A weekly column written by the staff of Discover Wisconsin highlights things to do and see throughout the State of Wisconsin, and is made available for publication to members of the Wisconsin NewsMedia Association. The column is accompanied by photos for use in print and online. The Discover Wisconsin logo can be downloaded here.
If you love all things fall, this one is for you! Today, we’re discovering family-friendly fall festivals you simply can’t miss right here in Wisconsin! Each festival offers endless family fun, delicious seasonal flavors, and the chance to spend the day in the colorful fall scenery. Let’s dive into the good times that await across the state!
Fall Fest — Sister Bay
Up first: Fall Fest, taking place October 16-18, 2026, in scenic Sister Bay! Bring your crew and head east to Door County for a weekend full of fall fun. Celebrating 80 years, this three-day event brings together the very best of the season, from fall food and unique crafts to live music and family entertainment.
At Fall Fest, browse food and craft vendors and enjoy live music all weekend long. Then, watch the annual parade and visit the exciting kids’ carnival, bouncy houses, and beyond. Adding to the exciting event lineup, the Ping Pong Ball Drop and Sunday morning Derby Race are worth sticking around for. Plan ahead and make the most of all three days—you won’t want to miss a minute of the fun!
Fall Festival — Ixonia
Next up: Fall Festival in Jefferson County, happening every weekend in October at Ebert’s in the incredible Ixonia! Come and experience this longtime fall favorite. This year is especially an exciting time to visit, as Ebert’s celebrates 50 years of fall fun and family traditions. There’s truly no better way to celebrate the season than with a hayride out to the pumpkin patch, a walk through the corn maze, and a stop at the Fish Pond.
Kids (and kids at heart) can enjoy an array of games and a ride on the trackless choo-choo train. While you’re there, stock up on seasonal treats you can only get this time of year—caramel apples, cider donuts, and more. On your way out, be sure to pick out a few pumpkins and browse the beautiful selection of mums, asters, corn stalks, hay bales, and other festive decorations. It’s a great way to bring a piece of the festival home with you!
Pumpkin Fest — Colgate
The last fall celebration is a true staple: Washington County’s can’t-miss Pumpkin Fest! Running through November 1, 2026, at Basse’s Taste of Country in Colgate, this family-friendly festival offers all of the fall favorites—from pumpkin patches and corn mazes to train rides and more.
Looking to unplug and play with your kiddos? Be sure to check out the ziplines, tractor pull, pedal cart raceway, and other family-friendly activities made to keep the fun going all day long. For a slower-paced adventure, visit he u-pick pumpkin patch to find the perfect pumpkin, then stop by the petting zoo to meet some friendly animals.
Which Wisconsin celebration will you go to first? Fall Fest in Sister Bay, Fall Festival in Ixonia, and Pumpkin Fest in Colgate are all packed with fall fun and favorites we wait for all year long. This fall, add these seasonal celebrations to your calendar and come and make lasting memories with your family and friends!
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Hailey Marien, third-generation and granddaughter of Dick Rose, writes for the nation’s longest-running tourism TV show, Discover Wisconsin. Watch the show online at DiscoverWisconsin.com. Follow Discover Wisconsin on Facebook (facebook.com/discoverwisconsin), Instagram (instagram.com/discoverwisconsin), and TikTok (tiktok.com/discoverwisconsin).
