Discover the Best Summer Activities in Southeast Wisconsin in 2024
Southeast Wisconsin comes alive during the summer with a plethora of events and activities that capture the vibrant spirit of this beautiful region. From music festivals and local markets to family-friendly shows and sports events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
As premier home builders in Kenosha, WI, we’re excited to share a taste of the local lifestyle with local residents, and those looking to relocate to the area. Explore the highlights of summer in Southeast Wisconsin and see why it’s an incredible place to call home.
Table of Contents
- Major Events
- Family Friendly Activities
- Local Markets
- Concert Series and Fairs
- Local Sports and Entertainment
Major Events
Southeast Wisconsin is home to some of the most exciting and renowned summer events, drawing crowds from all over the region and beyond. These major events are a highlight of the summer season, offering a diverse array of experiences from music festivals to cultural celebrations. Let’s explore some of the biggest events that make Southeast Wisconsin a summer hotspot.
- Country Thunder Music Festival (Twin Lakes, WI) – Country Thunder Wisconsin is a four-day country music festival held at Shadow Hill Ranch in Twin Lakes. This festival consistently brings today’s hottest acts, tomorrow’s fresh new faces, and yesterday’s traditional but established country hit-makers to Kenosha County.
- Dates: July 18th – July 21st, 2024
- Headliners for 2024: CMA Entertainer of the Year Lainey Wilson, Eric Church, Nickelback, and Koe Wetzel. Fans can also enjoy performances by Bailey Zimmerman, Randy Houser, Elle King, and many more.
- Amenities: Enjoy camping, fair food, shopping, and more. Camping and tickets are now available.
- Taste of Wisconsin (Kenosha, WI) – Taste of Wisconsin™ brings the tastes, flavors, and cultures of Wisconsin together in one amazing three-day celebration on Kenosha’s breathtaking lakeshore.
- Dates: July 26th – July 28th, 2024
- Highlights: Savor the flavors of specialty food and beverage vendors and enjoy live music throughout the event.
- Kenosha County Fair (Kenosha, WI) – “Hay Bales & Cow Tails” is the 2024 theme for the Kenosha County Fair, a staple summer event that promises family fun with daily shows and grandstand entertainment.
- Dates: August 14th – August 18th, 2024
- Highlights: Stroll through the animal barns, tour the Discovery Barnyard, enjoy the Carnival Midway, and see the Antique Machinery Display. The Creekside Stage features live music daily, and The Barrel Room offers craft beer and wine. Admission fees apply.
Family-Friendly Activities
Summer in Southeast Wisconsin is perfect for family fun, with a number of activities that cater to all ages. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the outdoors, experience thrilling performances, or simply spend quality time together, this region has something for every family. Here are some top family-friendly activities to check out this summer.
- Aquanut Water Shows (Lake Mary) – The Aquanuts are a family-focused choreographed water ski show team performing on Lake Mary throughout the summer. Admission and parking are free, making it an affordable outing for families.
- Schedule: Recurring weekly on Wednesday and Saturday (May 25 – August 31, 2024)
- Highlights: The team is known for their daring stunts, Champion Ballet Line, and breathtaking four-tier pyramids. Note special dates when the shows will not be held due to competitions or high water levels.
- Movie Night in The Park (Petrifying Springs Park) – Enjoy a FREE movie screening in the park courtesy of Kenosha County Parks. Bring your chairs, blankets, and snacks for a cozy outdoor movie experience.
- Schedule: Recurring weekly on Fridays until August 30, 2024
- Highlights: Movies start at dusk. Special costume contests will be held for select movies, including “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem,” “Jurassic Park (1993),” “Back to the Future: Part II,” and “Barbie.”
Local Markets
Southeast Wisconsin’s local markets are a treasure trove of fresh produce, handmade goods, and vibrant community spirit. These markets are not just a place to shop but a social hub where locals and visitors can mingle, enjoy live music, and savor delicious foods. Discover the charm of our local markets this summer.
- Kenosha HarborMarket – Kenosha’s Original HarborMarket is a bustling European-style mixed market now in its 22nd season. Located just one block west of The Civil War Museum and Kenosha Public Museum, it’s a perfect destination for a Saturday outing.
