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 for 2025, 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.
Johnsonville Main Stage:
11:00am – 1:00 pm The Dirty Martinis
1:30pm – 4:00pm Pat McCurdy
4:30pm – 5:45 pm The Radio Effect
6:15pm – 7:30pm Stetsin & Lace
8:00pm – 9:15pm Blizzard of Randy: A Tribute to Ozzy – The Rhoads Years
9:45pm – 11:00 pm High ‘N’ Dry (Def Leppard Tribute)
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, 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
All over Kenosha’s beautiful harbor area, you’ll find the Taste of Wisconsin July 25th-27th 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
Marshfield features its 44th annual Dairyfest Friday, May 30th and Saturday, May 31st at venues all across the city. This is Hub City’s annual honor of the agricultural industry and Wisconsin’s hardworking dairy farmers! This community tradition has been providing fun for the whole family, during these “dairy-licious” days.
The Marshfield Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry (MACCI) puts on the event, which includes a wide variety of fun activities across the three-day weekend.
Dairyfest Info & Schedule of Events:
What is Dairyfest?
Held annually the weekend after Memorial Day, Dairyfest is a fun community celebration that honors the agriculture industry and local dairy farmers. Dairyfest features a lot of fun events, including the annual Dairyfest Breakfast, a parade, kids’ activities, a Picnic in the Park, and much more. The theme of this year’s celebration is “A Dairy Great Time”!
Friday, May 30th
5:30am-9:30am / Mayor’s Breakfast: Held at the Expo Building at the Central Wisconsin State Fairgrounds, 513 E. 17th St., this traditional event welcomes nearly 2,000 people every year. $10/ticket, kids 6 and under are FREE!
5:00pm-8:00pm / Picnic in the Park: Food trucks will be at Columbia Park, 201 W. Arnold St., until 5:00pm and a variety of food booths will be available throughout the evening. Join the fun in the Park including a Petting Zoo, Educational displays, Marshfield Fire & Rescue hands-on fun, Face painting, Main Street Conservatory of Dance show, Coin & Candy hunt (ages 2-9), Bingo (ages 10-15), and the Marshfield Civic Band Concert. Bring your lawn chairs for a night of fun!
Saturday, May 31st
Additional activities scheduled for Saturday include:
11:00am / Dairyfest Downtown Parade, runs from 2nd street and goes South on Central Ave, turns East on 14th Street and ends at the Fairgrounds parking lot.
1:00pm-4:00pm / Family Fun Day at Wenzel Plaza: a UW Madison Marching Band performance, Inflatable fun, plenty of Food Trucks – come hungry! Also enjoy Enoch the Eccentric Magician, DJ Dan Weis of Music Energy, Face painting, and more!
3:00pm-11pm / Annual Outdoor Dairyfest Beer Garden at Nutz Deep II 809 South Central Avenue
Marshfield Dairyfest Address:
Various locations around town, including the Central Wisconsin State Fairgrounds
513 E. 17th Street
Marshfield, WI 54449 Website
Since you’ve been freezing your buns all winter, cele-BRAT-e the official start of summer with the World’s Largest Brat Fest in Madison! Presented by Johnsonville, it takes place Memorial Day weekend at Willow Island, right by the Alliant Energy Center. Putting the sizzle into summer for over 30 years, Brat Fest is one of the Midwest’s largest and best, family-friendly music festivals right in the heart of the capital city. And they’ve also sold over 4 million brats!
Brat Fest Music Lineup
The diverse music lineup features over 70 bands covering folk, country, jazz, blues, R&B/soul, and rock… Get the full lineup below!
It’s not all about the music, however. Enjoy ice cold beverages and tasty food, including BRATS, of course. The Bratteyball Tournament is a “bratty” volleyball tournament with four divisions competing on Saturday. There will be a kids’ zone with plenty of activities to keep the young ones busy – including a “bounce zone” and a petting zoo. There’s Ultrazone Laser Tag, a Sports Zone, even the Budweiser Clydesdales will make an appearance!
Free shuttle buses will be running between the zoo and Brat Fest all weekend, giving families the chance to see the Arctic Passage exhibit.
Admission to the World’s Largest Brat Fest is FREE! And while it’s a little known fact that brats are even tastier when eaten for a good cause, all of the Fest’s proceeds go to numerous local charities. Check it all out on Willow Island at the Alliant Energy Center and kick off the summer right with some of that Brat Fest sizzle.
Harley Davidson of Madison is providing exclusive V.I.P. motorcycle parking for 200 bikes – just use the entrance off Rimrock Road (just off the Beltline) to access that area.
BRAT FEST MUSIC LINEUP
FRIDAY, MAY 23rd
ISLAND STAGE
11:10am – 11:50am Krool Fool
12:10pm – 12:50pm Shawn Schell
1:10pm – 1:50pm Midnight Angel
2:10pm – 2:50pm Sean Kay
3:10pm – 3:50pm The Solution
4:10pm – 4:50pm T.J. Stone
5:10pm – 5:50m American Hitmen
6:15pm – 7:15pm Mighty Electric
Everlight Solar Grand Stage
12:45pm – 1:15pm Lousy Nuncio
1:40pm – 2:20pm Mad City Funk
2:40pm – 3:20pm Saturday Morning Cartel
3:40pm – 4:20pm The Cattlemen
4:40pm – 5:20pm Sunspot
5:40pm – 6:20pm Michael Alexander & Big Whiskey
6:45pm – 7:30pm Royal Bliss
8:00pm – 9:30pm Winger
Baker Tilly Main Stage
11:00am – 11:30am Long Gone Henry
11:50am – 12:30pm Jesse Bauman
12:55pm – 1:35pm Dem Horny Funkers
1:45pm – 2:35pm Michael Brooks
2:55pm – 3:35pm Abby Spencer
3:55pm – 4:35pm Atomic Blonde
4:55pm – 5:35pm Mickey Magnum and the Mayhem
5:55pm – 6:35pm Frank Martin Busch and the Names
7:00pm – 8:00pm Power Take Off
Saturday, May 24th
Island Stage
11:00am – 11:50am Richard Hildner
12:10pm – 12:50pm No Limit
1:10pm – 1:50pm Wild Planes
2:10pm – 2:50pm Tha Mid City Kid
3:10pm – 3:50pm Trash Pandas
4:10pm – 4:50pm Matt Schmidt
5:10pm – 5:50pm Kings of Radio
6:15pm – 7:15pm Pilot
Everlight Solar Grand Stage
12:45pm – 1:15pm Autumn Reverie
1:40pm – 2:20pm Matt Jordan
2:40pm – 3:20pm Granny Shot
3:40pm – 4:20pm Aeternum
4:40pm – 5:20pm Bree Morgan
5:40pm – 6:20pm Harper Grace
6:45pm – 7:30pm Mackenzie Carpenter
8:00pm – 9:30pm Tyler Farr
Baker Tilly Main Stage
11:00am – 11:30am Rodello The Kidd
11:50am – 12:30pm Zach Pietrini
12:55pm – 1:35pm The Ramble
1:55pm – 2:35pm Mars Hall
2:55pm – 3:35pm La Combi
3:55pm – 4:35pm Angels & Outlaws
4:55pm – 5:35pm The Hounds
5:55pm – 6:35pm Badwolf
7:00pm – 8:00pm Madison County
Sunday, May 25th
Island Stage
11:00am – 11:50am Take Back the Sun
12:10pm – 12:50pm Bobby Bullet
1:10pm – 1:50pm West on 12
2:10pm – 2:50pm Ron Denson
3:10pm – 3:50pm The Mason Meyer Band
4:10pm – 4:50pm The Remedy
5:10pm – 5:50pm BuckNeck-Ed
6:15pm – 7:15pm Ty Smith & The Minor Offenses
Everlight Solar Grand Stage
12:45pm – 1:15pm John Masino Band
1:50pm – 2:20pm Elizabeth Mary
2:40pm – 3:20pm Foo Foo Dolls
3:40pm – 4:20pm The Black Moods
4:40pm – 5:20pm Quad City DJ’s
5:40pm – 6:20pm Skee-Lo
6:45pm – 7:30pm Digital Underground
8:00pm – 9:05pm Steven Adler of Guns ‘N Roses
LIFE 102.5 Main Stage
11:00am – 11:30am Jackson Taylor
11:50am – 12:30pm Project Brave Band
12:55pm – 1:35pm Erin Oakley
1:55pm – 2:35pm Nicky Gracious
2:55pm – 3:35pm Rip
3:55pm – 4:35pm King’s Conquest
5:00pm – 6:00pm Howard Gripp
6:30pm – 8:00pm Danny Gokey
Get details on all the events, food and drink menus, and more at the Brat Fest website here.
You can get to Madison so many ways: I-39/90, I-94, U.S. 12, 14, 18, or 151, or Highways 30 or 113. Enjoy a beautiful Memorial Day weekend in town with Brat Fest – and check out the State Capitol, the Wisconsin Memorial Union Terrace, Lakes Mendota and Monona, the Henry Vilas Zoo, and everything else our capital city has to offer!
World’s Largest Brat Fest Address:
Alliant Energy Center
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way
Madison, WI 53713 Website
Muscoda celebrates the Morel Mushroom Festival every May, which is only fitting because that’s prime growing season in this “Morel Mushroom Capital of Wisconsin.” These unique mushrooms are considered quite a delicacy by top chefs everywhere; there are message boards and recipes and all kinds of resources for morel lovers. The soil in the Muscoda area is particularly suited for the growth of morels and they fully embrace this fungi. In 2025, the festival takes place Friday, May 16th and Saturday, May 17th.
This year’s event starts Friday evening with the 4th Annual Car Cruise Drive-In – all modes of transportation encouraged to attend. Join them at the paved parking lot next to the Riverdale bus garage in the 500 block of North Wisconsin. Jose’s Mexican Food Truck and Jovita’s Kitchen will be there serving their specialties and Udder Brothers Creamery will have their delicious ice cream. Two blocks south, at Mushroom Headquarters along Highway 80, the grills will be going with American Legion burgers. There’s also the 1st annual Antique Farm & Tractor Pull, a Little League Baseball Tournament, and Thunder Showers Bounce Houses will be there for kids’ fun.
On Saturday, May 17th starting at 9:00am, the whole Village bursts with events. The bounce house and pedal tractor pulls are back, you can check out the Tiny Acres Farms Petting Zoo, beer samples from 11am-3pm, and a parade. The awesome arts and crafts vendors, (many new ones!) and chainsaw carving are at Railroad Park as well as Food Vendors there and along the streets.
At Mushroom Headquarters, there are tastings, grilling with mushroom brats and Legion burgers (and fried morels if they’re are available). The Food and Beverage tasting area will include Meister Cheese, Moore Eggs, Studnicka Cattle Company, Wild Hills Winery, Dirftless Gold Organic Maple Syrup, Gillingham Meads, and Spurgeon Winery. And for your listening pleasure and maybe dancing, live music by Donnie Reyzek.
You can also catch tours of Effigy mounds, which start at 1pm, and baseball with the Muscoda Mudcats also at 1pm.
A big feature is the “Spring Mystery” Parade down main street (AKA Wisconsin Avenue), which starts at 3:00. Members of the UW Band will also perform starting around 3:45.
