The 82nd annual Holiday Folk Fair International is “America’s Premier Cultural Festival,” exploring the customs and traditions of the world’s diverse cultures. They all come together at the Expo Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park in West Allis. Check out regional cuisine, enjoy lively music and dance and purchase beautifully handcrafted goods. Experience the sights sounds and tastes of the world during this 3-day event from Friday, November 21st through Sunday the 23rd!
The 2025 Folk Fair theme – “Celebrate the Culture of Traditional Music” – highlights the melodies, lyrics, and instruments used to tell stories of the people within the world’s cultures. It is vital in preserving cultural identity, celebrating life’s moments, and educating others.
Check out their All Nations Theater, which features traditional music and dance from around the world. Enjoy traditional dishes at the World Cafe. Talented world musicians play at the Coffee House, where you can enjoy a beverage while listening to these different genres. Explore Heritage Lane, filled with unique traditions and customs through interactive exhibits. Shop the International Bazaar, where cultural artifacts are on display and on sale. And the Chef Stage features local chefs preparing traditional cuisines from around the world right before your eyes.
See their website for the full lineup on food, music, and more. Watch for additional specials, too!
You can easily get to the Expo Center at State Fair Park (the Zoo Interchange construction is getting closer to done!) via I-94 and Highways 59 and 181, with U.S. 18/Bluemound Road, Highway 100, and I-41/U.S. 45 close by. To reach State Fair Park from I-94 eastbound – the 84th Street/Highway 181 exit is now right in the midst of the newly reconstructed Zoo Interchange, just follow the signs. Easy peasy.
Holiday Folk Fair Hours:
Friday, November 21st: 2pm – 9pm
Saturday, November 22nd: 10am – 9pm
Sunday, November 23rd: 10am – 6pm
Holiday Folk Fair Admission:
$13 in advance, $16 at the gate for people ages 8-61
Children 7 and under are admitted FREE
Senior Citizens (62+): $14 at the gate
Military Personnel with a Military ID card get FREE admission
Chandelier lights over Wisconsin Avenue & Water Street in downtown Milwaukee for the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival.
The annual Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival celebrates its 26th year and once again Milwaukee will sparkle with lights and decorations in venues across downtown, including up and down Wisconsin Avenue, where every intersection features iconic chandeliers.
The Jingle Bus is taking this year off again, but you can enjoy Milwaukee’s joyous, open-air winter fest on foot or by car (heck, even by bike if you want) by visiting all the decorated parks as well as the dazzling downtown decor on foot or in the car.
An earlier podcast called the MKE Jingle Bus Tour featuring Milwaukee Downtown BID CEO Beth Weirick and State Trunk Tour founder Eric Paulsen (who also served as a DJ on 95.7 BIG FM in Milwaukee during this interview) describing the Holiday Lights at each stop is available in five brief, illustrative podcast episodes:
Pere Marquette Park, one of several decorated parks during downtown Milwaukee’s Holiday Lights Festival. Photo credit: Alan Herzberg Jr. via Milwaukee Downtown.
The four decorated parks for the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival include:
“Community Spirit Park presented by Madison Medical Affiliates” at Cathedral Square Park (520 E. Wells Street, U.S. 18 & Highway 32), home to over 100 decorated evergreens along with Santa’s Mailbox presented by Educators Credit Union and Serving Older Adults. Children can drop their letter to Santa in the box through December 13th and receive a personalized response in return.
“Tinsel Town Express” at Pere Marquette Park (900 N. Plankinton Avenue, just south of U.S. 18/State Street) features a lighted scene from the North Pole’s special delivery depot. Plus, visit Ideal Property Management’s festive tree lot to pick up all of your holiday greenery.
“Home Is Where the Hearth Is powered by We Energies” is a favorite destination for photo ops at Zeidler Square (301 W. Michigan Avenue.) Take a snapshot in Santa’s chair and stroll the stunning lighted displays. Plus, in December, Zeidler Union Square will host Jingle Joy Boxes by Milwaukee Food & City Tours!
Red Arrow Park, a block east of the Milwaukee River across the street from the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts, features lights, decorations, and a beautiful ice skating rink in the heart of downtown.
It all kicks off Thursday, November 20th at 6:30pm, where Milwaukee’s ABC affiliate, WISN 12, will feature holiday acts on stage in a televised performance.
The lights and decorations downtown continue all the way through New Year’s Day 2026, because we’re all ready for a new year.
Of course, a TON of road trip routes bring you to downtown Milwaukee: I-94, I-43, I-794, U.S. 18, and Highways 32 and 145 bring you right to it. Highways 38 (Chase Avenue/6th Street), 57 (27th Street/Highland/20th Street), 59 (National Avenue), and 175 (Appleton and Lisbon Avenues, Miller Park Way) all bring you close.
A Country Christmas – it’s Wisconsin’s largest outdoor drive-thru lights display, now in its 30th year! It’s back as big as ever, letting families enjoy everything from the safety and comfort of their cars ! Country Christmas’ popular drive-thru holiday lights display covers the grounds of The Ingleside Hotel in Pewaukee, right along I-94 between County Highways T and G just north of Waukesha. Enjoy unique displays and exhibits like “Bearville,” an area of the trail where you will find giant teddy bears in a church scene, general store, butcher shop, and sausage factory. You can also enjoy Prairieville (Waukesha’s original name) and Old Time Waukesha miniature cities. plus a captivating 200-foot tunnel of 30,000 computerized, pulsating lights!
Road geeks (like us on the State Trunk Tour) love the old Mobilgas pumps along the Country Christmas Tour!
Admission to Country Christmas includes access to the following:
• The Country Christmas Trail features over a million holiday lights festively displayed on over a mile-long trail. As guests drive through the countryside, they will experience enchanting animated figures and holiday scenes from the comfort of their car.
• The Streets of Bethlehem is in a building at the end of the drive-through trail. You can get out of your car and walk through the collection of nearly life-sized Fontanini nativity figurines – a replica of the Pope’s personal collection.
• Christmas Village is another building at the end of the trail that you can get out of your car and visit. At Christmas Village, you can enjoy a hot cup of cocoa or an evening treat while surrounded by a cuddly cast of animated holiday characters. The newly rebuilt working model train display is cool, too!
Also, back by popular demand for the 3rd year, wagon rides will be available on the dates of November 30th-December 2nd & December 4th, December 7th – 11th, and December 14th – 18th. Rides start at 5:15pm, 6pm, 6:45pm, 7:30pm, and 8:15pm and are $20 per person. Wagon rides include hot chocolate and a Christmas cookie; they can be purchased online. Carload admission is not required for wagon rides.
Country Christmas 2025 runs November 14, 2025 through January 3, 2026. Hours for the event are 5pm to 9pm Sunday through Thursday and 5pm to 10pm on Friday, Saturday and Holidays. Admission is $30 per carload Sunday-Thursday, $35 Friday, Saturday, and other peak times. Pricing for large passenger vans and limos is $50 and minibus admission is $60. Senior home minibus admission is available for a discounted rate of $40.
Country Christmas at the Ingleside Address:
Ingleside Hotel
2810 Golf Road (County DR, along I-94)
Pewaukee, WI 53072
(262) 547-0201 Website
Craft beer and bacon lovers, this is for you! Racine Downtown hosts its 5th annual Downtown Racine Beer & Bacon Walk on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024 from 1pm-6pm. Stroll the sidewalks downtown and sample delicious brews paired with bacon-infused bites at twenty downtown locations. Mark your calendars and set your alarms because tickets are expected to sell out fast!
Tickets are $40 and include:
– Admission to event
– 20 3 oz. samples of beer
– 20 bacon-infused bites
– 16oz pint glass
– One 16 oz full-pour of your choice
Who wouldn’t want to pair mouthwatering bacon-infused bites with craft beer?
Some of the bacon-infused bites to be sampled include:
Bacon Mac N Cheese
Bacon-Wrapped Cocktail Weenies in ‘Secrect Stadium Sauce’
Bruschetta With Bacon
Smashers Pork Patties
Bacon Chicken Bombs
Bourbon Bacon Jam Crostini
Bacon Crack
Porchetta Bacon
Bacon Cheese Bites
Bacon Potato Skins
Cheesy Bacon Flatbread
Bacon Cheddar Corn bread
Bacon BBQ Meatballs
Candied Bacon Wrapped Water Chestnuts
Bacon & Parmesan Stuffed Mushrooms
—just a sneak peek of the scrumptious lineup.
Some of the beers to be sampled:
Sam Adams Cherry Wheat
Lein Creamy Dark
Bells Eclipse Oberon
Bells Double Cream Stout
Great Lake Christmas Ale
Papa Jacks
New Belg Fruit Force
Whole Hog Oatmeal Pie
Heineken Silver
Alaskan Amber
Hacker-Pschorr Oktobfest 4
Hofbrau Octfest
Lake Louie Badger Club
Alaskan Grizz Coffee
Point Limited Cookies
Hungry yet? Thirsty yet? It all happens Saturday afternoon, November 2nd. You can buy them online or get your tickets by calling 262-634-6002.
It’s easy to get to downtown Racine, along the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan. Just head east from I-41/94 via Highway 20 (Exit #333), County K (Exit #329), or Highway 11 (Exit #335) approximately 8 miles; or Highway 38 can bring you in from Milwaukee, and Highway 32 brings you to downtown Racine north from Kenosha and Illinois or south from Oak Creek and Milwaukee’s south suburbs. Lots of options, and lots to do and see once you get there!
Downtown Racine Beer & Bacon Walk Address:
425 Main Street (Highway 20, between Highways 32 & 38)
Racine, WI 53403
(262) 634-6002 Website
Downtown Baraboo Fair on the Square happens semi-annually, in May and October. The October event takes place Saturday, October 11th from 9 am to 4 pm on the Sauk County Courthouse Square. Over 150 artists and crafters from all over the Midwest will be there, along with plenty of food, a farmer’s market, live music, family entertainment, and more.
The farmer’s market will begin at 7:30 am and run through 1 pm. Children’s activities include face painting, bounce houses, and more lasting for the duration of the Baraboo Fair on the Square.
Surrounding the square, you’ll find plenty of shops, the Al. Ringling Theater, and more. U.S. 12 skirts the west side of Baraboo, Highways 33 and 113 bring you right downtown.
Downtown Baraboo Fair on the Square Address:
Courthouse Square, Sauk County Courthouse
515 Oak Street
Baraboo, WI 53913
(608) 448-3490 Website
Lake Geneva Oktoberfest 2025 is happening Saturday, October 11th and Sunday, October 12th, with a kickoff party at Topsy Turvy Brewery as they celebrate their 5th anniversary! The activity is centered in Flat Iron Park and throughout Downtown Lake Geneva.
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT:
Playing at Flat Iron Park (Bring your own chairs)
Saturday, October 11th
Beer Garden | Artisan Market | Tasty Treats | Live Entertainment | Family Fun & Activities | New Carved Pumpkin Stroll & More!
Craft & Vendor Fair open 11AM – 6PM
Food Vendors & Beer Garden open from 11AM – 9PM
Flat Iron Park
11AM – Anniversary Opening Ribbon Cutting
Live Accordion Music, and Special Dance Performance from Broadway Academy of Dance
1:00PM – Little Leg Races for Dachshunds
1:30PM – Pieptone! Live
3:00PM – Little Leg Races for Corgis
3:30PM – DJ Positive
3:45PM German Dance Troup Demonstrations
4:00PM – GLWA Sponsored Stein Hoisting Competition
5:00PM – German Dance Troup Demonstrations
6:00PM – Modern Day Romeos
Downtown Lake Geneva
11:00AM – 5:00PM – Downtown Autumn Sidewalk Sales
12:00 PM – Accordion Playing in Town
12:00PM – Downtown Pumpkin Stroll
12:00PM – 4:00PM Downtown Streetside Music
12:00PM – Artisan Pumpkin Carving by Studio Dori @JAYNE
Sunday, October 12th
Flat Iron Park
11AM – Badger Jazz Band Live
Noon – Lake Geneva Pie Company Pie Eating Contest in Beer Garden
1:00PM – Little Leg Races for Dachshunds
1:00PM – DJ Alto
3:00PM – Little Leg Races for Corgis
3:00PM – Badger Orchestra
4:00PM – GLWA Sponsored Stein Hoisting Competition
5:00PM – Last Call!
Downtown Lake Geneva
11:00AM – 5:00PM – Downtown Autumn Sidewalk Sales
11:00AM – Accordion Playing in Town
12:00PM – Downtown Pumpkin Stroll
12:00PM – 4:00PM Downtown Streetside Music
Also Saturday & Sunday
Playing throughout the downtown district and in the Flat Iron Park tent during band change overs.
