5 Can't-Miss Spring Festivals in Wisconsin

In Wisconsin, spring means that the days are getting longer and summer is fast approaching. Celebrate the changing seasons with friends and family at these one-of-a-kind events happening throughout the state.

Whether you’re a fan of rare mushrooms or maple syrup, Wisconsin has the festival for you! Check out some of the most popular events happening around the state this season.

Morel Mushroom Festival – Muscoda

The uniquely challenging growing conditions of morel mushrooms make it impossible for them to be harvested commercially, so they’ve become something of a rare delicacy. One place you won’t have to hunt for them is at Muscoda’s Morel Mushroom Festival, where local growers and mushroom enthusiasts alike gather to trade thousands of pounds of these delectable morsels throughout the weekend.

Head to mushroom headquarters, where you and your crew can sample sautéed morels while supplies last. You can also find them prepared in plenty of other ways too - we highly recommend giving the morel bratwurst a taste test! Once you’ve had your fill, be sure to check out the craft fair and carnival before catching the fireworks display after the sun sets. 

Springfest – Chippewa Falls

Kick off the start of warmer weather with Springfest in Chippewa Falls. Dance to live music with friends at multiple stages in the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds, sample tasty dishes from food trucks and be sure to bring the kids for the petting zoo, face painting and other family fun. There will also be vendors selling locally made crafts in heated tents and a community bonfire to bring everyone together for an unforgettable weekend.

100-Mile Garage Sale – Pepin

Each year in May, 100 miles of the Great River Road between Fountain City and Prescott are transformed into a treasure hunter’s paradise. During the 100-Mile Garage Sale, individuals and local businesses alike take the opportunity to clean house and offer one-of-a-kind finds at low prices.

There isn’t a master list of every sale along the route, so you have to keep an eye out for the ribbons marking which sales are participating – almost like a scavenger hunt! Whether you’re looking to discover vintage gems or are just in it for the scenic road trip with friends, you’re sure to have fun exploring along the famous 100-Mile Garage Sale.

Spring Fair on the Square – Baraboo

Every spring, Baraboo’s charming downtown comes alive with art, music, and delicious food. The Spring Fair on the Square draws more than 150 artists and crafters to put their unique talents on display. You’ll see everything from hand-blown glass, metalwork sculptures, intricate pottery and plenty more.

The main attraction may be the local artists, but there’s even more to be found at the Spring Fair on the Square. Be sure to take a stroll through the farmers' market where local growers also put the fruits of their labor on display. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab some grub from a local vendor and stop to enjoy live music surrounded by beautiful art and great company.

Maple Syrup Festival – Phelps

Everybody loves maple syrup, but how much do you know about where it comes from? To answer this question and more, look no further than Phelps' Maple Syrup Festival. Perfect for all ages, the whole family can watch live tree-tapping demos and hop on a free guided bus tour of local sugar bushes to get a better understanding of how raw sap is transformed into the delicious maple syrup we douse our pancakes with.

Once you’ve developed a new appreciation for fresh maple syrup, head to the Maple Café, where you can get your hands on just about any maple-flavored treat you can think of! Stick around and you’ll even get to see who’s crowned champion of the maple syrup contest.