Great summer festivals
Here are the best of the fests in the Upper Midwest.
© Beth Gauper
A tugboat passes through the Soo Locks during the annual tugboat parade.
When summer comes, there's no time to waste.
Everyone is throwing a party, and you're invited.
For even more festivals, see Celebrating roots, a comprehensive list of ethnic festivals.
For food festivals, see A feast of festivals.
For outdoor art fairs, see Art al fresco.
For dragon-boat festivals, see Waking the
dragon.
For beer festivals, see Best brew fests.
For more events, see our Events Calendar.
Here are some of the best in 2012. Always check before you go to verify dates and to make sure you catch
the best parts of a festival, especially the parades.
Memorial Day weekend
ChocolateFest in Burlington, WI This big festival in southeast Wisconsin features a battle of the chefs, a geocache treasure hunt, Project Yum-way candy-wrapper design contest and Chocolate Olympics, plus a crafts fair and carnival. May 23–28.
Dylan Days in Hibbing, MN Bob's hometown celebrates his 71st birthday with a film festival, singer-songwriter contest, jam session at Zimmy's and a Bobby Zimmerman bus tour. May 24–27.
North Iowa Band Festival in Mason City, IA There's a carnival, craft show and car cruise, but don't miss the 10 a.m. Saturday band parade in this northern Iowa town, which Meredith Willson made famous in "The Music Man.'' May 24–26.
Festival of Nature in Baileys Harbor, WI Ridges Sanctuary hosts this annual festival, with programs and field trips on wildflowers, birds, trees and insects held around Door County. May 24–26.
World's Largest Brat Fest in Madison, WI It's a music festival featuring the world's largest touring grill (a Johnsonville semi that can cook 750 brats at a time), the Oscar Meyer Wienermobile and brats. There are also carnival rides and a Cut the Mustard high-school band competition. Admission is free. Outside the Alliant Energy Center. May 25–28.
Fort Michilimackinac Pageant in Mackinaw City, MI This free pageant at Colonial Michilimackinac features a cast of more than 400, re-enacting events that took place between the French, British and Indian tribes on June 2, 1763. There are also 18th-century fashion shows, voyageur contests, kids' games and a 1 p.m. Saturday parade. May 26–28.
BobFest in Spring Green, WI The Spring Green General Store in this artistic town on the Wisconsin River celebrates Bob Dylan's 71st birthday with free outdoor music. May 27.
© Beth Gauper
A boom runner competes in Hayward's Lumberjack World Championships.
First weekend in June
Pirate Festival in Port Washington, WI The festival in this Lake Michigan town north of Milwaukee (motto: "We love the smell of black powder in the morning'') includes a pirate invasion, schooner cruises, Saturday-night fireworks and a parade at noon Sunday. June 1–3.
Irish Festival in Oshkosh, WI This festival in Riverside Park on the Fox River includes Irish music, food and dancing. June 1–3.
Street Faire at the Lakes in Detroit Lakes, MN This western-Minnesota lake town hosts a juried arts show with music, fair food and a beer garden. June 1–2.
Milk Days in Harvard, IL The festival in this small town just south of Lake Geneva, Wis., is the longest running in the state. There's a milk-drinking contests, milking demonstrations, cow-chip lotto, bed races, hot-air balloon launches and a parade at 1 p.m. Saturday. June 1–3.
Great Wisconsin Cheese Festival in Little Chute, WI This Fox Cities festival includes cheese-curd eating, cheese-carving and cheesecake contests and a 10:30 a.m. Saturday cheese parade. June 1–3.
Edina Art Fair in Edina, MN The juried show in this posh southern Minneapolis suburb draws 375 exhibitors and 60,000 people. June 1–3. Location web site
Iowa Arts Festival in Iowa City, IA This downtown festival features an art show, a Global Village, a Culinary Row and music and dance. Sunday is Children's Day, with 10 booths of hands-on activities. June 1–3.
Rhubarb Festival in Lanesboro, MN There’s a Rhubarb Olympics, featuring the Rhubarb Stalk Throw and Green Eggs and Rhubarb, and a Rhubarb Rant Speakers Corner for opinionated folks. The Rhubarb Sisters entertain. It's 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Sylvan Park. June 2.
Grand Old Day in St. Paul, MN When the weather's nice, crowds turn out for this street fair, during which Grand Avenue is divided into "districts'': entertainment, family fun, sporting, international and art. June 3.
Ride for the Arts in Milwaukee, WI This bicycle ride along the Lake Michigan lakefront includes routes of 5, 12, 25, 50 and 75 miles. The three longer routes will include the Hoan Bridge on I-794, which will be closed to cars for two hours, and the longest route goes as far north as Port Washington. The rides start and end at the Summerfest grounds, and there's a party afterward. June 3.