Shows in the Rotary Club of Lake Geneva’s KIDS ENTERTAINMENT ZONE repeat throughout each day.
FREE PUMPKIN GIVEAWAY
U.S. 12 and Highways 50 and 120 bring you to Lake Geneva for all the fun!
Lake Geneva Oktoberfest 2025 Address:
Flat Iron Park, 201 Wrigley Drive
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
(262) 248-4416 Website
Downtown Racine offers the chance to enjoy beverages, shops, and friends in the beautiful October weather with their Fall Wine Walk. These feature two, three-hour guided walking tours; one runs from 1pm – 4pm and the other from 4pm – 7pm. During the stroll through downtown and by Racine’s shops, you can enjoy 20 wine samples from 20 of the downtown locations.
You can enjoy a Fall Wine Walk in downtown Racine either of those times on Saturday, October 4th and/or Saturday, October 11th, 2025. Tickets are on sale now!
Enjoy a nice drive into downtown Racine via Highways 11, 20, 32, or 38, less than 15 minutes east of I-41/94.
Downtown Racine Fall Wine Walk Address:
Downtown Racine locations along Highway 32 (Main Street) between Highways 20 & 38
Racine, WI 53403 Website
It’s one of the largest Oktoberfest celebrations in the country! La Crosse Oktoberfest celebrates 64 years in 2025, having hosted its first big Oktoberfest back in 1961. This time of year both Munich and La Crosse are filled with “merrymaking” and a carnival atmosphere known in both cities as Oktoberfest.
Oktoberfest, USA, is one of the few authentic Old World folk festivals held annually in the United States. You’ll find plenty of beer, music, fun, food, lederhosen, dirndls, and more complemented with a carnival featuring rides, parades featuring the annually-elected “Royal Family,” the 2023 Miss La Crosse/Oktoberfest Pageant, and enough accordions and Munich-style tents to make you feel like you’re in Deutschland.
Downtown Fest Grounds open at 4pm on Thursday, September 25th. The Torchlight Parade will take place at 7pm that evening; Craft Beer Night starts at 4pm and runs until 8pm. For $60 admission, the FestZelt tent will feature over 20 craft brewers and their products – and you can sample ’em all! There’s also a Cornhole Tournament and fireworks – and that’s all on opening night!
The La Crosse Oktoberfest Parade, held Thursday.
Friday night September 26th has the Festmaster Ball at the La Crosse Center’s South Hall, where the Festmaster and Frau will be introduced.
Other events include wiener dog races, live music, special German dinners, Lederhosen Games, and more. Get the latest events list here!
TICKETS General Admission tickets are $24.95
Craft Beer Night General Admission (which includes both) is $77.95
Children 12 and Under Admitted Free
FREE Admission on Sunday! More details and options here
La Crosse Oktoberfest USA is a great time in a true beer town. La Crosse is easily reached via U.S. 14, 53, or 61; I-90; and Highways 16, 33, and 35. The drive to and from is gorgeous too, especially at this time of the year!
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25th
7–9 am: SENIOR BREAKFAST | Morrie’s Heritage Hofbräu Haus – Downtown Festgrounds
Free Admission! Pancakes, sausage, eggs, coffee, juice. Featuring live music and WIZM-AM live broadcast
11 am–2:00 pm: SPECIAL FESTER CARNIVAL | Northside Family Festgrounds
4-Midnight: STUDENT NIGHT | Downtown Festgrounds. Free admission for students with a valid college student ID on Thursday 9/25. Join us for Lederhosen Games, vendors, and dance hits played by Pop Rocks!
5–9 pm: CARNIVAL, NORTHSIDE LA CROSSE, Fest fun with carnival rides and food vendors
4–8 pm: CRAFT BEER NIGHT | Downtown Festgrounds
$90 VIP 4 pm | $60 General Admission, 5 pm. Sample from more than 20 craft breweries. Get tickets.
5-7pm: LEDERHOSEN GAMES | Garden Stage Area – Fest Grounds
Stein races, stein holdings, barrel roll, grain toss, Schokolade essen and scavenger hunt | Play games, have fun and win prizes
7 pm: TORCHLIGHT PARADE | Northside La Crosse, Kane & Gillette Streets to Clinton Street
7:30–11 pm: TORCHLIGHT AFTER GLOW bash | Copeland Park – Loggers Field
Free admission and families welcome! Kick off your Oktoberfest on the Northside with The Swing Crew
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26th
Hours: 9:00am –midnight
10 am: STEIN HOLDING FINALS | The Remainders Garden Stage
11 am: TAPPING OF THE GOLDEN KEG – OPENING CEREMONY | The Remainders Garden Stage The much-anticipated tapping of the Sam Adams Golden Keg
2–4 pm: LEDERHOSEN GAMES | The Remainders Garden Stage Area
Stein races, stein holdings, barrel roll, grain toss, Schokolade essen and scavenger hunt | Play games, have fun and win prizes
5–9 pm: CARNIVAL | Copeland Park – Northside La Crosse
Fest fun with carnival rides and food vendors. Get Tickets.
Live Music:
ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION FESTPLATZ
11:30 am – 2:30 pm THE SWING CREW
3 – 5:30 pm PAT MCCURDY
6 – 9 pm STAR 67 BAND
9:30 pm – Midnight HELLO WEEKEND
THE REMAINDERS GARDEN STAGE
11:30 am – 2 pm FAILURE TO LAUNCH
2:30 pm – 5 pm PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY
5:30 – 8 pm HILLBILLY ROCKETSHIP
8:30–11:00 pm WHEELHOUSE
NEWS 8 NOW HERITAGE HOFBRÄU HAUS ON THE LA CROSSE BIERHAUS STAGE
11:30am – 2:00 pm MIKE SCHNEIDER BAND
2:30 – 4:30 pm OKTOBERFEST SINGERS
5 – 8 pm SOLKELA POLKELA BAND
8:30 – 11:00 pm RHYTHM PLAYBOYS
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 27th
7:00 am: YMCA MAPLE LEAF WALK RUN | Riverside Park
Pre-registration required. Half marathon, 5-mile run, 5k walk and Kid’s Maple Mile. More Info
10 am: MAPLE LEAF PARADE | Northside to Downtown
11 am–midnight: DOWNTOWN FESTGROUNDS OPEN Get Tickets
Noon – 9 pm: CARNIVAL | Copeland Park – Northside La Crosse
Live Music
ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION FESTPLATZ
11:30 am – 1:30 pm STEVE’S ONE MAN BAND
2pm – 5:00pm FLASH MOB
5:30 pm – 8:30 pm JACUZZI PUMA
9:00 pm – midnight BELLA CAIN
THE REMAINDERS GARDEN STAGE
2:00 – 4:00 pm WHISKEY BELLES
4:15 –7:30 pm HIGH MILEAGE
8–10 pm THE REMAINDERS
NEWS 8 NOW HERITAGE HOFBRÄU HAUS ON THE LA CROSSE BIERHAUS STAGE
1:30–4 pm BRIAN BRUEGGEN & THE MISSISSIPPI VALLEY DUTCHMEN
4:30–7:30 pm THE SQUEEZETTES
8–11:00 pm POLA-ZEIT
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 28th
7:30–11 am Pancake Breakfast | Terry Erickson Boys & Girls Club of La Crosse, 1331 Clinton St.
Hosted by the Oktoberfest Parade Marshals | Pancakes, sausages, juice, milk and coffee
Cost: $7 per person (Children 6 and under free)
9:45 am Ecumenical Service | Holy Trinity Parish (1333 13th St, La Crosse, WI, 54601)
Traditional Catholic Mass – All are welcome!
11 am-6 pm Fest Grounds Open – Free Admission! | 1 Oktoberfest Strasse
No admission wristband required
Festing fun for the whole family! Starting with an opening ceremony with root beer provided by Rudy’s at 11:20 in the News 8 Now Heritage Hofbräu Haus, face painting, a chalk contest, vendors, music, and more!
Sunday Presenting Sponsor: Ehler Insurance
11 am
Brats for Seniors
Delivery of Fest brats and Gemütlichkeit to residents in our City of La Crosse housing facilities
Sponsored by Mid-West Family
11:30 am-4:30 pm
Face Painting | Fest Grounds
FREE face painting + airbrush tattoos
12 pm
2025 Parade Award Ceremony | News 8 Now Heritage Hofbräu Haus
Help us recognize the 2025 Torchlight & Maple Leaf Parade award winners. NEW IN 2025 – We’re bringing gemütlichkeit to the streets with the brand-new People’s Choice Award at this year’s Oktoberfest Parades! For the first time ever, parade-goers get to vote for their favorite float and one lucky entry will take home the ultimate fan-voted prize!
Parade Award Sponsors: Select Custom Solutions & Edward Jones
Live Music
ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION FESTPLATZ
Noon – 2:30 pm THE EXECUTIVES
3pm – 5:30pm PHOENIX & THE BEST MIX OF LA CROSSE
NEWS 8 NOW HERITAGE HOFBRÄU HAUS ON THE LA CROSSE BIERHAUS STAGE
11:30 am – 12:00 pm HANS MAYER MUSIC
2:30 pm – 5:30 pm THE MUSIC CONNECTION
It’s a big party in the Belle City! Party on the Pavement is Racine’s biggest one-day festival, and it happens Saturday, September 20th from noon – 7pm in downtown Racine.
The 22nd annual Party on the Pavement features things to see and do.
With over 12 blocks jam-packed with live music, incredible food and drinks, mind-blowing street performances, shopping, games, and rides, there’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Festivities kick off at noon and continue through 7:00 pm, with free admission to the entire event. Party on the Pavement takes place downtown along Main Street (from State Street to 7th Street) and 6th Street (from Lake Avenue to City Hall).
Get ready for thrilling entertainment! The Division BMX Stunt Team will be soaring through the air with jaw-dropping tricks on College Avenue and 6th Street, with shows at 12:30 pm, 2:00 pm, 4:00 pm, and 5:30 pm. For dance lovers, the Sweatshop Movement will bring electrifying hip-hop and breakdance battles to the corner of Wisconsin Avenue and 6th Street throughout the day. Plus, try your hand at Disc Golf, check out the classic car show on Sam Johnson Parkway, and catch performances from Racine Gymnastics and the Senior Moments group!
Music lovers, you’re in for a treat! Party on the Pavement is famous for its diverse lineup, and this year won’t disappoint. With multiple stages of live music, you can dance your way through downtown to the sounds of blues, rock, jazz, R&B, and more. From crowd favorites like Stephen Hull Experience, Waiting for Eddie, Lake Effect, Full Flavor, Identity Crisis, and Shameless Place, the variety is endless!
Hungry? Indulge in an array of international cuisine from our downtown restaurants and food vendors! With flavors ranging from Asian, Pakistani, and Mexican to Italian, Cajun, and Greek, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re a foodie or just hungry for some great bites, this is the perfect chance to try something new!
Kick off your day early with the 6th annual Pound the Pavement 5k hosted by 5Kevents.org. Then don’t miss out on the most exciting street festival of the year!
Admission to the Party on the Pavement grounds is free! Party on the Pavement takes place throughout downtown on Main Street from State Street to 7th Street and all of 6th Street from Lake Avenue to City Hall.
The Ariens Art On Wheels Weekend featuring The VSCDA draws vintage racers from across the U.S. as they take to the track September 12th-14th at Road America. Over 300 meticulously restored vintage and historic race cars, spanning 11 racing classes, will grace the iconic Road America track, presenting a mesmerizing journey through automotive history. From the graceful curves of classic sports cars to the raw power of muscle machines, every era and every passion will be showcased.
A unique highlight of the event is the open-access paddock, inviting spectators to immerse themselves in the world of vintage racing. This is a rare opportunity to get up close and personal with these magnificent racing machines, each prepared to era specifications, and witness the dedication and craftsmanship of maintaining these automotive treasures.
Get updates and tickets on the Road America website. Anyone 16 and under gets in FREE with a paying adult. You can take advantage of that offer at the gate with proof of age. Racing runs rain or shine.
You’ll find Road America along Highway 67 just north of Highway 23 and Plymouth and just west of Highway 57 in Sheboygan County.
Road America Address for the Ariens Art On Wheels Weekend:
N7390 Wisconsin Highway 67
Plymouth, WI 53073
(800) 365-7223 Website
Sister Bay has a beautiful marina along the waters of Green Bay. Hit the end of Highway 57 along Highway 42 for Marina Fest, which features live entertainment, plenty of food and drink, a water ski show by the Waterboard Warriors, a fireworks show, easy access to Al Johnson’s show you can watch goats on the roof, and more!