When you want a sit-down meal, there is pancake breakfast until noon, a chili cookoff with judging and tasting at 1:00 and the famous Firemen’s Steak Feed at the firehouse beginning at 4:00 until the steaks are gone! Enjoy the river views as the evening concludes with fireworks at dusk.
The Morel Mushroom Festival Schedule is coming soon!
You’ll find Muscoda along Highway 80 between the Wisconsin River and Highway 133. Highway 60 is just across the river. And this town comes to party for its Morel Mushroom Festival! Check their website for updates and full schedules.
Morel Mushroom Festival Address:
Muscoda Village Hall
206 N. Wisconsin Avenue (Highway 80)
Muscoda, WI 53573
(608) 739-3182 Website
Mmmm… Grilled Cheese. Can it get any better?? Dodgeville is “Grilled Cheese Central” on Saturday, April 26, 2025 as the Wisconsin Grilled Cheese Championship takes place at the Leo Pavilion in Harris Park. Amateurs and professionals compete in 4 “heats” to determine the best grilled cheese sandwiches in Wisconsin and compete for fabulous prizes. Listen to live music, drink some beer and wine, sample outstanding grilled cheese sandwiches. Fun for all ages. Free admission! Get all the details at their website, grilledcheesewisconsin.com.
You can get to Dodgeville via U.S. 18 & 151 and Highway 23. Any trip is worth it for grilled cheese!
Our previous favorites have included the Gouda Girls (below); Tina and Katherine make grilled cheese sandwich combos that win all across the nation. They’re based in Milwaukee and do incredible things with taste buds. Our head State Trunk Tour guy Eric Paulsen got to experience their creations firsthand in this Discover Wisconsinepisode. We don’t have any vote, though, so we’ll see how this goes.
Wisconsin Grilled Cheese Championship Address:
Harris Park
600 Bennett Road
Dodgeville, WI 53533
(608) 935-9200 Website
Kenosha Restaurant Week is a nine-day celebration of the city’s and area’s delicious and diverse dining scene. It’s a way to show some LOVE to our locally owned, small restaurants, pubs, eateries, and food shops. It’s also the perfect opportunity to explore new places to dine, return to a favorite place, try something new at your go-to restaurant, or just show your support to our local restaurants.
It runs Saturday, February 22nd through Sunday, March 2nd this year. Nearly 80 restaurants are participating in Kenosha Restaurant Week, offering special menus with special pricing for breakfasts, lunches, dinners, desserts, even snacks. Here’s a video showcasing it all!
Details on participating restaurants and links to their menus are coming soon!
Craft beer and bacon lovers, this is for you! Racine Downtown hosts its 5th annual Downtown Racine Beer & Bacon Walk on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024 from 1pm-6pm. Stroll the sidewalks downtown and sample delicious brews paired with bacon-infused bites at twenty downtown locations. Mark your calendars and set your alarms because tickets are expected to sell out fast!
Tickets are $40 and include:
– Admission to event
– 20 3 oz. samples of beer
– 20 bacon-infused bites
– 16oz pint glass
– One 16 oz full-pour of your choice
Who wouldn’t want to pair mouthwatering bacon-infused bites with craft beer?
Some of the bacon-infused bites to be sampled include:
Bacon Mac N Cheese
Bacon-Wrapped Cocktail Weenies in ‘Secrect Stadium Sauce’
Bruschetta With Bacon
Smashers Pork Patties
Bacon Chicken Bombs
Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini
Bacon Crack
Porchetta Bacon
Bacon Cheese Bites
Bacon Potato Skins
Cheesy Bacon Flatbread
Bacon Cheddar Corn bread
Bacon BBQ Meatballs
Candied Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Bacon & Parmesan Stuffed Mushrooms
—just a sneak peek of the scrumptious lineup.
Some of the beers to be sampled:
Sam Adams Cherry Wheat
Lein Creamy Dark
Bells Eclipse Oberon
Bells Double Cream Stout
Great Lake Christmas Ale
Papa Jacks
New Belg Fruit Force
Whole Hog Oatmeal Pie
Heineken Silver
Alaskan Amber
Hacker-Pschorr Oktobfest 4
Hofbrau Octfest
Lake Louie Badger Club
Alaskan Grizz Coffee
Point Limited Cookies
Hungry yet? Thirsty yet? It all happens Saturday afternoon, November 2nd. You can buy them online or get your tickets by calling 262-634-6002.
It’s easy to get to downtown Racine, along the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan. Just head east from I-41/94 via Highway 20 (Exit #333), County K (Exit #329), or Highway 11 (Exit #335) approximately 8 miles; or Highway 38 can bring you in from Milwaukee, and Highway 32 brings you to downtown Racine north from Kenosha and Illinois or south from Oak Creek and Milwaukee’s south suburbs. Lots of options, and lots to do and see once you get there!
Downtown Racine Beer & Bacon Walk Address:
425 Main Street (Highway 20, between Highways 32 & 38)
Racine, WI 53403
(262) 634-6002 Website
Seven Acre Dairy Company in Paoli hosts its 2nd annual Sugar River Bourbon Fest Wednesday, October 16th through Sunday, October 20th. It’s a five-day celebration of all things bourbon that highlights the country’s top distilleries and chefs. Imbibe in amazing meals and pair them with delicious food complements and beverages – including some amazing Bourbon and whiskey beverages. It features a welcome dinner with chef Joe Heppe and Driftless Glen Distillery, a signature dinner with nine-time James Beard Award nominee chef Edward Lee and Dancing Goat Distillery, a fish fry featuring Blue Ash Farm Craft Spirits, and a special bourbon brunch with J. Henry.
Seven Acre Dairy in Paoli, host of the 2nd annual Sugar River Bourbon Festival. The Sugar River is right along the property.
These evenings lead up to the main event: the Sugar River Bourbon Tasting Festival on Saturday, October 19th. You can enjoy samplings and meet with over 25 distilleries and distillers, including award-winning local and national distilleries Heaven Hill, Bardstown 45th parallel, Green River, Old Forester, Dancing Goat, J. Henry, and more.
There will be live music, along with burgers, hot dogs and barbeque available for purchase from Seven Acre Dairy Company and Knoche’s Meats; a portion of the proceeds benefit the Belleville Food Pantry.
Here’s how the evenings work out on the weekends:
Friday, October 18th: Blue Ash Farm Craft Spirit’s Bourbon Lover’s Fish Fry
Join Seven Acre chefs and Blue Ash Farm Craft Spirits for the last outdoor fish fry along the Sugar River of the season. Seven Acre chefs will cook up all-you-can-eat cod, perch and walleye, alongside seasonal sides, salads and desserts. Blue Ash Farm Craft Spirits of Argyle will be crafting cocktails from their award-winning farmstead spirits. The fish fry will take place in a heated, open air tent. Fire pits will be lit and lawn games will be out.
Saturday, October 19th: The Sugar River Bourbon Tasting Festival
Regular admission is $55 per person from 1-4 p.m. This includes samplings and meet and greets with over 25 distilleries, live music, unique bourbon bottle sales and food for purchase.
VIP admission is $100 per person from noon to 4 p.m. This includes exclusive access to the Makers Mark/Jim Beam VIP Tasting Tent, VIP appetizers, a copy of Edward Lee’s best-selling book “Bourbon Land,” first access to unique bourbon bottle sales, plus access to all other areas of the festival.
Sunday, October 20th: J. Henry Maple Bourbon Brunch
Join Seven Acre chefs and J. Henry for a one-of-a-kind bourbon brunch. Seven acre chefs will be cooking up some of Edward Lee’s favorite brunch recipes alongside some of their favorite bourbon brunch cocktails. Don’t miss your chance to sample the infamous Maple Bourbon made by J. Henry and your chances to take a bottle home. The maple bourbon was only available on the farm this year and sold out in under an hour.
For more information and tickets, visit sevenacredairyco.com.
You’ll find the lovely little burg of Paoli along County PB, right near State Trunk Highway 69, less than 10 minutes south of Verona off U.S. 18/151.
Sugar River Bourbon Fest Address:
Seven Acre Dairy Company
6858 Paoli Road
Belleville, WI 53508
(608) 416-4023 Website
The Bayfield Apple Festival is hailed as one of the 10 Best Fall Harvest Festivals in the nation by USA Today! Bayfield celebrates its Apple Festival every October and in 2024 it will take place October 4th through the 6th.
The three day event features a farm market featuring local producers, over 60 orchard and food booths selling Bayfield’s apples, apple delicacies, and festival food favorites! There is plenty to buy and see at the 140 art, craft and vendor booths. Kids carnival rides and games, an apple peeling contest, fish fry & dance round out the offerings.
You can also catch Big Top Chautauqua’s Blue Canvas Orchestra perform throughout the weekend on the Grandstand stage. The festival culminates with the Grand Parade on Sunday, which features a 400 member “Mass Band” finale.
Bayfield is located along Highway 13 on the shores of Lake Superior, about 15 minutes north of U.S. 2. U.S. 63 brings you towards Bayfield from the Hayward, Spooner, and Twin Cities areas; U.S. 51 north through the North Woods sends you toward U.S. 2 for the connection to Bayfield, too. Enjoy the fall colors on your ride!
Bayfield Apple Festival Address:
Downtown Bayfield & Memorial Park
42 South Broad Street
Bayfield, WI 54814
(715) 779-3335 Website
Read about additional “things to know” below!
More Bayfield Apple Festival features and things to know:
Over 60 orchard and food booths selling Bayfield’s apples and apple desserts and delicacies; Caramel apples, apple pies, apple tortes, dumplings or tarts, apple sundaes, apple cider, bags and bushels of apples – even apple bratwurst, mustard, and butter.
A kids’ carnival with games, rides and favorite foods.
Plenty to buy and see including nearly 140 arts and crafts booths.
Pipes and Drums of Thunder Bay wake up concert at Port Superior Marina, Saturday at 10am
Fine art exhibitors on South Second Street, featuring pottery, paintings, glassworks, photography, wood crafts and fiber arts.
A Grand Parade on Sunday featuring a 400+ member “Mass Band” finale
Big Top Chautauqua’s Blue Canvas Orchestra will perform throughout the weekend on the Essentia Health Grand Stand stage. Hear the original Apple Festival song!
The annual Apple Dumpling Gang for the little ones. Click here for Registration Form.
Bus shuttles for easy parking at Hauser’s Superior View Farm and Legendary Waters Casino.
Bayfield Fire Department offers a traditional fish fry dinner on Saturday afternoon at Lakeside Pavilion followed by a Saturday evening dance.
Boat cruises of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.
Musical entertainment at many local pubs and Legendary Waters Resort & Casino
Drive 5 minutes outside of town and tour the 15 local orchards and farms, many with pick-your-own apples and pumpkins.
With Beef-A-Rama, the smell of beef fills the air and more than 12,000 people fill the streets of downtown Minocqua. For over 50 years, Beef-a-Rama™ has been a premiere event drawing visitors back year after year to join in on the one-of-a kind fun you can only find in the Northwoods.
Roasters begin cooking their signature beefs before dawn. Herds of creative festival goers dressed in cow-themed costumes start packing downtown early for the 10K and 5K Rump Roast Run and Walk along Lake Minocqua, live music, & Prime Choice Craft Show featuring more than 70 vendors.
Mooo-ve on down to Torpy Park to grab a roast beef sandwich and watch the Beef Eating Contest, Cow Pie Plop, and of course the famous Roaster Parade down main street!
