance Amphitheater
7:30pm – Don Toliver with special guests Shababii & Che
BMO Pavilion
5:30pm The Love Monkeys
7:15pm Aldo Nova
9:00pm STYX
Miller Lite Oasis
1:15pm From Ashes To Embers
2:45pm Current Comfort
4:30pm Vial
6:30pm Panic Shack
8:30pm Enter Shikari
10:30pm Amyl and the Sniffers
Generac Power Stage
5:30pm Deer Tick
7:30pm Evan Honer
9:30pm Father John Misty
Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard
4:00pm Todd Cameron
6:00pm Steph Strings
8:00pm Adrian Nunez
T-Mobile Stage
6:15pm Emmitt James
10:15pm Jeremiah
Uline Warehouse
12:30pm Koyo
2:00pm Field Hockey
3:30pm Tiny Voices
5:30pm Red Jumpsuit Apparatus
7:30pm State Champs
9:30pm Hot Mulligan
Aurora Pavilion
5:45pm Chris Crain
7:00pm The Family Stone
Saturday, June 20th
American Family Insurance Amphitheater
7:00pm – Carin Leon
BMO Pavilion
5:30pm Substitute: Tales from The Who
7:15pm Kirstie Kraus
9:00pm David Lee Roth
Miller Lite Oasis
1:15pm IDKCONUNDRUM
2:45pm American Progress
4:30pm Colin Bracewell
6:30pm The Juliana Theory
8:30pm Braid
10:30pm The Academy Is…
Generac Power Stage
12:30pm The Band Solstice
2:00pm Tobacco Road
3:30pm Old Mervs
5:30pm Winyah
7:30pm Penelope Road
9:30pm Flipturn
Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard
1:00pm TBA
2:30pm Noah Richardson
4:00pm SM6
6:00pm GRAHAM
8:00pm Weston Estate
10:00pm Connor Price
T-Mobile Stage
12:45pm Lauren Gottshall
2:30pm Will Terry
4:15pm Rhys Rutherford
6:15pm Scott Wolverton
8:15pm McCoy Moore
10:15pm Nate Smith
Uline Warehouse
12:30pm Milly & The Mayhem
2:00pm Kenneth Brian Band
3:30pm A.J. Croce
5:30pm Trapper Schoepp
7:30pm Don Felder
9:30pm Christopher Cross
Aurora Pavilion
3:15pm Cigarettes @ Sunset
4:30pm Altered By Mom
5:45pm Red Leather
7:00pm Dexter and the Moonrocks
Thursday, June 25th
American Family Insurance Amphitheater
7:30pm – Ed Sheeran with special guest Myles Smith and Aaron Rowe
BMO Pavilion
5:30pm Big Daddy Kane
7:15pm Gabriel Jacoby
9:00pm Common
Miller Lite Oasis
1:15pm OUTDrejas
2:45pm Chrystal Gales
4:30pm Vertical Horizon
6:30pm Porch Light
8:30pm Hazlett
10:30pm Kaleo
Generac Power Stage
12:00pm School of Rock
2:00pm School of Rock
4:30pm Booker T. Jones
6:30pm Pat McCurdy
7:30pm Grabbitz
10:00pm Subtronics
Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard
12:00pm School of Rock
2:00pm School of Rock
4:30pm Robert Randolph & The Family Band
6:30pm The Handcuffs
8:30pm Sincere Engineer
10:30pm Kim Gordon
T-Mobile Stage
12:00pm School of Rock
2:00pm School of Rock
4:15pm Wire & Nail
5:15pm Old 97’s
6:15pm Elijah Scott
8:15pm Lanie Gardner
10:15pm Tucker Wetmore
Uline Warehouse
12:00pm School of Rock
2:00pm School of Rock
4:15pm 10,000 Maniacs
5:45pm Lisa Loeb
7:30pm Walk Off the Earth
9:30pm Halestorm
Aurora Pavilion
12:00pm School of Rock
2:00pm School of Rock
3:15pm School of Rock
4:30pm Abby Moeller
5:45pm Boy Golden
7:00pm The Mountain Goats
Friday, June 26th
American Family Insurance Amphitheather
7:30 pm – Cody Johnson with special guest Jesse Murph
BMO Pavilion
5:30pm Alex Sampson
7:15pm The Aces
9:00pm Louis Tomlinson
Miller Lite Oasis
1:15pm Guardrail
2:45pm Harrison Gordon
4:30pm Lake Drive
6:30pm Showoff
8:30pm Lucky Boys Confusion
10:30pm Goldfinger
Generac Power Stage
12:00pm School of Rock
2:00pm School of Rock
4:30pm 7th Heaven
6:30pm Bobby Friss
8:30pm Big Wild
10:00pm Elderbrook
Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard
12:00pm School of Rock
2:00pm School of Rock
4:30pm Blonde
6:15pm KSP
8:00pm Henrik
10:00pm Petey USA
T-Mobile Stage
12:00pm School of Rock
2:00pm School of Rock
4:15pm Sugo
6:15pm Greg Koch & The Koch Marshall Trio
8:15pm Tha Band Loula
10:15pm Marcus King Band
Uline Warehouse
12:00pm School of Rock
2:00pm School of Rock
4:15pm Sons of the Silent Age
5:45pm Two Feet
7:30pm Grouplove
9:30pm The Revivalists
Aurora Pavilion
12:00pm School of Rock
2:00pm School of Rock
3:15pm School of Rock
4:30pm Siobahn Bodrug
5:45pm Harper O’Neill
7:00pm Sudan Archives
Saturday, June 27th
American Family Insurance Amphitheater
7:30 p.m. – Post Malone with special guest Carter Faith
BMO Pavilion
6:30pm Alannah McCready
8:15pm Dylan Schneider
10:00pm Russell Dickerson
Miller Lite Oasis
1:15pm In The Know
2:45pm King Solomon
4:30pm Left On Sunset
6:30pm The Expendables
8:30pm The Movement
10:30pm Pepper
Generac Power Stage
12:30pm Alley Eyes
5:30pm Jean Dawson
9:30pm Wolfmother
Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard
2:30pm Fuzzysurf
4:00pm Modern Alibi
6:00pm Taz
8:00pm Paw Paw Rod
10:00pm BØRNS
T-Mobile Stage
6:15pm Maris
10:15pm Audrey Nuna
Uline Warehouse
12:30pm The Noize
2:00pm Haley Johnsen
3:30pm Tracy Bonham
5:30pm Hank Azaria and the EZ Street Band
7:30pm Freddy Jones Band
9:30pm Little Feat
Aurora Pavilion
7:00pm Mariachi Sol De Mexico
Thursday, July 2nd
American Family Insurance Amphitheater
7:00 p.m. – Muse
BMO Pavilion
7:15pm Absolutely
9:00pm Ella Mai
Miller Lite Oasis
8:30pm Anees
10:30pm Sean Paul
Generac Power Stage
2:00pm Munroe
5:30pm Living Colour
7:30pm Buckcherry
9:30pm Candlebox
Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard
2:30pm Hell On Heels
4:00pm Hotel Fiction
6:00pm Sunflower Bean
8:00pm Blondshell
10:00pm The Beths
T-Mobile Stage
12:45pm Pretty Pity
2:30pm Gold Steps
4:15pm Fluorescents
6:15pm Girlfriends
8:15pm Kennyhoopla
10:15pm All-Time Low
Uline Warehouse
12:30pm Palm Ghosts
2:00pm Outranaut
3:30pm The Ocean Blue
5:30pm Sister Hazel
7:30pm Spin Doctors
9:30pm Gin Blossoms
Aurora Pavilion
12:45pm Florentine Opera Company
2:00pm Florentine Opera Company
4:30pm Case Oas