Sister Bay Marina Fest Schedule of Events
SATURDAY, AUG 30th
7:30 – 10 AM: Pancake Breakfast Presented by the Sister Bay & Liberty Grove Fire Department
8 AM – 4 PM: Used Book Sale
9 AM – 4 PM: Vintage Boat Show
9 AM – 5 PM: Arts & Crafts Fair with Stained Glass Mosaic Workshop
10 AM – 6 PM: Kid’s Bouncy Houses
11 AM – 4 PM: Kid’s Boat Building with the Lions Club
11 AM – 8 PM: Food Court
12 – 1:30 PM: Kid’s Ages 4-12 Pedal Tractor Pull – Presented by Peach Barn (Registration begins at 11 AM )
1 – 4 PM: Performance by Mistrial
4 – 7 PM: Performance by Modern Day Drifters
3:30 – 5 PM: Kid’s Ages 4-12 Pedal Tractor Pull Presented by Peach Barn (Registration begins at 2:30 PM)
7 – 10 PM: Performance by Big Mouth and the Power Tool Horns
Dusk: Fireworks Presented by Wild Tomato
SUNDAY, AUG 31st
9 AM – 5 PM: Arts & Crafts Fair
10 AM – 2 PM: Used Book Sale
10 AM – 6 PM: Kid’s Bouncy Houses
11 AM – 8 PM: Food Court
12 – 3 PM: Performance by Conscious Pilot
4 – 7 PM: Performance by Second Hand Stereo
Sister Bay Marina Fest Address:
Marina Park
10733 Wisconsin Highway 42 / Bay Shore Drive
Sister Bay, WI 54234
(920) 854-2812 Website
The World’s Largest celebration of Celtic music and culture, the 43rd Milwaukee Irish Fest happens Thursday, August 14th through Sunday, August 17th on Milwaukee’s lakefront! An amazing array of musical artists in Irish and Celtic music fill several stages.
Other Irish Fest activities include a Baking Contest, Photo and Poetry Contests, and “Red Hair & Freckles” Contest, a “Celtic Canines” exhibit, the Jameson Lounge (for whiskey tastings), a Marketplace filled with Irish crafts and other items from over 90 vendors, a Cultural Village, and much more.
Saturday the 16th features a 5K Run/Walk to benefit the Arthritis Foundation. Later that day you can enjoy the Lesaffre/Red Star Yeast Baking Contest. Dog lovers can check out Milwaukee Irish Fest’s Celtic Canine Area; this unique area gives you the chance to see and pet some of Ireland’s most popular dog breeds, meet and talk with some of the Midwest’s top breeders, and learn about grooming, general care and training. The Irish dog breeds include Irish Wolfhounds, Irish Terriers, Irish Red Setters, Irish Red and White Setters, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers, Irish Water Spaniels, Kerry Blue Terriers and Kerry Beagles. The Celtic Canines will be on display Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., on Saturday from noon to 7 p.m., and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For a full lineup of activities and deals for everything else, check out the Irish Fest website!
You can reach Irish Fest at Henry Maier Festival Park (aka the Summerfest grounds) along Milwaukee’s lakefront via I-794 and U.S. 18 most directly. Highways 32, 38, 59, and 145 all bring you within a mile of the grounds.
Milwaukee Irish Fest Address:
Henry Maier Festival Park (aka Summerfest Grounds)
200 N. Harbor Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53202
(414) 476-3378 Website
Lake Geneva knows how to throw a great party, and the 63rd annual Lake Geneva Venetian Fest – sponsored by the Lake Geneva Jaycees and running from Wednesday, August 13th through Sunday, August 17th – is a prime example! Five days of fun in town and along the shores of Geneva Lake awaits with a carnival, an arts and crafts fair, a Saturday water ski show, and the Sunday lighted boat parade complete with fireworks to cap it all off.
The Arts & Crafts Fair is returning to Venetian Fest and features over 110 exhibitors. It runs Saturday from 10am – 5pm and Sunday from 10am – 4pm in Library Park, right along Highway 50/Main Street along the lake on the west edge of downtown, just down from The Riviera. Details…
The Lake Geneva Venetian Festival Carnival offers family fun via “Mr. Ed’s Magical Midways” and is open every day of the festival: Wednesday-Thursday 5pm to 10:30pm, Friday 5pm – 11:30pm, Saturday Noon to 11:30pm, and Sunday Noon to 10:30pm.
Saturday you can experience the Baggo Tournament, which takes place at the Entertainment Pavilion in Flatiron Park. It’s a double elimination straight to 21. It starts at 11:30am Saturday and runs until about 3pm.
Check out the Lumberjack Show!
New last year the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack show is back and should be yet another great bit of entertainment for families of all sizes and ages. From log rolling, axe throwing, and wood-cutting, to chainsaw vs cross-cut racing, and quick chainsaw carving, there is something for everyone to enjoy. If you want great old-fashioned fun and family entertainment, the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show is where you’ll want to be.
New this year: Car Show! The inaugural Car Show run at Venetian Fest Sunday from 11am-3pm at Seminary Park, a great thing to check out ahead of all the bands, water ski shows, the lighted boat parade, and the fireworks that evening!
Sunday is the topper, with all the Carnival and Arts & Crafts Fair activities, THREE performers covering live music, and the Lake Geneva Jaycees Water Ski Show featuring the Wonder Lake Ski Team. They’ll perform on Geneva Lake right by the Riviera starting at 6pm. At dusk, the Lighted Boat Parade begins with the theme this year being “Rat Pack” for Lake Geneva Venetian Fest’s 61st anniversary. It concludes with fireworks following the parade.
All of this fun is in downtown Lake Geneva, which is easily accessed via U.S. 12 or Highways 50 and 120. Highway 67 brings you close, as it runs along the west side of Geneva Lake. Make it a road trip destination the weekend of August 14th-18th!
Lake Geneva Venetian Fest Address:
Downtown Lake Geneva, centered at Riviera Ballroom
821 Wrigley Drive
Lake Geneva, WI 53147 Website
Ashley For The Arts celebrates music, art, and supporting nearby communities with a spectacular three-day event August 7-9, 2025. It takes place in Arcadia – home to Ashley Furniture – in the city’s 54-acre Memorial Park, which known for its Soldier’s Walk, one of the premier war memorials in the U.S. outside of Washington, D.C.
Arcadia is right along the Chippewa River nestled in the gorgeous hills of Wisconsin’s Driftless Area, where Highways 93 and 95 meet. The drive alone is worth it! Ashley for the Arts itself is a non-profit event, stacked with a star-studded lineup of musical entertainment as well as numerous family-friendly activities and some new additions to the venue. It’s one of Wisconsin’s largest charity events, growing from 300 attendees in 2009 to more than 50,000, with of course the exception of 2020, when the event had to skip a year.
With four stages this year, you won’t miss a beat! The Main Stage will host headline entertainment, the Amphitheater will portray participating school performances as well as entertaining circus acts, the Pavilion stage hosts early to mid-day side-stage performances and the Soldier’s Walk stage will create a unique ambiance for local bands to perform outdoors the second half of the day.
Ashley for the Arts’ headline lineup will include ZZ Top, Darius Rucker, Brad Paisley, Daughtry, Third Eye Blind, Chris Jenson, Neon Trees, The Castellows, Red – A Taylor Swift Tribute, area high school choirs and even an extreme juggling show! Truly something for everyone.
The three-day festival will also feature upbeat musical performances; in addition, 11 area schools will participate in the event’s activities and demonstrate the region’s student talent through performances on Friday and Saturday.
You can also enjoy a variety of off-stage entertainment including a living statue, balloon sculptors, Root Berry juggling and sword swallowing, a mariachi band, silly stilt walkers, an interactive drum circle, Magician Professor Pinkerton, and many more entertaining audiences throughout the grounds.
The park features nearly 100 art and craft vendors, a new interactive art space, a classic car show, two air parks including bouncy houses and obstacle courses, even a kid’s fitness course. Ashley for the Arts also hosts the Pursuit of a Cure 5K run/walk on Thursday and a spectacular firework display on Saturday.
From mini donuts to barbeque to gyros and frybread, an expanded selection of food trucks will decorate Memorial Park Drive along with Arcadia’s staple charcoal chicken, grilled to perfection in North America’s largest indoor chicken pit. A newly added beer garden, next to the main stage, will offer specialty beer and wine options for the adult audience. Event parking is free along with free bus shuttles to and from the grounds; including the county campground (Pietrek Park) just five miles north of Arcadia. Highways 93 and 95 bring you to town!
Ashley For the Arts Address:
Memorial Park
551 Memorial Park Drive
Arcadia, WI 54612
(608) 863-6700 Website
The Motl SportsCar Grand Prix featuring IMSA hits Road America Thursday, July 31st through Sunday, August 3rd! Get ready for some incredible racing – and a LOT of it!
If you need help getting around at Road America, their TRAM will run Saturday and Sunday. All Concession stands will be open.
Public Karting will be available for ages 14 and older. A parent/guardian must be present if under 18. You’ll find it at the CTECH Manufacturing Motorplex, infield over the SpeedVille Bridge, near Turns 7 and 8. Karts can reach speeds of up to 40 mph.
You can also test your skills on their 18 hole disc golf course – FREE fun for everyone! The Front Nine begins at Tee #1, located across from Gearbox concessions in the paddock. The Back Nine begins at Tee #10, located west of the Sargento Bridge, towards Motorplex. Rental discs are available in Paddock Shop.
Motul SportsCar Grand Prix Racing Schedule:
Thursday, July 31, 2025
1:05 PM – 1:50 PM | Practice #1 – Lamborghini Trofeo
2:10 PM – 2:40 PM | Practice #1 – Mustang Challenge
2:55 PM – 3:25 PM | Practice #1 – Porsche Carrera Cup
3:40-4:25 PM | Practice #2 – Lamborghini Trofeo
Friday, August 1, 2025
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM | Practice #1 – Michelin Challenge
9:15 AM – 9:45 AM | Practice #2 – Mustang Challenge
10:00 AM – 10:40 AM | Practice #2 – Porsche Carrera Cup
11:30 AM – 12:00 PM | IMSA Driver Fan Forum -RoadAmerica Center
12:40 PM – 1:40 PM | Practice #2 – Michelin Challenge
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM | Practice #1 – WeatherTech Championship (All
Classes)3:50 PM – 4:05 PM | Qualifying – Mustang Challenge
4:20 PM – 4:50 PM | Qualifying – Porsche Carrera Cup
5:05PM -5:20PM |Qualifying #1 Lamborghini Trofeo
5:25PM -5:40PM |Qualifying #2 Lamborghini Trofeo
5:55-6:10PM |Qualifying- Michelinchallenge TCR
6:15PM -6:30PM | |Qualifying- MichelinChallengeGS
Saturday, August 2, 2025
8:00 AM – 8:45 AM | Race #1 – Mustang Challenge (45 Minutes)
9:05 AM – 10:35 AM | Practice #2 – WeatherTech Championship (All Classes)
10:55 AM – 11:35 AM | Race #1 – Porsche Carrera Cup (40 Minutes)
11:55 AM – 12:45 PM | Race #1 – Lamborghini Trofeo (50 Minutes)
12:15 PM – 12:45 PM | Autograph Session – WeatherTech Championship – at Team Transporters in the Paddock
1:05 PM – 1:45 PM | Michelin Challenge – Open Grid / Fan Walk – Pit Lane
2:05 PM – 4:05 PM | Race – Road America 120 for the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge (2 Hours)
4:40 PM – 4:55 PM | Qualifying – WeatherTech Championship (GTD – Any Driver)
5:05 PM – 5:20 PM | Qualifying – WeatherTech Championship (GTD PRO – Any Driver)
5:30 PM – 5:45 PM | Qualifying – WeatherTech Championship (LMP2 – Bronze Only)
5:55PM -6:10PM |Qualifying- WeatherTechChampionship(GTP-AnyDriver)
Sunday, August 3, 2025
8:20 AM – 9:05 AM | Race #2 – Mustang Challenge (45 Minutes)
9:25 AM – 10:15 AM | Race #2 – Lamborghini Trofeo (50 Minutes)
10:35 AM – 11:15 | Race #2 – Porsche Carrera Cup (40 Minutes)
11:50 AM – 12:50 PM | WeatherTech Championship – Open Grid / Fan Walk – Pit Lane
1:10 PM – 3:50 PM | Race – IMSA SportsCar Weekend for the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship
Hit Highway 67 north of Highway 23 near Elkhart Lake to find Road America – social distancing and mask safety is required, but easy on these grounds.