Listen for the top roasters at the Awards Ceremony at 3pm following the Parade. Check for the latest itinerary online.
Minocqua is along “Wisconsin’s Backbone,” U.S. 51, just south of Highways 47 and 70.
Beef-A-Rama Address:
Torpy Park
806 U.S. Highway 51
Minocqua, WI 54548
(715) 356-5266 Website
Check out the Schedule of Events below!
Beef-A-Rama Schedule of Events:
Friday, September 27th
10am-Noon Live Radio Broadcast with WRJO at the Minocqua Area Chamber of Commerce
6:00-9:00pm Lakeland Rotary Rump Roast Run registration at American Legion Hall
6:30-9:30pm Live Music The Lincoln Boys Band and Beer Garden sponsored by The Minocqua Island Business Association at Torpy Park
Saturday, September 28th
7am Rump Roast Run Registration at the American Legion Hall
7:30am Street Closure Begins
7am-8pm Shuttles Run ($3 fee per car) from Lakeland Union High School, Hribar Corporation/Truck Country, Lakeland Hawks Ice Arena & Builders First Source
8:15am Lakeland Rotary’s Calf Mile Run for Kids
9am Lakeland Rotary’s Rump Roast Run
9am-3pm Live Radio Broadcast by WRJO at Torpy Park
9am-11:00am Live Music Red Ben and the Missing Miles at Torpy Park
9am-5pm Bouncy Houses for Kids on the lower level of Torpy Park
9am-5pm Prime Choice Craft Show on the lower level of Torpy Park
9am-5pm Official Beef-A-Rama™ apparel sales at Torpy Park
10am-5:00pm Henna, Face painting, Glitter Painting at Veterans Park
10am-9:00pm Lakeland Rotary Beer Garden on Chicago Street
10am-9:00pm Minocqua Lions Club Beer Garden at Torpy Park
10am-5pm Official Beef-A-Rama™ Sandwich Sales at Torpy Park
10am-12pm Live Music by Corey Carlson at the Rotary Beer Garden on Chicago Street
10am-3pm Kids’ Games, Bouncy Houses, and Face Painting in lower level of Torpy Park
10am-4pm Kraft’s Kuddly Kritters Petting Zoo at Veterans Park
10am-5pm Twisted Widdlin’ Fool chainsaw carving exhibition
10am Food Sales Begin Torpy Park & Chicago Street
11am-1pm Kids’ Activities at Redman Realty on Oneida Street
11am-1:45pm Judging of the Beef along Oneida Street
11am-3pm Cow Pie Plop & Mechanical Bull sponsored by Lakeland Hawks Ice Arena at Island City Ice Cream
11:00am Beef Eating Contest at Torpy Park sponsored by Associated Bank
Noon-4:00pm Live Music by The Lincoln Boys at Torpy Park
Noon-3:00 pm Live Music by Useful Jenkins at the Rotary Beer Garden on Chicago Street
3:00 pm Parade of Beef down Oneida Street from Redman Realty to Torpy Park
3:15 pm Awards Ceremony and Beef Raffle Drawing at Torpy Park
3:00-5:00 pm Live Music by Corey Carlson at the Rotary Beer Garden on Chicago Street
5pm Street Open to Traffic
4:00-8:30 pm Live Music Reality Bites sponsored by the Minocqua Lions Club at Torpy Park
5-9:00pm Live Music Whitehouse Players at the Rotary Beer Garden on Chicago Street
It happens over Labor Day weekend every year, and it’s a lot of tasty fun! Taste of Madison features over 80 local restaurants, 20 beverage stands and three entertainment stages. The participating restaurants sell a vast variety of both unique and traditional dishes to the estimated 225,000 attendees over the two-day period – you should be one of them. Most food items are in the $2 to $5 range! Best of all, admission – which includes hours and hours of live entertainment – is free and open to the public.
Taste of Madison happens on the Capitol Square, one of the most dynamic and beautiful places in Wisconsin with the shops, restaurants, bars, museums, and more surrounding our gorgeous State Capitol. U.S. 151/Washington Avenue brings you closest, although U.S. 12, U.S. 14, U.S. 18, U.S. 51, and Highways 30 and 113 all bring you to Madison.
Taste of Madison Hours:
Saturday, August 31st 2pm – 9pm
Sunday, September 5th: 11am – 7pm
Get the full list of participating restaurants (with address and phone where available) below or from the Taste of Madison website!
Let’s face it: the Rutabaga doesn’t get enough recognition. Cumberland rectifies that with their annual Rutabaga Festival Thursday, August 22nd through Sunday, August 25th!
Happening since 1932, Cumberland’s Rutabaga Festival includes live entertainment, a pedal tractor pull, pepper-eating contest, basketball shootout, craft show, morning bike tour, a grand parade… and rutabagas. (Which we think are what makes a pasty so much better!)
Come enjoy the Cumberland Rutabaga Festival Run on Saturday morning! Choose from a half marathon, 5K run, or 2 mile fun run/walk. All races start at 8 am at the Cumberland High School. You can also just watch if you prefer and cheer everyone on.
You’ll find Cumberland – aka “The Island City” – along U.S. 63 and Highway 48 in northwestern Barron County. Check out the amazing selection at Louie’s Finer Meats in town while you’re there! It’s a State Trunk Tour favorite.
Cumberland Rutabaga Festival Address:
Downtown Cumberland
Cumberland, WI 54829
(715) 822-FEST Website
The 71st annual Sun Prairie Sweet Corn Festival is BACK at Angell Park this year, taking place Wednesday, August 14th through Sunday, August 18th, 2024!
Enjoy a carnival-midway complete with a wide variety of carnival games and rides, food booths, live bands, a “kiddie korner” with large inflatables, a cornhole tournament, family entertainment, a beer shelter, and much more! Of course fresh, locally-grown sweet corn is available to enjoy. Check out parades and a music lineup including:
Angell Park is a beautiful historic park adjacent to Sun Prairie’s downtown. It’s also home to the Angell Park Speedway, a 1/3 dirt oval that dates back to 1903! You can reach Angell Park via Highway 19 through the city. From the U.S. 151 bypass, follow Main Street or the Highway 19 exit. You can also easily reach Angell Park via County N north from I-94 at the Cottage Grove exit.
Sun Prairie Sweet Corn Festival Address:
Angell Park & Angell Park Speedway
300 Park Street
Sun Prairie, WI 53590
(608) 837-4547 Website
Elkhorn hosts Wisconsin’s largest BBQ Festival with Ribfest, which take place on the Walworth County Fairgrounds July 10-14, 2024!
Check out FOUR 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:
Wednesday, July 10th:
Prince Experience
Tennessee Whiskey: Chris Stapleton Tribute
Secret Menu
Lucky Pickers
Thursday, July 11th:
Bella Cain
Drew Cagle & The Reputation
Superfly
Miles Over Mountains
Karen Shook
Friday, July 12th:
The Hype!
Madison County
Lunchmoney Bullies
Lara Bell Music
Saturday, July 13th:
7th Heaven
The Cheap Shots
Rico: A Tribute To Santana
The Thompson Duo
Sunday, July 14th:
24K – A Tribute To Bruno Mars
Whiskey Romance
Cameron Webb
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
Craving an art-filled weekend brimming with the most luscious summer fruit? Check out the 40th annual Cedarburg Strawberry Festival, sponsored by BMO Harris Bank, June 22-23, 2024. 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 25th. 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.
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
Sparta holds some notable festivals, and Butterfest is the biggest one of the year. Along with plenty of butter, the festival features numerous events.
Among them: the A&P Carnival, one of the Midwest’s best. There’s also a craft and flea market, a quilt show, softball tournaments, a cornhole bean bag tournament, dance demonstrations, firemen’s water fights, a milking contest, stage entertainment, and much more. The Miss Sparta Pageant will be held during the event, one of the sanctioned events where the winner can then compete in Miss Wisconsin.
It runs Thursday June 6th through Sunday, June 9th. The Butterfest Parade takes place Sunday at 12:30pm. The whole event takes place at Memorial Park in Sparta. I-90 and Highways 16, 21, 27, and 71 bring you there! (Heck, so does the Elroy-Sparta Trail!)
Live music includes Larry’s Drifters on Thursday, the Pat Watters Band on Friday, High Mileage on Saturday, and The Dweebs on Sunday!
Sparta Butterfest Address:
Memorial Park
Pine Street
Sparta, WI 54656 Map Website
Sparta Butterfest Schedule of Events
THURSDAY, JUNE 6:
A&P Carnival, 5-10pm
Corporate Sponsors Reception, 5:30pm • Fest Tent
Fest Tent – opening 7pm • Larry’s Drifters
Military Night – All active duty military free with Military ID
Food Tent
FRIDAY, JUNE 7:
Softball Tournament
Arts, Crafts, Fleamarket and Antiques • 4pm-dusk
Quilt Show Registration – 3pm
Food Tent
A&P Carnival, 5-11pm
Bingo 4-8pm
Fest Tent – opening 8pm • Pat Watters Band •
SATURDAY, JUNE 8:
Arts, Crafts, Fleamarket and Antiques • throughout the day, beginning 10am
A&P Carnival • Throughout the day • WRISTBANDS • Get a $20 wristband and ride from 12-5pm
Softball Tournament – throughout the day
Food Tent
Pancake and Sausage Breakfast • 7am-10am • At the cheese curd concession stand
3 Person Rotary Golf Tournament • 9am
Poker Run • Registration 9-11am
Quilt Show • 10am-5pm with a Demonstration at 2pm
Fest Tent – opening 12pm • Music provided by Mike Harris
New Age Wrestling, Fest Tent, 2pm
Firemen’s Waterfights • 1pm (registration at noon)
DJ Trivia, 1-3pm
Miss Wisconsin Send Off Party, 12pm in the Fest Tent
Milking Contest • 1:00pm
Kids Craft Area • 2-4pm
Bingo 2-6pm
Car Show • 1pm-6pm
Cornhole Bean Bag Tournament • 2pm
Quilting Demonstration • 2pm
Kid’s Bike Decorating Contest in the Arts and Crafts area • 2pm • Judging at 4:30pm
Fest Tent 8pm Entertainment – High Mileage
SUNDAY, JUNE 9:
Softball Tournament • Throughout the day
Food Tent • Throughout the day
Arts, Crafts, Fleamarket and Antiques • Throughout the day • 10am-6pm
A&P Carnival • Throughout the day 12pm-8pm
Quilt Show • 12-4pm • Maplewood School
Fest Tent opens at 12:00pm
Parade • 12:30pm
Fest Tent 4pm-8pm Entertainment – The Dweebs
Bingo 3-5pm
Yes, yes, we had you at bacon. Lake Geneva Bacon Fest fills the city with the wondrous smells and tastes of unique bacon creations – from dishes to drinks – while enjoying live music from local performing artists across the downtown area. The 4th annual Bacon Fest runs all weekend from Friday, May 31st through Sunday, June 2nd.
The fun is centered on Flatiron Park in downtown Lake Geneva, which offers a beautiful view of Geneva Lake and is across from The Riviera, the historic Baker House, Sprecher’s Restaurant & Pub, and more. Tons of great shops and restaurants are within blocks, including Topsy Turvy Brewery. Of course, at the park itself beverages beyond bacon will be available, and part of the proceeds benefit the Walworth County Food Pantry and Diaper Bank.