© Beth Gauper
Milk-carton boat races on Lake Calhoun are part of Aquatennial in Minneapolis.
Second weekend in June
Butterfest in Sparta, WI There's the usual arts and crafts show, flea market and carnival but also milking and butter-carving contests. The big parade is Sunday. June 7–10.
Steel Bridge SongFest in Sturgeon Bay, WI More than 150 musicians and songwriters perform in more than 15 venues around town to benefit the historic Michigan Avenue canal bridge. June 7–10.
Blues Festival in Chicago, IL This is the largest of Chicago's free music festivals, drawing 750,000 people to Grant Park. June 8–10.
Lilac Festival in Mackinac Island, MI Most of the events of this festival charge a fee, except for the closing-day grand parade, but the island really is gorgeous when its lilacs are blooming. June 8–17.
Stamman Scandinavian Folk Festival in Nisswa, MN This festival in the Brainerd Lakes area features visiting musicians from Denmark, Sweden and Norway as well as many North American folk musicians. June 8–9.
Lighthouse Festival in Door County, WI The Door County Maritime Museum in Sturgeon Bay offers tours of the peninsula's 10 lighthouses by foot, boat, trolley and minibus. Tickets go on sale April 1; some tours sell out quickly. June 8–10.
Regatta and Unvarnished Music Festival in Worthington, MN This southern Minnesota town is a windsurfing hot spot and hosts the U.S. National Windsurfing Championships on Lake Okabena. There's an arts festival, too. June 8–10.
Spring Art Tour in Mount Horeb, WI Artists open their studios in Mount Horeb and other towns in the Wisconsin River valley: Mazomanie, Black Earth, Cross Plains, Blue Mounds and Verona. June 8–10.
Ribfest Chicago in Chicago, IL This street festival in the Northcenter neighborhood, on Lincoln Avenue between Irving Park Road and Warner Avenue, features barbecue plus indie, roots, rock and alt country music. There's a Kids Square with games and a rib-eating contest Friday with professional eaters. June 8–10.
1900 America Chautauqua in Rockford, IL Meet Buffalo Bill, Annie Oakley, Mark Twain and other turn-of-the-century celebrities and see live theater, a medicine show and Buffalo Bill's Wild West & Congress of Rough Riders of the World at Midway Village Museum. June 9–10.
Wells Street/Old Town art fairs in Chicago, IL Together, the Wells Street Art Festival and nearby Old Town Art Fair two fairs have more than 500 exhibitors and draw 110,000 visitors. June 9–10.
Grant Wood Art Festival in Anamosa, IA This festival celebrates its 40th year with juried art, music, children's activities and the chance to see Grant Wood originals. The artist was born in rural Anamosa and co-founded the Stone City Art Colony nearby. June 10.
Steamboat Days in Burlington, IA There's a carnival, music on two stages, a parade at 11 a.m. Saturday and a Sunday art fair on Snake Alley. June 12–17.
Third weekend in June
Lilac Festival in Mackinac Island, MI Most of the events of this festival charge a fee, except for the closing-day grand parade, but the island really is gorgeous when its lilacs are blooming. June 8–17.
Steamboat Days in Burlington, IA There's a carnival, music on two stages, a parade at 11 a.m. Saturday and a Sunday art fair on Snake Alley. June 12–17.
Steamboat Days in Winona, MN The main event is the 12:31 p.m. Sunday parade, one of the region's largest. There's also a carnival, craft show, power-boat races and car show. June 13–17.
Polish Fest in Milwaukee, WI This big festival on the lakefront features lots of rollicking, zydeco-laced polka and hearty food. June 15–17.
Great Galena Balloon Race in Galena, IL Eagle Ridge Resort hosts two balloon races, two night glows and rides for the public. An Alefest Friday includes tastings of more than 100 beers. June 15–17.
Balloon Rally in Monroe, WI The capital of cheese country hosts Wisconsin's longest-running rally. There's a balloon launch and glow Friday evening and a 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. launch Saturday, as well as an arts and crafts fair, classic-car show, live music, games and food. June 15–16.
Fyr Bal Festival in Ephraim, WI It's the 48th annual Scandinavian midsummer festival in this Door County village. There's a regatta, historic walking tours, art fair, trolley rides, Fur Ball pet parade, cake walk and, of course, a fish boil. June 16.
Country USA in Oshkosh, WI Keith Urban, Brad Paisley and Sugarland are among the headliners of this year's big festival. June 19–23.
© Torsten Muller
Interpreters at Grand Portage National Monument re-enact the fur-trade era.
Fourth weekend in June
Country USA in Oshkosh, WI Keith Urban, Brad Paisley and Sugarland are among the headliners of this year's big festival. June 19–23.