5:45pm Jobi Riccio
7:00pm Matthew Hansen
Friday, July 3rd
American Family Insurance Amphitheater
7:30pm – Alex Warren
BMO Pavilion
7:15pm Stephen Marley
9:00pm Buju Banton with Stephen Marley
Miller Lite Oasis
4:30pm Scout Speer
6:30pm Adam Warner
8:30pm Chase McDaniel
10:30pm Whiskey Myers
Generac Power Stage
3:30pm Yaya Biggs
5:30pm Edgehill
7:30pm Ax and the Hatchetmen
9:30pm Spoon
Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard
8:00pm DJ Jazzy Jeff
10:00pm Rev Run
T-Mobile Stage
10:15pm Flo Rida
Uline Warehouse
12:30pm Bob Mittnacht & The Crowning Gables
2:00pm Juliana Joy
3:30pm Radio Radio
5:30pm Ken Pomeroy
7:30pm St. Paul & the Broken Bones
9:30pm Gene Simmons Band
Aurora Pavilion
3:15pm Ask Carol
4:30pm Six Foot Blonde
5:45pm The Heavy Heavy
7:00pm Neal Francis
Saturday, July 4th
American Family Insurance Amphitheater
7:30 pm – Jelly Roll with special guest Tyler Hubbard
BMO Pavilion
7:15pm Preston Cooper
9:00 pm Sam Barber
Miller Lite Oasis
4:30pm The Maiden Voyage
6:30pm Siin
10:30pm Megadeth
Generac Power Stage
3:30pm Nicole Lawrence
5:30pm Soul Asylum
7:30pm The Jayhawks
9:30pm The BoDeans
Briggs & Stratton Big Backyard
8:00pm John Vincent III
10:00pm Jonah Kagen
T-Mobile Stage
4:15pm Carolina Liar
6:15pm Pure Hex
8:15pm Joywave
10:15pm The Temper Trap
Uline Warehouse
12:30pm Victor Jones
2:00pm Porcupine
3:30pm Poi Dog Pondering
5:30pm Jerry Harrison’s TH 50 – “50 Years of Talking Heads”
7:30pm Mindi Abair
9:30pm Straight No Chaser
Aurora Pavilion
5:45pm Tag Team
7:00pm Baha Men
Gruber Law Offices Sportzone and Northwestern Mutual Community Park will have a variety of shows and performers too, to be announced soon.
Watch for new announcements, see Summerfest.com/lineup for more lineups the timeliest way possible!
Summerfest Tickets
Single Day General Admission Tickets run $30 per day, you can print them at home or put them on your mobile. These tickets are good for the entire grounds and any show with the exception of the American Family Insurance Amphitheater shows. Seniors 62 and over and Children 3-10 can get discount tickets at the gate. Children 2 and under are admitted free. Multi-Day Ticket options include:
Parking lots are available just to the west of the grounds and throughout downtown Milwaukee and the Historic Third Ward. The Milwaukee County Transit System also offers “freeway flyer” express buses to and from the grounds from numerous Park & Ride lots in the metro area. The Summerfest Grounds can be accessed directly via I-794, U.S. 18, and Highway 32. I-43/94 and Highways 38, 59, and 145 also bring you within a mile of it – which is how far away some people park! Either way, it’s one of the greatest music festivals on the planet and a definite State Trunk Tour recommendation.
Summerfest 2026 Address:
Henry Maier Festival Park
200 N. Harbor Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53202
(414) 273-2680
Website
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June 25, 2026 – June 27, 2026
Blue Ox Music Festival
The annual Blue Ox Music Festival in Eau Claire, Wisconsin offers an intimate Bluegrass and Americana music experience from June 25-27, 2026. Founded in 2015, both the festival and campgrounds are family owned and operated by a team striving for a music festival experience designed to be welcoming and approachable for people of all ages. Blue Ox features over 35 artists spread across 3 days on three stages and on-site camping.
Blue Ox 2026 Experience/Activities include:
Over the past years the Blue Ox Music Festival has featured artists such as Bela Fleck and the Flecktones, Greensky Bluegrass, The Sam Bush Band, Peter Rowan, Drive by Truckers, The Del McCoury Band, Billy Strings, Margo Price, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, The Devil Makes Three, Trampled By Turtles, Railroad Earth, Tyler Childers, Son Volt and many more…
You can even check out the Blue Ox Podcast to find out more about the artists, venue, things to do, and more!
Tickets are available in a variety of pricing and combinations, find out more here.
Blue Ox Music Festival Schedule – lineup coming soon!
The Blue Ox Music Festival welcomes campers on-site; shuttle service is also available from a number of hotels in the Eau Claire area.
The Pines Music Park, where Blue Ox Music Festival is held, is just southwest of Eau Claire on the west side of the Chippewa River, opposite Highway 85. I-94 and Highway 37 connections bring you there. U.S. 12, U.S. 53, and Highway 93 also bring you to Eau Claire.
Blue Ox Music Festival Address:
The Pines Music Park
5024 Crescent Avenue
Eau Claire, WI 54703
(715) 602-4440
Website
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June 26, 2026 – June 28, 2026
Greek Fest, Sheboygan
The 82nd annual Greek Fest Sheboygan takes place Friday – Sunday, June 26-28, 2026 in Sheboygan’s Deland Park on the shores of Lake Michigan! Greek Fest, sponsored by St. Spyridon Greek Orthodox Church, is three full days of authentic Greek food, pastries, beer and wine, and traditional music.
The dance performances and usual Sunday Liturgy service is back in 2026! There will be activities for kids including inflatables, and a Sunday raffle also offers the opportunity to win prizes.
The Greek food including gyros, spinach pies, baklava, hot honey puffs, rotisserie chicken with Greek spices, flaming cheese, and more. The flaming cheese – called Saganaki – is breaded Sartori Fontina cheese served with pita bread. Enjoy a tantalizing hot honey puff or some baklava-topped ice cream. FREE admission, free parking. Opa!!