Live Music Lineup:
Friday 5/31
5 to 6:45 The Soul Chasers
7:30 to 10 Think Floyd USA
Saturday 6/1
11-2 BB and The Honey (Yacht Rock)
2:30-5 TBD
5:30-7:30 Rumor Hazit (80’s Band)
8-10 Mellencougar
Presented by Lake Geneva Regional News and Amplified Wisconsin, tickets are available with a variety of options. You can buy them at the door or in advance here!
Here’s a sample of Lake Geneva Bacon Fest from 2022:
It’s easy to get to downtown Lake Geneva and Flatiron Park, just follow Highway 50 (which cuts right through the heart of downtown). Highway 120 comes in from the direct south and north, and the U.S. 12 freeway cuts right past town to the east and intersects with both 50 and 120 near the Grand Geneva. Easy access from the west is also available via Highway 50 from I-43 or Highway 67!
Lake Geneva Bacon Fest Address:
Flatiron Park
201 Wrigley Drive
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
(262) 248-4444 Website
“Feast with the Beasts” at the Milwaukee County Zoo! Milwaukee Journal Sentinel a la Carte, presented by Meijer, runs Thursday, August 17th through Sunday August 20th. Check out 27 area restaurants with palate-pleasing offers and national and local bands performing throughout Zoo grounds, including Vertical Horizon Thursday night,
Plenty of family-friendly activities are also available throughout the grounds, and of course the Milwaukee County Zoo’s remarkable collection of 2,100+ animals you can see and learn about. It’s one of the best family activities of the year.
Crafty kids can show their artistic side with Kohl’s Color Wheels, a mobile art experience. You can also enjoy a glass of wine, while listening to local bands at the Giraffe Village Wine Tent, sponsored by Champion Windows & Sunrooms. On top of that, you can visit the Brick Dinos exhibit, sponsored by Sendik’s Food Markets, which includes interactive LEGO® play-scapes and more. Admission is $3 per person.
Zoo A La Carte Music Schedule:
Thursday, August 17, 2023
Miller Lite Caribou Stage
11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Jake Williams (90s, R&B, modern, & classics)
3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Jon Rouse (Classic rock)
7 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Vertical Horizon (Alternative rock)
Flamingo Stage
11:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Driving Buddies (Pop, rock, & country)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Jordan and Ernie (Bluegrass)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Andrea and The Mods (70s, 80s, & more)
Zoofari Stage
11:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Geoff Landon Duo (Country hits)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Xeno and Joe (Classic hits)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Brady Lee (Pop country)
Lakeview Stage
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Phil Norby (Acoustic classics)
2:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Sam and Cookie (Folk, classic rock, & bluegrass)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Grimm Brothers Trio (Classic hits)
Mad City Windows & Baths Woody Stage
11:30 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Steve Cohen and Jim Ohlschmidt (Twisted acoustic blues)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. JC Munguía (Latin music)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Eric Diamond (Neil Diamond & more)
BioLife Plasma Services Giraffe Wine Tent
11:30 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Carmen and Kostia (Pop vocals with piano)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Anthony Deutsch (Pianist, vocalist, & composer)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Downtown Harrison (Modern song and dance man)
Friday, August 18, 2023
Miller Lite Caribou Stage
12 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Kris and Dani Crow (Harmonies & great banter)
3 p.m. – 6 p.m. Trapper Schoepp Band (Singer-songwriter)
7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Eli Young Band (Country)
Flamingo Stage
11:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Ebert and Grass (Classics)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Jessie Haines (Singer-songwriter)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Eric Barbieri and the Rockin’ Krakens (Classic rock hits)
Zoofari Stage
11:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Scott E. Berendt Trio (Acoustic rock & pop)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Bad Medicine (80s party rock)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. The Playlist (Top 40 hits)
Mad City Windows & Baths Woody Stage
11:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Rudy and Vee (Acoustic duo)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Michael Sean (Wisconsin musical mainstay)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Frogwater (Celtic bluegrass fusion)
BioLife Plasma Services Giraffe Wine Tent
11:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Keshena Armon (Singer-songwriter)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Katy Ambrose (Dynamic piano stylings)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Downtown Harrison (Modern song and dance man)
Saturday, August 19, 2023
Miller Lite Caribou Stage
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Bath (Classic to modern pop and rock)
3 p.m. – 6 p.m. The Morrison Sessions (Roots rock & roll)
7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Record Company (Rock)
Zoofari Stage
11:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Busted Mullet (Rock)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Bruce Humphries and the Rockabilly Rebels (Rockabilly)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Our House (50s, 60s, 70s, & more)
Lakeview Stage
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Chris Haise Duo (Indie folk rock)
2:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. The Belle Weather (Orchestral indie folk rock)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Ronnie Nyles (Singer-songwriter)
Mad City Windows & Baths Woody Stage
11:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Patrick Van Bibber (Guitarist, singer-songwriter)
2:45 p.m. – 5:45 p.m. Jake Warne Duo (Singer-songwriters)
6:15 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Eric Barbieri (Classic hits)
Sunday, August 20, 2023 Miller Lite Caribou Stage
12 p.m. – 4 p.m. Joe 2.0 (The world’s original rockestra)
5 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. Hypnotized (Milwaukee’s Fleetwood Mac Tribute)
Flamingo Stage
11:15 a.m. – 3 p.m. Another One (Grateful Dead tribute)
4 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. Crossfire (Country rock)
Mad City Windows & Baths Woody Stage
11:30 a.m. – 3:15 p.m. Ronnie Nyles (Singer-songwriter)
4 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Brooklynn Marti (Singer-songwriter)
BioLife Plasma Services Giraffe Wine Tent
11:30 a.m. – 3:15 p.m. Barbara Stephan and Peter Mac Duo (Singer-songwriters)
4 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Downtown Harrison (Modern song and dance man)
Admission rates (includes all bands and activities):
Adults: $17
Juniors (ages 3 to 12): $14
Children (ages 2 and under): FREE
Parking: $14
We talked with Jenny Diliberti from the Zoo a while back about this event and the Zoo’s history, animals, new designs, and more in this State Trunk Tour Podcast:
Milwaukee area restaurants at Zoo A La Carte include:
A la Crepes
Bear Garden
Brew City Snowballs
Bubble Waffle Shoppes
Café el Sol (gluten-free, vegetarian)
Caribou Beverage Bar
Catalano Corn (vegetarian)
Cedar Crest Ice Cream Parlor
Chillwaukee Pops (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free)
C-Viche
Funnel Cake Factory
Giraffe Beverage Bar
Giraffe Wine Bar
Golden Grill
Hot Potato
La Masa (vegetarian)
Leinie Lodge
Mama Bev’s Bakery
MIL-WOK-EE (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free)
Nothing Bundt Cakes (gluten-free)
Nourish 414 (vegetarian, gluten-free)
OOZ
Penguin Beverage Bar
Pig Tailz (vegetarian)
Roll MKE (vegetarian)
Salentini’s Pizza
Saz’s (gluten-free)
Scrima’s Woodfired Pizza (gluten-free)
Shawarma House (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free)
The Coop
The Snack Barn
Thunder Bay Grille (vegetarian, gluten-free)
Tots on the Street (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free)
Ultimate Confections Desserts featuring Suzy’s Cream Cheesecakes
Watering Hole Root Beer Floats
West End Snacks
Wild Burger
Woody’s Custard
Wong’s Wok
Zoo A La Carte at the Milwaukee County Zoo Address:
10001 W. Bluemound Road (U.S. 18)
Milwaukee, WI 53226
(414) 256-5466 Website
The Zoo is surrounded by U.S. 18/Bluemound Road on the north, I-41/US. 45 on the east, I-94 on the south, and Highway 100 on the west. Despite the Zoo Interchange construction, it’s still easy to get to!
The Gays Mills Apple Festival – the 63rd annual – runs September 23-25, 2022! Gays Mills is pretty much the apple capital of Wisconsin, and it celebrates the apple harvest with parades, carnivals, arts and crafts, flea markets, music, dancing, a 2K and 5K fun run/walk, food and festivities.
Get the rest of the details from their website or see the schedule below!
You’ll find Gays Mills in the heart of Wisconsin’s beautiful Driftless Area, where Highways 131 and 171 meet by the Kickapoo River. It’s worth going for the drive alone!
2022 Gays Mills Apple Festival Schedule of Events
FRIDAY EVENTS
Carnival: Wristband Night 5pm-9pm Fairgrounds
Lions Club Flea Market: 8am-5pm Fairgrounds
Main Street Vending: 10am-5pm Downtown
BMZ Church Food Stand:10am-5pm Fairgrounds
4-H Food Stand: Friday-Sunday Fairgrounds
American Legion Food Stand: 10am-5pm Fairgrounds
Societies Sons M/C: Music
Dante’s:Music Last Ride
Halver’s Town Tap: Music
SATURDAY EVENTS To See & Do:
Run and Walk:Registration 8am Main St Bridge, 2 & 5 Mi. Run; 2 Mi. Walk; ¼ Mi. Kids Fun Run: 9am
Lions Club Flea Market: 8am-5pm Fairgrounds
Main Street Vending: 9:30am-5pm Downtown
Cornhole Tournament
American Legion Volleyball Tournament: 9am 4-person Co-Ed Teams, 312 Main
Library Book Sale: 9am-5pm, 212 Main
Lions Club Arts and Crafts: 9am-5pm Fairgrounds
Carnival: 10am-5pm Fairgrounds
Open Horseshoe Tournament: Saturday Partner draw,Sunday 10 am registration and 11am start, Log CabinVillage Park
Societies Sons M/C: Music from American Standard
Fire Department: Raffle (Drawing in Nov.)
Dante’s: Music from Pilot of the Airwaves 3pm-7pm, Last Ride
Halver’s Town Tap: Music from Dylan Harris 2-6pm, DJ Robert 9pm – 1am
Inflatables:Downtown
SUNDAY EVENTS To See & Do:
Ride the FREE Trolley stops at Flea Market & Main! APPLE FESTIVAL PARADE 1:30 pm, Main Street to Riverside Park Lions Club Arts and Crafts & Flea Market: 8am-5pm Fairgrounds Main Street Vending: 9:30am-4pm Downtown Library Book Sale: 9am-3:30 pm 212 Main Carnival: 10am-5pm Fairgrounds Open Horseshoe Tournament: Saturday draw for partners, Sunday 10am registration, 11am start, Log Cabin Village Park Fire Department: Raffle (Drawing in Nov.) Inflatables: Downtown
Calendar of Events
Calendar of Events › Food
August 2, 2025
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 for 2025, 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:
Saturday, August 2nd
Johnsonville Main Stage:
11:00am – 1:00 pm The Dirty Martinis
1:30pm – 4:00pm Pat McCurdy
4:30pm – 5:45 pm The Radio Effect
6:15pm – 7:30pm Stetsin & Lace
8:00pm – 9:15pm Blizzard of Randy: A Tribute to Ozzy – The Rhoads Years
9:45pm – 11:00 pm High ‘N’ Dry (Def Leppard Tribute)
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!
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
July 25, 2025 – July 27, 2025
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
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
May 30, 2025 – May 31, 2025
Dairyfest 2025, Marshfield
Marshfield features its 44th annual Dairyfest Friday, May 30th and Saturday, May 31st at venues all across the city. This is Hub City’s annual honor of the agricultural industry and Wisconsin’s hardworking dairy farmers! This community tradition has been providing fun for the whole family, during these “dairy-licious” days.
