Shorewood Fish & Feather Festival 2026 Returns

One of Shorewood’s most distinctive fall traditions returns when the Fish & Feather Festival takes over Hubbard Park on Saturday, October 3, 2026.

Held along the banks of the Milwaukee River, this free family event celebrates the season’s salmon run, migrating birds and the natural spaces found right in the heart of the community.

Shorewood Fish & Feather Festival Details

Date: Saturday, October 3, 2026
Time: 11 a.m.–3 p.m.
Location: Hubbard Park
Address: 3565 N. Morris Blvd., Shorewood
Admission: Free

Families can find the latest announcements on the official Fish & Feather Festival page.

See Salmon Swimming Up the Milwaukee River

The festival is timed around one of the river’s most fascinating seasonal events. Mature salmon travel upstream from Lake Michigan during the fall, giving visitors a chance to see the enormous fish moving through the shallow water near Hubbard Park.

The festival has traditionally offered opportunities to learn about the salmon run, explore fly-fishing with local experts and—when river conditions allow—step into the water for a closer look. Families participating in an in-river activity should bring water shoes or waders and closely supervise children near the current.

Want to explore more local fishing spots? Our guide to fishing Milwaukee’s North Shore includes Hubbard Park and other family-friendly places along the Milwaukee River and Lake Michigan.

Wildlife, Art and Hands-On Activities

Fish may get top billing, but they are only part of the experience. Migrating birds pass through the Milwaukee River corridor each fall, and past festivals have brought live animals, birds and reptiles for families to see up close.

The event has also traditionally included plenty of children’s activities, including face painting, sidewalk chalk, nature projects and seasonal crafts. Specific 2026 activities are subject to confirmation, so check the official event page as the festival approaches.

Food, Music and the Hubbard Park Beer Garden

Families can enjoy live music and purchase food and drinks from Hubbard Park Lodge during the festival. The park’s wooded riverfront setting and fall colors make it an especially inviting place to spend an October afternoon.

If you have never visited this Shorewood destination, our complete guide to Hubbard Park Lodge covers its trails, beer garden, river access, history and other seasonal events.

Parking near Hubbard Park can be limited during popular events. Consider walking or biking via the Oak Leaf Trail if possible, and allow time to walk through the pedestrian tunnel and down into the park.

Because many activities take place outside and close to the river, dress in layers and choose shoes that can handle mud, rocks or damp ground. Families planning to approach the river should bring a change of socks and shoes for children.

Most importantly, river conditions can change after rain. Follow event staff instructions and keep young children within reach whenever you are near the water.

Celebrate Fall Along the Milwaukee River

The Fish & Feather Festival combines wildlife, hands-on learning, food, music and fall scenery in one free afternoon. It is a wonderful opportunity for children to see the Milwaukee River as a living habitat—and perhaps spot a giant salmon making its remarkable trip upstream.

Explore more things to do nearby through our Shorewood family guide, and confirm final festival activities through the Village of Shorewood before heading out.