How to Get Free Admission to Milwaukee’s German Fest 2025
Each July, Milwaukee’s Henry Maier Festival Park dazzles with the sights, sounds, and flavors of Germany. But ticket prices don’t have to stand between you and those bratwurst, beer gardens, live oompah bands, and authentic German vendors. Whether you're an active service member, a family with kids, someone attending festival Mass, or a caring soul helping the community through a food drive, German Fest offers multiple ways to enjoy the festivities for free. In this guide, we’ll walk readers through five proven methods—complete with timing, gates, and tips—so they can immerse themselves in German culture without spending a dime.
1. Free Admission for Active Military & Veterans
Active service members and their immediate families enjoy free admission any day throughout the festival with a valid military ID. Veterans are also granted free entry, typically with a companion.
2. Attend the Festival Worship Service
German Fest hosts a Sunday Protestant worship service on July 27th at 10:30 am, held at the Lakefront Brewery Oktoberfest Pavilion overlooking Lake Michigan. Gates open at 9:30 am for service attendees, who will enjoy free admission to the festival following the worship service (entrance through the main gate only). This service will feature musical accompaniment by The Freistadt Alte Kameraden Band and an impressive chorus that includes members from Milwaukee Area Church Choirs and the Wisconsin Sängerbezirk, representing nine German singing groups from across the region including choruses from Milwaukee, Sheboygan, Madison, and Kenosha.
3. Bring a Food-Drive Donation
German Fest offers free admission at the South Gate on July 27 from noon-3 pm in exchange for donating three cans of healthy fruits or vegetables. This simple “bring‑one‑give‑one” promotion supports local schools and lets you skip the ticket line.
4. Free Entry for People with Disabilities
Anyone with a disability, along with one escort, gets free admission all weekend.
5. Kids (12 & Under)
Children aged 12 and under can come in for free when accompanied by an adult—a great family-friendly perk!
More Free Festival Fun
Looking for other ideas of how to get into festivals for free? We have you covered:
Discover Harbor Fest 2025: Milwaukee's free waterfront celebration Sept 28. Perfect family day trip with sturgeon release, boat tours & hands-on science.