Guide to the best fall festivals in Milwaukee and the surrounding area, including Milwaukee Oktoberfest
Wisconsin is a vibrant place to visit during the fall, full of fun festivals and events you won’t want to miss.
The fantastic and fun Milwaukee fall festivals are some of the best in the state, and a must if you plan to travel Wisconsin in the fall.
Oktoberfest is one of the most popular events among all fall festivals in Milwaukee. However, it isn’t the only event that makes the city worth visiting during the fall!
In this post, I will share some of the best Milwaukee fall events you can add to your calendar.
Whether you plan to visit Milwaukee in September or October, here are some fall activities in Milwaukee you shouldn’t miss!
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Pssst…!!?? You can’t get enough of Wisconsin? Have a look at my other posts:
- Weird Wisconsin Roadside Attractions
- Fun Outdoor Activities in Milwaukee, WI
- Cool and Unique Things To Do in Milwaukee
Table of Contents
Overview: Top 3 Milwaukee Fall Festivals
1. Milwaukee Oktoberfest – Milwaukee
When: 1st weekend of October
When it comes to Oktoberfest, Milwaukee isn’t the only city that celebrates the fall weekend getaways in Wisconsin.
However, as one of the biggest cities in Wisconsin, Milwaukee Oktoberfest is definitely one of the best fall festivals in Wisconsin!
The annual Oktoberfest in Milwaukee is usually held during the weekend in October at Cathedral Square Park, and there are many fun activities you can participate in this event.
It’s one of the must-visit fall festivals in Wisconsin, and everyone is welcome to join one of the best October festivals in Milwaukee and one of the best things to do in Wisconsin in October.
In addition to enjoying authentic German food, you can sign up for fun competitions like Miss Oktoberfest or the Weiner Dog pageant.
For visitors above 21 years old, don’t forget to reserve your drinking package and chug some refreshing beer to make the best out of your Oktoberfest in Milwaukee!
2. Zoo Brew – Milwaukee
When: 1st week of October
If you plan to attend a fall fest, Milwaukee has plenty of options you can choose.
Situated in Milwaukee County Zoo, Zoo Brew is among the best Milwaukee October events you shouldn’t miss.
While you can explore flora and fauna around the zoo for your Wisconsin fall getaways, Zoo Brew allows you to sample various new food and beers from different brewers in Milwaukee.
Not only does it make some great fall activities in Wisconsin, but it’s also a great way to support local businesses in Milwaukee.
Organized by the Zoological Society of Milwaukee, you can also get a special discount to attend the Milwaukee Fall Fest if you’re a zoo pass holder!
If you want to try more drinks, join a Milwaukee brewery tour.
3. Great Pumpkin Fest – Union Grove
When: 4th weekend of October
Visiting Milwaukee fall festivals isn’t complete without attending a pumpkin festival in October.
And that’s why you should also include the Great Pumpkin Fest on the list of must-visit festivals in Milwaukee in the fall!
This fall activities near Milwaukee is one of the best things to do in Milwaukee with kids.
It’s one of the Milwaukee October festivals that feature various family-friendly activities to enjoy, from live music to picking pumpkins for your family!
The Great Pumpkin Fest is one of the best fall festivals near Milwaukee WI. The event will be held in Union Grove, just 30-minute drive from Milwaukee city center.
In addition, you can also showcase your BBQ skills by joining the Midwest BBQ Competition in one of the best Milwaukee festivals!
![ab237e32296f824a3dedc4e0639d723b87acbd43 - 15 Fun Milwaukee Fall Festivals [2024 Guide!]](https://bucket.mlcdn.com/a/1843/1843376/images/ab237e32296f824a3dedc4e0639d723b87acbd43.png "Milwaukee fall festivals")
4. Harvest Fair – West Allis
When: the last weekend of September / the first weekend of October
Featuring free entertainment with numerous fall-themed activities, Harvest Fair is one of the best Milwaukee fall festivals suitable for visitors of all ages.
Located at the Wisconsin State Fair Park, the event has so many family-friendly fall activities in Milwaukee.
From lumberjack shows to pumpkin bowling, this harvest festival is one of the greatest fall festivals in Milwaukee, Wisconsin!
Among many Milwaukee area festivals, Harvest Fair offers three days full of family-friendly activities that can be fun for everyone.
A lot of activities are free, but those requiring tickets are also quite affordable and enjoyable for all visitors.
If you’re looking for fall festivals in Milwaukee with numerous rides and activities, don’t miss taking your family to the Harvest Fair in Milwaukee!
5. Equinox – Milwaukee
When: 4th weekend of September
If you plan to attend one of the best Milwaukee September festivals, then don’t miss the chance to explore the music scene in Wisconsin at Equinox Music Festival!