Greek Fest Hours: Friday 5pm – 8pm Saturday 11am – 8pm Sunday 11am – 6pm
Greek Fest Sheboygan Address:
Deland Park
901 Broughton Drive
Sheboygan, WI 53081
(800) 457-9497
Website
Map of Deland Park in Sheboygan:
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June 26, 2026 – June 28, 2026
Hayward Musky Fest
Hayward hosts Musky Fest Friday, June 26th through Sunday, June 28th with a huge celebration that offers over 120 handmade art and crafts booths, sidewalk sales, live music on Friday and Saturday nights, kids’ games and entertainment including a carnival, a 5k and 10k run/walk, parade, Musky Queen Scholarship program and the Hayward Lions Club fishing contest. The theme in 2026 is “The Reel Up North!”
As you may know (and if you don’t, now you will), Hayward is home to the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame and includes the World’s Largest Musky that you can explore and even climb up into. Musky Fest is fun for the whole family as it celebrates the musky, fishing, the North Woods, and so much more. U.S. 63 and Highways 27 and 77 bring you to this beautiful town!
Musky Fest Schedule of Events:
Friday, June 26th
Sidewalk Sales @ Downtown Hayward & Area Retail Stores
Handmade Art & Craft Show, Food, Refreshments & Live Entertainment
Hayward Area High School Bass Team Casting Game & Fundraiser on Third Street
Professional Chalk Art on Second Street presented by Deerfoot Lodge & Resort
Hayward Sports Center Hockey Activity Station on Fourth Street
Family Friendly Activity Zone at the Frandsen Bank Green Lot presented by Hayward Wesleyan Church
Woodland Dance Troupe Native American Dancers on the Sevenwinds Casino Main Stage in Downtown Hayward
Family Chalk Art Area on Second Street sponsored by Tamarack Health Hayward Medical Center
Face Painting and Balloon Animals on Second Street sponsored by Frandsen Bank
Caricatures by Rachel near the Sevenwinds Casino Main Stage in Downtown Hayward
Speed Ball Throw on Third Street presented by the Knights of Columbus
Fishing Contest Booth Open for Registrations near the Food Court on Main Street – Presented by Muskies Inc. – Hayward Lakes Chapter & Hayward Bass Club
Hayward Lions Club and Hayward Rotary Club’s Beer and Brat Tents Open
Meet & Greet with Hall of Fame Fisherman Babe Winkelman
Carnival Open at the Fuller Building Lot Courtesy of St. Joe’s Catholic Church
Carnival Wrist Band Hours, all ages $25 each
Learn to Fish Event at Shue’s Pond – Courtesy of the Wisconsin DNR
Mini, Little Miss, & Junior Musky Queen Presentation Presented by the Hayward Dairy Queen on the Sevenwinds Casino Main Stage in Downtown Hayward
Watermelon Eating Contest presented by Marketplace Foods
Live Music by Sean & Ian Okamoto on the Sevenwinds Casino Main Stage in Downtown Hayward – Sponsored by Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University
Annual Musky Fest Car Show presented and hosted by Don Johnson’s Hayward Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram (3pm Check-In)
Carnival Wrist Band Hours, all ages $25 each
Musky Queen Crowning Ceremony Presented by the Hayward Dairy Queen on the Sevenwinds Casino Main Stage in Downtown Hayward
Hayward Hawks vs. Blue Hills Beasts – Larry Somerville Field
FREE Live Music by Steve Beguhn on the Sevenwinds Casino Main Stage in Downtown Hayward – Sponsored by Eddy’s on Third
Saturday, June 27th
Sawyer County Dairy Breakfast @ Sawyer County Fairgrounds
Sidewalk Sales @ Downtown Hayward & Area Retail Stores
Handmade Art & Craft Show, Food, Refreshments & Live Entertainment
Professional Chalk Art on Second Street presented by Deerfoot Lodge & Resort
Hayward Sports Center Hockey Activity Station on Fourth Street
Family Chalk Art Area on Second Street sponsored by Tamarack Health Hayward Medical Center
Face Painting and Balloon Animals on Second Street sponsored by Frandsen Bank
Sawyer County Wood Chop in the Firehall Municipal Lot on Dakota Avenue
Caricatures by Rachel near the Sevenwinds Casino Main Stage in Downtown Hayward
Speed Ball Throw on Third Street presented by the Knights of Columbus
Hayward Lions Club and Hayward Rotary Club’s Beer and Brat Tents Open
Rod Lundberg Games – presented by Northwest Connection Family Resource Center at the Frandsen Bank Green Lot
Carnival Open at the Fuller Building Lot Courtesy of St. Joe’s Catholic Church
Dairy Queen Dilly Bar Eating Contest
Family Friendly Activity Zone at the Frandsen Bank Green Lot presented by Hayward Wesleyan Church
Carnival Wrist Band Hours, all ages $25 each
Shue’s Pond is Open for Fishing – Courtesy of the Wisconsin DNR
Hula Hoop Contest
Live Music by The Sixes on the Sevenwinds Casino Main Stage in Downtown Hayward – Sponsored by Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University
Fishing Contest Raffle & Prize Ceremony at the Fishing Contest Booth on Main Street Presented by Muskies Inc. – Hayward Lakes Chapter & Hayward Bass Club
4th Annual Musky Fest Cornhole Tournament Presented by Ignite Dispensary
Carnival Wrist Band Hours, all ages $25 each
Hayward Hawks vs. Haugen Knights – Larry Somerville Field
Get Hooked: Blood Hook Screening Extravaganza at The Park Center
FREE Live Music by Six to Midnight on the Sevenwinds Casino Main Stage in Downtown Hayward – Sponsored by Angler’s Bar & Grill
Sunday, June 28th
Musky Fest 5K Run/Walk and 10K Run– Presented by the Tamarack Health Hayward Medical Center
Minnow Run for kids 12 and under in front of Frandsen Bank and Trust
Sidewalk Sales @ Downtown Hayward & Area Retail Stores
Hayward Lions Club and Hayward Rotary Club’s Beer and Brat Tents Open
Food Concessions on Main Street Open
Carnival Open at the Fuller Building Lot
74th Annual Musky Festival Grand Parade
Presented by: Nelson Lumber & Floor to Ceiling
Parade Route: Main Street to Second Street to Dakota Ave
Hayward Musky Fest Address:
Downtown Hayward
Hayward, WI 54843
(715) 634-8662
Website
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June 27, 2026 – June 28, 2026
Ellsworth Cheese Curd Festival
This free festival offers over 20 cheese curd dishes from Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery for sampling, super-fresh and available battered or not with a variety of pairings, dips, and more.
Also enjoy over 30 craft brews to choose from, along with hard ciders, wines, and other local and regional beverages to try with your curds.
Ellsworth Cheese Curd Festival Schedule of Events:
FRIDAY, JUNE 27 – 4 – 10 pm
4pm- 7pm Artisan Marketplace
– Part arts and crafts, part farmers market. Browse regional specialties and locally grown, handmade and handcrafted goods.