IMSA Motul SportsCar Grand Prix Weekend Address for Road America:
Road America
N7390 Highway 67
Elkhart Lake, WI 53073
(800) 365-7223 Website
Marshfield is known as “Hub City” and its 19th annual Hub City Days celebrates the city’s heritage, present, and future. Check out a weekend of fun July 24-26, 2025, including a big screen movie shown right on Central Avenue and Wenzel Family Plaza!
The massive Car & Bike Show, Family Zone with bounce houses and kids’ games, the Craft Show, the Brew Fest and Beer Garden, tons of live music and more are all ready!
The Hub City Brew Fest will feature craft beers from all over Wisconsin and the Midwest! The Car Show will be right on Central Avenue (Historic Highway 13).
You can reach Marshfield via U.S. 10 or Highways 13, 80, and 97. It’s right in the center of Wisconsin, hence the name “Hub City”!
Hub City Days Schedule:
Thursday, July 24th
DOWNTOWN BUSINESS AFTER 5
5 – 7 PM | Elk’s Club
Main Street welcomes MACCI’s monthly business networking event downtown to kick off Hub City Days! Enjoy live music with Curtis Samuel, appetizers, and drinks.
Questions? Contact MACCI: (715) 384-3454
MOVIE IN THE PLAZA
Dusk | Wenzel Family Plaza
Grab some fundraiser concessions alfresco in the Wenzel Family Plaza. Don’t forget your lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and your fam! Movie hint: “Smile, Smile,”, Rated PG
Books will be given to kids in attendance thanks to the generosity of the Friends of Marshfield Public Library. (One per household while supplies last.)
Friday, July 25th
SHOP HOP
5 – 7 PM | Downtown Marshfield
Streets will be closed to traffic Central Ave – Veteran’s to 4th St. for pedestrians to enjoy evening shopping and dining downtown.
+ Wander the streets to discover more!
Win Hub City Brew Fest tickets! *Shop downtown this evening and bring your receipt to the Main Street Marshfield tent at Wenzel Family Plaza between 7-9 p.m. You’ll receive an entry for each receipt you show with your 21+ ID. Winners will be announced at 9 p.m. Tickets will be held at Hub City Brew Fest for those not present for the announcement.*
BIKE CRUISE & BIKE ACTIVITIES
5:30-7 PM | Downtown Marshfield
Enjoy a group bicycle ride into downtown from a predetermined Marshfield trail location (TBD). Once downtown, park your bike to shop & dine or enjoy a variety of bike activities set up on Central Ave, including a safety station, local trail updates, summer community ride info, and the bikeshare program. All group ride participants earn a free ice cream at Hiller’s Ice Cream Bike, located near Northside Cycle.
HUB CITY CONCERT SERIES FEATURING ADAM GRUEL AND THE SPACE BURRITOS
7 – 10 PM | Wenzel Family Plaza
Grab your picnic blanket or lawn chairs for a leisurely night out on the grass. Main Street Marshfield will be selling beer, seltzer, and soft drinks to raise funds for downtown events and programming!
Saturday, July 26th
CAR SHOW
10 AM – 3 PM | Downtown Marshfield
The Hub City Days Car Show spans over 10 city blocks, features 500+ car/bike entries, a live DJ, kids games, tons of door prizes, free t-shirts for veterans, veteran appreciation raffle (2 PM), and kids-only raffle (2 PM). It’s the car show you can’t miss! Car show vehicle awards are presented at 3 PM. Car show vehicle registration is free with a suggested donation of a non-perishable food item.
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT & BEER GARDEN
11 AM – 11 PM | Wenzel Family Plaza
Enjoy live music with no cover charge! Bands will play 11 AM to 11 PM thanks to our day stage sponsor, Prevail Bank, and main stage sponsors, Marshfield Insurance & West Bend.
11 AM – 3 PM Live Music: Modern Throwback
3 – 7 PM Live Music: Tim Dorsey
7 – 11 PM Live Music: Shirts and Skins
Rain location: Central WI Fairgrounds Expo Building
HUB CITY BREW FEST
12 – 3 PM | Wenzel Family Plaza
Participants receive a souvenir pint glass. Enjoy seating and beer tasting exclusive to Brew Fest attendees. $30/ticket. Tickets on sale here: eventbrite.com
Rain location: Central WI Fairgrounds Expo Building
HORSE POWER SHOW
10 AM – 3 PM | Upham Mansion
Visit the Governor Upham House and walk through an exhibit of horse-drawn carriages dating from the early 1900s.
FAMILY ZONE
10 AM – 3 PM | Veteran’s Park
Find family fun at the Family Zone! Kiddie Cars, Marshfield Fire Dept, Hiller’s Bounce Houses, face painting, and more all in the relaxing shade of Veteran’s Park. Reis Martial Arts’ demonstrations will begin at 11AM. Performances by Main Street Conservatory of Dance will begin at 12PM and 1PM.
NEW: HUB CITY DAYS CRAFT SHOW
10 AM – 3 PM | 100 Block of South Central Avenue Peruse local craft vendors conveniently located near live music and the start of the car show. Wander through the sidewalks to see what local shops have in store for the day and take something home to commemorate the event.
You can easily reach Marshfield via U.S. 10 or Highways 13, 80, and 97. Head to the Hub!
Check out our State Trunk Tour Marshfield Podcast with Matt McLean from VISIT Marshfield, where we talk Hub City Days, the city and all the things to do and see in it, here or stream it below!
Automobile manufacturing took place in Kenosha for more than 100 years. The Kenosha County Historical Society (aka the Kenosha History Center) celebrates the area’s industrial history, including how Kenosha’s auto-making legacy shaped history through the 20th Century. Both the Museum and the Kenosha Homecoming Car Show help celebrate this legacy.
The Kenosha Homecoming Car Show is a signature event in the Kenosha Area. Typically held every three years, the celebration runs July 22-27, 2025 with a variety of events across multiple locations. The big car show/swap meet is Saturday, July 26. This is among the largest AMC shows in the world!
Bring your car to show it, or just come as a spectator. The Kenosha History Center recommends car owners and swap meet vendors preregister for the show/swap meet. Cars and Vendors can also register the day of the show.
Kenosha Homecoming Car Show Schedule of Events
Thursday 7/24 4PM – 8PM: Evening Car Cruise-in at AMC Factory Site, off of 22nd Avenue and 30th Avenue. For the first time ever, the Homecoming Car Show Thursday Night Cruise-in will be held on the site where it all started. All Kenosha-made automobiles are invited to attend an evening cruise-in on the Nash/AMC/Chrysler Factory Site (now the Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood). Bring your car back to where it was manufactured; it is sure to be a nostalgic evening. The event will be part of the City of Kenosha’s 175th Anniversary Celebration. All Kenosha-made vehicles will enter from 56th Street. Spectator parking will be announced soon.
Friday 7/25 8AM – 4PM: Homecoming Car Show Swap Meet at Kennedy Park, 4051 5th Avenue. Fee for vendors.
10AM – Noon: Gremlin Event at Jeffery Elementary School, 4011 87th Street
4PM: Homecoming Car Show Parade starts at Southport Park, 7501 2nd Avenue. Staging starts around 3PM. The parade will travel west on 78th Street, right on 7th Avenue, and continue through Downtown Kenosha. It will continue on 6th Avenue, right into Pennoyer Park, continue through Kennedy Park, and continue through Simmons Island Park. The parade ends at the Kenosha History Center Block Party, 220 51st Place.
4PM – 8PM: Kenosha Homecoming Block Party at Kenosha History Center, 220 51st Place. The road will be closed to all other traffic. Vehicles coming to the 2025 Kenosha Homecoming Car Show at Kennedy Park on July 26 can register their car at the museum that evening and save time and hassle the next morning. Registration packets can also be picked up for anyone who pre-registered. The museum and gift shop will be open until 7PM and stocked full of AMC/Nash T-shirts and other keepsakes. Food trucks will be on-site.
Saturday 7/26 8AM – 4PM: 2025 Kenosha Homecoming Car Show & Swap Meet at Kennedy Park, 4051 5th Avenue. Fee for show cars and vendors.
Sunday 7/27 9AM: Racing at Great Lakes Dragaway, 18411 1st Street. Fee for spectators and race cars.
You can get to downtown Kenosha, Simmons Island, and the Kenosha History Center via Highway 32 (Sheridan Road, named for Fort Sheridon just down the way in northern Illinois), Highway 50 (75th Street coming in from I-41/94, also Roosevelt and 63rd Streets as you approach downtown), and Highway 158 (52nd Street). It’s a 10-12 minute drive or so east of I-41/94 and 5-7 minute drive east from Highway 31, which skirts the west side of the city.
Kenosha Homecoming Week and Car Show Address:
Kenosha History Center (and other locations)
220 51st Place
Kenosha, WI 53142 Website
The Milwaukee Air & Water Show, sponsored by Waterstone Bank, offers one of the top air shows in the Midwest along the city’s gorgeous lakefront. They roar along Milwaukee’s lakefront Saturday, July 19th and Sunday, July 20th.
An “M” for Milwaukee at the Milwaukee Air & Water Show we snapped from Back Bay Park on Milwaukee’s East Side.
Exciting acts having performed in Milwaukee’s skies this July include the U.S. Navy P-8 Poseidon Patrol Aircraft, U.S. Navy Leapfrogs Parachute Team, the USAF T-38 “Talons”in 2-3 ship formation, the return of the U.S. Air Force A-10 Warthogs, the U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super-Hornet Tactical Demonstration Squadron, the Wisconsin Air National Guard KC-135 Stratotanker straight from Milwaukee’s own 128th Air Refueling Wing base, and the Firebirds X-treme Team. Solo aerobatics and stunts have been performed by Bill Stein, Mike Wiscus, Jack Knutson, Matt Chapman, and Lt. Colonel Josh “Tater” Boudreaux of the “Wild Blue Rodeo.”
On the waters of Lake Michigan, you’ve been able to enjoy the USCGC Bristol Bay (WLB), a 225-foot multi-mission buoy tender out of Detroit; a Water Show act from Milwaukee’s own Dennis Pinter, who demonstrated the “Air Chair” on the water! Daredevil and Pro Flyboard competitor Casey “Swizzle” McElwee who performed with his Hydroflyte and Flyboard act. We also hope to see the return of the Milwaukee Fire Department’s “Trident Fireboat,” which demonstrates its capabilities on the water, and witness an HH-60 Jayhawk Rescue Helicopter Air-Sea Rescue Demostration courtesy of the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station out of Traverse City, Michigan.
You can watch from Bradford Beach and many other areas along Milwaukee’s lakefront for free. Ticketed areas offer the closest proximity, the best views, hosted narration, the best access to concessions, and great seating. This is definitely a benchmark summer event in Milwaukee! U.S. 18, Highways 32, 36, 38, 57, 59, 145, 190 and more all bring to within eye (and definitely ear!) shot of the show.
Milwaukee Air & Water Show Schedule of Events (both days):
10 AM: Water Show
12 PM: National Anthem / Army Golden Knights
3 PM: US Navy Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Squadron
Milwaukee Air & Water Show Address:
2272 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53211
(414) 482-2069 Website
Hayward hosts the 65th annual Lumberjack World Championships July 17-19, 2025! The Lumberjack World Championships began in 1960 as a way to acknowledge the rich history of the logging industry across the United States. Once again, over 21 events will offer international competition showcasing the best sawing, chopping, speed climbing, log rolling, boom-running & more! It’s great family fun.
More than 100 lumberjacks and lumberjills vie for more than $50,000 in prize money, making this one of the largest paybacks for lumberjack competition in the world – and of course, world records in these events could be set – they often have!
Up to 12,000 spectators enjoy the action in Hayward.
Opening night – Thursday, August 1st – is Mountain Dew Family Night, with special family pricing for admission ($45 for two adults and up to four children) and other specials. Other ticket packages run around $53 for three days’ worth of admission.
Getting to Hayward means a beautiful drive through the North Woods – just what we like! Hayward is along U.S. 63 on the drive from Spooner to Ashland; it’s also where Highways 27 and 77 meet up. While in town, check out the great trails, shopping, the World’s Largest Musky at the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame, the Angry Minnow Brewpub, and more!
Hayward Lumberjack World Championships Address:
15670 West County Road B
Hayward, WI 54843
(715) 634-2484 Website
Lumberjack World Championships Schedule of Events
Thursday, July 17
Quarterfinal Competition
8:00 – 11:00am – Amateur Log Rolling
11:30am – LWC Festival Grounds Open to Ticket Holders, Swinging Axe Beer Tent open, Food & Unique Vendors, All Day Family Fun, Try Log Rolling!