Musky Fest in Hayward, WI A carnival, crafts, ice cream-eating contest and lots of festivities downtown, capped by the 1:30 p.m. Sunday parade. June 21–24.
Country Fest in Cadott, WI This year's big outdoor festival near Chippewa Falls features Sugarland, Brad Paisley and Keith Urban. June 21–24.
Wooden Boat Show and Summer Solstice Festival in Grand Marais, MN The harbor-side North House Folk School on Lake Superior kicks off summer with food, dancing and displays. June 22–24.
Water Ski Days in Lake City, MN There's music, an arts and crafts fair, Segway rides and, on Sunday, a 2 p.m. parade followed by a water-ski show on Lake Pepin, where water-skiing was invented. June 22–24.
Heidi Festival in New Glarus, WI Performances based on the children's book are featured in this heavily Swiss town near Madison, where nearly every building is a chalet. Saturday is Taste of New Glarus. June 22–24.
Twin Cities Jazz Festival in St. Paul, MN Listen to jazz in Mears Park, in St. Paul's Lowertown. June 22–24.
Des Moines Arts Festival in Des Moines, IA This big, juried arts fair at Western Gateway Park downtown includes street theater, live music and a film festival. June 22–24.
Cedar Basin Jazz Festival in Cedar Falls, IA There's 42 hours of free entertainment in Sturgis Park, including a Sunday morning gospel set and a jazz brunch. June 22–24.
Strawberry Festival in Cedarburg, WI During this popular event in an old mill town north of Milwaukee, you can get strawberries in everything — brats, wine, slush. June 23–24.
Midsummer Fest in Coon Valley, WI This family festival at Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center, in the coulees near La Crosse, features the best of Scandinavian culture: food, music and crafts. For children, there will be a visit from the trolls by the bridge, fjord horses and a scavenger hunt. June 23–24.
Park Point Art Fair in Duluth, MN This fun festival is held across the Aerial Lift Bridge, on the sand spit that creates the harbor. June 23–24.
© Beth Gauper
On Madeline Island, the Fourth of July parade follows the Lake Superior shoreline.
Last weekend of June-Fourth of July
Summerfest in Milwaukee, WI They call this the world's largest music festival. Big-name musicians perform on 11 stages along Lake Michigan. June 27–July 1.
Eyes to the Skies Festival in Lisle, IL This large festival on the west edge of Chicago features a daily hot-air balloon launches, glows and fireworks shows, plus children's activities and a craft fair. June 29–July 1.
Mississippi Valley Blues Festival in Davenport, IA In LeClaire Park on the river, blues musicians celebrate the music that traveled up the Mississippi. June 29–July 1.
Iowa City Jazz Festival in Iowa City, IA This downtown festival features a Culinary Row, Fun Zone for kids and Sunday fireworks in addition to music. June 29–July 1.
River Rendezvous in Manitowoc, WI The Wisconsin Maritime Museum hosts the schooner Denis Sullivan for tours and Lake Michigan cruises and offers a boat-building contest and race, music and guided canoe paddles on the Manitowoc River. June 29–July 1.
Engineers Day/Bridge Walk in Sault Ste. Marie, MI It's the biggest week of the year for boat nerds at the Soo Locks. Friday is the Engineers Day open house (people can walk across the locks). Saturday is the 2.8-mile International Bridge Walk (people can walk to Canada). June 29–30. Bridge Walk site
Rhythm & Booms in Madison, WI In Warner Park on Lake Mendota, there's a carnival, music, bicycle parade, parachute-team show, flyover and fireworks. June 30.
Petunia Festival in Dixon, IL This festival in the Hometown of Ronald Reagan features music, a carnival, fireworks, performances by the Wonder Lake water-ski team on Saturday and Monday and a parade at 1 p.m. Sunday. July 3–8.
Riverfest in La Crosse, WI This big riverfront festival features water-ski and lumberjack shows, kids' games, music on four stages, a Venetian parade Friday and a family parade and races Saturday. July 3–7.
Winnipeg Folk Festival in Winnipeg, MB For many people, this easy-going, family-friendly festival is the highlight of summer. Many camp on-site at Birds Hill Provincial Park. Tickets are cheaper if bought by May 31. July 4–8.
You won't have to look far for fireworks and festivities over the Fourth of July weekend.
They're over Lake Mendota from Warner Park in Madison June 30, Lake Michigan from
Veterans Park in Milwaukee July 3, on the Mississippi
riverfront in Minneapolis July 4 and all over the region.
First weekend in July
Summerfest in Milwaukee, WI They call this the world's largest music festival. Big-name musicians perform on 11 stages along Lake Michigan. July 3–8.