4pm – 6pm: Craft & Curd, Paired: the ultimate brewery face-off! Five local breweries battle it out for best brew and cheese curd flavor pairing. Who will win? That’s up to you–You’re the judge for this intense (and tasty) competition! Happening at the Tasting Tent
4:30pm – 6:30pm: 3OTT, Point Stage
4:30pm – 7:30pm: Brad Marx, Broadway Street Stage
5pm – Dark: Classic Car Cruise-In & Show, Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery Lot
7:00pm-9:30pm, The Tucker Baker Band, Park Stage
7:00pm – 8:00pm: Corks & Kegs Tasting Event. Plan to take part in the tasting experiences offered during the festival. Kegs & Corks adult tasting experiences feature local and regional craft beer, wine and hard cider. A happy hour like no other, enjoy unlimited sampling and light appetizers while visiting with the brewers, crafters and reps. At the Tasting Tent.
SATURDAY, JUNE 28 – 10am – 10 pm
8am: 5K/10K Run
8am-10am: Pancake Breakfast
9:30am: Run Awards, Park Stage
10am-7pm: Artisan Marketplace. Part arts and crafts, part farmers market. Browse regional specialties and locally grown, handmade and handcrafted goods. Broadway Street
10:00am – 11:30am: Why Worry? & The Fret Band, Point Stage
10:30am-12:30pm: Dave Snyder, Broadway Street Stage
10:30am – 11:30am: Milk & Cookie Pairing (while supplies last) The Milk & Cookie Pairing and Farmer Meet & Greet is not to be missed! A great opportunity shake hands with a real farmer and learn about today’s agriculture and what it takes to put food on the tables of families across America. At the Tasting Tent.
11:00am-12:30pm: Oatmeal Band, Park Stage
12:00pm – 1:30pm: The Dairy Aires, Point Stage
12:30-1:30pm: Ice Cream Tasting, Tasting Tent. Families won’t want to miss the Ice Cream Tasting, a one-hour real dairy flavor celebration featuring creative combinations crafted by the innovative folks from UW-River Falls Food Sciences Department.
1:00pm-3:00pm Sarah Vanvelkenburg, Broadway Street Stage
1:00pm-3:00pm: Dave Snyder, Broadway Street Stage
1:30pm-3:30pm: Half Shebang, Park Stage
1:30pm-2:30pm: Block Party!, Park Stage. One of the largest cheese tastings in the area. Enjoy cheese right off the ‘block’!
2:00pm Cheese Curd Eating Contest
3:00pm – 4:00pm: Corks & Kegs Tasting Event
Plan to take part in the tasting experiences offered during the festival. Kegs & Corks adult tasting experiences feature local and regional craft beer, wine and hard cider. A happy hour like no other, enjoy unlimited sampling and light appetizers while visiting with the brewers, crafters and reps.
3:30pm-5:30pm: Thomas Michael, Broadway Street Stage
3:30pm – 5:30pm: Just Banned, Point Stage
5:00pm-6:30pm: Craft & Curd: Paired. Five regional craft breweries compete for your votes by pairing their favorite craft brew with a custom cheese curd flavor! Which craft and curd pairing will be the winner? That’s up to you when you cast your vote for your favorite. At the Tasting Tent.
4:30pm-6:30pm: L Bell & the Lazy Susan Band
6:00pm-8:00pm: Denny Menter, Broadway Street Stage
6:00pm-8:00pm: The Delta Papas, Point Stage
7:00pm-8:00pm: Corks & Kegs Tasting Event, Tasting Tent. Plan to take part in the tasting experiences offered during the festival. Kegs & Corks adult tasting experiences feature local and regional craft beer, wine and hard cider. A happy hour like no other, enjoy unlimited sampling and light appetizers while visiting with the brewers, crafters and reps.
7:30pm-9:30pm: Justin Barts & The Way Out, Park Stage
Ellsworth Cheese Curd Festival Address:
East End Park
U.S. Highways 10/63 at East Wall Street
Ellsworth, WI 54011
(715) 273-6442
Website
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June 27, 2026 – June 28, 2026
Cedarburg Strawberry Festival
Craving an art-filled weekend brimming with the most luscious summer fruit? Check out the 42nd annual Cedarburg Strawberry Festival, sponsored by BMO Harris Bank, June 27-28, 2026. This free, family-oriented festival is a favorite of many, drawing up to 100,000 people annually to toast the bold and delicious fruit in all its forms, and enjoy some of the most decadent homegrown strawberries in the area.
For attendees with a taste for wine, Cedar Creek Winery’s Strawberry Blush Wine is a must – this and the winery’s other award-winning wines can be purchased by the glass throughout the Cedarburg Strawberry Festival.
Wander down Washington Avenue and you’ll see why “Art is a Tradition” in Cedarburg. Fondly referred to as “Arts on the Avenue,” Strawberry Festival highlights more than 250 of the best local and Midwest artists who bring their combined perspectives, skills, and thousands of works of arts to the streets of Cedarburg, including paintings, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, fiber art, fine glass, woodwork, mixed media, and photography. Art on the Avenue is a combined effort of four local organizations, the Cedarburg Cultural Center, Cedar Creek Settlement Merchant’s Association, the Ozaukee Art Center and the Cedarburg Art Museum, and offers one-of-a-kind works of art from functional to surreal, from witty to the elegantly decorative, as well as the opportunity to meet most of the artists in person.
Cedar Creek Settlement events at the north end of town include live bands, food, and features a new Cedar Creek Marketplace as well as a merchant’s marketplace and indoor shopping. The Sunday Morning Strawberry Pancake Breakfast will be worth checking out. The popular breakfast takes place on the north end of the Festival grounds from 8:00-11:00 a.m. and is served by the Cedar Creek Settlement merchants. More than 1,000 customers get their fill of mouthwatering strawberry pancakes while listening to live music outside along Cedar Creek.
Live music all over the Festival’s Historic District satisfies every audiophile all day Saturday and Sunday. The best place to enjoy the live music is at the Gruber Law Office Main Stage – Festival Food Court which will feature rockin’ fun cover bands like Our House and Life in a Tree. Enjoy live music into the evening with extended hours until 8:30 p.m on Saturday, June 27th. The Beer Garden offers shaded seating and is in close proximity to the main Festival Food Court.
For the littlest strawberry-lovers, Henry’s Kids Korner at Cedar Creek Park offers Jo-Don Farms pony rides and petting zoo, inflatable bounce houses, food and tons of other activities and vendors. One of the most popular events is the CedarQuacker 500 sponsored by Port Washington State Bank, where hundreds of rubber ducks are launched into the creek in a race to the finish Saturday and Sunday at 1 and 3 p.m.
You can check out a little more of Historic Cedarburg with the Big Brothers/Big Sisters of Ozaukee County’s “Berry Big” 5K Run/Walk, which kicks off in Cedar Creek Park on Saturday at 8:15 a.m. for the timed runners and 8:25 a.m. for fun runners/walkers. The route circles through the neighborhoods that surround the downtown area.
