Best Beer Festivals In Wisconsin

Wisconsin is known for its beer culture, and what better way to celebrate it than by attending some of the best beer festivals in the state? From small-town events to large-scale celebrations, Wisconsin has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take a deep dive into the best beer festivals in Wisconsin, so grab a cold one and let’s get started!

The Great Taste of the Midwest 🍻

The Great Taste of the Midwest is the premier beer festival in the Midwest, and it’s held annually in Madison, Wisconsin. With over 150 breweries represented and more than 1,000 different beers to sample, this festival is a must-attend for any beer lover. The event takes place in August, and tickets sell out fast, so make sure to plan ahead.

Oktoberfest 🥨

Oktoberfest is celebrated all over the world, and Wisconsin is no exception. Milwaukee’s Oktoberfest is one of the biggest in the state, and it features a wide variety of beers, food, and live music. The festival takes place in September, and it’s an excellent way to experience the German heritage of the area.

Brewers and Blues 🎸

Brewers and Blues is a unique beer festival that combines the best of both worlds: craft beer and live music. Held in La Crosse, this festival features over 150 different beers and a lineup of top-notch blues musicians. The event takes place in May, and it’s a great way to kick off the summer.

Great Northern Beer Festival ❄️

The Great Northern Beer Festival is held in Eagle River and is the perfect way to celebrate Wisconsin’s winter wonderland. The festival features over 30 breweries, live music, and plenty of winter activities like ice fishing and snowshoeing. The event takes place in February, so make sure to bundle up!

Burnhearts Mitten Fest 🧤

Burnhearts Mitten Fest is a cozy winter festival held in Milwaukee’s Bay View neighborhood. The festival features over 20 breweries, live music, and plenty of warm drinks to keep you toasty. The event takes place in February, and it’s the perfect way to beat the winter blues.

Craft Beer Week 🍺

Craft Beer Week is a statewide celebration of craft beer culture in Wisconsin. The event takes place in May and features a wide variety of events, from beer dinners to brewery tours to tap takeovers. With over 200 events across the state, there’s something for everyone.

Barley Pop Beer Fest 🌾

The Barley Pop Beer Fest takes place in Manitowoc and features over 100 different beers from more than 40 breweries. The festival also includes live music and food vendors. The event takes place in January, so make sure to pack your warmest coat.

Northwoods Beer Fest 🌲

The Northwoods Beer Fest is held in Rhinelander and features over 200 different beers from more than 50 breweries. The festival also includes live music, food vendors, and a homebrew competition. The event takes place in June and is the perfect way to kick off summer in the Northwoods.

Bayfield Apple Festival 🍎

While not strictly a beer festival, the Bayfield Apple Festival is a fall tradition in Wisconsin and is an excellent way to sample some of the state’s best craft ciders. The festival also includes live music, food vendors, and plenty of apple-themed activities. The event takes place in October and is a must-visit for any cider lover.

Great Lakes Brew Fest 🌊

The Great Lakes Brew Fest is held in Racine and features over 450 different beers from more than 100 breweries. The festival also includes live music, food vendors, and a homebrew competition. The event takes place in September, so make sure to plan ahead.

Brews & Blues 🎶

Brews & Blues is a beer festival held in Oshkosh that features over 200 different beers from more than 50 breweries. The festival also includes live music, food vendors, and plenty of activities for kids. The event takes place in September and is a great way to cap off the summer.

Hops on the Rock 🪨

Hops on the Rock is a beer festival held on Washington Island that features over 30 different beers from more than 10 breweries. The festival also includes live music and food vendors. The event takes place in August and is the perfect way to enjoy the island’s natural beauty.

Brew Ha-Ha 🤣

The Brew Ha-Ha is a comedy and beer festival held in Milwaukee’s Cathedral Square Park. The festival features over 100 different beers from more than 50 breweries, as well as some of the best comedians from around the region. The event takes place in August and is a great way to enjoy some laughs with your beer.

Brewgrass Festival 🎻

The Brewgrass Festival is a beer and bluegrass festival held in Milwaukee’s Humboldt Park. The festival features over 20 different beers from local breweries and a lineup of top-notch bluegrass musicians. The event takes place in September and is a great way to enjoy some excellent beer and music.

FAQs

What is the legal drinking age in Wisconsin?

The legal drinking age in Wisconsin is 21.

Can I bring my own beer to these festivals?

No, outside alcohol is not permitted at any of these festivals.

Are these festivals family-friendly?

Most of these festivals are family-friendly, but be sure to check the festival’s website for specific details.

Do I need to purchase tickets in advance?

It’s always a good idea to purchase tickets in advance, as many of these festivals sell out quickly.

What should I wear to these festivals?

It depends on the festival and the time of year. Be sure to check the festival’s website for specific dress code recommendations.

Are there any non-alcoholic options available at these festivals?

Yes, most of these festivals offer non-alcoholic options such as soda and water.

Are there any food options available at these festivals?

Yes, most of these festivals offer food options from local vendors.

Is there parking available at these festivals?

Most of these festivals have parking available, but be sure to check the festival’s website for specific details.

Can I bring my pet to these festivals?

Most of these festivals do not allow pets, but be sure to check the festival’s website for specific details.

What should I bring to these festivals?

Be sure to bring a valid ID, comfortable shoes, and a way to stay hydrated (such as a refillable water bottle).

Can I volunteer at these festivals?

Yes, many of these festivals offer volunteer opportunities. Be sure to check the festival’s website for specific details.

Is there a designated driver program available at these festivals?

Yes, many of these festivals offer designated driver programs. Be sure to check the festival’s website for specific details.

What happens if it rains at these festivals?

Most of these festivals are rain or shine events, so be sure to bring appropriate rain gear in case of inclement weather.

Conclusion 🍻

Wisconsin is home to some of the best beer festivals in the country, and we hope this article has given you a taste of what to expect. From the Great Taste of the Midwest to the Northwoods Beer Fest, there’s something for every beer lover in Wisconsin. So grab your friends and hit the road to experience the best that Wisconsin has to offer.

If you’re looking for more information on these festivals, be sure to check out their websites or social media pages. And as always, remember to enjoy your beer responsibly!

Disclaimer

The information in this article is accurate to the best of our knowledge at the time of publication. However, festival details and dates may change, so be sure to check the festival’s website for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, we do not condone excessive drinking or driving under the influence. Please drink responsibly and always designate a sober driver.