Petunia Festival in Dixon, IL This festival in the Hometown of Ronald Reagan features music, a carnival, fireworks, performances by the Wonder Lake water-ski team on Saturday and Monday and a parade at 1 p.m. Sunday. July 3–8.
Riverfest in La Crosse, WI This big riverfront festival features water-ski and lumberjack shows, kids' games, music on four stages, a Venetian parade Friday and a family parade and races Saturday. July 3–7.
Winnipeg Folk Festival in Winnipeg, MB For many people, this easy-going, family-friendly festival is the highlight of summer. Many camp on-site at Birds Hill Provincial Park. Tickets are cheaper if bought by May 31. July 4–8.
Heart of the North Rodeo in Spooner, WI Look for the four R's in this western Wisconsin town: roping, bull riding, steer wrestling and barrel racing. A parade is on Saturday. July 5–7.
Laura Ingalls Wilder pageant in De Smet, SD The outdoor pageant in this eastern South Dakota town, the setting for most of the "Little House'' books, celebrates its 41st anniversary with "The Long Winter.'' July 6–8.
Laura Ingalls Wilder pageant in Walnut Grove, MN The festival in this western Minnesota town revolves around the book "On the Banks of Plum Creek.'' July 6–7.
Wacipi at the Prairie Island Indian Community in Red Wing, MN This Dakota powwow near Red Wing, at Treasure Island Resort & Casino, is a competition, so expect lots of flashy dancing. Grand entries are at 1 and 7 p.m. July 6–8.
Blues Festival in Thunder Bay, ON This festival has a scenic location in Marina Park, on the Lake Superior waterfront. July 6–8.
Basilica Block Party in Minneapolis, MN This family-friendly outdoor rock festival on the grounds of the Basilica of St. Mary benefits its restoration and outreach programs. July 6–7.
National Cherry Festival in Traverse City, MI This town on Lake Michigan attracts half a million people to events that include air shows, an arts fair, music, races and many contests, including pie-eating and pit-spitting. The Cherry Royale Parade is 11:15 a.m. the last Sunday. July 7–14.
© Beth Gauper
The Portage Lake Lift Bridge connects Houghton and Hancock on the Keweenaw Peninsula.
Second weekend in July
National Cherry Festival in Traverse City, MI This town on Lake Michigan attracts half a million people to events that include air shows, an arts fair, music, races and many contests, including pie-eating and pit-spitting. The Cherry Royale Parade is 11:15 a.m. the last Sunday. July 7–14.
Taste of Chicago in Chicago, IL The big free festival in Grant Park continues with a new date, a shorter length and more emphasis on food. July 11–15.
Bastille Days in Milwaukee, WI Look for minstrels, beignets, French lessons and a 43-foot replica of the Eiffel Tower in Cathedral Square Park. July 12–15.
Iola Old Car Show in Iola, WI This show and swap meet brings 135,000 people to this village east of Stevens Point. July 12–15.
Hodag Country Festival in Rhinelander, WI This year, performers at this big fest include Trace Adkins, Lee Greenwood and Chris Young. There's a band contest, too. July 12–15.
Rock USA in Oshkosh, WI This big rock festival is held in Ford Festival Park. July 12–14.
Aquatennial in Minneapolis, MN Among the highlights of this big festival are the Lake Calhoun milk-carton boat races and sandcastle contest, the Hennepin Avenue Torchlight Parade and Mississippi River fireworks show. July 13–21.
Laura Ingalls Wilder pageant in De Smet, SD The outdoor pageant in this eastern South Dakota town, the setting for most of the "Little House'' books, celebrates its 41st anniversary with "The Long Winter.'' July 13–15.
Laura Ingalls Wilder pageant in Walnut Grove, MN The festival in this western Minnesota town revolves around the book "On the Banks of Plum Creek.'' July 13–14.
Northwest Water Carnival in Detroit Lakes, MN This big festival celebrates its 76th year with a sand-castle contest, water fights, ship-building (in less than 30 minutes), beer tasting, hat hunt, bike tour and more. On the last day, there's a big parade at 1 p.m. July 13–22.
Phelps Mill Festival in Phelps, MN There's a juried arts and crafts fair, children's activities and music in this bucolic, tucked-away park along the Otter Tail River, next to an 1889 brick and clapboard mill that's open for tours. The hamlet of Phelps is just west of Otter Tail Lake and north of Underwood. July 14–15.
Art Fair On/Off the Square in Madison, WI Nearly 500 artists from around the nation will be selling on Capitol Square and 140 Wisconsin artists around Monona Terrace, attracting more than 200,000 people. July 14–15. Off the Square website
Grand Marais Arts Festival in Grand Marais, MN This juried art show along the Lake Superior harbor includes children's activities, art demonstrations, a pie social and live music. July 14–15.
