Cedarburg 4th of July 2026: Parade, Picnic, and Fireworks

Cedarburg throws one of the best Fourth of July celebrations in all of southeastern Wisconsin, and 2026 is shaping up to be a spectacular one. From a massive morning parade through the historic district to an all-day cookout, live drum corps performances, and fireworks at dusk, this Ozaukee County gem gives families an entire day worth of celebration — all in one charming, walkable downtown. Whether you're a first-timer or a Cedarburg regular, here's everything you need to know to make the most of the day.

4th of July Parade Through Downtown

The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. and travels through the Cedarburg Historic District, showcasing award-winning Division 1 drum and bugle corps alongside local, patriotic displays. The parade features nearly 100 units and is considered one of the largest Independence Day parades in southeastern Wisconsin that takes place on the actual holiday. The parade stages at Firemen's Park and the Ozaukee County Fairgrounds before proceeding south down Washington Avenue.

Washington Avenue is the prime viewing corridor — locals arrive early to stake out their spots along the route. Per city ordinance, chairs and other obstacles for viewing the parade cannot be placed on any sidewalk before 8 a.m. the morning of the parade. Plan to arrive by 8 and stake your spot early, especially if you have little ones who want front-row views of the drum corps.

Madison Scouts and Live Music All Day

The Madison Scouts make their annual appearance at the Cedarburg parade fresh off competing in the Rotary Music Festival, performing along the parade route before putting on a free show in front of the bandshell in Cedar Creek Park shortly after the parade ends. This is a genuine highlight — the Madison Scouts are a world-class Division 1 drum and bugle corps, and the Cedar Creek Park performance is free and open to everyone.

Live music continues all afternoon in the park, wrapping up with a patriotic concert by the Cedarburg Civic Band at 8 p.m. The entire stretch from post-parade through the Civic Band concert makes Cedar Creek Park the natural gathering place for the whole day.

The All-Day Picnic in Cedar Creek Park

The daylong picnic runs in Cedar Creek Park starting at noon, when the Cedarburg Lions Club serves a traditional summertime cookout complete with brats, burgers, beer, wine, and other refreshments. This is classic Wisconsin summer eating done right — bring lawn chairs, a blanket, and settle in. The park's shaded areas fill up, so arriving right after the parade ends gives you the best pick of spots.

As the final float rolls by, you'll witness a Cedarburg tradition — crowds following the "Pied Piper" down to Cedar Creek Park to continue the celebration. It's one of those small-town moments that makes Cedarburg feel like everyone's hometown.

Fireworks at Dusk

Fireworks launch at approximately 9:30 p.m. from Adlai Horn Park. Cedar Creek Park is a natural vantage point since you're already there for the evening's festivities. Bring a blanket, grab a spot on the grass after the Civic Band concert, and you're perfectly positioned for the finale.

Tips for Visiting Cedarburg on the 4th

The celebration draws more than 10,000 people annually, which means parking in downtown Cedarburg will be competitive. Plan to arrive early, park in a neighborhood a few blocks off Washington Avenue, and walk in. Shuttle options are available during major Cedarburg events, running continuously between the festival area and outlying parking lots — all ADA compliant and free to ride. Check cedarburgfestivals.org closer to the date for lot locations and shuttle details specific to the 4th.

Cedarburg is an easy 25-30 minute drive from Milwaukee's North Shore, making it a very doable full-day trip. Pack sunscreen, a wagon for little kids, cash for the Lions Club cookout, and your most patriotic outfit. The historic storefronts along Washington Avenue are also a great backdrop for family photos before the parade starts.

The Cedarburg 4th of July Hometown Celebration runs Saturday, July 4, 2026, from 10 a.m. to approximately 10 p.m. The parade steps off at 10 a.m. through historic downtown Cedarburg. The all-day picnic runs in Cedar Creek Park from noon on, with fireworks at approximately 9:30 p.m. from Adlai Horn Park.