11:35am – Qualifying Competitions for Chopping and Sawing Events; ongoing
Noon – Professional Log Rolling Preliminaries
3:00pm-5:00pm – Happy Hour & Live Music in Swinging Axe Beer Garden by Steve Beguhn, American Idol Finalist
3:45pm – Boom Running Qualifiers
5:30pm – Opening Ceremonies and Professional Quaterfinal Competition
Hot Saw
60-Foot Speed Climb
Women’s Underhand Chop
Men’s Log Roll
60-Foot Speed Climb
Men’s Standing Block Chop
Jill & Jill Cross Cut Sawing
Women’s Boom Run
Springboard Chop
90-Foot Speed Climb
Master’s Underhand Chop
Intermission
90-Foot Speed Climb
Women’s Standing Block Chop
Men’s Single Buck Saw
Women’s Log Roll
Jack & Jill Double Buck Saw
90-Foot Speed Climb
Men’s Log Roll
Women’s Single Buck Saw
Men’s Underhand Chop
Men’s Boom Run
Team Relay
Friday, July 18
Semifinal Competition
8:00 – 11:00am – Amateur Log Rolling
11:30am – LWC Festival Grounds Open to Ticket Holders, Swinging Axe Beer Tent open, Food & Unique Vendors, All Day Family Fun, Try Log Rolling!
11:35am – Qualifying Competitions for chopping and sawing; ongoing
Noon – Professional Log Rolling Competitions
3:00pm – 5:00pm – Happy Hour & Live Music – Swinging Axe Beer Garden Music by Molly & the Danger Band
5:30pm – Opening Ceremonies and Professional Semi-Final Competition
Hot Saw
60-Foot Speed Climb
Men’s Log Roll
60-Foot Speed Climb
Women’s Underhand Chop
Women’s Boom Run
Men’s Standing Block Chop
Jill & Jill Double Buck Saw
Springboard Chop
Master’s Underhand Chop
Intermission
90-Foot Speed Climb
Men’s Single Buck Saw
Women’s Standing Block Chop
Women’s Log Roll
90-Foot Speed Climb
Jack & Jill Double Buck Saw
90-Foot Speed Climb
Men’s Log Roll
Women’s Single Buck Saw
Men’s Underhand Chop
Men’s Boom Run
Team Relay
Saturday, July 19
Final World Championship Competition
8:00am – Lumberjack Run 5K Run/Walk – Start and Finish at the Lumberjack Bowl (15670 W County Road B, Hayward, WI 54843)
11:30am – LWC Festival Grounds Open to Ticket Holders, Swinging Axe Beer Tent open, Food & Unique Vendors, All Day Family Fun, Try Log Rolling!
Noon – Professional Log Rolling Competitions and Small Finals Wood Chopping Competitions
1:30pm – Axe Throwing Competition
3:00pm – 5:00pm – Happy Hour & Live Music – Swinging Axe Beer Garden with Live Music by Little Way
5:30pm – Opening Ceremonies and World Championships Finals Competition
The 53rd annual Iola Car Show is happening Thursday, July 10th through Saturday, July 12th. It’s the Midwest’s biggest and best car show and swap meet, with over 100,000+ attendees, 2,500 Show Cars, 4,000+ Swap Spaces, and more!
Join them as they celebrate all things automotive across the decades. With a huge variety of vehicles, a great lineup of celebrities, even Mother Nature cooperating with nice weather predicted, this should be fantastic! Enjoy all the cheese curds, chocolate shakes and fun you could ever wish for at the car show. As one of the biggest and best in the nation, the Iola Car Show is back and going full throttle.
You can get to Iola along Highway 49 and/or Highway 161 in Waupaca County; it’s not too far off the U.S. 10 freeway.
Iola Car Show Address:
700 E. State Street
Iola, WI 54945
(715) 445-4000 Website
Calendar of Events
Calendar of Events
November 21, 2025 – November 23, 2025
Holiday Folk Fair International
The 82nd annual Holiday Folk Fair International is “America’s Premier Cultural Festival,” exploring the customs and traditions of the world’s diverse cultures. They all come together at the Expo Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park in West Allis. Check out regional cuisine, enjoy lively music and dance and purchase beautifully handcrafted goods. Experience the sights sounds and tastes of the world during this 3-day event from Friday, November 21st through Sunday the 23rd!
The 2025 Folk Fair theme – “Celebrate the Culture of Traditional Music” – highlights the melodies, lyrics, and instruments used to tell stories of the people within the world’s cultures. It is vital in preserving cultural identity, celebrating life’s moments, and educating others.
See their website for the full lineup on food, music, and more. Watch for additional specials, too!
You can easily get to the Expo Center at State Fair Park (the Zoo Interchange construction is getting closer to done!) via I-94 and Highways 59 and 181, with U.S. 18/Bluemound Road, Highway 100, and I-41/U.S. 45 close by. To reach State Fair Park from I-94 eastbound – the 84th Street/Highway 181 exit is now right in the midst of the newly reconstructed Zoo Interchange, just follow the signs. Easy peasy.
Holiday Folk Fair Hours:
Friday, November 21st: 2pm – 9pm
Saturday, November 22nd: 10am – 9pm
Sunday, November 23rd: 10am – 6pm
Holiday Folk Fair Admission:
$13 in advance, $16 at the gate for people ages 8-61
Children 7 and under are admitted FREE
Senior Citizens (62+): $14 at the gate
Military Personnel with a Military ID card get FREE admission
You can buy tickets online here.
Holiday Folk Fair International Address:
8200 W. Greenfield Avenue (Highway 59 at Highway 181)
West Allis, WI 53214
(414) 225-6225
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
November 20, 2025 – January 1, 2026
Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival
The annual Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival celebrates its 26th year and once again Milwaukee will sparkle with lights and decorations in venues across downtown, including up and down Wisconsin Avenue, where every intersection features iconic chandeliers.
The Jingle Bus is taking this year off again, but you can enjoy Milwaukee’s joyous, open-air winter fest on foot or by car (heck, even by bike if you want) by visiting all the decorated parks as well as the dazzling downtown decor on foot or in the car.
An earlier podcast called the MKE Jingle Bus Tour featuring Milwaukee Downtown BID CEO Beth Weirick and State Trunk Tour founder Eric Paulsen (who also served as a DJ on 95.7 BIG FM in Milwaukee during this interview) describing the Holiday Lights at each stop is available in five brief, illustrative podcast episodes:
Episode 1: Community Spirit Park at Cathedral Square Park:
Episode 2: HiBEARnation Station at Pere Marquette Park:
Episode 3: Red Arrow Park:
Episode 4: Home Is Where the Hearth Is powered by We Energies at Zeidler Union Square:
Episode 5: Wisconsin Avenue – Vel R. Phillips Avenue to Prospect Avenue:
The four decorated parks for the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival include:
“Community Spirit Park presented by Madison Medical Affiliates” at Cathedral Square Park (520 E. Wells Street, U.S. 18 & Highway 32), home to over 100 decorated evergreens along with Santa’s Mailbox presented by Educators Credit Union and Serving Older Adults. Children can drop their letter to Santa in the box through December 13th and receive a personalized response in return.
“Tinsel Town Express” at Pere Marquette Park (900 N. Plankinton Avenue, just south of U.S. 18/State Street) features a lighted scene from the North Pole’s special delivery depot. Plus, visit Ideal Property Management’s festive tree lot to pick up all of your holiday greenery.
“Home Is Where the Hearth Is powered by We Energies” is a favorite destination for photo ops at Zeidler Square (301 W. Michigan Avenue.) Take a snapshot in Santa’s chair and stroll the stunning lighted displays. Plus, in December, Zeidler Union Square will host Jingle Joy Boxes by Milwaukee Food & City Tours!
Red Arrow Park, a block east of the Milwaukee River across the street from the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts, features lights, decorations, and a beautiful ice skating rink in the heart of downtown.
It all kicks off Thursday, November 20th at 6:30pm, where Milwaukee’s ABC affiliate, WISN 12, will feature holiday acts on stage in a televised performance.
The lights and decorations downtown continue all the way through New Year’s Day 2026, because we’re all ready for a new year.
Download their full guide (.pdf) or keep up on their website for more as we go through the holiday!
Of course, a TON of road trip routes bring you to downtown Milwaukee: I-94, I-43, I-794, U.S. 18, and Highways 32 and 145 bring you right to it. Highways 38 (Chase Avenue/6th Street), 57 (27th Street/Highland/20th Street), 59 (National Avenue), and 175 (Appleton and Lisbon Avenues, Miller Park Way) all bring you close.
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
November 14, 2025 – January 3, 2026
Country Christmas at the Ingleside, Pewaukee
A Country Christmas – it’s Wisconsin’s largest outdoor drive-thru lights display, now in its 30th year! It’s back as big as ever, letting families enjoy everything from the safety and comfort of their cars ! Country Christmas’ popular drive-thru holiday lights display covers the grounds of The Ingleside Hotel in Pewaukee, right along I-94 between County Highways T and G just north of Waukesha. Enjoy unique displays and exhibits like “Bearville,” an area of the trail where you will find giant teddy bears in a church scene, general store, butcher shop, and sausage factory. You can also enjoy Prairieville (Waukesha’s original name) and Old Time Waukesha miniature cities. plus a captivating 200-foot tunnel of 30,000 computerized, pulsating lights!
Admission to Country Christmas includes access to the following:
• The Country Christmas Trail features over a million holiday lights festively displayed on over a mile-long trail. As guests drive through the countryside, they will experience enchanting animated figures and holiday scenes from the comfort of their car.
• The Streets of Bethlehem is in a building at the end of the drive-through trail. You can get out of your car and walk through the collection of nearly life-sized Fontanini nativity figurines – a replica of the Pope’s personal collection.
• Christmas Village is another building at the end of the trail that you can get out of your car and visit. At Christmas Village, you can enjoy a hot cup of cocoa or an evening treat while surrounded by a cuddly cast of animated holiday characters. The newly rebuilt working model train display is cool, too!
Country Christmas 2025 runs November 14, 2025 through January 3, 2026.
Hours for the event are 5pm to 9pm Sunday through Thursday and 5pm to 10pm on Friday, Saturday and Holidays.
Admission is $30 per carload Sunday-Thursday, $35 Friday, Saturday, and other peak times. Pricing for large passenger vans and limos is $50 and minibus admission is $60. Senior home minibus admission is available for a discounted rate of $40.
Country Christmas at the Ingleside Address:
Ingleside Hotel
2810 Golf Road (County DR, along I-94)
Pewaukee, WI 53072
(262) 547-0201
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
November 1, 2025
Downtown Racine Beer & Bacon Walk
Craft beer and bacon lovers, this is for you! Racine Downtown hosts its 5th annual Downtown Racine Beer & Bacon Walk on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024 from 1pm-6pm. Stroll the sidewalks downtown and sample delicious brews paired with bacon-infused bites at twenty downtown locations. Mark your calendars and set your alarms because tickets are expected to sell out fast!
Tickets are $40 and include:
– Admission to event
– 20 3 oz. samples of beer
– 20 bacon-infused bites
– 16oz pint glass
– One 16 oz full-pour of your choice
Who wouldn’t want to pair mouthwatering bacon-infused bites with craft beer?
Some of the bacon-infused bites to be sampled include:
—just a sneak peek of the scrumptious lineup.
Some of the beers to be sampled:
Sam Adams Cherry Wheat
Lein Creamy Dark
Bells Eclipse Oberon
Bells Double Cream Stout
Great Lake Christmas Ale
Papa Jacks
New Belg Fruit Force
Whole Hog Oatmeal Pie
Heineken Silver
Alaskan Amber
Hacker-Pschorr Oktobfest 4
Hofbrau Octfest
Lake Louie Badger Club
Alaskan Grizz Coffee
Point Limited Cookies
Hungry yet? Thirsty yet? It all happens Saturday afternoon, November 2nd. You can buy them online or get your tickets by calling 262-634-6002.
It’s easy to get to downtown Racine, along the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan. Just head east from I-41/94 via Highway 20 (Exit #333), County K (Exit #329), or Highway 11 (Exit #335) approximately 8 miles; or Highway 38 can bring you in from Milwaukee, and Highway 32 brings you to downtown Racine north from Kenosha and Illinois or south from Oak Creek and Milwaukee’s south suburbs. Lots of options, and lots to do and see once you get there!