Woodstock Folk Festival in Woodstock, IL Music on the square in this town not far over the Wisconsin border from Lake Geneva. July 15.
© Beth Gauper
At Buffalo Days in Luverne, Minn., tiny dancers perform to the tune "On the Good Ship Lollipop.''
Third weekend in July
Aquatennial in Minneapolis, MN Among the highlights of this big festival are the Lake Calhoun milk-carton boat races and sandcastle contest, the Hennepin Avenue Torchlight Parade and Mississippi River fireworks show. July 13–21.
Northwest Water Carnival in Detroit Lakes, MN This big festival celebrates its 76th year with a sand-castle contest, water fights, ship-building (in less than 30 minutes), beer tasting, hat hunt, bike tour and more. On the last day, there's a big parade at 1 p.m. July 13–22.
Rock Fest in Cadott, WI This year's big outdoor festival near Chippewa Falls features top national musicians. July 19–22.
Moondance Jam in Walker, MN This big classic-rock and camping festival celebrates its 21st year with headliners that include Kid Rock and Hinder. July 19–21.
Festa Italiana in Milwaukee, WI A celebration of all things Italian at the lakefront Henry Maier Festival Park. July 19–22.
Laura Ingalls Wilder pageant in De Smet, SD The outdoor pageant in this eastern South Dakota town, the setting for most of the "Little House'' books, celebrates its 41st anniversary with "The Long Winter.'' July 20–22.
Laura Ingalls Wilder pageant in Walnut Grove, MN The festival in this western Minnesota town revolves around the book "On the Banks of Plum Creek.'' July 20–21.
Highland Fest in St. Paul, MN This street fair in St. Paul's Highland Park neighborhood includes an arts fair, music, carnival rides and food. On Saturday from 1 to 5 p.m., there's beer tasting at The Beer Dabbler Showcase. July 20–22.
Oregon Trail Days in Oregon, IL This town on the Rock River, south of Rockford, celebrates its heritage with a Native American encampment and cowboy and frontier acts, including a medicine show, gun-spinning and rope-cracking. There are covered-wagon rides and and a canoe rally and 8K run on Sunday. Rent a tepee or covered wagon to stay in. Proceeds go to restore Oregon's 48-foot statue of Chief Black Hawk, made in 1911. July 21–22.
Charlevoix Venetian Festival in Charlevoix, MI A week of music and games winds up with an 11 a.m. street parade and 10 p.m. lighted boat parade, followed by fireworks. July 21–28.
Agate Days in Moose Lake, MN See the beautiful stones on display, then dig for them at 2 p.m. Saturday during the Agate Stampede, when a load of rocks seeded with 500 pounds agates and $400 in quarters is dumped downtown. There's also an art fair and antique-car show, and admission to Moose Lake State Park is free. July 21–22.
EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, WI This huge Experimental Aircraft Association festival includes air shows, fireworks, big-name concerts, children's activities, workshops, exhibits and rides in historic aircraft. Reserve lodgings early; it fills rooms within a 60-mile radius. July 23–29.
Waterama in Glenwood, MN This festival on the shores of Lake Minnewaska is famous for its lighted pontoon parade, followed by fireworks. On Sunday, there's a parade on land, followed by a water-ski show. July 24–29.
© Beth Gauper
Fans listen to music at the Winnipeg Folk Festival.
Fourth weekend in July
Charlevoix Venetian Festival in Charlevoix, MI A week of music and games winds up with an 11 a.m. street parade and 10 p.m. lighted boat parade, followed by fireworks. July 21–28.
EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, WI This huge Experimental Aircraft Association festival includes air shows, fireworks, big-name concerts, children's activities, workshops, exhibits and rides in historic aircraft. Reserve lodgings early; it fills rooms within a 60-mile radius. July 23–29.
Waterama in Glenwood, MN This festival on the shores of Lake Minnewaska is famous for its lighted pontoon parade, followed by fireworks. On Sunday, there's a parade on land, followed by a water-ski show. July 24–29.
Nordic Fest in Decorah, IA Ole and Lena host this friendly, authentic, very fun and very large festival of Scandinavian culture. The parade, one of the region's best, is at 10:30 a.m. Saturday. July 26–28.
German Fest in Milwaukee, WI Look for dachshunds, dirndls and lots of oompah music at this big party at Henry Maier Festival Park on Lake Michigan. July 26–29.
Betty Boop Festival in Wisconsin Rapids, WI This Wisconsin River town celebrates native son Myron "Grim'' Natwick, animator of the squeaky-voiced Hollywood star, with a look-alike contest, musical revue and film festival. July 26–29.