If you tire of walking, take a ride on the Country Aire Rides Tractor Hayride Shuttle that travels around the festival route. Off the festival footprint, the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts will feature exhibits and fun family activities.
Cedarburg Strawberry Festival Live Music Schedule:
COMMUNITY MAIN STAGE PRESENTED BY THE ELBOW ROOM CEDARBURG LOCATION
SATURDAY 6/27
10:30-11:30 AM Acoustic Blu
12:00-1:30 PM Black Moon Lilith
2:00-4:00 PM The Pink Violin Band
4:30-6:30 PM The First Wave
7:00-9:00 PM 132D Army Corps Band
SUNDAY 6/28
10:30-11:30 AM Liz Dykema Acoustic
12:00-2:30 PM Mixtape MKE
3:00-5:00 PM The Tavern Pedalers
CEDAR CREEK SETTLEMENT STAGE
LOCATION
Saturday 6/27
12:00-4:00 PM The Hit-Men
4:00-6:00 PM Special K
Sunday 6/28
8:00-11:00 AM Dave Hall Solo
12:00-4:00 PM Bobby Way & the Fabulous Wayouts
LION’S CLUB STAGE
LOCATION
SATURDAY 6/27
12:00-4:00 PM Jerry Unger with The FOG
SUNDAY 6/28
12:00-4:00 PM Chaz Band
rousing and fun covers
BELLA LEI BEAUTY STAGE
LOCATION
SATURDAY 6/27
10:00 AM- 2:00 PM CCC: Best of Blueburg Cafe 2026
3:00-6:00 PM Comfort Shag
SUNDAY 6/28
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM Acoustic Steve Trio
2:00-5:00 PM Joe Richter Band
MEL’S CHARITIES STAGE
LOCATION
SATURDAY 6/27
11:30 AM – 3:30 PM The Mission River Band with Special Guests from Music6s
SUNDAY 6/28
11:30 AM – 3:30 PM The Mission River Band with Special Guests from Music6s
Cedarburg Strawberry Festival Schedule of Events (.pdf)
You’ll find the Cedarburg Strawberry Festival in Cedarburg’s historic downtown along Washington Avenue (historic Highway 57), a few miles north of Highway 167, just east of Highway 181, and south of Highway 60.
Cedarburg Strawberry Festival Address:
Downtown Cedarburg
Washington Avenue
Cedarburg, WI 53012
(262) 377-5856
Website
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July 8, 2026 – July 12, 2026
Northern Wisconsin State Fair
The Northern Wisconsin State Fair is always a fun-filled, family event that brings folks back year after year to Chippewa Falls, right along Historic U.S. 53 and today’s Highway 124. In 2026, it runs Wednesday July 8th through Sunday, July 12th!
The five days of the fair feature midway carnival excitement, numerous exhibits, animal judging, contests for milk drinking, pie eating, karaoke, animal shows including a draft horse show, a pedal tractor pull, and much more that you would expect from a fair like this. Furthermore, you can check out or participate in the Lego Pre-Build Contest, talent competitions, and of course, the food is always a highlight. A Schedule of Events is below!
Music Headliners on the Leinenkugel Main Stage include:
Wednesday, July 8th: Sawyer Brown
Thursday July 9th: Hairball with guests Rival 5
Friday, July 10th: Sugar Ray with special guest Uncle Kracker, 8pm (gates open at 7)
Saturday, July 11th: .38 Special, 7pm (gates open at 6)
Tickets from VIP to Grandstand levels can be purchased here!
Northern Wisconsin State Fair Admission:
Adult 5 Day Admission: $25 (covers all five days)
One Day Admission: $10
Children 5 and Under: FREE
Parking: $5 per vehicle
Active/Retired Military and Veterans: Free with Active/Retired Military ID Card, DD214
The Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds are right along Highway 124 in Chippewa Falls, just a hop, skip, and a jump north of the Leinenkugel Brewery and across from beautiful Irvine Park and the Irvine Park Zoo. Highways 29 and U.S. 53 bring you close by.
Northern Wisconsin State Fair Schedule of Events coming soon!
Northern Wisconsin State Fair Address:
Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds
225 Edward Street (just off Highway 124)
Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
(715) 723-2861
Website
A full Schedule of Events list is coming! For more on Chippewa Falls in general, check out our State Trunk Tour Chippewa Falls Podcast:
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July 9, 2026 – July 12, 2026
Bastille Days
It’s Milwaukee’s annual French festival, one of the largest French celebrations in the United States, and it’s tres magnifique! This FREE four-day bash attracts over 250,000 visitors each year. In 2026, Bastille Days runs Thursday, July 9th through Sunday, July 12th. Set around Cathedral Square on the east side of downtown, Bastille Days begins with a 5K “Storm the Bastille” run on Thursday night and then plenty of live music, an international marketplace, chef and wine demos, French and Cajun cuisine, roaming busker entertainment and a signature 43-foot Eiffel Tower replica offering hourly light shows.
The event is known for the impromptu street performers, roaming minstrels, and a variety of interactive and musical entertainment. Bastille Days also boasts a wide variety of some of the best restaurant vendors in Milwaukee!
Check out Bastille Days wine tastings where you can let your taste buds explore and compare delicious wines from around the world! A wine specialist will guide you through the taste test with selected wines from 5 countries. A separate ticket is needed for each tasting, and seating is limited to 76 per tasting. You’ll find all these tastings at the NE corner of Cathedral Square Park along Jackson Street – look for the tent!
The festival covers the blocks around Cathedral Square, including along Wells, Kilbourn, Jefferson, and Jackson Streets. U.S. 18 and Highway 32 actually detour around the festival, which is one of the largest French festivals in the nation. I-43/94, I-794, and Highways 38, 59, and 145 all bring you close. Grab your beret and check it out!
Bastille Days Hours:
Thursday July 9- 11am-11:30pm
Friday July 10- 11am-11:30pm
Saturday July 11- 10am-11:30pm
(Kid’s Day Activities 10am – 3pm)
Sunday July 12- 11am-8pm
Bastille Days Address:
825 N. Jefferson Street/Cathedral Square
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Website
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July 10, 2026 – July 12, 2026
Festa Italiana
Check out Flag-Throwers of the Florentine, direct from Italy. For music, check out great acts across six stages, including the Children’s Stage. Headliners include Anthony Crivello, George Busateri’s Spider George and the Web, Louis Vanaria, The Sicilian Tenors featuring Aaron Caruso, Sam Vitale, and Vincent Riccardi, Agne, Tre Bella, Cory Pesaturo, Graziana Maria Lazzaro, and FLEMT – straight from Italy. Longtime favorite Rick D’Amore makes his return, too!