The Marshfield Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry (MACCI) puts on the event, which includes a wide variety of fun activities across the three-day weekend.
What is Dairyfest?
Held annually the weekend after Memorial Day, Dairyfest is a fun community celebration that honors the agriculture industry and local dairy farmers. Dairyfest features a lot of fun events, including the annual Dairyfest Breakfast, a parade, kids’ activities, a Picnic in the Park, and much more. The theme of this year’s celebration is “A Dairy Great Time”!
Friday, May 30th
5:30am-9:30am / Mayor’s Breakfast: Held at the Expo Building at the Central Wisconsin State Fairgrounds, 513 E. 17th St., this traditional event welcomes nearly 2,000 people every year. $10/ticket, kids 6 and under are FREE!
5:00pm-8:00pm / Picnic in the Park: Food trucks will be at Columbia Park, 201 W. Arnold St., until 5:00pm and a variety of food booths will be available throughout the evening. Join the fun in the Park including a Petting Zoo, Educational displays, Marshfield Fire & Rescue hands-on fun, Face painting, Main Street Conservatory of Dance show, Coin & Candy hunt (ages 2-9), Bingo (ages 10-15), and the Marshfield Civic Band Concert. Bring your lawn chairs for a night of fun!
Saturday, May 31st
Additional activities scheduled for Saturday include:
Marshfield Dairyfest Address:
Various locations around town, including the Central Wisconsin State Fairgrounds
513 E. 17th Street
Marshfield, WI 54449
Website
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May 23, 2025 – May 26, 2025
World’s Largest Brat Fest
Since you’ve been freezing your buns all winter, cele-BRAT-e the official start of summer with the World’s Largest Brat Fest in Madison! Presented by Johnsonville, it takes place Memorial Day weekend at Willow Island, right by the Alliant Energy Center. Putting the sizzle into summer for over 30 years, Brat Fest is one of the Midwest’s largest and best, family-friendly music festivals right in the heart of the capital city. And they’ve also sold over 4 million brats!
Brat Fest Music Lineup
The diverse music lineup features over 70 bands covering folk, country, jazz, blues, R&B/soul, and rock… Get the full lineup below!
Free shuttle buses will be running between the zoo and Brat Fest all weekend, giving families the chance to see the Arctic Passage exhibit.
Admission to the World’s Largest Brat Fest is FREE! And while it’s a little known fact that brats are even tastier when eaten for a good cause, all of the Fest’s proceeds go to numerous local charities. Check it all out on Willow Island at the Alliant Energy Center and kick off the summer right with some of that Brat Fest sizzle.
Harley Davidson of Madison is providing exclusive V.I.P. motorcycle parking for 200 bikes – just use the entrance off Rimrock Road (just off the Beltline) to access that area.
BRAT FEST MUSIC LINEUP
FRIDAY, MAY 23rd
ISLAND STAGE
11:10am – 11:50am Krool Fool
12:10pm – 12:50pm Shawn Schell
1:10pm – 1:50pm Midnight Angel
2:10pm – 2:50pm Sean Kay
3:10pm – 3:50pm The Solution
4:10pm – 4:50pm T.J. Stone
5:10pm – 5:50m American Hitmen
6:15pm – 7:15pm Mighty Electric
Everlight Solar Grand Stage
12:45pm – 1:15pm Lousy Nuncio
1:40pm – 2:20pm Mad City Funk
2:40pm – 3:20pm Saturday Morning Cartel
3:40pm – 4:20pm The Cattlemen
4:40pm – 5:20pm Sunspot
5:40pm – 6:20pm Michael Alexander & Big Whiskey
6:45pm – 7:30pm Royal Bliss
8:00pm – 9:30pm Winger
Baker Tilly Main Stage
11:00am – 11:30am Long Gone Henry
11:50am – 12:30pm Jesse Bauman
12:55pm – 1:35pm Dem Horny Funkers
1:45pm – 2:35pm Michael Brooks
2:55pm – 3:35pm Abby Spencer
3:55pm – 4:35pm Atomic Blonde
4:55pm – 5:35pm Mickey Magnum and the Mayhem
5:55pm – 6:35pm Frank Martin Busch and the Names
7:00pm – 8:00pm Power Take Off
Saturday, May 24th
Island Stage
11:00am – 11:50am Richard Hildner
12:10pm – 12:50pm No Limit
1:10pm – 1:50pm Wild Planes
2:10pm – 2:50pm Tha Mid City Kid
3:10pm – 3:50pm Trash Pandas
4:10pm – 4:50pm Matt Schmidt
5:10pm – 5:50pm Kings of Radio
6:15pm – 7:15pm Pilot
Everlight Solar Grand Stage
12:45pm – 1:15pm Autumn Reverie
1:40pm – 2:20pm Matt Jordan
2:40pm – 3:20pm Granny Shot
3:40pm – 4:20pm Aeternum
4:40pm – 5:20pm Bree Morgan
5:40pm – 6:20pm Harper Grace
6:45pm – 7:30pm Mackenzie Carpenter
8:00pm – 9:30pm Tyler Farr
Baker Tilly Main Stage
11:00am – 11:30am Rodello The Kidd
11:50am – 12:30pm Zach Pietrini
12:55pm – 1:35pm The Ramble
1:55pm – 2:35pm Mars Hall
2:55pm – 3:35pm La Combi
3:55pm – 4:35pm Angels & Outlaws
4:55pm – 5:35pm The Hounds
5:55pm – 6:35pm Badwolf
7:00pm – 8:00pm Madison County
Sunday, May 25th
Island Stage
11:00am – 11:50am Take Back the Sun
12:10pm – 12:50pm Bobby Bullet
1:10pm – 1:50pm West on 12
2:10pm – 2:50pm Ron Denson
3:10pm – 3:50pm The Mason Meyer Band
4:10pm – 4:50pm The Remedy
5:10pm – 5:50pm BuckNeck-Ed
6:15pm – 7:15pm Ty Smith & The Minor Offenses
Everlight Solar Grand Stage
12:45pm – 1:15pm John Masino Band
1:50pm – 2:20pm Elizabeth Mary
2:40pm – 3:20pm Foo Foo Dolls
3:40pm – 4:20pm The Black Moods
4:40pm – 5:20pm Quad City DJ’s
5:40pm – 6:20pm Skee-Lo
6:45pm – 7:30pm Digital Underground
8:00pm – 9:05pm Steven Adler of Guns ‘N Roses
LIFE 102.5 Main Stage
11:00am – 11:30am Jackson Taylor
11:50am – 12:30pm Project Brave Band
12:55pm – 1:35pm Erin Oakley
1:55pm – 2:35pm Nicky Gracious
2:55pm – 3:35pm Rip
3:55pm – 4:35pm King’s Conquest
5:00pm – 6:00pm Howard Gripp
6:30pm – 8:00pm Danny Gokey
Get details on all the events, food and drink menus, and more at the Brat Fest website here.
You can get to Madison so many ways: I-39/90, I-94, U.S. 12, 14, 18, or 151, or Highways 30 or 113. Enjoy a beautiful Memorial Day weekend in town with Brat Fest – and check out the State Capitol, the Wisconsin Memorial Union Terrace, Lakes Mendota and Monona, the Henry Vilas Zoo, and everything else our capital city has to offer!
World’s Largest Brat Fest Address:
Alliant Energy Center
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way
Madison, WI 53713
Website
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May 16, 2025 – May 17, 2025
Morel Mushroom Festival
Muscoda celebrates the Morel Mushroom Festival every May, which is only fitting because that’s prime growing season in this “Morel Mushroom Capital of Wisconsin.” These unique mushrooms are considered quite a delicacy by top chefs everywhere; there are message boards and recipes and all kinds of resources for morel lovers. The soil in the Muscoda area is particularly suited for the growth of morels and they fully embrace this fungi. In 2025, the festival takes place Friday, May 16th and Saturday, May 17th.
This year’s event starts Friday evening with the 4th Annual Car Cruise Drive-In – all modes of transportation encouraged to attend. Join them at the paved parking lot next to the Riverdale bus garage in the 500 block of North Wisconsin. Jose’s Mexican Food Truck and Jovita’s Kitchen will be there serving their specialties and Udder Brothers Creamery will have their delicious ice cream. Two blocks south, at Mushroom Headquarters along Highway 80, the grills will be going with American Legion burgers. There’s also the 1st annual Antique Farm & Tractor Pull, a Little League Baseball Tournament, and Thunder Showers Bounce Houses will be there for kids’ fun.
On Saturday, May 17th starting at 9:00am, the whole Village bursts with events. The bounce house and pedal tractor pulls are back, you can check out the Tiny Acres Farms Petting Zoo, beer samples from 11am-3pm, and a parade. The awesome arts and crafts vendors, (many new ones!) and chainsaw carving are at Railroad Park as well as Food Vendors there and along the streets.
At Mushroom Headquarters, there are tastings, grilling with mushroom brats and Legion burgers (and fried morels if they’re are available). The Food and Beverage tasting area will include Meister Cheese, Moore Eggs, Studnicka Cattle Company, Wild Hills Winery, Dirftless Gold Organic Maple Syrup, Gillingham Meads, and Spurgeon Winery. And for your listening pleasure and maybe dancing, live music by Donnie Reyzek.
You can also catch tours of Effigy mounds, which start at 1pm, and baseball with the Muscoda Mudcats also at 1pm.
A big feature is the “Spring Mystery” Parade down main street (AKA Wisconsin Avenue), which starts at 3:00. Members of the UW Band will also perform starting around 3:45.
When you want a sit-down meal, there is pancake breakfast until noon, a chili cookoff with judging and tasting at 1:00 and the famous Firemen’s Steak Feed at the firehouse beginning at 4:00 until the steaks are gone! Enjoy the river views as the evening concludes with fireworks at dusk.
The Morel Mushroom Festival Schedule is coming soon!
You’ll find Muscoda along Highway 80 between the Wisconsin River and Highway 133. Highway 60 is just across the river. And this town comes to party for its Morel Mushroom Festival! Check their website for updates and full schedules.
Morel Mushroom Festival Address:
Muscoda Village Hall
206 N. Wisconsin Avenue (Highway 80)
Muscoda, WI 53573
(608) 739-3182
Website
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April 26, 2025
Wisconsin Grilled Cheese Championship
You can get to Dodgeville via U.S. 18 & 151 and Highway 23. Any trip is worth it for grilled cheese!
Our previous favorites have included the Gouda Girls (below); Tina and Katherine make grilled cheese sandwich combos that win all across the nation. They’re based in Milwaukee and do incredible things with taste buds. Our head State Trunk Tour guy Eric Paulsen got to experience their creations firsthand in this Discover Wisconsin episode. We don’t have any vote, though, so we’ll see how this goes.
Wisconsin Grilled Cheese Championship Address:
Harris Park
600 Bennett Road
Dodgeville, WI 53533
(608) 935-9200
Website
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February 22, 2025 – March 2, 2025
Kenosha Restaurant Week
It runs Saturday, February 22nd through Sunday, March 2nd this year. Nearly 80 restaurants are participating in Kenosha Restaurant Week, offering special menus with special pricing for breakfasts, lunches, dinners, desserts, even snacks. Here’s a video showcasing it all!
