Door County, Wisconsin, offers a special mix of small-town charm and big-time fun. From food festivals and live music to classic car shows and outdoor art fairs, this place knows how to celebrate. Every season brings something new, and visitors often plan their trips around these unforgettable events. Whether you love local food, creative arts, or just want a fun family day out, Door County always has something exciting on the calendar.
Upcoming Door County Events You Shouldn’t Miss
| Event Name | Date(s) | Location | Type of Event |
|---|---|---|---|
| Door County Beer Festival | June 2025 | Baileys Harbor | Craft Beer & Food |
| Door County Plein Air Festival | July 2025 | Fish Creek | Outdoor Art Painting |
| Cherry Fest | August 2025 | Jacksonport | Local Food & Crafts |
| Egg Harbor Pumpkin Patch Fest | October 2025 | Egg Harbor | Fall Festival & Family Fun |
| Sister Bay Fall Fest | October 2025 | Sister Bay | Parade, Food, Games |
| Fish Creek Winter Festival | February 2026 | Fish Creek | Winter Games & Fun |
| Door County Lighthouse Festival | June & September 2025 | Multiple Locations | Historical Boat Tours |
Door County Beer Festival – Cheers to Local Flavor
The Door County Beer Festival is the perfect start to summer. Hosted in Baileys Harbor, it features craft brewers from across Wisconsin, each pouring unique flavors. Visitors can enjoy live music, gourmet street food, and small-town hospitality.
The event highlights local ingredients, especially cherries and honey, adding a local touch to the brews. If you’re a fan of craft beer and want to experience Wisconsin culture, this is where to be.
Door County Plein Air Festival – Art in the Open Air
Held in July, the Door County Plein Air Festival is a celebration of creativity. Artists set up their easels in parks, harbors, and streets, painting the natural beauty around them. It’s a rare chance to watch masterpieces come to life.
Visitors can join workshops, attend gallery nights, or buy original pieces directly from the artists. Fish Creek transforms into an outdoor art gallery, making this one of the most scenic events in the Midwest..
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Cherry Fest – Taste Door County’s Signature Fruit
Jacksonport’s Cherry Fest in August celebrates the fruit that defines Door County. Cherry pie contests, jams, and fresh cherry sales attract food lovers of all ages. Craft booths and live music fill Lakeside Park, turning the area into a joyful summer gathering.
For families, the cherry pit-spitting contest is a hit. With games, food, and scenic lake views, Cherry Fest truly reflects the heart of the region.
Egg Harbor Pumpkin Patch Festival – A Fall Favorite
October brings the beloved Pumpkin Patch Festival in Egg Harbor. Colorful decorations, scarecrows, and thousands of pumpkins line the streets. Families come for carnival rides, pony rides, and live performances.
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Local artists sell handmade goods, and there are plenty of seasonal treats to try—think warm apple cider and caramel corn. It’s the kind of fall festival that creates lasting memories.
Sister Bay Fall Fest – A Community Celebration
Sister Bay Fall Fest happens every October and is known as the “grand finale” of the season. With a big parade, food stands, a classic car show, and street games, it draws visitors from all over the Midwest.
Children enjoy face painting, bouncy houses, and a special “ping pong ball drop” where prizes are hidden inside numbered balls. This event brings the entire community together for one last hurrah before winter.
Fish Creek Winter Festival – Cold Weather, Warm Spirits
Even in winter, Door County stays lively. The Fish Creek Winter Festival takes place in February and includes quirky games like toilet seat toss and minnow racing. Heated tents offer food, music, and local crafts.
Visitors can ice skate, snowshoe, or simply enjoy hot cocoa while watching the action. It’s a reminder that fun doesn’t stop when temperatures drop.
Door County Lighthouse Festival – Explore Maritime History
Held in both June and September, the Lighthouse Festival lets guests explore historic lighthouses by land, boat, or even kayak. Many of these towers are not open to the public outside of this event.
Guided tours, storytelling sessions, and sunset cruises bring the region’s maritime history to life. It’s both educational and visually stunning, especially during golden hour.
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Why These Events Matter
Door County’s events are more than entertainment—they tell the story of the place and its people. Each festival supports local businesses, artists, and farmers. Visitors don’t just see Door County; they become part of it.
From fresh cherries to hand-painted landscapes, every event is rooted in community pride. That’s why Door County isn’t just a travel stop—it’s a cultural experience.
Local Tips for Visiting
- Book Early: Many events attract large crowds. Hotels fill fast.
- Bring Cash: Not all vendors accept cards, especially in smaller towns.
- Dress for the Weather: Summer is warm, but fall and winter can be chilly.
- Use Public Parking: Event areas may close streets. Use shuttles when offered.
- Support Local: Buy from local artists and eat at food stalls. It boosts the community.
FAQs
June through October offers the highest number of festivals, but February has fun winter activities too.
Yes. Most events include activities for kids, food for all ages, and community games.
Some events like the Beer Festival or Lighthouse tours may need advance booking. Most community festivals are free.
Events are held across towns like Fish Creek, Baileys Harbor, Egg Harbor, Sister Bay, and Jacksonport.
Yes. Many people attend for the day, but staying overnight helps you enjoy more and avoid traffic.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning fan, these upcoming Door County events offer something for everyone. From cherry pies in August to lighthouses in September and snow games in February, each celebration brings its own charm. Make a plan, mark your calendar, and discover why these events are the soul of Door County.