Wisconsin is the fall is an especially beautiful destination. The rich farm country was settled by a diverse group of European immigrants, who came to America searching for the American dream.
The fall color show put on by the Wisconsin forests and trees makes a beautiful scenic drive. There are several fall festivals, that commemorate Wisconsin’s ethnic history in Wisconsin.
Driving distances vary, but most of these destinations are within driving distance from Milwaukee, Chicago and Minneapolis and make an enjoyable overnight or weekend vacation destination
Following are some of the enjoyable festivals you can find in Wisconsin this fall.
August 31 – September 2
Wilhelm Tell Festival
New Glarus, WI
The Wilhelm Tell Festival has been a New Glarus Labor Day weekend tradition since 1938. Live theater presentation tells the story of Wilhelm Tell, written by German Playwright Friedrich Schiller. Ethnic presentation features intricate costumes and a lively cast with goats, cows and horses. The colorful performance is brought to life by over 200 local volunteers. the community tells the story of how Wilhelm Tell, along with his crossbow and apple, helped to gain independence for Switzerland from the Habsburg tyrant.
The story of Wilhelm Tell, who is a national Swiss hero, is interwoven with myth. Research has shown that many elements of the story are true. The historical legend is a living part of Swiss history.
There are two English performances, held on Saturday, September 1 and Sunday September 2. There is a German performance held on Saturday, September 1. Advance tickets are $10 Adults and $5 children.
In addition to the play, there the 70th Wilhelm Tell Festival features events for the entire Labor Day weekend. the weekend includes a Children’s Lantern Parade, Swiss Camping, yodel concert, interfaith worship at eh Ruetli and Friends of New Glarus Library Annual Book Sale.
September 3
Schuetzen Fest
New Glarus, WI
Traditional Swiss Schuetzen Fest is a shooting competition open to the public. The event begins at 11 am on the Wilhelm Tell grounds.
September 1-2
Sesquicentennial Spring Green
Spring Green,
150 Year community celebration weekend. Spring Green, well known as the town where famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright had hs home and design school, was originally settled by Welsh English,Norwegian and German immigrants.
September 8-9
Laura Ingalls Wilder Days
Pepin, WI
Pepin is the birthplace of Laura Ingalls Wilders. This two day festival commemorates the settlers and pioneers of Wisconsin in the late 1800’s.
September 15-16
Wine and Harvest Festival
Cedarburg, WI
35th Annual Wine and Harvest Festival features a farmers market, two art shows, shearing and weaving demonstrations, sheep, llamas, hayrides, grape stomping, apple bobbing, new quilt museum and more. Wine tasting and winery tours will be featured at Cedar Creek Settlement,
Septemer 14-16
Oktoberfest
Chippewa Falls
September 28-30
Warrens Cranberry Festival
Warren, WI
The 35th annual cranberry festival bills itself as the World’s Largest Cranberry Festival. More that 1250 booths of souvenirs craft items from local vendors. celebrate the official State fruit of Wisconsin. The weekend event features good fun, contests, and more. On Friday and Saturday Cranberry marsh Tours will be offered for $6 per person. Guest rides buses to the area cranberry marshes to learn about the cranberry industry. The 2007 Warren’s Cranberry Festival Parade is on Sunday at 12:30 pm.
September 28-30
Cornish Festival
Mineral Point, WI
15th annual Cornish Festival is a three day event that includes a traditional Friday night pub night mat Pendarvis, Taste of Mineral Point and a variety of Cornish entertainment.
October 5-7
Oktoberfest sponsored by New Glarus Brewing Company
New Glarus
Oktoberfest is celebrated in downtown New Glarus. Live music will play in the festival tent. Fun for the whole family, with kid’s games, rides, food, tractor drawn wagon rides, craft displays and local historical displays.
October 7
New Glarus Swiss Historical Village Cheese Making
Swiss Historical Village presents a live cheese making demonstration. Cheese Masters from around Wisconsin make Swiss cheese and other favorites in antique copper cheese vats. Production methods dating to the 1800.s will be used.
October 6 & 7
26th Annual Mount Horeb Fall Heritage Festival
Mount Horeb, WI
October 14
Agricultural Heritage Day
Spring Green
Information subject to change.
