The 5 Best Fall Festivals in Wisconsin for 2025 Will Put You in the Autumnal Spirit

Wisconsin is known for its vibrant and diverse fall festivals, celebrating everything from autumn foliage to local culture, harvest traditions, and more. You can such seasonal celebrations just about anywhere, including fall festivals near Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Eau Claire, and Superior.

Here are five popular fall festivals, and I happen to think they are some of the best fall festivals in Wisconsin.

1. Warrens Cranberry Festival - Warrens, September 26–28, 2025

The Warrens Cranberry Festival is the queen of all cranberry festivals, and one of our favorite fall events in the Badger State. It takes place in the village of Warrens, in the heart of Wisconsin's cranberry country, and the festival offers a wide array of cranberry-related products, including fresh cranberries, cranberry foods, and cranberry-themed arts and crafts. The festival also features a massive arts and crafts fair, a cranberry marsh tour, live entertainment, and more. It's held annually during the last full weekend in September.

2. Gays Mills Apple Festival - Gays Mills, September 26–28, 2025

Gays Mills, located in the heart of Wisconsin's apple country, hosts an Apple Festival that celebrates the apple harvest. The festival takes place during the last weekend in September, and it includes apple-themed foods, a classic car show, live music, arts and crafts vendors, and apple orchard tours. It's a great way to enjoy the flavors of fall and experience the apple-growing heritage of the region.

3. Oktoberfest USA - La Crosse, September 25–28, 2025

Oktoberfest La Crosse is a lively celebration of German heritage and culture. The late September festival features a grand parade, traditional music and dancing, authentic German cuisine, a carnival, and a wide variety of beer from local breweries. There's always plenty of beer on hand, but it's also a family-friendly event with plenty of activities for all ages. Why not make the German experience complete by reserving a stay in a whimsical castle?

4. Shawano Witches Night Out - Shawano, October 10, 2025

Witches Night Out is a unique and whimsical festival in Shawano, a town known for its historic charm. During this October 10 event, attendees, often dressed as witches, will gather for a night of shopping, dining, and entertainment. Local shops and restaurants offer special promotions and activities, making it a fun and quirky way to celebrate the Halloween season.

5. Bayfield Apple Festival - Bayfield, October 3–5, 2025

Nestled on the shores of Lake Superior, Bayfield is famous for its apple orchards, and the Bayfield Apple Festival is a delightful celebration of the apple harvest. Over the festival weekend, visitors can enjoy apple-themed foods, contests, arts and crafts vendors, live music, and the Grand Parade. The festival also provides a great opportunity to explore the charming town and enjoy the stunning fall views of Lake Superior.

Last year I attended the Warrens Cranberry Festival, and it was awesome—there were so many people! Each year, it seems to grow even bigger. These are just a few examples of the many fall festivals that Wisconsin has to offer. Each festival has its unique charm and attractions, and they offer a great way to embrace the beauty and traditions of the autumn season in the state. What are your favorite fall festivals in Wisconsin? We'd love to hear about them.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own autumn adventure in the Badger State using Only In Your State’s itinerary planner.