Downtown Racine Beer & Bacon Walk Address:
425 Main Street (Highway 20, between Highways 32 & 38)
Racine, WI 53403
(262) 634-6002
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
October 11, 2025
Downtown Baraboo Fair on the Square
Downtown Baraboo Fair on the Square happens semi-annually, in May and October. The October event takes place Saturday, October 11th from 9 am to 4 pm on the Sauk County Courthouse Square. Over 150 artists and crafters from all over the Midwest will be there, along with plenty of food, a farmer’s market, live music, family entertainment, and more.
The farmer’s market will begin at 7:30 am and run through 1 pm. Children’s activities include face painting, bounce houses, and more lasting for the duration of the Baraboo Fair on the Square.
Surrounding the square, you’ll find plenty of shops, the Al. Ringling Theater, and more. U.S. 12 skirts the west side of Baraboo, Highways 33 and 113 bring you right downtown.
Downtown Baraboo Fair on the Square Address:
Courthouse Square, Sauk County Courthouse
515 Oak Street
Baraboo, WI 53913
(608) 448-3490
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
October 11, 2025 – October 12, 2025
Lake Geneva Oktoberfest
Lake Geneva Oktoberfest 2025 is happening Saturday, October 11th and Sunday, October 12th, with a kickoff party at Topsy Turvy Brewery as they celebrate their 5th anniversary! The activity is centered in Flat Iron Park and throughout Downtown Lake Geneva.
LIVE ENTERTAINMENT:
Playing at Flat Iron Park
(Bring your own chairs)
Saturday, October 11th
Beer Garden | Artisan Market | Tasty Treats | Live Entertainment | Family Fun & Activities | New Carved Pumpkin Stroll & More!
Craft & Vendor Fair open 11AM – 6PM
Food Vendors & Beer Garden open from 11AM – 9PM
Flat Iron Park
11AM – Anniversary Opening Ribbon Cutting
Live Accordion Music, and Special Dance Performance from Broadway Academy of Dance
1:00PM – Little Leg Races for Dachshunds
1:30PM – Pieptone! Live
3:00PM – Little Leg Races for Corgis
3:30PM – DJ Positive
3:45PM German Dance Troup Demonstrations
4:00PM – GLWA Sponsored Stein Hoisting Competition
5:00PM – German Dance Troup Demonstrations
6:00PM – Modern Day Romeos
Downtown Lake Geneva
11:00AM – 5:00PM – Downtown Autumn Sidewalk Sales
12:00 PM – Accordion Playing in Town
12:00PM – Downtown Pumpkin Stroll
12:00PM – 4:00PM Downtown Streetside Music
12:00PM – Artisan Pumpkin Carving by Studio Dori @JAYNE
Sunday, October 12th
Flat Iron Park
11AM – Badger Jazz Band Live
Noon – Lake Geneva Pie Company Pie Eating Contest in Beer Garden
1:00PM – Little Leg Races for Dachshunds
1:00PM – DJ Alto
3:00PM – Little Leg Races for Corgis
3:00PM – Badger Orchestra
4:00PM – GLWA Sponsored Stein Hoisting Competition
5:00PM – Last Call!
Downtown Lake Geneva
11:00AM – 5:00PM – Downtown Autumn Sidewalk Sales
11:00AM – Accordion Playing in Town
12:00PM – Downtown Pumpkin Stroll
12:00PM – 4:00PM Downtown Streetside Music
Also Saturday & Sunday
Playing throughout the downtown district and in the Flat Iron Park tent during band change overs.
Shows in the Rotary Club of Lake Geneva’s KIDS ENTERTAINMENT ZONE repeat throughout each day.
FREE PUMPKIN GIVEAWAY
U.S. 12 and Highways 50 and 120 bring you to Lake Geneva for all the fun!
Lake Geneva Oktoberfest 2025 Address:
Flat Iron Park, 201 Wrigley Drive
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
(262) 248-4416
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
October 4, 2025
Downtown Racine Fall Wine Walk
Downtown Racine offers the chance to enjoy beverages, shops, and friends in the beautiful October weather with their Fall Wine Walk. These feature two, three-hour guided walking tours; one runs from 1pm – 4pm and the other from 4pm – 7pm. During the stroll through downtown and by Racine’s shops, you can enjoy 20 wine samples from 20 of the downtown locations.
You can enjoy a Fall Wine Walk in downtown Racine either of those times on Saturday, October 4th and/or Saturday, October 11th, 2025. Tickets are on sale now!
Enjoy a nice drive into downtown Racine via Highways 11, 20, 32, or 38, less than 15 minutes east of I-41/94.
Downtown Racine Fall Wine Walk Address:
Downtown Racine locations along Highway 32 (Main Street) between Highways 20 & 38
Racine, WI 53403
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
September 25, 2025 – September 28, 2025
La Crosse Oktoberfest
Oktoberfest, USA, is one of the few authentic Old World folk festivals held annually in the United States. You’ll find plenty of beer, music, fun, food, lederhosen, dirndls, and more complemented with a carnival featuring rides, parades featuring the annually-elected “Royal Family,” the 2023 Miss La Crosse/Oktoberfest Pageant, and enough accordions and Munich-style tents to make you feel like you’re in Deutschland.
Downtown Fest Grounds open at 4pm on Thursday, September 25th. The Torchlight Parade will take place at 7pm that evening; Craft Beer Night starts at 4pm and runs until 8pm. For $60 admission, the FestZelt tent will feature over 20 craft brewers and their products – and you can sample ’em all! There’s also a Cornhole Tournament and fireworks – and that’s all on opening night!
Friday night September 26th has the Festmaster Ball at the La Crosse Center’s South Hall, where the Festmaster and Frau will be introduced.
Other events include wiener dog races, live music, special German dinners, Lederhosen Games, and more. Get the latest events list here!
TICKETS
General Admission tickets are $24.95
Craft Beer Night General Admission (which includes both) is $77.95
Children 12 and Under Admitted Free
FREE Admission on Sunday!
More details and options here
La Crosse Oktoberfest USA is a great time in a true beer town. La Crosse is easily reached via U.S. 14, 53, or 61; I-90; and Highways 16, 33, and 35. The drive to and from is gorgeous too, especially at this time of the year!
Check the La Crosse Oktoberfest USA website for additional details!
La Crosse Oktoberfest Schedule of Events:
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 25th
7–9 am: SENIOR BREAKFAST | Morrie’s Heritage Hofbräu Haus – Downtown Festgrounds
Free Admission! Pancakes, sausage, eggs, coffee, juice. Featuring live music and WIZM-AM live broadcast
11 am–2:00 pm: SPECIAL FESTER CARNIVAL | Northside Family Festgrounds
4–11 pm: DOWNTOWN FESTGROUNDS OPEN, $25 three-day pass
4-Midnight: STUDENT NIGHT | Downtown Festgrounds. Free admission for students with a valid college student ID on Thursday 9/25. Join us for Lederhosen Games, vendors, and dance hits played by Pop Rocks!
5–9 pm: CARNIVAL, NORTHSIDE LA CROSSE, Fest fun with carnival rides and food vendors
4–8 pm: CRAFT BEER NIGHT | Downtown Festgrounds
$90 VIP 4 pm | $60 General Admission, 5 pm. Sample from more than 20 craft breweries. Get tickets.
5-7pm: LEDERHOSEN GAMES | Garden Stage Area – Fest Grounds
Stein races, stein holdings, barrel roll, grain toss, Schokolade essen and scavenger hunt | Play games, have fun and win prizes
7 pm: TORCHLIGHT PARADE | Northside La Crosse, Kane & Gillette Streets to Clinton Street
7:30–11 pm: TORCHLIGHT AFTER GLOW bash | Copeland Park – Loggers Field
Free admission and families welcome! Kick off your Oktoberfest on the Northside with The Swing Crew
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 26th
Hours: 9:00am –midnight
10 am: STEIN HOLDING FINALS | The Remainders Garden Stage
11 am: TAPPING OF THE GOLDEN KEG – OPENING CEREMONY | The Remainders Garden Stage The much-anticipated tapping of the Sam Adams Golden Keg
2–4 pm: LEDERHOSEN GAMES | The Remainders Garden Stage Area
Stein races, stein holdings, barrel roll, grain toss, Schokolade essen and scavenger hunt | Play games, have fun and win prizes
5–9 pm: CARNIVAL | Copeland Park – Northside La Crosse
Fest fun with carnival rides and food vendors. Get Tickets.
Live Music:
ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION FESTPLATZ
11:30 am – 2:30 pm THE SWING CREW
3 – 5:30 pm PAT MCCURDY
6 – 9 pm STAR 67 BAND
9:30 pm – Midnight HELLO WEEKEND
THE REMAINDERS GARDEN STAGE
11:30 am – 2 pm FAILURE TO LAUNCH
2:30 pm – 5 pm PACIFIC COAST HIGHWAY
5:30 – 8 pm HILLBILLY ROCKETSHIP
8:30–11:00 pm WHEELHOUSE
NEWS 8 NOW HERITAGE HOFBRÄU HAUS ON THE LA CROSSE BIERHAUS STAGE
7:00 am: YMCA MAPLE LEAF WALK RUN | Riverside Park
Pre-registration required. Half marathon, 5-mile run, 5k walk and Kid’s Maple Mile. More Info
10 am: MAPLE LEAF PARADE | Northside to Downtown
11 am–midnight: DOWNTOWN FESTGROUNDS OPEN
Get Tickets
Noon – 9 pm: CARNIVAL | Copeland Park – Northside La Crosse
2–4 pm: LEDERHOSEN GAMES | Garden Stage Area
9 pm: 64TH ANNUAL OKTOBERFEST FIREWORKS CELEBRATION | Downtown Festgrounds
Live Music
ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION FESTPLATZ
11:30 am – 1:30 pm STEVE’S ONE MAN BAND
2pm – 5:00pm FLASH MOB
5:30 pm – 8:30 pm JACUZZI PUMA
9:00 pm – midnight BELLA CAIN
THE REMAINDERS GARDEN STAGE
2:00 – 4:00 pm WHISKEY BELLES
4:15 –7:30 pm HIGH MILEAGE
8–10 pm THE REMAINDERS
NEWS 8 NOW HERITAGE HOFBRÄU HAUS ON THE LA CROSSE BIERHAUS STAGE
1:30–4 pm BRIAN BRUEGGEN & THE MISSISSIPPI VALLEY DUTCHMEN
4:30–7:30 pm THE SQUEEZETTES
8–11:00 pm POLA-ZEIT
7:30–11 am Pancake Breakfast | Terry Erickson Boys & Girls Club of La Crosse, 1331 Clinton St.
Hosted by the Oktoberfest Parade Marshals | Pancakes, sausages, juice, milk and coffee
Cost: $7 per person (Children 6 and under free)
9:45 am Ecumenical Service | Holy Trinity Parish (1333 13th St, La Crosse, WI, 54601)
Traditional Catholic Mass – All are welcome!
11 am-6 pm Fest Grounds Open – Free Admission! | 1 Oktoberfest Strasse
No admission wristband required
Festing fun for the whole family! Starting with an opening ceremony with root beer provided by Rudy’s at 11:20 in the News 8 Now Heritage Hofbräu Haus, face painting, a chalk contest, vendors, music, and more!
Sunday Presenting Sponsor: Ehler Insurance
11 am
Brats for Seniors
Delivery of Fest brats and Gemütlichkeit to residents in our City of La Crosse housing facilities
Sponsored by Mid-West Family
11:30 am-4:30 pm
Face Painting | Fest Grounds
FREE face painting + airbrush tattoos
12 pm
2025 Parade Award Ceremony | News 8 Now Heritage Hofbräu Haus
Help us recognize the 2025 Torchlight & Maple Leaf Parade award winners. NEW IN 2025 – We’re bringing gemütlichkeit to the streets with the brand-new People’s Choice Award at this year’s Oktoberfest Parades! For the first time ever, parade-goers get to vote for their favorite float and one lucky entry will take home the ultimate fan-voted prize!
Parade Award Sponsors: Select Custom Solutions & Edward Jones
Live Music
ALTRA FEDERAL CREDIT UNION FESTPLATZ
Noon – 2:30 pm THE EXECUTIVES
3pm – 5:30pm PHOENIX & THE BEST MIX OF LA CROSSE
NEWS 8 NOW HERITAGE HOFBRÄU HAUS ON THE LA CROSSE BIERHAUS STAGE
11:30 am – 12:00 pm HANS MAYER MUSIC
2:30 pm – 5:30 pm THE MUSIC CONNECTION
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
September 20, 2025
Party on the Pavement, Racine
It’s a big party in the Belle City! Party on the Pavement is Racine’s biggest one-day festival, and it happens Saturday, September 20th from noon – 7pm in downtown Racine.