North Star Stampede in Effie, MN The rodeo in this town of 90 is a good excuse to explore the Edge of the Wilderness Scenic Byway, which winds through Chippewa National Forest north of Grand Rapids. July 27–29.
National Balloon Classic in Indianola, IA This giant hot-air balloon festival includes daily flights, rides for the public, music, night glows, fireworks and a parade. July 27–Aug. 4.
Taste of Wisconsin in Kenosha, WI This free harborfront festival features locally produced specialties as well as cooking demonstrations, gardening workshops and music on three stages. July 27–29.
Coast Guard Festival in Grand Haven, MI There's nightly entertainment on the waterfront, a downtown carnival, tours of Coast Guard cutters, a juried craft and a Grand Parade and fireworks. July 27–Aug. 5.
Prairie Dog Blues Festival in Prairie du Chien, WI This Mississippi River festival on historic St. Feriole Island features 12 bands on two stages, with onsite camping. July 27–28.
Sleepy Bear Music Festival in Lake Ann, MI The producers of the Dunegrass Music Festival host this family-friendly fest between Empire and Traverse City, with arts and crafts vendors, children's activities, food and camping onsite. July 27–29.
Lumberjack World Championships in Hayward, WI You can't see this kind of thing just anywhere: cut-throat log rolling, boom running, springboard chopping and speed climbing. July 27–29.
Festival of Arts in Bayfield, WI There are few settings better for browsing than this village on Lake Superior. On Saturday, Bayfield artists hold a Gallery Walk. July 28–29.
Kickapoo Country Fair in La Farge, WI The festival in this hotbed of sustainable living features music, food, children's activities and workshops. July 28.
Battle for Fort William in Thunder Bay, ON In this reenactment marking the War of 1812, American forces challenge British forces defending Fort William fur post, the gateway to the Canadian interior. July 28–29.
Mississippi Valley Fair in Davenport, IA There are racing pigs, chainsaw artists and alligator, tiger and elephant shows as well as a carnival and grandstand acts that include national country musicians. July 31–Aug. 5.
© Beth Gauper
A boat races past Fairlawn Mansion at the Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival in Superior.
First weekend in August
National Balloon Classic in Indianola, IA This giant hot-air balloon festival includes daily flights, rides for the public, music, night glows, fireworks and a parade. July 27–Aug. 4.
Coast Guard Festival in Grand Haven, MI There's nightly entertainment on the waterfront, a downtown carnival, tours of Coast Guard cutters, a juried craft and a Grand Parade and fireworks. July 27–Aug. 5.
Mississippi Valley Fair in Davenport, IA There are racing pigs, chainsaw artists and alligator, tiger and elephant shows as well as a carnival and grandstand acts that include national country musicians. July 31–Aug. 5.
Wisconsin State Fair in West Allis, WI The fair in this Milwaukee suburb features lots of contests, including hog-calling, cookie-stacking and cream puff-eating. Aug. 2–12.
Bix Beiderbecke Memorial Jazz Festival in Davenport, IA Since 1972, fans of this Jazz Age cornetist and composer have held this festival in his hometown on the Mississippi. Aug. 2–5.
WE Fest in Detroit Lakes, MN This big fest in west-central Minnesota snags the biggest names in country music -- this year, Toby Keith, Alabama and Jason Aldean. Aug. 2–4.
Great River Jazz Festival in La Crosse, WI Jazz musicians from across the country come to play in Riverside Park and the conference center next door. Aug. 2–5.
Brat Days in Sheboygan, WI This town on Lake Michigan is sausage central. There's music, a carnival, beer and, of course, a brat-eating contest. The parade is Saturday. Aug. 2–4.
Fishermen's Picnic in Grand Marais, MN There's a lot going on at the North Shore's biggest festival, including loon-calling, log-rolling and rock-skipping contests; a boat parade Saturday; and the grand parade Sunday. Aug. 2–5.
Pie Day in Braham, MN Minnesota's official Pie Capital near Cambridge holds pie-eating contests, a pie trivia contest and performances of the Pie-Alleuia Chorus. Aug. 3.
River City Days in Red Wing, MN In this Mississippi River town, there's music, food and games in Bay Point Park and an arts show in Levee Park. There's a Venetian boat parade at dusk Saturday and the grand parade Sunday. Aug. 3–5.
Buffalo Bill Days in Lanesboro, MN Ride the Root River State Trail then enjoy music, games and food in this bluff-country burg. A parade is Sunday. Aug. 3–5.
Uptown Art Fair in Minneapolis, MN This large juried art fair in the Uptown neighborhood draws crowds. Take the Art Hop bus to avoid congestion and to get to the two other art fairs in south Minneapolis. Aug. 3–5.
