Celebrate at Milwaukee’s Cultural Festivals

It’s time to celebrate! Milwaukee is known as the City of Festivals, and the city more than earns that title during the summer months. Set on the shores of Lake Michigan, Milwaukee’s Henry Maier Festival Park is where the party starts. From Summerfest, “The World’s Largest Music Festival”, in June to Indian Summer Festival in September, you’ll find a reason to join the party.

July Festivals

Festa Italiana

Get a taste of all things Italian at Festa Italiana in downtown Milwaukee. Play a game of bocce ball or take a spin at the carnival, then end your night with a gondola ride under a sky of fireworks.

Featuring a cannoli-eating contest, futsal tournament, and a full lineup of entertainment, there’s something at this festa to delight the whole family.  

German Fest

 “Get Your Deutsch On” at this year’s German Fest, which features five stages of entertainment along with German food favorites, family activities, music, Sheepshead lessons, and, of course, fireworks. Just put the kids in lederhosen or a dirndl and head out the door.

Let loose and get your polka on at one of the many live concerts! These bands are loud, proud, and ready for a party, and audience participation is highly encouraged.

August Festivals

Black Arts Fest MKE

African and African American traditions and culture will greet you at nearly every corner of the festival. 

There will be plenty of hands-on activities that kids will love in the Children’s Play Area. Witness the evolution and splendor of African and African American creative expression in the Artistry of Heritage Area. If you like shopping, plan a visit to Market Square where you will find accessories, organic products, jewelry, carved wood sculptures and more.

Irish Fest

The world’s largest Irish cultural festival brings the Emerald Isle to the shore of Lake Michigan!

Listen to traditional music, admire the dancers jigging to heart-pounding beats, enjoy roaming performers in traditional costumes and experience Ireland's folklore through cultural exhibits, theater and craft demonstrations.

Mexican Fiesta

Delight your senses with the tastes and sounds of Mexico at this Milwaukee fiesta. Enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine and mariachi music, then head out to the dance floor for the salsa/ bachata dancing contest.­­­­

Best of all, Mexican Fiesta is all about giving back, and proceeds from the fiesta go toward scholarships for local Hispanic students. 

September Festivals

Indian Summer Festival

Indian Summer is the largest Native American fest in the country, showcasing ethnic art, music, history and food. 

Browse handcrafted pieces of artwork at the “Circle of Art” exhibit, ­­­­listen to native storytellers and entertainers, and experience the diversity of tribal dance styles and regalia at a traditional pow-wow. This weekend of fun and fellowship is not to be missed.

For more information on Milwaukee World Festivals, including PrideFest, Summerfest and Polish Fest check out their calendar here or find festivals throughout Wisconsin in our events directory.