- Schedule: Recurring weekly on Saturday (May 11 – October 26, 2024)
- Highlights: Shop for fresh local produce, proteins, cheeses, baked goods, and more. Enjoy fabulous and diverse foods, live music from talented local musicians, and a scenic park-like setting.
- Kenosha Public Market – Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Kenosha Public Market is a vibrant market with spacious onsite parking. Find an incredible selection of locally produced products, from seasonal fruits and meats to handmade gifts by local artisans.
- Schedule: Recurring weekly on Saturday (May 11 – October 26, 2024)
- Highlights: Enjoy a wide array of cuisines from traditional American to international specialties. The food court offers a delightful mix of sights, sounds, and delicious smells.
- Pleasant Prairie Harbor Market – Pleasant Prairie HarborMarket is the premier farmers market in Pleasant Prairie, WI. It features a wide variety of local fruits & vegetables, meats, cheeses, baked goods, artisan products, and more.
- Schedule: Sundays – June 16 & 30; July 14 & 28; August 25; September 22 (10:00 am to 2:00 pm)
- Highlights: Enjoy live music and a beer garden while you shop for fresh and local products.
Concert Series and Fairs
Music and fairs are at the heart of summer entertainment in Southeast Wisconsin. From intimate park concerts to large-scale fairs, there is always something happening to keep you entertained. These events are perfect for a night out or a family day trip. Here’s a look at some of the best concert series and fairs this summer.
- Bristol Woodstock (Bristol, WI) – Bristol Woodstock offers free concerts in the park featuring a variety of music genres. Each concert is subject to weather conditions and provides fun for all ages.
- Schedule: Recurring weekly on Wednesday (June 12 – August 21, 2024)
- Highlights: Enjoy performances from local artists like Michael Grabner, Violet Wilder Band, Foocoustics, and more.
- Rhythm on the Lake Concert Series (Paddock Lake, WI) – This concert series takes place in the picturesque setting of Old Settlers Park beside Paddock Lake. Each concert is free to attend and perfect for families.
- Schedule: Recurring weekly on Thursday (July 25 – August 22, 2024)
- Highlights: The lineup includes Relativity, Breaking Cadence, Second Hand Stereo, Jonny Lyons and the Pride, and Would You Kindly?.
- Racine County Fair (Union Grove, WI) – The Racine County Fair is a staple summer event featuring a variety of entertainment and activities.
- Dates: July 24th – July 28th, 2024
- Highlights: Opening day is on the 24th, followed by a monster truck show on the 25th, a rodeo on the 27th, and a demolition derby on the 28th. There’s free entertainment daily for all ages.
Local Sports and Entertainment
Sports and live entertainment add an extra layer of excitement to the summer in Southeast Wisconsin. Whether you’re a fan of baseball or enjoy live music performances, this region offers plenty of opportunities to get out and have fun. Here are some local sports and entertainment events you won’t want to miss.
- Kenosha Kingfish Home Baseball Games – The Kenosha Kingfish are members of the Northwoods League and feature elite collegiate baseball at Historic Simmons Field.
- Schedule: July 9 – August 10, 2024
- Highlights: Enjoy daily promotions, exciting games, and a visit to the ballpark’s Team Shop for merchandise and gift cards.
- Live Music at Union Park Tavern – Union Park Tavern offers a variety of live music acts, providing entertainment for different musical tastes.
- Schedule: Recurring weekly on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday
- Highlights: Performances include The Rhythm Dogs Blues Jam, Sweet Sheiks, The Westerlees, Sean McKee Band, and more.
Southeast Wisconsin offers a vibrant and diverse array of summer activities, making it a fantastic place to live and explore. From major events and family-friendly activities to local markets and concerts, there’s always something happening to keep you entertained. As premier home builders in Southeast Wisconsin, we invite you to discover the joy of living in such a dynamic community. Explore our move-in-ready homes and custom-building options to find your perfect home in Southeast Wisconsin.
Interested in Building or Buying a New Home in the Area? Let us Know How We Can Help!