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.
In today’s article, we’re continuing our discovery of family-friendly festivals you can’t miss with an exclusive winter edition! When the snowflakes start to fall, you can find an array of exciting winter celebrations taking place throughout the state. From Tomahawk and Sturgeon Bay all the way to Lake Geneva, find a festival close to home or, if you’re looking for a fun family getaway, find one far away. Read on and start planning for the snowy season ahead!
Alice in Winterland — Tomahawk
The first winter celebration on the list takes place in Lincoln County, where the Northwoods start and your adventure begins. Any guesses? It’s Alice in Winterland—a family tradition that keeps visitors coming back to Tomahawk year after year.
Held annually on the first Saturday in February, Alice in Winterland brings family and friends together on Lake Alice for a friendly ice fishing tournament (and the chance to win prizes). This festival has been bringing the community together for over a decade. Let’s face it: you simply can’t beat a day on the ice surrounded by family and friends. So bundle up, bring your gear, and get ready to experience your newest family tradition!
Fire & Ice Festival — Sturgeon Bay
To Door County for the one-of-a-kind Fire & Ice Festival! It all happens on February 13-20, 2027, when Sturgeon Bay lights up with unique art, outdoor fun, and, of course, endless ways to spend quality time together.
Plan a weekend getaway, starting with a winter hike at Crossroads at Big Creek, followed by watching talented carvers turn blocks of ice into true masterpieces. As the day comes to an end, warm up by the campfire with a warm drink in hand—there’s truly no better way to warm the soul. Whether you’re cheering on the carvers or gathering around the campfire, there’s something so special about enjoying the season together. And don’t forget to take pictures along the way—these are the memories you’ll cherish forever!
Winterfest — Lake Geneva
Last but certainly not least, head to Walworth County from February 3-7, 2027, to experience the magic of winter at Lake Geneva’s Winterfest. This family-friendly (and FREE) festival is nothing short of extraordinary, bringing incredible artistry and unmatched community to the season.
Home to America’s Snow Sculpting Invitational, Winterfest welcomes 15 talented teams from across the country and around the world for an epic challenge of craft and creativity. Watch the snow sculptures take shape, explore downtown, and warm up at Bonfires on the Beach. These are the moments you’ll never forget! Make a day of it or stay for the whole weekend—there’s so much winter magic to go around.
Which Wisconsin celebration will you go to first: Alice in Winterland, Fire & Ice, or Winterfest? Each one is packed with winter fun and offers a unique experience for everyone in your family to love. With winter right around the corner, now is the time to add these unforgettable celebrations to your calendar! ‘Tis the season to come and make lasting memories with your family and friends! More winter festivals are waiting to be discovered in The Cabin Podcast, Discover Wisconsin’s official podcast. Tune into “Wisconsin Winter Festivals” today!
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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).