The 22nd annual Party on the Pavement features things to see and do.
Get ready for thrilling entertainment! The Division BMX Stunt Team will be soaring through the air with jaw-dropping tricks on College Avenue and 6th Street, with shows at 12:30 pm, 2:00 pm, 4:00 pm, and 5:30 pm. For dance lovers, the Sweatshop Movement will bring electrifying hip-hop and breakdance battles to the corner of Wisconsin Avenue and 6th Street throughout the day. Plus, try your hand at Disc Golf, check out the classic car show on Sam Johnson Parkway, and catch performances from Racine Gymnastics and the Senior Moments group!
Music lovers, you’re in for a treat! Party on the Pavement is famous for its diverse lineup, and this year won’t disappoint. With multiple stages of live music, you can dance your way through downtown to the sounds of blues, rock, jazz, R&B, and more. From crowd favorites like Stephen Hull Experience, Waiting for Eddie, Lake Effect, Full Flavor, Identity Crisis, and Shameless Place, the variety is endless!
Hungry? Indulge in an array of international cuisine from our downtown restaurants and food vendors! With flavors ranging from Asian, Pakistani, and Mexican to Italian, Cajun, and Greek, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Whether you’re a foodie or just hungry for some great bites, this is the perfect chance to try something new!
Kick off your day early with the 6th annual Pound the Pavement 5k hosted by 5Kevents.org. Then don’t miss out on the most exciting street festival of the year!
Admission to the Party on the Pavement grounds is free! Party on the Pavement takes place throughout downtown on Main Street from State Street to 7th Street and all of 6th Street from Lake Avenue to City Hall.
It’s all presented by the Downtown Racine Corporation. Highway 20, 32, and 38 are right there!
Party on the Pavement Address:
It covers 12 blocks, but it’s centered on Monument Square, 534 Main Street
Racine, WI 53403
(262) 634-6002
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
September 12, 2025 – September 14, 2025
Road America Ariens Art on Wheels Weekend
The Ariens Art On Wheels Weekend featuring The VSCDA draws vintage racers from across the U.S. as they take to the track September 12th-14th at Road America. Over 300 meticulously restored vintage and historic race cars, spanning 11 racing classes, will grace the iconic Road America track, presenting a mesmerizing journey through automotive history. From the graceful curves of classic sports cars to the raw power of muscle machines, every era and every passion will be showcased.
A unique highlight of the event is the open-access paddock, inviting spectators to immerse themselves in the world of vintage racing. This is a rare opportunity to get up close and personal with these magnificent racing machines, each prepared to era specifications, and witness the dedication and craftsmanship of maintaining these automotive treasures.
Get updates and tickets on the Road America website. Anyone 16 and under gets in FREE with a paying adult. You can take advantage of that offer at the gate with proof of age. Racing runs rain or shine.
You’ll find Road America along Highway 67 just north of Highway 23 and Plymouth and just west of Highway 57 in Sheboygan County.
Road America Address for the Ariens Art On Wheels Weekend:
N7390 Wisconsin Highway 67
Plymouth, WI 53073
(800) 365-7223
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
August 30, 2025 – August 31, 2025
Marina Fest
Sister Bay has a beautiful marina along the waters of Green Bay. Hit the end of Highway 57 along Highway 42 for Marina Fest, which features live entertainment, plenty of food and drink, a water ski show by the Waterboard Warriors, a fireworks show, easy access to Al Johnson’s show you can watch goats on the roof, and more!
Sister Bay Marina Fest Schedule of Events
7:30 – 10 AM: Pancake Breakfast Presented by the Sister Bay & Liberty Grove Fire Department
8 AM – 4 PM: Used Book Sale
9 AM – 4 PM: Vintage Boat Show
9 AM – 5 PM: Arts & Crafts Fair with Stained Glass Mosaic Workshop
10 AM – 6 PM: Kid’s Bouncy Houses
11 AM – 4 PM: Kid’s Boat Building with the Lions Club
11 AM – 8 PM: Food Court
12 – 1:30 PM: Kid’s Ages 4-12 Pedal Tractor Pull – Presented by Peach Barn (Registration begins at 11 AM )
1 – 4 PM: Performance by Mistrial
4 – 7 PM: Performance by Modern Day Drifters
3:30 – 5 PM: Kid’s Ages 4-12 Pedal Tractor Pull Presented by Peach Barn (Registration begins at 2:30 PM)
7 – 10 PM: Performance by Big Mouth and the Power Tool Horns
Dusk: Fireworks Presented by Wild Tomato
SUNDAY, AUG 31st
9 AM – 5 PM: Arts & Crafts Fair
10 AM – 2 PM: Used Book Sale
10 AM – 6 PM: Kid’s Bouncy Houses
11 AM – 8 PM: Food Court
12 – 3 PM: Performance by Conscious Pilot
4 – 7 PM: Performance by Second Hand Stereo
Sister Bay Marina Fest Address:
Marina Park
10733 Wisconsin Highway 42 / Bay Shore Drive
Sister Bay, WI 54234
(920) 854-2812
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
August 14, 2025 – August 17, 2025
Irish Fest Milwaukee
The World’s Largest celebration of Celtic music and culture, the 43rd Milwaukee Irish Fest happens Thursday, August 14th through Sunday, August 17th on Milwaukee’s lakefront! An amazing array of musical artists in Irish and Celtic music fill several stages.
Other Irish Fest activities include a Baking Contest, Photo and Poetry Contests, and “Red Hair & Freckles” Contest, a “Celtic Canines” exhibit, the Jameson Lounge (for whiskey tastings), a Marketplace filled with Irish crafts and other items from over 90 vendors, a Cultural Village, and much more.
Saturday the 16th features a 5K Run/Walk to benefit the Arthritis Foundation. Later that day you can enjoy the Lesaffre/Red Star Yeast Baking Contest. Dog lovers can check out Milwaukee Irish Fest’s Celtic Canine Area; this unique area gives you the chance to see and pet some of Ireland’s most popular dog breeds, meet and talk with some of the Midwest’s top breeders, and learn about grooming, general care and training. The Irish dog breeds include Irish Wolfhounds, Irish Terriers, Irish Red Setters, Irish Red and White Setters, Soft-Coated Wheaten Terriers, Irish Water Spaniels, Kerry Blue Terriers and Kerry Beagles. The Celtic Canines will be on display Friday from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., on Saturday from noon to 7 p.m., and on Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
For a full lineup of activities and deals for everything else, check out the Irish Fest website!
You can reach Irish Fest at Henry Maier Festival Park (aka the Summerfest grounds) along Milwaukee’s lakefront via I-794 and U.S. 18 most directly. Highways 32, 38, 59, and 145 all bring you within a mile of the grounds.
Milwaukee Irish Fest Address:
Henry Maier Festival Park (aka Summerfest Grounds)
200 N. Harbor Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53202
(414) 476-3378
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
August 13, 2025 – August 17, 2025
Lake Geneva Venetian Fest
The Entertainment Pavilion includes a beer tent and stage for live music. Here’s the Music Schedule:
Wednesday 8/14: Sons of Sconnie, 8pm-midnight
Thursday 8/15: Rok Brigade, 8pm-midnight
Friday 8/18: Kelly Daniels, 8pm-midnight
Saturday 8/19: Rebecca and the Grey Notes, 3pm-6pm
Saturday 8/19: Too Hype Crew, 8pm-midnight
Sunday 8/20: Rock Central, Noon-3pm
Sunday 8/20: Big Al Wetzel Band, 3pm-6pm
Sunday 8/20: Venetian All-Stars, 8pm-midnight
The Arts & Crafts Fair is returning to Venetian Fest and features over 110 exhibitors. It runs Saturday from 10am – 5pm and Sunday from 10am – 4pm in Library Park, right along Highway 50/Main Street along the lake on the west edge of downtown, just down from The Riviera. Details…
The Lake Geneva Venetian Festival Carnival offers family fun via “Mr. Ed’s Magical Midways” and is open every day of the festival: Wednesday-Thursday 5pm to 10:30pm, Friday 5pm – 11:30pm, Saturday Noon to 11:30pm, and Sunday Noon to 10:30pm.
Saturday you can experience the Baggo Tournament, which takes place at the Entertainment Pavilion in Flatiron Park. It’s a double elimination straight to 21. It starts at 11:30am Saturday and runs until about 3pm.
Check out the Lumberjack Show!
New last year the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack show is back and should be yet another great bit of entertainment for families of all sizes and ages. From log rolling, axe throwing, and wood-cutting, to chainsaw vs cross-cut racing, and quick chainsaw carving, there is something for everyone to enjoy. If you want great old-fashioned fun and family entertainment, the Paul Bunyan Lumberjack Show is where you’ll want to be.
New this year: Car Show! The inaugural Car Show run at Venetian Fest Sunday from 11am-3pm at Seminary Park, a great thing to check out ahead of all the bands, water ski shows, the lighted boat parade, and the fireworks that evening!
Sunday is the topper, with all the Carnival and Arts & Crafts Fair activities, THREE performers covering live music, and the Lake Geneva Jaycees Water Ski Show featuring the Wonder Lake Ski Team. They’ll perform on Geneva Lake right by the Riviera starting at 6pm. At dusk, the Lighted Boat Parade begins with the theme this year being “Rat Pack” for Lake Geneva Venetian Fest’s 61st anniversary. It concludes with fireworks following the parade.
All of this fun is in downtown Lake Geneva, which is easily accessed via U.S. 12 or Highways 50 and 120. Highway 67 brings you close, as it runs along the west side of Geneva Lake. Make it a road trip destination the weekend of August 14th-18th!
Lake Geneva Venetian Fest Address:
Downtown Lake Geneva, centered at Riviera Ballroom
821 Wrigley Drive
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
August 7, 2025 – August 9, 2025
Ashley for the Arts
Ashley For The Arts celebrates music, art, and supporting nearby communities with a spectacular three-day event August 7-9, 2025. It takes place in Arcadia – home to Ashley Furniture – in the city’s 54-acre Memorial Park, which known for its Soldier’s Walk, one of the premier war memorials in the U.S. outside of Washington, D.C.
With four stages this year, you won’t miss a beat! The Main Stage will host headline entertainment, the Amphitheater will portray participating school performances as well as entertaining circus acts, the Pavilion stage hosts early to mid-day side-stage performances and the Soldier’s Walk stage will create a unique ambiance for local bands to perform outdoors the second half of the day.
Ashley for the Arts’ headline lineup will include ZZ Top, Darius Rucker, Brad Paisley, Daughtry, Third Eye Blind, Chris Jenson, Neon Trees, The Castellows, Red – A Taylor Swift Tribute, area high school choirs and even an extreme juggling show! Truly something for everyone.
The three-day festival will also feature upbeat musical performances; in addition, 11 area schools will participate in the event’s activities and demonstrate the region’s student talent through performances on Friday and Saturday.
You can also enjoy a variety of off-stage entertainment including a living statue, balloon sculptors, Root Berry juggling and sword swallowing, a mariachi band, silly stilt walkers, an interactive drum circle, Magician Professor Pinkerton, and many more entertaining audiences throughout the grounds.
The park features nearly 100 art and craft vendors, a new interactive art space, a classic car show, two air parks including bouncy houses and obstacle courses, even a kid’s fitness course. Ashley for the Arts also hosts the Pursuit of a Cure 5K run/walk on Thursday and a spectacular firework display on Saturday.
From mini donuts to barbeque to gyros and frybread, an expanded selection of food trucks will decorate Memorial Park Drive along with Arcadia’s staple charcoal chicken, grilled to perfection in North America’s largest indoor chicken pit. A newly added beer garden, next to the main stage, will offer specialty beer and wine options for the adult audience. Event parking is free along with free bus shuttles to and from the grounds; including the county campground (Pietrek Park) just five miles north of Arcadia. Highways 93 and 95 bring you to town!
Ashley For the Arts Address:
Memorial Park
551 Memorial Park Drive
Arcadia, WI 54612
(608) 863-6700
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
July 31, 2025 – August 3, 2025
IMSA Motul SportsCar Grand Prix at Road America
The Motl SportsCar Grand Prix featuring IMSA hits Road America Thursday, July 31st through Sunday, August 3rd! Get ready for some incredible racing – and a LOT of it!
Gate entrances open at 7:00 am. Here’s a .pdf of the weekend schedule.
If you need help getting around at Road America, their TRAM will run Saturday and Sunday. All Concession stands will be open.
Public Karting will be available for ages 14 and older. A parent/guardian must be present if under 18. You’ll find it at the CTECH Manufacturing Motorplex, infield over the SpeedVille Bridge, near Turns 7 and 8. Karts can reach speeds of up to 40 mph.
