Get Out of the House This Spring with These Kid-Friendly Events

Spring in Wisconsin brings with it many celebrations perfect for the whole family. Discover indoor and outdoor activities that will get you and the kids out of the house and into exciting activities tailored to the season. Taste the sweetness of local maple syrup, meet and pet baby farm animals and dive into different cultures at these family-friendly events–you’ll be glad you did!

Maple Syrup Family Day - Richfield

Just down the road from scenic Holy Hill, Richfield’s Maple Syrup Family Day spotlights one of Mother Nature’s tastiest treats each March. You and the kids can see how the syrup is made from trees in Richfield Historical Park, vote for the tastiest flavors in the maple syrup contest and enjoy live cooking, weaving and blacksmithing demonstrations. There will be plenty to eat at the pancake and sausage breakfast as well as maple cotton candy for dessert. Take part in this delicious (free!) tradition that you’ll want to revisit year after year.

Ho-Chunk Founders Day Powwow - La Crosse

The Founders Day Powwow was established to celebrate the day the Ho-Chunk Tribe was officially recognized by the federal government as a sovereign nation in 1963. This event offers an exciting opportunity for the public to experience Ho-Chunk heritage and culture, including traditional and contemporary dance processions, craft vendors, lacrosse games and delicious food. Don’t miss the chance to learn more about this community that makes up an important part of Wisconsin!

Govin's Annual Lambing Barn & Farm Babies - Menomonie

What could be cuter than baby farm animals? Seeing the reaction of your kids holding baby farm animals! Head to Menomonie in western Wisconsin for the most adorable event of the season. For multiple weekends in March and April, you and your family can have a hands-on experience with lambs, piglets, ponies and more. Learn about all the cute critters and take a playful pony ride before enjoying apple cider donuts and lunch in the farm store. This is the perfect spring outing for animal lovers of all ages.

Midwest Horse Fair - Madison

Each April, horse lovers from across the country gather in Madison for the iconic Midwest Horse Fair. Whether your family is made up of expert equestrians or you’re just looking to experience something new, this is one event that will keep your group entertained all weekend long. Explore the grounds to meet all kinds of horse breeds, take a magical carriage ride, browse over 500 vendors and be sure to stick around for the rip-roaring rodeos. Visit the “kids' korral” for crafts and other activities perfect for little ones.

Hodag Heritage Festival -  Rhinelander

Have you heard of the Hodag? This mythical creature is the official mascot for the city of Rhinelander in northern Wisconsin, and each spring the community comes together to celebrate it at the Hodag Heritage Festival. Take a historical bus tour to learn more about the local legend, enter the art contest or Hodag calling contest judged on originality and take part in the city-wide ‘Hodags Throughout the City’ Scavenger Hunt as a family. With food trucks, music, a variety of vendors and experts on other legendary folktales, this is a one-of-a-kind event you’ll only find in Wisconsin.

Syttende Mai Folk Festival - Stoughton

Stoughton's Syttende Mai Folk Festival is a weekend-long celebration of Norwegian heritage featuring fun activities and cultural experiences for the whole family. From the late 1800s to the early 1900s, Stoughton saw an influx of Norwegians, and at one time, as many as 75 percent of its residents spoke Norwegian. This event takes place every year on the weekend closest to Norway’s May 17th Constitution Day, also known as Syttende Mai. 

Visit the festival to join in the fun with a parade, live music, folk dancing, arts & crafts fair, canoe races, Viking games and plenty of delicious Norwegian food, like lefsa and Norwegian meatballs (yum!). Learn about this colorful culture and welcome spring in the beautiful town of Stoughton.

Festa Italiana - Milwaukee

Wisconsin offers another lively cultural festival each year in late spring: Festa Italiana in Milwaukee. Held at Henry Maier Festival Park on the shore of Lake Michigan, this weekend-long event includes live music, dancing, cultural exhibits, bocce ball and of course lots of tasty Italian food. Celebrate all things Italian and kick off the city’s season of festivals while making memories with your favorite people.

Looking for more spring fun for the whole family? Explore these Wisconsin trips perfect for spring break with the kids.