Milwaukee is the City of Festivals
Midwest City Shines with Summer Cultural and Ethnic Events
Feb 17, 2009
Milwaukee is like a giant bear. In the winter it hibernates, but come summer, the city awakens with a growl. This Midwestern gem on the shores of Lake Michigan is an underrated hotspot for a wide array of festivals.
Nearly every weekend of the Summer is filled with a different festival. Summerfest, which takes place at the end of June and beginning of July is the largest music festivals in the world. Held on the shores of Lake Michigan, “The Big Gig” as its affectionately called runs for 11 days and showcases a wide array of musicians on its 13 stages. Besides the music, festival goers come for the food and of course, beer.
Following is a list of many of the other cultural and ethnic festivals throughout the warm summer months:
Lakefront Festival of the Arts, June 19-21-Staged by the Milwaukee Art Museum (famous for its Santiago Calatrava designed building) this fest features unique works of art in a variety of mediums, artist demonstrations and of course music and food.
Bastille Days, July 9-12- This Francophile festival organized by Milwaukee’s East Town Association celebrates all things French through music, food and cultural exhibits. It is held on the east side of the city in Cathedral Square.
German Fest, July 24-26-Milwaukee is known for its German heritage and this popular annual event showcases the dance, music and food of Germany. The festival, held at Maier Park, also features a variety of cultural presentations and exhibitions.
Festa Italiana, July 16-19-Not to be outdone, the cities large Italian population hosts this festival highlighting music, food , bocce tournaments, gondola rides and fireworks.
Irish Fest, Aug. 13-16-Held at the Lakefront, this event celebrates Irish culture and features several Irish dance troupes including the Glencastle Irish Dancers and the Trinity Academy of Irish Dance. Festival goers can also enjoy the cultural village and Irish Marketplace. For those with Irish ancestory, there is a clan reunion.
African World Festival, July 31-Aug. 2-Milwaukee has a large African-American population and this festival serves to educate everyone about African life and rituals through a cultural village and opening ceremony. Music is central to the African-American experience and it’s a strong highlight of this event.
Polish Fest, June 19-21-In addition to showcasing the music, food and culture of Poland, there is also a Chopin Piano competititon.
Mexican Fiesta, Aug. 21-23-The food, flavors and sounds of Mexico. The event is Wisconsin's largest Mexican festival. The event features an exhibition devoted to the culture of Mexico and a special tequila expo.
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