Details on participating restaurants and links to their menus are coming soon!
Kenosha Restaurant Week Locations (coming soon)
Kenosha Restaurant Week Website
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November 2, 2024
Downtown Racine Beer & Bacon Walk
Craft beer and bacon lovers, this is for you! Racine Downtown hosts its 5th annual Downtown Racine Beer & Bacon Walk on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024 from 1pm-6pm. Stroll the sidewalks downtown and sample delicious brews paired with bacon-infused bites at twenty downtown locations. Mark your calendars and set your alarms because tickets are expected to sell out fast!
Tickets are $40 and include:
– Admission to event
– 20 3 oz. samples of beer
– 20 bacon-infused bites
– 16oz pint glass
– One 16 oz full-pour of your choice
Who wouldn’t want to pair mouthwatering bacon-infused bites with craft beer?
Some of the bacon-infused bites to be sampled include:
—just a sneak peek of the scrumptious lineup.
Some of the beers to be sampled:
Sam Adams Cherry Wheat
Lein Creamy Dark
Bells Eclipse Oberon
Bells Double Cream Stout
Great Lake Christmas Ale
Papa Jacks
New Belg Fruit Force
Whole Hog Oatmeal Pie
Heineken Silver
Alaskan Amber
Hacker-Pschorr Oktobfest 4
Hofbrau Octfest
Lake Louie Badger Club
Alaskan Grizz Coffee
Point Limited Cookies
Hungry yet? Thirsty yet? It all happens Saturday afternoon, November 2nd. You can buy them online or get your tickets by calling 262-634-6002.
It’s easy to get to downtown Racine, along the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan. Just head east from I-41/94 via Highway 20 (Exit #333), County K (Exit #329), or Highway 11 (Exit #335) approximately 8 miles; or Highway 38 can bring you in from Milwaukee, and Highway 32 brings you to downtown Racine north from Kenosha and Illinois or south from Oak Creek and Milwaukee’s south suburbs. Lots of options, and lots to do and see once you get there!
Downtown Racine Beer & Bacon Walk Address:
425 Main Street (Highway 20, between Highways 32 & 38)
Racine, WI 53403
(262) 634-6002
Website
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October 17, 2024
Sugar River Bourbon Fest
Seven Acre Dairy Company in Paoli hosts its 2nd annual Sugar River Bourbon Fest Wednesday, October 16th through Sunday, October 20th. It’s a five-day celebration of all things bourbon that highlights the country’s top distilleries and chefs. Imbibe in amazing meals and pair them with delicious food complements and beverages – including some amazing Bourbon and whiskey beverages. It features a welcome dinner with chef Joe Heppe and Driftless Glen Distillery, a signature dinner with nine-time James Beard Award nominee chef Edward Lee and Dancing Goat Distillery, a fish fry featuring Blue Ash Farm Craft Spirits, and a special bourbon brunch with J. Henry.
These evenings lead up to the main event: the Sugar River Bourbon Tasting Festival on Saturday, October 19th. You can enjoy samplings and meet with over 25 distilleries and distillers, including award-winning local and national distilleries Heaven Hill, Bardstown 45th parallel, Green River, Old Forester, Dancing Goat, J. Henry, and more.
There will be live music, along with burgers, hot dogs and barbeque available for purchase from Seven Acre Dairy Company and Knoche’s Meats; a portion of the proceeds benefit the Belleville Food Pantry.
Here’s how the evenings work out on the weekends:
Friday, October 18th: Blue Ash Farm Craft Spirit’s Bourbon Lover’s Fish Fry
Join Seven Acre chefs and Blue Ash Farm Craft Spirits for the last outdoor fish fry along the Sugar River of the season. Seven Acre chefs will cook up all-you-can-eat cod, perch and walleye, alongside seasonal sides, salads and desserts. Blue Ash Farm Craft Spirits of Argyle will be crafting cocktails from their award-winning farmstead spirits. The fish fry will take place in a heated, open air tent. Fire pits will be lit and lawn games will be out.
Saturday, October 19th: The Sugar River Bourbon Tasting Festival
Regular admission is $55 per person from 1-4 p.m. This includes samplings and meet and greets with over 25 distilleries, live music, unique bourbon bottle sales and food for purchase.
VIP admission is $100 per person from noon to 4 p.m. This includes exclusive access to the Makers Mark/Jim Beam VIP Tasting Tent, VIP appetizers, a copy of Edward Lee’s best-selling book “Bourbon Land,” first access to unique bourbon bottle sales, plus access to all other areas of the festival.
Sunday, October 20th: J. Henry Maple Bourbon Brunch
Join Seven Acre chefs and J. Henry for a one-of-a-kind bourbon brunch. Seven acre chefs will be cooking up some of Edward Lee’s favorite brunch recipes alongside some of their favorite bourbon brunch cocktails. Don’t miss your chance to sample the infamous Maple Bourbon made by J. Henry and your chances to take a bottle home. The maple bourbon was only available on the farm this year and sold out in under an hour.
For more information and tickets, visit sevenacredairyco.com.
You’ll find the lovely little burg of Paoli along County PB, right near State Trunk Highway 69, less than 10 minutes south of Verona off U.S. 18/151.
Sugar River Bourbon Fest Address:
Seven Acre Dairy Company
6858 Paoli Road
Belleville, WI 53508
(608) 416-4023
Website
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October 4, 2024 – October 6, 2024
Bayfield Apple Festival
The Bayfield Apple Festival is hailed as one of the 10 Best Fall Harvest Festivals in the nation by USA Today! Bayfield celebrates its Apple Festival every October and in 2024 it will take place October 4th through the 6th.
The three day event features a farm market featuring local producers, over 60 orchard and food booths selling Bayfield’s apples, apple delicacies, and festival food favorites! There is plenty to buy and see at the 140 art, craft and vendor booths. Kids carnival rides and games, an apple peeling contest, fish fry & dance round out the offerings.
You can also catch Big Top Chautauqua’s Blue Canvas Orchestra perform throughout the weekend on the Grandstand stage. The festival culminates with the Grand Parade on Sunday, which features a 400 member “Mass Band” finale.
Bayfield is located along Highway 13 on the shores of Lake Superior, about 15 minutes north of U.S. 2. U.S. 63 brings you towards Bayfield from the Hayward, Spooner, and Twin Cities areas; U.S. 51 north through the North Woods sends you toward U.S. 2 for the connection to Bayfield, too. Enjoy the fall colors on your ride!
Bayfield Apple Festival Address:
Downtown Bayfield & Memorial Park
42 South Broad Street
Bayfield, WI 54814
(715) 779-3335
Website
Read about additional “things to know” below!
More Bayfield Apple Festival features and things to know:
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September 27, 2024 – September 28, 2024
Beef-A-Rama
With Beef-A-Rama, the smell of beef fills the air and more than 12,000 people fill the streets of downtown Minocqua. For over 50 years, Beef-a-Rama™ has been a premiere event drawing visitors back year after year to join in on the one-of-a kind fun you can only find in the Northwoods.
Roasters begin cooking their signature beefs before dawn. Herds of creative festival goers dressed in cow-themed costumes start packing downtown early for the 10K and 5K Rump Roast Run and Walk along Lake Minocqua, live music, & Prime Choice Craft Show featuring more than 70 vendors.
Mooo-ve on down to Torpy Park to grab a roast beef sandwich and watch the Beef Eating Contest, Cow Pie Plop, and of course the famous Roaster Parade down main street!
Listen for the top roasters at the Awards Ceremony at 3pm following the Parade. Check for the latest itinerary online.
Minocqua is along “Wisconsin’s Backbone,” U.S. 51, just south of Highways 47 and 70.
Beef-A-Rama Address:
Torpy Park
806 U.S. Highway 51
Minocqua, WI 54548
(715) 356-5266
Website
Check out the Schedule of Events below!
Beef-A-Rama Schedule of Events:
Friday, September 27th
10am-Noon Live Radio Broadcast with WRJO at the Minocqua Area Chamber of Commerce
6:00-9:00pm Lakeland Rotary Rump Roast Run registration at American Legion Hall
6:30-9:30pm Live Music The Lincoln Boys Band and Beer Garden sponsored by The Minocqua Island Business Association at Torpy Park
Saturday, September 28th
7am Rump Roast Run Registration at the American Legion Hall
7:30am Street Closure Begins
7am-8pm Shuttles Run ($3 fee per car) from Lakeland Union High School, Hribar Corporation/Truck Country, Lakeland Hawks Ice Arena & Builders First Source
8:15am Lakeland Rotary’s Calf Mile Run for Kids
9am Lakeland Rotary’s Rump Roast Run
9am-3pm Live Radio Broadcast by WRJO at Torpy Park
9am-11:00am Live Music Red Ben and the Missing Miles at Torpy Park
9am-5pm Bouncy Houses for Kids on the lower level of Torpy Park
9am-5pm Prime Choice Craft Show on the lower level of Torpy Park
9am-5pm Official Beef-A-Rama™ apparel sales at Torpy Park
10am-5:00pm Henna, Face painting, Glitter Painting at Veterans Park
10am-9:00pm Lakeland Rotary Beer Garden on Chicago Street
10am-9:00pm Minocqua Lions Club Beer Garden at Torpy Park
10am-5pm Official Beef-A-Rama™ Sandwich Sales at Torpy Park
10am-12pm Live Music by Corey Carlson at the Rotary Beer Garden on Chicago Street
10am-3pm Kids’ Games, Bouncy Houses, and Face Painting in lower level of Torpy Park
10am-4pm Kraft’s Kuddly Kritters Petting Zoo at Veterans Park
10am-5pm Twisted Widdlin’ Fool chainsaw carving exhibition
10am Food Sales Begin Torpy Park & Chicago Street
11am-1pm Kids’ Activities at Redman Realty on Oneida Street
11am-1:45pm Judging of the Beef along Oneida Street
11am-3pm Cow Pie Plop & Mechanical Bull sponsored by Lakeland Hawks Ice Arena at Island City Ice Cream
11:00am Beef Eating Contest at Torpy Park sponsored by Associated Bank
Noon-4:00pm Live Music by The Lincoln Boys at Torpy Park
Noon-3:00 pm Live Music by Useful Jenkins at the Rotary Beer Garden on Chicago Street
3:00 pm Parade of Beef down Oneida Street from Redman Realty to Torpy Park
3:15 pm Awards Ceremony and Beef Raffle Drawing at Torpy Park
3:00-5:00 pm Live Music by Corey Carlson at the Rotary Beer Garden on Chicago Street
5pm Street Open to Traffic
4:00-8:30 pm Live Music Reality Bites sponsored by the Minocqua Lions Club at Torpy Park
5-9:00pm Live Music Whitehouse Players at the Rotary Beer Garden on Chicago Street
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August 31, 2024 – September 1, 2024
Taste of Madison
Taste of Madison happens on the Capitol Square, one of the most dynamic and beautiful places in Wisconsin with the shops, restaurants, bars, museums, and more surrounding our gorgeous State Capitol. U.S. 151/Washington Avenue brings you closest, although U.S. 12, U.S. 14, U.S. 18, U.S. 51, and Highways 30 and 113 all bring you to Madison.
Taste of Madison Hours:
Saturday, August 31st 2pm – 9pm
Sunday, September 5th: 11am – 7pm
Get the full list of participating restaurants (with address and phone where available) below or from the Taste of Madison website!
