Summer in Wisconsin is packed with energy, culture, and outdoor fun—especially in Madison and Milwaukee. From open-air concerts to food festivals and art fairs, there’s something for everyone. Here’s your go-to guide for the best events in both cities this summer:

Madison Area Events

JUNE

  • Verona Hometown Days (June 6–8): A community favorite with carnival rides, live music, games, kids’ activities, and food.
  • Marquette Waterfront Fest (June 14–15): Enjoy live music, food vendors, kids’ fun, and the iconic Fools’ Flotilla on the Yahara River.
  • Oregon Summer Fest (June 20–22): Fireworks, music, sports, and a craft fair bring this festive weekend to life.
  • Concerts on the Square (June 25–July 30): Grab a blanket and catch free orchestra performances at the Capitol every Wednesday.

JULY

  • WaunaBoom (July 4): A patriotic celebration with live music, flyovers, and fireworks.
  • La Fête de Marquette (July 10–13): A French-themed fest with music, food, and craft beer.
  • Art Fair on the Square (July 12–13): 500+ artists showcase their work around Capitol Square.
  • Atwood Fest (July 26–27): Local music, food, and family-friendly activities in a lively neighborhood setting.

AUGUST

  • Sugar Maple Music Fest (August 1–2): A celebration of traditional music with performances and hands-on workshops.
  • Sun Prairie Sweet Corn Fest (August 13–17): Enjoy 80 tons of fresh sweet corn, live music, and family fun.
  • Middleton Good Neighbor Fest (August 22–24): A full weekend of rides, games, live music, and a parade.
  • Taste of Madison (August 30–31): Sample eats from 80 vendors and enjoy non-stop live music around Capitol Square.

Milwaukee Area Events

JUNE

  • Milwaukee Night Markets (June 11, July 16, Aug 13, Sept 10): A downtown street fair with local vendors, food trucks, and performances.
  • Lakefront Festival of Art (June 13–15): Art, food, and lakeside views at the Milwaukee Art Museum.
  • Summerfest (June 19–July 5): The world’s largest music festival with big-name acts and local talent.
  • Cedarburg Strawberry Festival (June 28–29): Everything strawberry in a charming historic town.

JULY

  • Oconomowoc HOMETown Celebration (July 4–5): Small-town fun with a parade, music, fireworks, and more.
  • Bristol Renaissance Faire (Weekends, July 5–Sept 1): Step back to 1574 with costumed performers, food, and games.
  • Harley-Davidson Homecoming (July 10–13): A citywide celebration of Milwaukee’s motorcycle roots.
  • Bastille Days (July 11–14): French vibes, food, and live music in the heart of East Town.

AUGUST

  • Wisconsin State Fair (July 31–Aug 10): From cream puffs to rides and livestock—there’s something for everyone.
  • Firefly Art Fair (August 2–3): Local art, food, music, and a beautiful garden setting.
  • Waukesha BluesFest (August 8–9): Two days of blues, soul, and roots music.
  • DandiLion Daze (August 22–24): Carnival rides, live music, and a classic small-town parade.

Whether you’re looking to dance, dine, or just kick back outdoors, summer in Madison and Milwaukee offers the perfect mix of local charm and lively events. Mark your calendar and make the most of it!

SOURCES:  Visit Madison  –  Visit Milwaukee  –  TravelWisconsin    |    IMAGE: TripAdvisor