Magic tricks, food demonstrations, comedians Vince Carone and Carmen Vallone, singers from the Florentine Opera, and more are all performing each day. The UW Marching Band will perform on Sunday, and the Children’s Stage will have all kinds of entertainment throughout the day.
You can also enjoy a romantic gondola ride on the cove, play bocce ball, watch the Copa Festa Italiana Futsal tournament, or compete in Italian Idol. Classic Italian fare and wine tastings, Kids Pizza Making Contest and annual Cannoli Eating Contest. There’s also a traditional Sunday Mass at 11am.
The fireworks go off every Festa evening around 10pm, and they’re a blast! (No pun intended. Okay, fine, pun intended.)
Admission tickets are $13 in advance, $15 at the door; Children 12 and under are admitted free all three days when accompanied by an adult. Festa Italiana is a cashless festival – no cash will be accepted at the box office, ticket windows, or on the grounds.
You can find the grounds under (literally, under) I-794 along Milwaukee’s lakefront. U.S. 18 ends right by the North Gate, and swinging nearby are I-43, I-94, and Highways 32, 38, 57, 59, and 145.
Festa Italiana Address:
Henry Maier Festival Park
200 N. Harbor Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53202
414-223-2808
Website
July 11, 2026 – September 6, 2026
Bristol Renaissance Faire
Bristol Renaissance Faire runs Saturdays and Sundays July 5th though Labor Day, September 1st (yes, it runs that Monday and that’s the only Monday.)
The Kid’s Kingdom features the Castle Stage where children can get knighted, a face-painting area (don’t worry, it washes off eventually), hobbit houses, an entrance area with five huge thrones that provide great photo opportunities, and an air-conditioned rest area.
A giant turkey leg slathered in barbecue sauce is an essential part of the Bristol Renaissance Faire experience, but they also offer everything from Cornish pasties and bakery goods to vegan items and gelato. The number of entertainment stages now totals sixteen. Comedic sword-fighting, ropewalking, juggling, fire-whipping, acrobatics, chalk art, a variety of musicians, and more. The Marketplace offers the work of nearly 175 artisans and crafters; you can find Scottish kilts, leather masks, bamboo flutes, jester socks, stage-combat-approved swords, steampunkery, and much more. Glass blowing and blacksmithing activities frequently happen in the Marketplace as well as a variety of other crafting.
Tickets range from $40 for adults to $15 for children ages 5-12. Seniors (62+) and Military with ID are $38. Kids 4 and under are free. Season passes can be purchased for $225. You can also get discounted tickets at Menard’s and if you join Friends of the Faire you can also get discounts. U.S. 41, I-41/94, Highway 165, and the state line border the “Fairegrounds,” with U.S. 45 and Highway 50 also getting you close!
Bristol Renaissance Faire Location:
12550 120th Avenue
Kenosha, WI 53142
(877) 395-7773
Website
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July 15, 2026 – July 19, 2026
Elkhorn Ribfest
Check out FIVE days of unbelievably delicious, mouth-watering barbecue and entertainment on the beautiful Walworth County Fairgrounds. This event features world-renowned professional BBQ champions, great entertainment, backyard grillers, an artisan village, and a ton of great live entertainment. Not only will you experience some of the best grillers and BBQers in the country, but plenty of other fun including beer and live music with plenty of family fun, including carnival rides and other kids’ activities!
FREE Admission and parking! Even free Wi-Fi, courtesy of Edge Broadband.
Music headliners include (the list will be growing, too!):
Cherry Pie
Thursday, July 16th:
Bella Cain
Friday, July 17th:
Madison County
Saturday, July 18th:
Rival 5
Kashmir: The Led Zeppelin Show
Buster Daizy
Sunday, July 19th:
TBA
Ribfest Hours are 3 pm – 11pm Wednesday, 11 am – 11 pm Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and 11am – 9pm Sunday.
You’ll find the Walworth County Fairgrounds just east of downtown Elkhorn, the seat of Walworth County. The grounds can be accessed off Court Street (Highway 11) just west of the U.S. 12 freeway and just northwest of the U.S. 12/I-43 interchange. Highway 67 is just to the west.
411 East Court Street (Highway 11)
Elkhorn, WI 53121
(262) 723-3228
Website
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July 15, 2026 – July 18, 2026
Lumberjack World Championships
Hayward hosts the 66th annual Lumberjack World Championships July 15-18, 2026! The Lumberjack World Championships began in 1960 as a way to acknowledge the rich history of the logging industry across the United States. Once again, over 21 events will offer international competition showcasing the best sawing, chopping, speed climbing, log rolling, boom-running & more! It’s great family fun.
More than 100 lumberjacks and lumberjills vie for more than $50,000 in prize money, making this one of the largest paybacks for lumberjack competition in the world – and of course, world records in these events could be set – they often have!
Opening night – Thursday, July 15th – is Mountain Dew Family Night, with special family pricing for admission ($45 for two adults and up to four children) and other specials. Other ticket packages run around $53 for three days’ worth of admission.
Tickets can be purchased online here!
Getting to Hayward means a beautiful drive through the North Woods – just what we like! Hayward is along U.S. 63 on the drive from Spooner to Ashland; it’s also where Highways 27 and 77 meet up. While in town, check out the great trails, shopping, the World’s Largest Musky at the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame, the Angry Minnow Brewpub, and more!
Hayward Lumberjack World Championships Address:
15670 West County Road B
Hayward, WI 54843
(715) 634-2484
Website
Lumberjack World Championships Schedule of Events
Thursday, July 16
Quarterfinal Competition
Friday, July 17
Semifinal Competition
Saturday, July 18
Final World Championship Competition
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July 23, 2026 – July 25, 2026
Hub City Days
The massive Car & Bike Show, Family Zone with bounce houses and kids’ games, the Craft Show, the Brew Fest and Beer Garden, tons of live music and more are all ready!
The Hub City Brew Fest will feature craft beers from all over Wisconsin and the Midwest! The Car Show will be right on Central Avenue (Historic Highway 13).
You can reach Marshfield via U.S. 10 or Highways 13, 80, and 97. It’s right in the center of Wisconsin, hence the name “Hub City”!
Hub City Days Schedule:
Thursday, July 23rd
DOWNTOWN BUSINESS AFTER 5
Friday, July 24th
Saturday, July 25th
Find out more here from Visit Marshfield.
You can easily reach Marshfield via U.S. 10 or Highways 13, 80, and 97. Head to the Hub!
Check out our State Trunk Tour Marshfield Podcast with Matt McLean from VISIT Marshfield, where we talk Hub City Days, the city and all the things to do and see in it, here or stream it below!
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July 24, 2026 – July 26, 2026
Taste of Wisconsin
Admission is FREE for everybody! And while you can enjoy great food, music, and more, you can also explore the HarborPark area, the Kenosha Public Museum, the Civil War Museum, the Dinosaur Discovery Museum, the Southport Light Station & Museum, take rides on the Kenosha Trolley, and more! Taste of Wisconsin happens in Kenosha’s HarborPark area on the edge of downtown. You’ll find it just east of Highway 32 between the east ends of Highways 50 and 158. Enjoy!