All Star Catering
Arod’s Tex-Mex
Banzo
Bel-Air Cantina
Ben’s Soft Pretzels
Bob’s BBQ Emporium
Buraka East African Cuisine
Cafe Costa Rica – Mango Man Cooks
Caracas Arepas/Caracas Empenadas
Chez Moi
Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Company
Common Pasta
Cooper’s Hawk
Culinarynirvana
Curd Girl
Daddy Rocks
David’s Jamaican Cuisine
DonutNV
Draper Brothers Chophouse
El Gran Taco Gato
El Sabor de Puebla
Ernie’s Kettle Korn
Famous Dave’s
Fresh Mart
Gigi’s Cupcakes
Glazed
Gyros Express
Hibachi Hut
Hong Kong Cafe
Jakarta Cafe
JDs Taste of Chicago
Just Veggiez
KC Taste Asian Cuisine
Kerol’s Kitchen
Keur Fatou Catering
Kona Ice of Madison
La Pollera Columbiana
La Taguara
Lao Laan-Xang
Les Delices de Awa
Little Orbits Mini Donuts
Little Tibet Madison
Lombardino’s Restaurant
Melting Pot
6816 Odana Rd., Madison
608-833-5676
Milano Ice
6816 Odana Rd., Madison
608-572-5543
Mirch Masala
449 State St., Madison
608-665-3667
Monona Bakery & Eatery
4544 Monona Drive, Madison
608-720-1133
Native Food Network – Mobile Farmers Market
7 N. Pickney, Suite 235, Madison
608-280-1267
Natural Juice
7 N. Pinckney, Suite 235, Madison
608-628-9280
North & South Seafood & Smokehouse
6604 Mineral Point Rd., Madison
608-829-0093
The Old Fashioned
23 N. Pinckney, Madison
608-310-4545
Pagoda Smoothie Food Cart
People’s Bakery
2810 E. Washington Ave., Madison
608-245-0404
The Post
24 S. Carroll St., Madison
608-327-1101
Poke Poke
600 Williamson St., Madison
608-665-3306
RibMasters WI
Food Truck, Madison
608-669-0955
The Rigby Pub and Grill
119 E Main St, Madison
608-442-1112
The Rodeo Wagon
Food Cart
Roll Play
The Roman Candle
1054 Williamson St., Madison
608-258-2000
Sabor Queretano
4512 E. Washington Ave., Madison
608-209-0643
Savi Cafe & Catering
215 S. Hamilton, Madison
608-283-4903
Schultz’s Sugar River Kettle Corn
N9560 Hwy. 92, Belleville
608-217-9137
Smokin’ Cantina
Madison Food Cart
608-438-9643
Smokin’ Dragons
Soho Gourmet Cuisines
2990 Cahill Main #106, Madison
608-960-4011
Steak Escape
212 East Towne Mall, Madison
608-333-1103
Surco Peruvian
515 Cottage Grove Rd., Madison
608-957-1716
Tavernakaya
27 E. Main St., Madison
608-286-1548
Teriyaki Samurai
Food Cart, Madison
608-338-5660
The Globe
309 N. Henry St., Madison
608-640-4435
TnT’s Coffee & Cafe
729 N High Point Rd, Madison
608-831-2298
Toast
728 State Street, Madison
608-692-4549
Toppers
1368 Regent St., Madison
Ugly Apple
Food Cart
608-352-8459
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August 22, 2024 – August 25, 2024
Rutabaga Festival, Cumberland
Let’s face it: the Rutabaga doesn’t get enough recognition. Cumberland rectifies that with their annual Rutabaga Festival Thursday, August 22nd through Sunday, August 25th!
Happening since 1932, Cumberland’s Rutabaga Festival includes live entertainment, a pedal tractor pull, pepper-eating contest, basketball shootout, craft show, morning bike tour, a grand parade… and rutabagas. (Which we think are what makes a pasty so much better!)
Come enjoy the Cumberland Rutabaga Festival Run on Saturday morning! Choose from a half marathon, 5K run, or 2 mile fun run/walk. All races start at 8 am at the Cumberland High School. You can also just watch if you prefer and cheer everyone on.
You’ll find Cumberland – aka “The Island City” – along U.S. 63 and Highway 48 in northwestern Barron County. Check out the amazing selection at Louie’s Finer Meats in town while you’re there! It’s a State Trunk Tour favorite.
Cumberland Rutabaga Festival Address:
Downtown Cumberland
Cumberland, WI 54829
(715) 822-FEST
Website
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August 14, 2024 – August 18, 2024
Sun Prairie Sweet Corn Festival
The 71st annual Sun Prairie Sweet Corn Festival is BACK at Angell Park this year, taking place Wednesday, August 14th through Sunday, August 18th, 2024!
Enjoy a carnival-midway complete with a wide variety of carnival games and rides, food booths, live bands, a “kiddie korner” with large inflatables, a cornhole tournament, family entertainment, a beer shelter, and much more! Of course fresh, locally-grown sweet corn is available to enjoy. Check out parades and a music lineup including:
The Dirtybirds
Supertuesday
The Jimmys
La Movida (the radio station)
Angell Park is a beautiful historic park adjacent to Sun Prairie’s downtown. It’s also home to the Angell Park Speedway, a 1/3 dirt oval that dates back to 1903! You can reach Angell Park via Highway 19 through the city. From the U.S. 151 bypass, follow Main Street or the Highway 19 exit. You can also easily reach Angell Park via County N north from I-94 at the Cottage Grove exit.
Sun Prairie Sweet Corn Festival Address:
Angell Park & Angell Park Speedway
300 Park Street
Sun Prairie, WI 53590
(608) 837-4547
Website
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July 10, 2024 – July 14, 2024
Elkhorn Ribfest
Check out FOUR 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:
Prince Experience
Tennessee Whiskey: Chris Stapleton Tribute
Secret Menu
Lucky Pickers
Thursday, July 11th:
Bella Cain
Drew Cagle & The Reputation
Superfly
Miles Over Mountains
Karen Shook
Friday, July 12th:
The Hype!
Madison County
Lunchmoney Bullies
Lara Bell Music
Saturday, July 13th:
7th Heaven
The Cheap Shots
Rico: A Tribute To Santana
The Thompson Duo
Sunday, July 14th:
24K – A Tribute To Bruno Mars
Whiskey Romance
Cameron Webb
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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June 22, 2024 – June 23, 2024
Cedarburg Strawberry Festival
Craving an art-filled weekend brimming with the most luscious summer fruit? Check out the 40th annual Cedarburg Strawberry Festival, sponsored by BMO Harris Bank, June 22-23, 2024. 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 25th. 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 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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June 6, 2024 – June 9, 2024
Sparta Butterfest
Sparta holds some notable festivals, and Butterfest is the biggest one of the year. Along with plenty of butter, the festival features numerous events.
Among them: the A&P Carnival, one of the Midwest’s best. There’s also a craft and flea market, a quilt show, softball tournaments, a cornhole bean bag tournament, dance demonstrations, firemen’s water fights, a milking contest, stage entertainment, and much more. The Miss Sparta Pageant will be held during the event, one of the sanctioned events where the winner can then compete in Miss Wisconsin.
It runs Thursday June 6th through Sunday, June 9th. The Butterfest Parade takes place Sunday at 12:30pm. The whole event takes place at Memorial Park in Sparta. I-90 and Highways 16, 21, 27, and 71 bring you there! (Heck, so does the Elroy-Sparta Trail!)
Live music includes Larry’s Drifters on Thursday, the Pat Watters Band on Friday, High Mileage on Saturday, and The Dweebs on Sunday!
Sparta Butterfest Address:
Memorial Park
Pine Street
Sparta, WI 54656
Map
Website
Sparta Butterfest Schedule of Events
THURSDAY, JUNE 6:
A&P Carnival, 5-10pm
Corporate Sponsors Reception, 5:30pm • Fest Tent
Fest Tent – opening 7pm • Larry’s Drifters
Military Night – All active duty military free with Military ID
Food Tent
FRIDAY, JUNE 7:
Softball Tournament
Arts, Crafts, Fleamarket and Antiques • 4pm-dusk
Quilt Show Registration – 3pm
Food Tent
A&P Carnival, 5-11pm
Bingo 4-8pm
Fest Tent – opening 8pm • Pat Watters Band •
SATURDAY, JUNE 8:
Arts, Crafts, Fleamarket and Antiques • throughout the day, beginning 10am
A&P Carnival • Throughout the day • WRISTBANDS • Get a $20 wristband and ride from 12-5pm
Softball Tournament – throughout the day
Food Tent
Pancake and Sausage Breakfast • 7am-10am • At the cheese curd concession stand
3 Person Rotary Golf Tournament • 9am
Poker Run • Registration 9-11am
Quilt Show • 10am-5pm with a Demonstration at 2pm
Fest Tent – opening 12pm • Music provided by Mike Harris
New Age Wrestling, Fest Tent, 2pm
Firemen’s Waterfights • 1pm (registration at noon)
DJ Trivia, 1-3pm
Miss Wisconsin Send Off Party, 12pm in the Fest Tent
Milking Contest • 1:00pm
Kids Craft Area • 2-4pm
Bingo 2-6pm
Car Show • 1pm-6pm
Cornhole Bean Bag Tournament • 2pm
Quilting Demonstration • 2pm
Kid’s Bike Decorating Contest in the Arts and Crafts area • 2pm • Judging at 4:30pm
Fest Tent 8pm Entertainment – High Mileage
SUNDAY, JUNE 9:
Softball Tournament • Throughout the day
Food Tent • Throughout the day
Arts, Crafts, Fleamarket and Antiques • Throughout the day • 10am-6pm
A&P Carnival • Throughout the day 12pm-8pm
Quilt Show • 12-4pm • Maplewood School
Fest Tent opens at 12:00pm
Parade • 12:30pm
Fest Tent 4pm-8pm Entertainment – The Dweebs
Bingo 3-5pm
May 31, 2024 – June 2, 2024
Lake Geneva Bacon Fest
Yes, yes, we had you at bacon. Lake Geneva Bacon Fest fills the city with the wondrous smells and tastes of unique bacon creations – from dishes to drinks – while enjoying live music from local performing artists across the downtown area. The 4th annual Bacon Fest runs all weekend from Friday, May 31st through Sunday, June 2nd.
The fun is centered on Flatiron Park in downtown Lake Geneva, which offers a beautiful view of Geneva Lake and is across from The Riviera, the historic Baker House, Sprecher’s Restaurant & Pub, and more. Tons of great shops and restaurants are within blocks, including Topsy Turvy Brewery. Of course, at the park itself beverages beyond bacon will be available, and part of the proceeds benefit the Walworth County Food Pantry and Diaper Bank.
Live Music Lineup:
Friday 5/31
5 to 6:45 The Soul Chasers
7:30 to 10 Think Floyd USA
Saturday 6/1
11-2 BB and The Honey (Yacht Rock)
2:30-5 TBD
5:30-7:30 Rumor Hazit (80’s Band)
8-10 Mellencougar
Sunday 6/2
12:30-1:45 Simply Billy (Joel)
2:15-3:00/3:30-4:15 Simply Elton (John)
4:15-4:30 Meet & Greet w/ Simply Elton
Presented by Lake Geneva Regional News and Amplified Wisconsin, tickets are available with a variety of options. You can buy them at the door or in advance here!
