Guide to Milwaukee’s Best Summer Festivals (2025)

Milwaukee bursts with energy each summer as music, food, and cultural festivals fill the calendar. Whether you’re a lifelong local or discovering the city for the first time, here are the can’t-miss events that make Milwaukee shine.

Summerfest – World’s Largest Music Festival

Dates: Late June – Early July

Location: Henry Maier Festival Park

With hundreds of performances on multiple stages along Lake Michigan, Summerfest offers something for every music taste—from global headliners to rising hometown acts. Food vendors, lakefront views, and nightly fireworks complete the experience.

Pro-tip: Here’s how to get into Summerfest for free.

Bastille Days – Milwaukee’s French Festival

Bastille Days is completely free to attend, with no tickets required.

Dates: Thursday, July 17 to Sunday, July 20, 2025

Location: Cathedral Square Park on Milwaukee’s East Side

Cathedral Square transforms into a Parisian street fair featuring French cuisine, live music, roaming performers, and the popular “Storm the Bastille” 5K. It’s one of the largest French-themed festivals in the country and a true downtown highlight, plus it’s FREE to attend.

Milwaukee Irish Fest – A Celtic Celebration

Dates: August 14-17

Location: Henry Maier Festival Park

Recognized as the world’s biggest Irish cultural festival, Irish Fest brings together Celtic rock, traditional dance, genealogy exhibits, and family activities. Four days on the lakefront celebrate Ireland’s music and heritage with unmistakable Milwaukee flair.

Pro tip: Here’s how to get into Irish Fest for free.

Festa Italiana – Celebrating Italian Heritage

Dates: July or August (check official site for exact weekend)

Location: Italian Community Center grounds

Savor authentic dishes, enjoy live Italian music, and cheer on bocce tournaments before a signature fireworks finale. Festa Italiana is a beloved Milwaukee tradition that feels equal parts family reunion and seaside festivity.

Locust Street Festival

Dates: Early June

Location: Riverwest Neighborhood

Six neighborhood stages, scores of local bands, artists, and the famous 1.8-mile Beer Run turn Locust Street into one lively block party. It’s the perfect snapshot of Riverwest’s creative spirit.

Brady Street Festival

Dates: Late July

Location: Brady Street

Eight music stages, vintage vendors, delicious street food, and interactive art fill Brady Street with nonstop entertainment. Expect everything from indie rock to dance crews in one of Milwaukee’s most eclectic corridors.

Wisconsin State Fair – Classic Summer Fun

Dates: July 31–Aug 10, 2025

Location: Wisconsin State Fair Park, West Allis

Cream puffs, giant slide rides, livestock shows, and headline concerts—Wisconsin State Fair blends nostalgia with new attractions each year. It’s a statewide tradition just minutes from Milwaukee’s city limits.

Pro tip: Here’s how to get into the Wisconsin State Fair for free or cheap.

Tips for Enjoying Milwaukee’s Summer Festivals

• Arrive early for better parking and shorter entry lines.

• Bring a refillable water bottle and sunscreen; lake breezes can be deceiving.

• Consider public transit, biking, or rideshare during peak hours.

• Check each festival’s bag policy before you go.

From world-renowned music stages to neighborhood block parties, Milwaukee’s summer festival lineup offers unforgettable experiences for every age and interest. Mark your calendar, gather your friends, and make the most of festival season on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Looking for more music and festivals right here in the North Shore? See our guide to free outdoor concerts in the North Shore.