Lollapalooza in Chicago, IL This big music festival features dozens of bands and, unlike other Grant Park festivals, is not free: Three-day passes are $175-$215. Aug. 3–5.
Country on the River in Prairie du Chien, WI Travis Tritt and Gary Allan headline the national acts performing on two stages on St. Feriole Island. Aug. 3–4.
Loring and Powderhorn arts festivals in Minneapolis, MN These smaller festivals in Powderhorn Park, in south Minneapolis, and Loring Park, on the edge of downtown, are not far from the Uptown Art Fair. All are easily reached by bus shuttle or by bicycle on the Midtown Greenway. Aug. 4–5. Loring Park Art Festival
Bluesmore Music Festival in Cedar Rapids, IA The historic Brucemore estate hosts this blues fest on its expansive lawn. Aug. 4.
Folklorama in Winnipeg, MB This Manitoba prairie town celebrates its heritage with pavilions representing 44 nationalities, offering music, dance and food at many venues. Aug. 5–18.
Taste of Dorset in Dorset, MN Ride the Heartland State Trail to this tiny "burp in the road'' near Park Rapids, then eat your way down the street. And don't forget to vote (or run) for mayor. Food is served 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Aug. 5.
© Beth Gauper
The Minnesota State Fair includes rides on the Kidway.
Second weekend in August
Wisconsin State Fair in West Allis, WI The fair in this Milwaukee suburb features lots of contests, including hog-calling, cookie-stacking and cream puff-eating. Aug. 2–12.
Folklorama in Winnipeg, MB This Manitoba prairie town celebrates its heritage with pavilions representing 44 nationalities, offering music, dance and food at many venues. Aug. 5–18.
Tug Fest in LeClaire and Port Byron, IAIL The two towns stretch a 680-pound, 2,400-foot rope across the Mississippi River for the ultimate tug of war. (Over 25 years, the score is Illinois 15, Iowa 10.) There's also a parade, fireworks, children's games, concerts and carnival rides. Aug. 9–11. Event web site/Port Byron
Minnesota Bluegrass & Old-Time Music Festival in Richmond, MN This 33rd annual family-friendly festival includes music on five stages and workshops at El Rancho Mañana Campground, 20 miles west of St. Cloud. Aug. 9–12.
National Blueberry Festival in South Haven, MI Eat until you're blue in the face during the festival in this Lake Michigan beach town. The big parade is at 1:30 p.m. Saturday. Aug. 9–12.
Iowa State Fair in Des Moines, IA See a diaper derby, outhouse races and mullet contest, and don't miss the butter sculptures. Aug. 9–19.
Grand Portage Powwow & Rendezvous in Grand Portage, MN Re-enactors from across the continent gather at Grand Portage National Monument for the annual fur-trade rendezvous; next door, the Grand Portage Band of Lake Superior Chippewa holds a powwow. Reserve lodgings far in advance. Aug. 10–12.
Bayfront Blues Festival in Duluth, MN The 24th annual music fest on the Lake Superior harbor showcases national and regional acts on three stages. Aug. 10–12.
Irish Fair in St. Paul, MN This big heritage fest on the banks of the Mississippi includes an Irish Fair Idol contest, tugs of war, sheep-herding demonstrations, ceili classes, children's games and lots of music. Aug. 10–12.
Cache Ba$h in West Bend, WI This town north of Milwaukee calls itself the Geocache Capital of the Midwest. For the festival, it hides 50 new caches and gives away $1,000 in cash prizes. Aug. 10–12.
Blue Collar BBQ and Arts Festival in Faribault, MN This big outdoor block party at Paradise Center for the Arts features an art fair, kids' area, beer garden and live music. Aug. 11.
Air and Water Show in Milwaukee, WI This show, between Bradford and McKinley beaches on the lakefront, features the Air Force Thunderbirds, Army Black Daggers and many aerobatics. Aug. 11–12.
Civil War Days in Pipestone, MN In the southwest corner of Minnesota, this festival includes quilting bees, etiquette and ballroom dance lessons, camp tours, children's games, band concerts and a grand ball. Battle re-enactments are held both days. Aug. 11–12.
© Beth Gauper
The Clown Band from Scottville, Mich., marches in Mackinac Island's Lilac Festival parade.
Third weekend in August
Folklorama in Winnipeg, MB This Manitoba prairie town celebrates its heritage with pavilions representing 44 nationalities, offering music, dance and food at many venues. Aug. 5–18.
Iowa State Fair in Des Moines, IA See a diaper derby, outhouse races and mullet contest, and don't miss the butter sculptures. Aug. 9–19.
Venetian Festival in Lake Geneva, WI In this southeast Wisconsin vacation area, the festival includes a carnival, arts and crafts fair, firefighter water fight and, on Sunday, a water-ski show followed by a lighted boat parade and fireworks. Aug. 15–19.