Here’s a sample of Lake Geneva Bacon Fest from 2022:
It’s easy to get to downtown Lake Geneva and Flatiron Park, just follow Highway 50 (which cuts right through the heart of downtown). Highway 120 comes in from the direct south and north, and the U.S. 12 freeway cuts right past town to the east and intersects with both 50 and 120 near the Grand Geneva. Easy access from the west is also available via Highway 50 from I-43 or Highway 67!
Lake Geneva Bacon Fest Address:
Flatiron Park
201 Wrigley Drive
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
(262) 248-4444
Website
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August 20, 2023
Zoo A La Carte at the Milwaukee County Zoo
“Feast with the Beasts” at the Milwaukee County Zoo! Milwaukee Journal Sentinel a la Carte, presented by Meijer, runs Thursday, August 17th through Sunday August 20th. Check out 27 area restaurants with palate-pleasing offers and national and local bands performing throughout Zoo grounds, including Vertical Horizon Thursday night,
Plenty of family-friendly activities are also available throughout the grounds, and of course the Milwaukee County Zoo’s remarkable collection of 2,100+ animals you can see and learn about. It’s one of the best family activities of the year.
Crafty kids can show their artistic side with Kohl’s Color Wheels, a mobile art experience. You can also enjoy a glass of wine, while listening to local bands at the Giraffe Village Wine Tent, sponsored by Champion Windows & Sunrooms. On top of that, you can visit the Brick Dinos exhibit, sponsored by Sendik’s Food Markets, which includes interactive LEGO® play-scapes and more. Admission is $3 per person.
Zoo A La Carte Music Schedule:
Thursday, August 17, 2023
Miller Lite Caribou Stage
11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Jake Williams (90s, R&B, modern, & classics)
3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Jon Rouse (Classic rock)
7 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Vertical Horizon (Alternative rock)
Flamingo Stage
11:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Driving Buddies (Pop, rock, & country)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Jordan and Ernie (Bluegrass)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Andrea and The Mods (70s, 80s, & more)
Zoofari Stage
11:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Geoff Landon Duo (Country hits)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Xeno and Joe (Classic hits)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Brady Lee (Pop country)
Lakeview Stage
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Phil Norby (Acoustic classics)
2:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Sam and Cookie (Folk, classic rock, & bluegrass)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Grimm Brothers Trio (Classic hits)
Mad City Windows & Baths Woody Stage
11:30 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Steve Cohen and Jim Ohlschmidt (Twisted acoustic blues)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. JC Munguía (Latin music)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Eric Diamond (Neil Diamond & more)
BioLife Plasma Services Giraffe Wine Tent
11:30 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Carmen and Kostia (Pop vocals with piano)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Anthony Deutsch (Pianist, vocalist, & composer)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Downtown Harrison (Modern song and dance man)
Friday, August 18, 2023
Miller Lite Caribou Stage
12 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. Kris and Dani Crow (Harmonies & great banter)
3 p.m. – 6 p.m. Trapper Schoepp Band (Singer-songwriter)
7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Eli Young Band (Country)
Flamingo Stage
11:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Ebert and Grass (Classics)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Jessie Haines (Singer-songwriter)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Eric Barbieri and the Rockin’ Krakens (Classic rock hits)
Zoofari Stage
11:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Scott E. Berendt Trio (Acoustic rock & pop)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Bad Medicine (80s party rock)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. The Playlist (Top 40 hits)
Lakeview Stage
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Hearthfire (Irish roots & rock)
2:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Joey Gleesing (Top 40 hits)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Scott Hlavenka Duo (Acoustic gypsy jazz)
Mad City Windows & Baths Woody Stage
11:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Rudy and Vee (Acoustic duo)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Michael Sean (Wisconsin musical mainstay)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Frogwater (Celtic bluegrass fusion)
BioLife Plasma Services Giraffe Wine Tent
11:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Keshena Armon (Singer-songwriter)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Katy Ambrose (Dynamic piano stylings)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Downtown Harrison (Modern song and dance man)
Saturday, August 19, 2023
Miller Lite Caribou Stage
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Bath (Classic to modern pop and rock)
3 p.m. – 6 p.m. The Morrison Sessions (Roots rock & roll)
7 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Record Company (Rock)
Flamingo Stage
11:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Tangled Lines (Roots, rock, & Americana)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Kitty Soft Paw (Indie rock & soul)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. V-Funk (Funk)
Zoofari Stage
11:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Busted Mullet (Rock)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Bruce Humphries and the Rockabilly Rebels (Rockabilly)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Our House (50s, 60s, 70s, & more)
Lakeview Stage
11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Chris Haise Duo (Indie folk rock)
2:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. The Belle Weather (Orchestral indie folk rock)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Ronnie Nyles (Singer-songwriter)
Mad City Windows & Baths Woody Stage
11:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Patrick Van Bibber (Guitarist, singer-songwriter)
2:45 p.m. – 5:45 p.m. Jake Warne Duo (Singer-songwriters)
6:15 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Eric Barbieri (Classic hits)
BioLife Plasma Services Giraffe Wine Tent
11:15 a.m. – 2:15 p.m. Christopher’s Project Duo (Jazz, R&B, pop, & swing)
2:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Marcya Daneille (Jazz & soul)
6 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. Downtown Harrison (Modern song and dance man)
Sunday, August 20, 2023
Miller Lite Caribou Stage
12 p.m. – 4 p.m. Joe 2.0 (The world’s original rockestra)
5 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. Hypnotized (Milwaukee’s Fleetwood Mac Tribute)
Flamingo Stage
11:15 a.m. – 3 p.m. Another One (Grateful Dead tribute)
4 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. Crossfire (Country rock)
Zoofari Stage
12 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Shuga Blu (R&B, soul, & pop)
4:30 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. Lovin Kind (Classic rock)
Lakeview Stage
11:30 a.m. – 3:15 p.m. Beautiful Collide (Blues, jazz, & light rock)
4:30 p.m. – 7:45 p.m. The Lounge Dogs (Acoustic hits, classics, sing-alongs)
Mad City Windows & Baths Woody Stage
11:30 a.m. – 3:15 p.m. Ronnie Nyles (Singer-songwriter)
4 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Brooklynn Marti (Singer-songwriter)
BioLife Plasma Services Giraffe Wine Tent
11:30 a.m. – 3:15 p.m. Barbara Stephan and Peter Mac Duo (Singer-songwriters)
4 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Downtown Harrison (Modern song and dance man)
Admission rates (includes all bands and activities):
Adults: $17
Juniors (ages 3 to 12): $14
Children (ages 2 and under): FREE
Parking: $14
We talked with Jenny Diliberti from the Zoo a while back about this event and the Zoo’s history, animals, new designs, and more in this State Trunk Tour Podcast:
Milwaukee area restaurants at Zoo A La Carte include:
A la Crepes
Bear Garden
Brew City Snowballs
Bubble Waffle Shoppes
Café el Sol (gluten-free, vegetarian)
Caribou Beverage Bar
Catalano Corn (vegetarian)
Cedar Crest Ice Cream Parlor
Chillwaukee Pops (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free)
C-Viche
Funnel Cake Factory
Giraffe Beverage Bar
Giraffe Wine Bar
Golden Grill
Hot Potato
La Masa (vegetarian)
Leinie Lodge
Mama Bev’s Bakery
MIL-WOK-EE (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free)
Nothing Bundt Cakes (gluten-free)
Nourish 414 (vegetarian, gluten-free)
OOZ
Penguin Beverage Bar
Pig Tailz (vegetarian)
Roll MKE (vegetarian)
Salentini’s Pizza
Saz’s (gluten-free)
Scrima’s Woodfired Pizza (gluten-free)
Shawarma House (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free)
The Coop
The Snack Barn
Thunder Bay Grille (vegetarian, gluten-free)
Tots on the Street (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free)
Ultimate Confections Desserts featuring Suzy’s Cream Cheesecakes
Watering Hole Root Beer Floats
West End Snacks
Wild Burger
Woody’s Custard
Wong’s Wok
Zoo A La Carte at the Milwaukee County Zoo Address:
10001 W. Bluemound Road (U.S. 18)
Milwaukee, WI 53226
(414) 256-5466
Website
The Zoo is surrounded by U.S. 18/Bluemound Road on the north, I-41/US. 45 on the east, I-94 on the south, and Highway 100 on the west. Despite the Zoo Interchange construction, it’s still easy to get to!
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September 23, 2022 – September 25, 2022
Gays Mills Apple Festival
The Gays Mills Apple Festival – the 63rd annual – runs September 23-25, 2022! Gays Mills is pretty much the apple capital of Wisconsin, and it celebrates the apple harvest with parades, carnivals, arts and crafts, flea markets, music, dancing, a 2K and 5K fun run/walk, food and festivities.
Get the rest of the details from their website or see the schedule below!
You’ll find Gays Mills in the heart of Wisconsin’s beautiful Driftless Area, where Highways 131 and 171 meet by the Kickapoo River. It’s worth going for the drive alone!
2022 Gays Mills Apple Festival Schedule of Events
FRIDAY EVENTS
Carnival: Wristband Night 5pm-9pm Fairgrounds
Lions Club Flea Market: 8am-5pm Fairgrounds
Main Street Vending: 10am-5pm Downtown
BMZ Church Food Stand:10am-5pm Fairgrounds
4-H Food Stand: Friday-Sunday Fairgrounds
American Legion Food Stand: 10am-5pm Fairgrounds
Societies Sons M/C: Music
Dante’s:Music Last Ride
Halver’s Town Tap: Music
SATURDAY EVENTS To See & Do:
Run and Walk:Registration 8am Main St Bridge, 2 & 5 Mi. Run; 2 Mi. Walk; ¼ Mi. Kids Fun Run: 9am
Lions Club Flea Market: 8am-5pm Fairgrounds
Main Street Vending: 9:30am-5pm Downtown
Cornhole Tournament
American Legion Volleyball Tournament: 9am 4-person Co-Ed Teams, 312 Main
Library Book Sale: 9am-5pm, 212 Main
Lions Club Arts and Crafts: 9am-5pm Fairgrounds
Carnival: 10am-5pm Fairgrounds
Open Horseshoe Tournament: Saturday Partner draw,Sunday 10 am registration and 11am start, Log CabinVillage Park
Societies Sons M/C: Music from American Standard
Fire Department: Raffle (Drawing in Nov.)
Dante’s: Music from Pilot of the Airwaves 3pm-7pm, Last Ride
Halver’s Town Tap: Music from Dylan Harris 2-6pm, DJ Robert 9pm – 1am
Inflatables:Downtown
SUNDAY EVENTS To See & Do:
Ride the FREE Trolley stops at Flea Market & Main!
APPLE FESTIVAL PARADE 1:30 pm, Main Street to Riverside Park
Lions Club Arts and Crafts & Flea Market: 8am-5pm Fairgrounds
Main Street Vending: 9:30am-4pm Downtown
Library Book Sale: 9am-3:30 pm 212 Main
Carnival: 10am-5pm Fairgrounds
Open Horseshoe Tournament: Saturday draw for partners, Sunday 10am registration, 11am start, Log Cabin Village Park
Fire Department: Raffle (Drawing in Nov.)
Inflatables: Downtown
Gays Mills Apple Festival Address:
Highways 131 & 171
Gays Mills, WI 54631
(608) 735-4341
Website
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