The 5 Best Fall Festivals In Wisconsin For 2023 Will Put You In The Autumnal Spirit
By Ben Jones|Published September 06, 2023
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Ben Jones
Author
Ben Jones is at heart an adventurer who delights in inspiring others. A former reporter and photojournalist, he explored towns large and small as a Wisconsin correspondent for USA Today. He later became a lead photographer and senior copywriter for an award-winning destination marketing agency, before founding Boldland Creative, a company that produces photography, video, and other content for travel destinations. Jones has completed photography and content projects in more than 15 states and when he’s not looking through a camera or at his Macbook you’ll find him exploring the world’s lakes and forests.
Wisconsin is known for its vibrant and diverse fall festivals, celebrating everything from autumn foliage to local culture, harvest traditions, and more. You can such seasonal celebrations just about anywhere, including fall festivals near Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Eau Claire, and Superior. Here are five popular fall festivals – they are some of the best fall festivals in Wisconsin:
Warrens Cranberry Festival is the queen of all cranberry festivals. Located in the heart of Wisconsin's cranberry country, the Sept. 22-24 festival offers a wide array of cranberry-related products, including fresh cranberries, cranberry foods, and cranberry-themed arts and crafts. The festival also features a massive arts and crafts fair, a cranberry marsh tour, live entertainment, and more.
Gays Mills, located in the heart of Wisconsin's apple country, hosts an Apple Festival that celebrates the apple harvest. The festival takes place Sept. 22-24 and includes apple-themed foods, a classic car show, live music, arts and crafts vendors, and apple orchard tours. It's a great way to enjoy the flavors of fall and experience the apple-growing heritage of the region.
Oktoberfest La Crosse is a lively celebration of German heritage and culture. The Sept. 28-30 festival features a grand parade, traditional music and dancing, authentic German cuisine, a carnival, and a wide variety of beer from local breweries.
Nestled on the shores of Lake Superior, Bayfield is famous for its apple orchards, and the Bayfield Apple Festival is a delightful celebration of the apple harvest. On Oct. 6-8 visitors can enjoy apple-themed foods, contests, arts and crafts vendors, live music, and the Grand Parade. The festival also provides a great opportunity to explore the charming town and enjoy the stunning fall views of Lake Superior.
Witches Night Out is a unique and whimsical festival in Shawano, a town known for its historic charm. During this October 13 event, attendees, often dressed as witches, gather for a night of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Local shops and restaurants offer special promotions and activities, making it a fun and quirky way to celebrate the Halloween season.
Last year I attended the Warrens Cranberry Festival, and it was awesome – so big! This year it is celebrating a big anniversary and may be even bigger. These are just a few examples of the many fall festivals that Wisconsin has to offer. Each festival has its unique charm and attractions, and they offer a great way to embrace the beauty and traditions of the autumn season in the state. Make your festival hotel arrangements on Booking.com. Interested in some more fall fun? Here’s what to see and do in Wisconsin.
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