Irish Fest in Milwaukee, WI The nation's largest Irish festival features more than 300 entertainers on 17 stages, plus children's activities and demonstrations by Irish dog breeds. In Henry Maier Festival Park. Aug. 16–19.
Big Bull Falls Blues Fest in Wausau, WI Enjoy national and local blues musicians in Fern Island Park. There's a beer garden, of course. Aug. 17–18.
Oronoco Gold Rush in Oronoco, MN The antiques show and flea market in this friendly little village just north of Rochester off U.S. 52 includes more than 400 vendors and 1,200 booths. There's also pancakes for breakfast, homemade pie and music. Aug. 17–19.
Maritime Heritage Festival in Port Washington, WI Tall ships hold a Parade of Sail to start this Lake Michigan festival, then are open for tours and day sails. There's a fireworks show Saturday. Aug. 17–19.
Air & Water Show in Chicago, IL The 53rd annual free show features aerobatics, extreme flying, wave riding, water-skiing and wakeboarding off North Avenue Beach. Aug. 18–19.
© Pendragon Photography
In June, pirates invade Port Washington, Wis.
Fourth weekend in August
Minnesota State Fair in St. Paul, MN It's the annual extravaganza of competitions, concerts, carnival rides and food on a stick. Aug. 23–Sept. 3.
Potato Days in Barnesville, MN This goofy central-Minnesota festival features mashed-potato wrestling, a golden potato hunt, potato car races, peeling and eating contests and a Saturday parade. Aug. 24–25.
Lake Superior Dragon Boat Festival in Superior, WI The festival on Barker's Island begins Friday with a parade of teams, fireworks and a concert and continues Saturday with races in the harbor and family entertainment. Aug. 24–25.
Artstreet in Green Bay, WI Artists, performers and craft and food stands fill streets downtown near the Fox River. Aug. 24–26.
Porcupine Mountains Music Festival in Silver City, MI Few settings are more beautiful than Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park on Lake Superior; 25 national and regional blues, folk and bluegrass acts perform. Aug. 24–26.
Mexican Fiesta in Milwaukee, WI Another big heritage festival at the Henry Maier festival park on Lake Michigan. Aug. 24–26.
National Old Time Country Bluegrass Festival in LeMars, IA More than 600 musicians perform on 10 stages in this town in northwest Iowa. Aug. 27–Sept. 2.
© Beth Gauper
Winona royalty rides a float during the town's Steamboat Days.
Labor Day weekend
Minnesota State Fair in St. Paul, MN It's the annual extravaganza of competitions, concerts, carnival rides and food on a stick. Aug. 23–Sept. 3.
National Old Time Country Bluegrass Festival in LeMars, IA More than 600 musicians perform on 10 stages in this town in northwest Iowa. Aug. 27–Sept. 2.
Chicago Jazz Festival in Chicago, IL This free festival features one day of music at the Chicago Cultural Center, one evening at the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park and two days in Grant Park. Aug. 30–Sept. 2.
On the Waterfront music festival in Rockford, IL More than 75 performers appear on five stages, and there's food from more than 50 booths. Aug. 30–Sept. 2.
Wisconsin State Cow Chip Throw in Prairie du Sac, WI There's chip-chucking contests in this Wisconsin River town, but also music, kids' games and an arts and crafts fair. The Tournament of Chips parade is at noon Saturday. Aug. 31–Sept. 1.
Western Minnesota Steam Threshers Reunion in Rollag, MN Revel in the past during this show of antique machinery, which includes rides on trains and a carousel, square dancing, roving musicians and nightly jamborees. Aug. 31–Sept. 3.
Wilhelm Tell Festival in New Glarus, WI This Swiss town near Madison has been putting on an outdoor William Tell pageant since 1938. Festivities include a children's lantern parade, yodeling, an arts show and ethnic fashions. Sept. 1–2.
Taste of Madison in Madison, WI This free benefit festival on Capitol Square includes 300 menu items from more than 80 restaurants, all priced at $1-$4. There's also music on three stages. On Sunday, there's a lighted boat parade on Lake Mendota, followed by fireworks. Sept. 1–2.
Marquette Area Blues Fest in Marquette, MI Two days of music in Mattson Lower Harbor Park on Lake Superior. Sept. 1–2.
Festival of Iowa Beers in Amana, IA Sample craft beers at Millstream Brewing Co., Iowa's oldest microbrewery. Sept. 2.
Mackinac Bridge Walk in Mackinaw City, MI Once a year, on Labor Day, people can walk across the five-mile span, the third-longest suspension bridge in the world. Sept. 3.
For the best events in autumn, see Great fall festivals.
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