Equinox is one of the best fall festivals in Milwaukee, WI, and it takes place in The Brewery District, where you can enjoy performances by various local musicians from the city.
The venue has four stages in total, and you can enjoy your favorite musician according to the schedule.
To enhance your experience when attending Equinox, it’s worth upgrading your ticket to VIP.
With this you can get free access to the private rooftop space in addition to free drinks and hors d’oeuvres at one of the best Milwaukee fall festivals!
6. Fromm Petfest – Milwaukee
When: 4th weekend of September
One of the best Milwaukee September events you shouldn’t miss when planning to bring your furry family is Fromm Petfest.
It’s one of the greatest fall festivals near Milwaukee, WI, where you can bring your family and enjoy many pet-centric activities with your four-legged babies!
If you are considering adopting a new pet for your family, stop by Adoption Avenue to connect with various rescued animals that need a forever home.
Or if you plan to travel with your pet, you can also sign them up for the Fromm Petfest Costume Contest! Pair it up with staying at Pet-Friendly hotels in Milwaukee.
The Fromm Petfest will be held at Henry Maier Festival Park, making it one the best pet-friendly Milwaukee fall festivals!
7. Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon – Milwaukee
When: 1st weekend of October
As a city located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the lakefront in Milwaukee has become a central activity for locals and visitors alike.
One of the best fall festivals in Milwaukee is the largest marathon in Wisconsin: Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon.
If you’re a runner, this is one of the Milwaukee fall events you shouldn’t miss.
Participating in this Milwaukee Fall Fest allows you to enjoy the scenic views of Milwaukee’s natural beauty around Lake Michigan.
But more enticingly, you can also get a chance to take home the bonus of $5,000 if you break the fastest record from the previous marathons in Milwaukee!
You can sign up for Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon as one of the runners or you can just watch the hype at one of the biggest Milwaukee fall festivals.
Either way, this marathon is definitely worth going to if you are looking for ways to enjoy fall in Wisconsin!
8. Halloween Parade – Oconomowoc
When: the last weekend of October
Talking about fall festivals in Milwaukee isn’t complete without adding the Halloween Parade to your bucket list.
The upcoming parade will be held in downtown Oconomowoc, making it one of the best fall festivals near Milwaukee.
Get ready to join the ghost parade while wearing your favorite Halloween costume to be a part of the biggest Milwaukee October festivals.
The event sponsor, the Oconomowoc Lions Club, serves complimentary drinks and hot dogs that visitors can enjoy before and after the parade.
If you bring your kids to travel to Wisconsin in October, you can also take them to the parade before trick or treating around the residential area!
9. Milwaukee Paranormal Conference – Milwaukee
When: 2nd weekend of October
October is the best time to visit Milwaukee, especially if you’re interested in Wisconsin folklore or urban legends.
Among many fall festivals in Milwaukee, Milwaukee Paranormal Conference, best known as Milwaukee Paracon, is one of the best Milwaukee fall festivals if you’re into any of those.
Milwaukee Paracon will be held at the Irish Cultural and Heritage Center downtown, which is organized by the American Ghost Walks.
It’s one of the best ways to celebrate Halloween in Milwaukee, as you can listen to some of the popular Milwaukee ghost stories at the event.
In addition, you can also stop by the tarot booths or get some superstitious merchandise to complete your paranormal experiences at one of the best Milwaukee fall festivals in October!
Although the ticket to the event is free, the entrance is limited, so make sure to sign up in advance to ensure your eligibility to participate in the next Milwaukee Paranormal Conference this fall!
I also recommend doing a Milwaukee Ghost Walk, as it will pair up perfectly with this Paranormal conference!
10. Milwaukee Comedy Festival – Milwaukee
When: 1st week of October
When it comes to fall festivals, Milwaukee is home to many.
If you love to laugh, you can add a week full of comedy at Milwaukee Comedy Festival to complete the list of the Milwaukee fall festivals you should visit in October.
Milwaukee Comedy Festival has become one of the best annual fall festivals in Milwaukee.
Since its first event in 2006, Milwaukee ComedyFest has become a Milwaukee Fall Fest hosting some of the biggest names through live performances and stand-up comedy.
There are a few venues used during the fall festivals in Milwaukee.
Some will be held at the Lakefront Brewery or Dandy, while you can visit most of the events at the Milwaukee comedy club at the Laughing Tap.
11. Doors Open – Milwaukee
When: September 28 to 29, 2024
Another interesting fall festivals Milwaukee is during Doors Open where you discover hidden treasures of the city.
It’s an annual event that invites the public to explore over 100 historic and architecturally significant buildings throughout the city for free! It’s one of the best free things to do in Wisconsin.
This unique opportunity allows you to step inside buildings that are typically closed to the public.