Taste of Wisconsin Address:
HarborPark
5400 6th Avenue
Kenosha, WI 53140
(262) 496-9400
Website
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July 24, 2026 – July 26, 2026
German Fest
Check out United for Kids, where you can visit with The MACC Fund, Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin, Make-A-Wish® Wisconsin and Ronald McDonald House of Eastern Wisconsin, Inc. on Saturday, July 25th and Sunday, July 26th inside of the Sports Area. They’ll have games, prizes, information and fun for the whole family! A portion of Sunday’s ticket sales will benefit these four charities.
You can also check out Carousel Organ Association of America’s providing some of the “happy” instrumentation as you dance to music. Children can participate in the Fairy Tale Parade Sunday at 3:30pm and Dance Showcase at 4pm on the Sprecher Oktoberfest Stage. Fireworks will fill the sky Friday and Saturday night starting around 10:30pm.
TICKETS for German Fest are only $3 Friday! General Admission Saturday & Sunday run tickets run $12 in advance and $15 at the gate; children under 12 are free when accompanied by an adult. Find out more admission specials here.
German Fest takes place on the Summerfest Grounds in Milwaukee – also known as Henry Maier Festival Park. The grounds are in close proximity to U.S. 18, I-43/94, and Highways 32, 38, 57, 59, 145, and 190.
Prosit!
Milwaukee German Fest Address:
Henry Maier Festival Grounds
200 N. Harbor Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53202
(414) 464-9444
Website
July 30, 2026 – August 2, 2026
Mile of Music
Appleton’s “Mile of Music” Festival (X/Twitter: @MileofMusicFest) serves up original singer-songwriters, combos and multi-piece bands showcasing Americana music at both its most colorful and its very best. Genres include roots and indie rock, country, gospel, soul, R&B, jazz and folk. This year’s Mile of Music 11 takes place July 30 – August 2, 2026.
This grassroots festival was co-founded by Appleton marketing executive Dave Willems and Appleton/Nashville-based national recording artist and Grammy nominee Cory Chisel in 2013. Willems Marketing & Events continues to run Mile of Music, with the support of over 100 community organizations and sponsors. Presenting sponsor Fox Communities Credit Union and other major sponsors have allowed this event to be FREE.
Mile of Music is noted as a “handcrafted artisan festival” with over 200 artists and acts across 40 venues spanning a mile… of music (hence the name!)
Venues vary and include coffee shops, bars, parks, restaurants, museums and other public spaces. with more of them outdoors in the wake of the pandemic we all had to deal with. Some of Mile 13’s biggest artists will perform at the Main Stage in Houdini Plaza, one of the festival’s most popular venues. Remember, Harry Houdini spent time in Appleton and claimed it as his hometown!
Local brewpub Stone Arch will offer up its artisan Mile of Music Americana Pale Ale to add to the flavor of the festival. Music fans who love bicycling can work off those beer calories and indulge their music passions with Bike to the Beat. Added fun includes the Tub of Tunes giveaway, where one lucky attendee will win a bathtub full of CDs and vinyl from Mile 10 artists.
They even have their own radio station, Mile of Music Radio. Listen to it here!
Check it out all weekend in Appleton. Their website has the complete lineup, and you can also download their special app for updates, details on all the events, and more. You can also get the full schedule here – it’s a busy one!
Appleton is easily accessible via I-41, U.S. 10, Highways 15, 47, 96, or, of course 125 – because if you’re on Highway 125, you’re in Appleton already. Highway 441 provides a bypass around the city that allows you to enter from points east and south.
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July 31, 2026 – August 1, 2026
Johnsonville Brat Days
Sheboygan is the “Bratwurst Capital of the World” so it’s only fitting that Brat Days is one of their biggest celebrations! Taking place the first Saturday of August, Brat Days dates back to 1953. It’s back again for 2026, and this year it’s back to a TWO-DAY festival! Admission is still free and the activities are plentiful.
Check out a wide variety of tasty brats served up in buns, on sticks, in tacos, on pizza, egg rolls, jambalaya, even as a corn dog. Dance or rock out with plenty of live music. The Brat Days Parade kicks off at 9am Saturday and runs through downtown Sheboygan. The famous Brat-Eating Contest, featured on channels like ESPN, takes place Saturday at 1pm. Games are available for adults and kids alike; kids’ activities include a petting zoo and carnival.
Bands this year include:
Friday, July 31st
TBA
Saturday, August 1st
Johnsonville Main Stage:
11:00am – 1:00 pm TBA
1:30pm – 4:00pm TBA
4:30pm – 5:45 pm TBA
6:15pm – 7:30pm TBA
8:00pm – 9:15pm TBA
9:45pm – 11:00 pm TBA
The Brat Eating Contest is at 1pm!
Entertainment stages are free!
Brat Days is held in Kiwanis Park on the west bank of the Sheboygan River. The park is accessible just west of Highway 28 via New Jersey Avenue. You can also reach Kiwanis Park by heading south from the ends of Highways 23 and 42 via 17th Street. It’s all about three miles east of I-43.
For more details on bands, events, activities and more, check out the Brat Days website. Brat Days is sponsored by Johnsonville, which of course has its headquarters just west of town.
While in Sheboygan, check out the downtown area along 8th Street, the John Michael Kohler Arts Center, 3 Sheeps Brewing, City Green, South Pier with all of its activities, the World’s Tallest American Flagpole (along I-43 at Acuity Insurance headquarters), nearby Kohler, the marina and lovely lakefront, nearby Kohler-Andrae State Park, and more.
Brat Days Address:
Kiwanis Park
726 N. 17th Street
Sheboygan, WI 53081
(920) 893-8980
Website
And check out our State Trunk Tour Podcast about Sheboygan!
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August 6, 2026 – August 16, 2026
Wisconsin State Fair
One of the nation’s great fairs, the Wisconsin State Fair runs August 6-16, 2026 on the Wisconsin State Fair Park grounds in West Allis. Everything from the animals to rides, concerts, exhibits, and tasty food and beverages are yours for the taking!
Updates to the Central Mall area include with a new look and ample seating. The rides and games at SpinCity are in full swing, and they include a super assortment of over 40 rides and 25 games with chances to win plenty of prizes!
The Fairgrounds will have plenty of street performers and entertainers, but of course the excellent live music is a huge draw. There are two primary performance stages at Wisconsin State Fair: the Main Stage, which uses the Milwaukee Mile track and bleachers for seating, and the Bank Five Nine Amphitheater, which is near the Central Mall.
