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Looking for a memorable family road trip this summer? Wisconsin is packed with festivals and special events that go beyond the usual fair rides and fireworks.
From colorful hot air balloons and giant airplanes to circus parades and blueberry celebrations, these family-friendly events offer unique experiences worth adding to your summer bucket list.
Blue Ox Music Festival
June 25-27, 2026
Eau Claire, Wisconsin
If your family enjoys live music, camping, and spending time outdoors, the Blue Ox Music Festival is one of Wisconsin’s most family-friendly summer festivals.
Held annually at The Pines Music Park near Eau Claire, this bluegrass and roots music festival goes out of its way to welcome families. There’s a dedicated family camping area, a family stage featuring special programming for kids, giant bubbles, interactive activities, friendly vendors, and whimsical decorations that light up the grounds after dark.
Even families who aren’t familiar with bluegrass music may find themselves enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and community feel.
Good to know: Families can camp onsite and enjoy interactive, hands-on activities throughout the weekend.
Waterford Balloon Festival
July 17-19, 2026
Waterford Town Park
One of southeastern Wisconsin’s most colorful summer traditions returns this July.
The Waterford Balloon Festival fills the sky with hot air balloons while offering plenty to do on the ground. Families can enjoy live music, a Kids Fun Zone, a craft fair, food vendors, and drone races throughout the weekend.
A favorite highlight is watching dozens of colorful balloons launch into the air. This year’s festival also features a helicopter candy drop, which is sure to be a hit with younger visitors.
In past years, attendees have also enjoyed balloon glows, tethered balloon rides, and helicopter rides.
Related: Check out our guide to Wisconsin’s best hot air balloon festivals for even more opportunities to see balloons take flight this summer.
EAA AirVenture Oshkosh
July 20-26, 2026
Oshkosh, Wisconsin
Known as the world’s largest aviation celebration, EAA AirVenture transforms Oshkosh into a paradise for airplane enthusiasts each summer.
Families can watch thrilling air shows, explore historic and modern aircraft, meet pilots, and experience hands-on aviation exhibits designed specifically for kids.
Even children with little interest in airplanes often find themselves fascinated by the massive jets, aerobatic performances, and interactive displays.
One of the best family perks? Admission is free for children ages 18 and under.
Don’t miss: The daily air shows and KidVenture area, which features hands-on activities designed for younger visitors.
Blueberry Festivals Around Wisconsin
July & August 2026
Blueberry season brings several unique festivals and berry-themed celebrations across Wisconsin.
Iron River Blueberry Festival
One of the state’s best-known blueberry celebrations, this northern Wisconsin festival includes a parade, live entertainment, cardboard boat races, talent shows, and a blueberry pie-eating contest.
Riverwest Blueberry Fest (Milwaukee)
This neighborhood favorite combines local artisans, food vendors, live music, and family activities. Be sure to stop by the giant blueberry photo opportunity.
Blueberry Bliss Craft Fair (River Falls)
Held at White Pine Berry Farm, this event pairs blueberry picking with local shopping, crafts, and family-friendly activities.
Kenosha County Center Blueberry Fest
Families can learn about growing blueberries, their nutritional benefits, and gardening techniques through educational exhibits and demonstrations.
If you’d rather pick your own berries, summer is also a great time to visit Wisconsin blueberry farms.
Wisconsin State Fair
July 30-August 9, 2026
West Allis, Wisconsin
No Wisconsin summer roundup would be complete without the Wisconsin State Fair.
Along with favorite traditions like cream puffs, animal exhibits, carnival rides, and live entertainment, there’s a major new attraction debuting in 2026.
The America 250 Wheel will make its Wisconsin debut at the fair. Standing as the tallest Ferris wheel in North America and the largest portable observation wheel in the world, it promises sweeping views of the fairgrounds and surrounding area.
Combined with concerts, agricultural exhibits, hands-on family activities, and endless food options, the State Fair continues to be one of Wisconsin’s biggest summer traditions.
Plan Your Summer Adventure
Whether your family wants to watch hot air balloons drift across the sky, see historic circus wagons roll down Main Street, pick blueberries, listen to live music under the stars, or watch airplanes soar overhead, Wisconsin offers no shortage of unforgettable summer experiences.
Check out our Events Calendar, updated daily, for more family-friendly ideas around Southeastern Wisconsin.
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