Enjoy guided tours, learn about the history and architecture of each building, and participate in special events and activities.
12. Milwaukee Film Festival – Milwaukee
When: September 26 to 29, 2024
Immerse yourself in the world of film at the Milwaukee Film Festival, a premier cultural event held each fall fest Milwaukee.
This acclaimed festival showcases a diverse lineup of films from around the globe, offering something for every movie lover.
From thought-provoking documentaries to heartwarming dramas and thrilling thrillers, you’ll find a film that captures your imagination.
The festival takes place in various theaters across Milwaukee, providing a unique and intimate cinematic experience.
13. Bay View Bash – Bay View
When: Third Saturday of September (September 21, 2024)
Experience the lively atmosphere of the Bay View Bash, a beloved community festival in the heart of Milwaukee’s Bay View neighborhood.
This is one of the fall festival Milwaukee that brings together locals and visitors alike to celebrate the neighborhood’s unique culture and vibrant spirit.
Kinnickinnic Avenue transforms into a pedestrian-friendly street filled with live music, local food vendors, and craft beer.
Enjoy delicious eats from local restaurants, sip on craft brews from area breweries, and dance to the tunes of talented musicians.
Explore the arts and crafts market, featuring unique handmade items from local artisans.
14. Fall Fest – Deer District
When: September 7, 2024
Join the Fall Fest in Deer District, one of the events in Milwaukee community that is free. This family-friendly festival offers a variety of activities for all ages.
Get creative with pumpkin painting or showcase your artistic skills with Arts @ Large chalk painting.
Explore the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum Wonder Wagon for the little ones and enjoy the engaging kids’ programming.
Support local vendors and makers as you browse their unique offerings. Satisfy your cravings with delicious fall treats from Deer District establishments, offering a variety of seasonal delights.
15. Pumpkin Pavilion – Bay View
When: October 16 to 20, 2024
Get into the Halloween spirit at the Pumpkin Pavilion, one of the beloved Milwaukee fall activities held in Humboldt Park in the Bay View neighborhood.
One of the highlights of the Pumpkin Pavilion is the community pumpkin carving contest. Bring your pumpkin and get creative with your designs.
In the evening, the park will be illuminated by thousands of lighted pumpkins, creating a magical and spooky ambiance.
Enjoy live music, food trucks, and other family-friendly activities while soaking up the Halloween spirit.
You can visit many Milwaukee fall festivals from September to October in Wisconsin.
Whether you plan to enjoy the fall colors in Wisconsin or you want to make the best of Halloween in Wisconsin, Milwaukee is a place to go!
There is so much to enjoy this time of year, such as the breweries during Oktoberfest in Milwaukee, or the unique Milwaukee Paranormal Conference to learn more about the local urban legend.
There are also cabins and resorts where you can stay comfortably.
Have you attended any of these fun Milwaukee fall festivals? Which one of the best fall festivals in Milwaukee is your favorite?
Short FAQs About Milwaukee Fall Festivals
How many festivals does Milwaukee have?
There are over 100 festivals within the city throughout the year. No matter what time of year you visit, you’ll find some kind of Milwaukee festival happening.
When is Oktoberfest in Milwaukee
Milwaukee Oktoberfest changes exact dates each year but is usually in the first two weeks of October.
What are the best Milwaukee fall festivals?
There are many fun fall festivals in Milwaukee, but my favorites are Milwaukee Oktoberfest, the Milwaukee Paranormal Conference, and Equinox.
What to do in Milwaukee in September?
Fall activities Milwaukee in September includes visiting the Milwaukee Art Museum, strolling along the RiverWalk, and enjoying the Bay View Bash, a lively street festival with music, food, and local crafts.
What are the best events in Milwaukee in October?
Things to do in Milwaukee in October are attending the lively Oktoberfest celebrations, the captivating Milwaukee Film Festival, and the festive Wisconsin Cheese Festival.
What are the best fall events in Milwaukee?
The best fall Milwaukee events include the Oktoberfest celebrations, the Milwaukee Film Festival, the Wisconsin Cheese Festival, and the family-friendly Harvest Fair.
Before You Go: Top Tips for your Trip
- You’ll snap tons of photos and I love to take my GoPro in order to shoot even in extreme situations.
- Make sure to wear comfortable walking shoes and hiking sandals when traveling to warm countries. Consider trying some of these eco-friendly vegan hiking boots.
- Sunscreen is key! I always take with me my eco-friendly sunscreen by Thinksport.
- I always carry a light rain jacket, just in case. Pack smart with these organic cotton clothing companies.
- Be environmentally friendly and get one of these awesome backpacks made from recycled materials.
- Get in the mindset with these amazing wilderness survival books.
- Travel insurance is essential! If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip, travel is protected against all odds with HeyMondo.
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
