What’s happening in Wisconsin: Badger State Buzz (June 29-July 5)

Welcome to this week’s Wisconsin View and Badger State Buzz—two staples of the UpNorthNews newsletter.

June 29, 2026

"Cedar Lake, St. Croix County, Wisconsin." (Courtesy of Beth W.)

Welcome to this week’s Wisconsin View and Badger State Buzz—two staples of the UpNorthNews newsletter. If you want to see the Badger State Buzz as soon as it drops each week, make sure you’re subscribed. And if you’d like your photo featured, like reader Beth W., capturing this beautiful photo of the sky over Cedar Lake, just reply to any newsletter with your submission.

Now, onto your Badger State Buzz:

Riverfest, La Crosse (July 1-4)

Enjoy the Fourth of July weekend in La Crosse, full of live entertainment, food, and family-friendly festivities. End the holiday with the largest fireworks display in the Coulee Region.

Fourth on the Shore, Manitowoc (July 1-5)

This five-day Independence Day celebration will take place in downtown Manitowoc, featuring live music, family activities, a parade, food trucks, and of course a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Michigan.

Stoughton Fair, Stoughton (July 1-5)

For the 100th year, enjoy carnival rides, farm animals, classic fair food, tractor and truck pulls, and more.

4th of July Weekend, Racine (July 3-5)

Celebrate Independence Day in Racine with a weekend of festivities, including First Friday Red, White + Blues, the 90th Annual 4th Fest Parade, live downtown music, and a fireworks show at North Beach.

Freedom Fest, Balsam Lake (July 3-5)

Enjoy a weekend of family-friendly fun with live music, parades, arts and crafts, a classic car show, fishing contests, and more. End the celebration with a fireworks display at Town Beach.

Old World Wisconsin’s Independence Day Weekend, Eagle (July 4-5)

Celebrate the Fourth of July with historic charm through patriotic games, live music, family-friendly activities, and classic summer treats.

That’s it for this week’s Buzz. If you’re out at one of these events or spot a beautiful Wisconsin scene, snap a photo and send it our way by replying to any of our daily newsletters. We’d love to see what you capture.

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