Taste of Mequon 2026: A Family Guide
The Mequon Festivals Committee is back with another round of food, music, and community fun at the 13th annual Taste of Mequon, happening Saturday, September 12, from 11:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. in front of Mequon City Hall. This year the event kicks off an hour earlier—perfect for making it your weekend lunch plan.
What Is the Taste of Mequon?
The Taste of Mequon was created to spotlight community restaurants, artists, and entertainers while bringing residents and business owners together to showcase all the elements that make Mequon a terrific place to call home. What started as a single-day block party has grown into one of Ozaukee County's most anticipated annual events. On average, the festival draws between 12,000 and 15,000 attendees — proof that this one punches well above its weight for a community celebration.
Best of all? There is no charge for admission or entertainment. You're only paying for what you eat and drink.
When and Where
The 2026 Taste of Mequon takes place on Saturday, September 12, from noon to 9:00 p.m. The block party is held in front of Mequon City Hall at 11333 N. Cedarburg Road. Cedarburg Road will be closed to traffic in front of City Hall and the Frank Weyenberg Library for the day, giving the whole area a true festival feel.
Live Music
Three bands are set to perform throughout the day, giving you a full nine hours of live entertainment. The 2026 band lineup will be announced as the event approaches — check mequonfestivals.org/music for the latest updates. If past years are any guide, expect a mix of crowd-pleasing rock, pop, and Americana that keeps the energy going from the first set all the way through the headliner's final notes.
Past performers have included Sainted Patrons, the Allison Mahal Trio, and Failure to Launch — and the committee consistently delivers acts that keep both families and adults engaged all afternoon and into the evening.
Food Trucks and Vendors
This is where the "Taste" in Taste of Mequon really lives up to its name. Past festivals have featured more than 30 food and beverage vendors, offering an impressive spread of cuisines in one walkable stretch. Previous vendors have included That Taco Guy, Café Hollander, The Smokin C's BBQ, Frankies Food Truck, Kha Sushi Land, Immy's African Cuisine, SIP MKE, Strolling Donuts, The Ruby Tap, Marco Pollo, Vocado MKE, AppeThai, and Hot Box Pizza.
The full vendor lineup for 2026 hasn't been released yet, but expect another diverse mix of local favorites and returning crowd-pleasers. Come hungry.
Craft Vendors
In between sets and bites, stroll through the craft vendor section. Attendees can visit booth to booth to appreciate artwork crafted by local artists. It's a great chance to find something unique, support a small maker, and bring home a little piece of the North Shore.
Kids' Activities
The Taste of Mequon is a genuinely family-friendly event, not just one that tolerates kids. The Children's Area features inflatables, art projects, face painting, balloon artists, and caricature artists — all available free of charge. AllEvents Performances throughout the day take place on the Children's Stage, including appearances from local dance studios and martial arts demonstrations.
Plan on spending a solid chunk of time in the kids' zone — there's enough going on to keep little ones busy for hours while parents enjoy the music and food.
Parking and Getting There
Attendees can park at Homestead High School and take a complimentary shuttle to the festival grounds starting at 11 a.m. through 8:30 p.m. Handicap parking is available in the City Hall parking lot for easy access. Don't try to fight for street parking — the shuttle is the move.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
Arrive close to noon to snag a good spot on the lawn before the crowds fill in. Bring a blanket or portable chairs for the music — this is a full-day event, not a quick stop. Wear comfortable shoes since you'll be on your feet walking between food trucks, vendors, and the kids' area. Cash can be helpful at some vendor booths, though many accept cards. And stay through the evening — the headliner typically closes out the night and the later hours thin out the crowds a bit.
Stay Updated
The full band lineup, vendor list, and schedule for 2026 will be released as September approaches. Follow along at mequonfestivals.org and keep an eye on North Shore Family Adventures for updates as details drop.
The Taste of Mequon is the kind of free, all-ages, rain-or-shine community event that the North Shore does really well — and 2026 looks like another great one.
Taste of Mequon 2026 | Saturday, September 12 | Noon – 9:00 p.m. | 11333 N. Cedarburg Road, Mequon | Free Admission
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