You can also test your skills on their 18 hole disc golf course – FREE fun for everyone! The Front Nine begins at Tee #1, located across from Gearbox concessions in the paddock. The Back Nine begins at Tee #10, located west of the Sargento Bridge, towards Motorplex. Rental discs are available in Paddock Shop.
Motul SportsCar Grand Prix Racing Schedule:
Thursday, July 31, 2025
1:05 PM – 1:50 PM | Practice #1 – Lamborghini Trofeo
2:10 PM – 2:40 PM | Practice #1 – Mustang Challenge
2:55 PM – 3:25 PM | Practice #1 – Porsche Carrera Cup
3:40-4:25 PM | Practice #2 – Lamborghini Trofeo
Friday, August 1, 2025
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM | Practice #1 – Michelin Challenge
9:15 AM – 9:45 AM | Practice #2 – Mustang Challenge
10:00 AM – 10:40 AM | Practice #2 – Porsche Carrera Cup
11:30 AM – 12:00 PM | IMSA Driver Fan Forum -RoadAmerica Center
12:40 PM – 1:40 PM | Practice #2 – Michelin Challenge
2:00 PM – 3:30 PM | Practice #1 – WeatherTech Championship (All
Classes)3:50 PM – 4:05 PM | Qualifying – Mustang Challenge
4:20 PM – 4:50 PM | Qualifying – Porsche Carrera Cup
5:05PM -5:20PM |Qualifying #1 Lamborghini Trofeo
5:25PM -5:40PM |Qualifying #2 Lamborghini Trofeo
5:55-6:10PM |Qualifying- Michelinchallenge TCR
6:15PM -6:30PM | |Qualifying- MichelinChallengeGS
Saturday, August 2, 2025
8:00 AM – 8:45 AM | Race #1 – Mustang Challenge (45 Minutes)
9:05 AM – 10:35 AM | Practice #2 – WeatherTech Championship (All Classes)
10:55 AM – 11:35 AM | Race #1 – Porsche Carrera Cup (40 Minutes)
11:55 AM – 12:45 PM | Race #1 – Lamborghini Trofeo (50 Minutes)
12:15 PM – 12:45 PM | Autograph Session – WeatherTech Championship – at Team Transporters in the Paddock
1:05 PM – 1:45 PM | Michelin Challenge – Open Grid / Fan Walk – Pit Lane
2:05 PM – 4:05 PM | Race – Road America 120 for the IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge (2 Hours)
4:40 PM – 4:55 PM | Qualifying – WeatherTech Championship (GTD – Any Driver)
5:05 PM – 5:20 PM | Qualifying – WeatherTech Championship (GTD PRO – Any Driver)
5:30 PM – 5:45 PM | Qualifying – WeatherTech Championship (LMP2 – Bronze Only)
5:55PM -6:10PM |Qualifying- WeatherTechChampionship(GTP-AnyDriver)
Sunday, August 3, 2025
8:20 AM – 9:05 AM | Race #2 – Mustang Challenge (45 Minutes)
9:25 AM – 10:15 AM | Race #2 – Lamborghini Trofeo (50 Minutes)
10:35 AM – 11:15 | Race #2 – Porsche Carrera Cup (40 Minutes)
11:50 AM – 12:50 PM | WeatherTech Championship – Open Grid / Fan Walk – Pit Lane
1:10 PM – 3:50 PM | Race – IMSA SportsCar Weekend for the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship
Hit Highway 67 north of Highway 23 near Elkhart Lake to find Road America – social distancing and mask safety is required, but easy on these grounds.
IMSA Motul SportsCar Grand Prix Weekend Address for Road America:
Road America
N7390 Highway 67
Elkhart Lake, WI 53073
(800) 365-7223
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
July 24, 2025 – July 26, 2025
Hub City Days
The massive Car & Bike Show, Family Zone with bounce houses and kids’ games, the Craft Show, the Brew Fest and Beer Garden, tons of live music and more are all ready!
The Hub City Brew Fest will feature craft beers from all over Wisconsin and the Midwest! The Car Show will be right on Central Avenue (Historic Highway 13).
You can reach Marshfield via U.S. 10 or Highways 13, 80, and 97. It’s right in the center of Wisconsin, hence the name “Hub City”!
Hub City Days Schedule:
Thursday, July 24th
DOWNTOWN BUSINESS AFTER 5
Friday, July 25th
Saturday, July 26th
Find out more here from Visit Marshfield.
You can easily reach Marshfield via U.S. 10 or Highways 13, 80, and 97. Head to the Hub!
Check out our State Trunk Tour Marshfield Podcast with Matt McLean from VISIT Marshfield, where we talk Hub City Days, the city and all the things to do and see in it, here or stream it below!
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
July 22, 2025 – July 27, 2025
Kenosha Homecoming Car Show
Automobile manufacturing took place in Kenosha for more than 100 years. The Kenosha County Historical Society (aka the Kenosha History Center) celebrates the area’s industrial history, including how Kenosha’s auto-making legacy shaped history through the 20th Century. Both the Museum and the Kenosha Homecoming Car Show help celebrate this legacy.
Bring your car to show it, or just come as a spectator. The Kenosha History Center recommends car owners and swap meet vendors preregister for the show/swap meet. Cars and Vendors can also register the day of the show.
Kenosha Homecoming Car Show Schedule of Events
Thursday 7/24
4PM – 8PM: Evening Car Cruise-in at AMC Factory Site, off of 22nd Avenue and 30th Avenue. For the first time ever, the Homecoming Car Show Thursday Night Cruise-in will be held on the site where it all started. All Kenosha-made automobiles are invited to attend an evening cruise-in on the Nash/AMC/Chrysler Factory Site (now the Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood). Bring your car back to where it was manufactured; it is sure to be a nostalgic evening. The event will be part of the City of Kenosha’s 175th Anniversary Celebration. All Kenosha-made vehicles will enter from 56th Street. Spectator parking will be announced soon.
Friday 7/25
8AM – 4PM: Homecoming Car Show Swap Meet at Kennedy Park, 4051 5th Avenue. Fee for vendors.
10AM – Noon: Gremlin Event at Jeffery Elementary School, 4011 87th Street
4PM: Homecoming Car Show Parade starts at Southport Park, 7501 2nd Avenue. Staging starts around 3PM. The parade will travel west on 78th Street, right on 7th Avenue, and continue through Downtown Kenosha. It will continue on 6th Avenue, right into Pennoyer Park, continue through Kennedy Park, and continue through Simmons Island Park. The parade ends at the Kenosha History Center Block Party, 220 51st Place.
4PM – 8PM: Kenosha Homecoming Block Party at Kenosha History Center, 220 51st Place. The road will be closed to all other traffic. Vehicles coming to the 2025 Kenosha Homecoming Car Show at Kennedy Park on July 26 can register their car at the museum that evening and save time and hassle the next morning. Registration packets can also be picked up for anyone who pre-registered. The museum and gift shop will be open until 7PM and stocked full of AMC/Nash T-shirts and other keepsakes. Food trucks will be on-site.
Saturday 7/26
8AM – 4PM: 2025 Kenosha Homecoming Car Show & Swap Meet at Kennedy Park, 4051 5th Avenue. Fee for show cars and vendors.
Sunday 7/27
9AM: Racing at Great Lakes Dragaway, 18411 1st Street. Fee for spectators and race cars.
You can get to downtown Kenosha, Simmons Island, and the Kenosha History Center via Highway 32 (Sheridan Road, named for Fort Sheridon just down the way in northern Illinois), Highway 50 (75th Street coming in from I-41/94, also Roosevelt and 63rd Streets as you approach downtown), and Highway 158 (52nd Street). It’s a 10-12 minute drive or so east of I-41/94 and 5-7 minute drive east from Highway 31, which skirts the west side of the city.
Kenosha Homecoming Week and Car Show Address:
Kenosha History Center (and other locations)
220 51st Place
Kenosha, WI 53142
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
July 19, 2025 – July 20, 2025
Milwaukee WaterStone Bank Air & Water Show
The Milwaukee Air & Water Show, sponsored by Waterstone Bank, offers one of the top air shows in the Midwest along the city’s gorgeous lakefront. They roar along Milwaukee’s lakefront Saturday, July 19th and Sunday, July 20th.
Exciting acts having performed in Milwaukee’s skies this July include the U.S. Navy P-8 Poseidon Patrol Aircraft, U.S. Navy Leapfrogs Parachute Team, the USAF T-38 “Talons”in 2-3 ship formation, the return of the U.S. Air Force A-10 Warthogs, the U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super-Hornet Tactical Demonstration Squadron, the Wisconsin Air National Guard KC-135 Stratotanker straight from Milwaukee’s own 128th Air Refueling Wing base, and the Firebirds X-treme Team. Solo aerobatics and stunts have been performed by Bill Stein, Mike Wiscus, Jack Knutson, Matt Chapman, and Lt. Colonel Josh “Tater” Boudreaux of the “Wild Blue Rodeo.”
On the waters of Lake Michigan, you’ve been able to enjoy the USCGC Bristol Bay (WLB), a 225-foot multi-mission buoy tender out of Detroit; a Water Show act from Milwaukee’s own Dennis Pinter, who demonstrated the “Air Chair” on the water! Daredevil and Pro Flyboard competitor Casey “Swizzle” McElwee who performed with his Hydroflyte and Flyboard act. We also hope to see the return of the Milwaukee Fire Department’s “Trident Fireboat,” which demonstrates its capabilities on the water, and witness an HH-60 Jayhawk Rescue Helicopter Air-Sea Rescue Demostration courtesy of the U.S. Coast Guard Air Station out of Traverse City, Michigan.
You can watch from Bradford Beach and many other areas along Milwaukee’s lakefront for free. Ticketed areas offer the closest proximity, the best views, hosted narration, the best access to concessions, and great seating. This is definitely a benchmark summer event in Milwaukee! U.S. 18, Highways 32, 36, 38, 57, 59, 145, 190 and more all bring to within eye (and definitely ear!) shot of the show.
Milwaukee Air & Water Show Schedule of Events (both days):
10 AM: Water Show
12 PM: National Anthem / Army Golden Knights
3 PM: US Navy Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Squadron
Milwaukee Air & Water Show Address:
2272 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive
Milwaukee, WI 53211
(414) 482-2069
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
July 16, 2025 – July 19, 2025
Lumberjack World Championships
Hayward hosts the 65th annual Lumberjack World Championships July 17-19, 2025! The Lumberjack World Championships began in 1960 as a way to acknowledge the rich history of the logging industry across the United States. Once again, over 21 events will offer international competition showcasing the best sawing, chopping, speed climbing, log rolling, boom-running & more! It’s great family fun.
More than 100 lumberjacks and lumberjills vie for more than $50,000 in prize money, making this one of the largest paybacks for lumberjack competition in the world – and of course, world records in these events could be set – they often have!
Opening night – Thursday, August 1st – is Mountain Dew Family Night, with special family pricing for admission ($45 for two adults and up to four children) and other specials. Other ticket packages run around $53 for three days’ worth of admission.
Tickets can be purchased online here!
Getting to Hayward means a beautiful drive through the North Woods – just what we like! Hayward is along U.S. 63 on the drive from Spooner to Ashland; it’s also where Highways 27 and 77 meet up. While in town, check out the great trails, shopping, the World’s Largest Musky at the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame, the Angry Minnow Brewpub, and more!
Hayward Lumberjack World Championships Address:
15670 West County Road B
Hayward, WI 54843
(715) 634-2484
Website
Lumberjack World Championships Schedule of Events
Thursday, July 17
Quarterfinal Competition
Friday, July 18
Semifinal Competition
Saturday, July 19
Final World Championship Competition
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
July 10, 2025 – July 12, 2025
Iola Car Show
The 53rd annual Iola Car Show is happening Thursday, July 10th through Saturday, July 12th. It’s the Midwest’s biggest and best car show and swap meet, with over 100,000+ attendees, 2,500 Show Cars, 4,000+ Swap Spaces, and more!
Join them as they celebrate all things automotive across the decades. With a huge variety of vehicles, a great lineup of celebrities, even Mother Nature cooperating with nice weather predicted, this should be fantastic! Enjoy all the cheese curds, chocolate shakes and fun you could ever wish for at the car show. As one of the biggest and best in the nation, the Iola Car Show is back and going full throttle.
You can get to Iola along Highway 49 and/or Highway 161 in Waupaca County; it’s not too far off the U.S. 10 freeway.
Iola Car Show Address:
700 E. State Street
Iola, WI 54945
(715) 445-4000
Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com