Bank Five Nine Main Stage headliners at Wisconsin State Fair include:
Thursday, August 6th: Hairball
Friday, August 7th: Nelly
Saturday, August 8th: Bailey Zimmerman with Chandler Walters
Sunday, August 9th: Wynonna Judd & Melissa Etheridge
Monday, August 10th: For King + Country with Rachel Lampa
Tuesday, August 11th: The Isley Brothers & The Commodores
Wednesday, August 12th: John Mulaney
Thursday, August 13th: The All-American Rejects with Joyce Manor
Friday, August 14th: Lindsey Stirling with PVRIS
Saturday, August 15th: AJR with Em Beihold
Sunday, August 16th: The Beach Boys
Bank Five Nine Amphitheater headliners include:
Thursday, Aug. 6: Sixteen Candles, 8:30 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 7: Here Come the Mummies, 8:30 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 8: Here Come the Mummies, 8:30 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 9: So Good: The Neil Diamond Experience with Claire Sardina, 8 p.m.
Monday, Aug. 10: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone, 8 p.m.
Tuesday, Aug. 11: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone, 8 p.m.
Wednesday, Aug. 12: Hairbangers Ball, 8 p.m.
Thursday, Aug. 13: Too Hype Crew, 8:30 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 14: The Gufs, 8:30 p.m.
Saturday, Aug. 15: Let’s Sing Taylor — An Unofficial Live Tribute Show, 8:30 p.m.
Sunday, Aug. 16: Pat McCurdy, 5:30 p.m.
You will not go hungry: favorite foods at the Fair include the roasted corn, corn dogs, flavored milks, all kinds of creative deep-fried foods, sausages, as much as you can imagine on a stick, and the legendary Wisconsin cream puffs that become a “must have” for attendees needing their true dairy (and carb) fix! They get more eclectic with things like deep-fried bull testicles (listed as “Rocky Mountain Oysters” on the menu at Big Sky Country Bar & Grill), ants on a stick (literally), and earthworm and cricket jerky. But hey, it’s up to you. Last year’s “Sporkies” winner was the Deep Fried Lemonade Bites from Saz’s BBQ.
SPORKIES AND DRINKIES FINALISTS THIS YEAR
The Sporkies and Drinkies competition finalists are among the best – or most unique – offerings (according to a crack team of judges) each year. In 2025, Sporkies finalists included A Hunk A Hunk Fat Elvis Donut Ice Cream Sandwich, Blueberry Breakfast Bratwurst, Brat Rangoon, the Gochujang Smashburger with Kimchi Bacon Jam, Mexican Street Corn Pizza, Pretzaroni Pizza Brat, S’mores Churro Fries, and the Ube Butter Banana French Toast Lumpia. Drinkies finalists include the Carnival Cooler, Dirty Pancakes, Dubai Chocolate Strawberry Smoothie, and a Purple Rain Refresher.
OTHER FOODS at State Fair include an Apple Crunch Cheesecake Quesadilla from the Mexican Grill, BBQ Mac Tater Tots from Jayme’s Chipstix, the Caramel Turtle Pretzel at Gertrude’s Fresh Pretzels, Loaded Baked Potato with Bacon Pizza from Pistol Pete’s, Prime Rib Sliders at Leadfoots Race Bar & Grill, the Unicorn Beer Float at Slim McGinn’s Irish Pub, and about 60 other choices!
The Milwaukee Mile race track, which hosts races, auto testing, and more throughout the year is just one of the places you can park – which is cool, since you can walk on and check out this legendary oval, the oldest continuously operating raceway in the world.
Get more details here. This is definitely one of the best State Fairs in the nation!
Check out this map of Wisconsin State Fair… you can enlarge it by clicking on it or get a printable .pdf HERE.
Wisconsin State Fair Park is in West Allis, less than ten minutes from downtown Milwaukee. Bordered on the south by Highway 59/Greenfield Ave., on the west by Highway 181/84th Street, on the north by I-94, and on the east by 76th Street. U.S. 18/Bluemound Road comes close to the north, I-41/U.S. 45 and then Highway 100 skim by 2 miles to the west, and Highway 175 is about 2 miles east as it passes Miller Park. There are a lot of great ways to get to the Park!
Wisconsin State Fair Address:
Wisconsin State Fair Park
640 S. 84th Street (Highway 181 at Highway 59)
West Allis, WI 53214
(414) 266-7000
Website
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August 22, 2026 – August 23, 2026
ArtFest, Green Bay
Experience art in the heart of the city at ArtFest Green Bay! The streets of Downtown Green Bay will come alive with an art fair, musical performances, food, demonstrations, and interactive activities.
Discover works from a wide variety of local, regional, and national artists at the Art Fair, in partnership with NWTC Artisan and Business Center. Artists will showcase their diverse range of mediums and shoppers are sure to find something that captures their imagination. From paintings to sculptures, photography to mixed media, artists will inspire attendees with their creativity and talent.
You can step into the Experience Zone at ArtFest, a vibrant space where creativity comes to life. Engage in interactive art activities, watch live demonstrations, enjoy performances, and connect with arts non-profits. It’s a perfect space for kids and families. Whether you’re an artist or just curious, this is your chance to engage, explore, and create, so feel free to dive in and get your hands dirty in a beautiful way.
Live music Saturday by FBI & The Untouchable Horns, Sunday by Copper Box!
ArtFest activities take place August 22nd & 23rd, 2026 along Cherry and Jefferson Streets in downtown Green Bay, wedged in by Walnut Street (Highway 29) and Pine Street. Parking in the area is FREE!
Find out on the ArtFest website here!
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August 25, 2026 – August 30, 2026
Central Wisconsin State Fair
One of three “State Fairs” in Wisconsin, the Central Wisconsin State Fair takes place in Marshfield August 25-30, 2026 on the grounds that also feature the “World’s Largest Round Barn.” The Central Wisconsin State Fair has also been refreshing its equipment with new rides and games to enhance the experience!
Headliners include:
This Fair also features 4-H and open class exhibits, free grandstand entertainment with gate admission, the Round Barn Express train, Junior Fair Market Animal Sale, 13th annual Kiss a Critter Contest, the Dress-A-Cow Contest, midway carnival rides, commercial exhibits and special programs, food and beer gardens, and more. This six-day extravaganza is definitely worth checking out if you want to hit the lovely city of Marshfield in the central part of the state (hence, the event’s name).
U.S. 10 and Highways 13, 80, and 97 all hit Marshfield, Wisconsin (“Hub City”) and the Central Wisconsin State Fair grounds are on the south side of town, a few blocks east of Central Avenue (Bus. Hwy 13) and the Wildwood Zoo. Also check out Central Avenue and the downtown district, the Blue Heron Brewpub, and a plenty of other things and to see and do around Hub City. Get more ideas from Visit Marshfield here!
Check their website for the complete entertainment lineup, ticket specials, and more!
Central Wisconsin State Fair Address:
Wood County Fairgrounds
513 E. 17th Street
Marshfield, WI 54449
(715) 387-1261
Website
Find out more about Marshfield in this episode of our State Trunk Tour Podcast!
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