What’s happening in Wisconsin: Badger State Buzz (Sept. 28-Oct. 4)

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

September 28, 2026

"The American Mariner maneuvered out of of what we thought was an IMPOSSIBLE spot on the Fox River in the Port of Green Bay with Grassy Island Range Light as a guide." (Courtesy of Jayne B.)

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 Jayne B., capturing this unique view, just reply to any newsletter with your submission.

Now, onto your Badger State Buzz:

Bayfield Apple Festival (Oct. 2-4)

This three-day fall festival draws tens of thousands of visitors each year and features fresh apples from local orchards, live music, a grand parade, contests, and plenty of autumn fun.

Chain O’ Lakes Blues Festival, Waupaca (Oct. 2-3)

Find your new favorite blues artist at this music festival at the historic Indian Crossing Casino, complete with great live music and a lively atmosphere.

Mt. Joy, Milwaukee (Oct. 2)

Enjoy a night of great live music from Mt. Joy, celebrating their 10-year anniversary at the Landmark Credit Union Live.

Cranberry Harvest Days at Wetherby Cranberry Company, Warrens (Oct. 3-4)

Get an up-close look at Wisconsin’s cranberry harvest with a tour of the marsh, a visit to the farm store, and an opportunity to stand among the floating cranberries in waterproof boots.

Cranberry Fest, Eagle River (Oct. 3-4)

Celebrate the cranberry harvest with a weekend full of fresh cranberries, cranberry-inspired food and drinks, arts and crafts, live music, and much more.

Nekoosa GIANT Pumpkin Fest (Oct. 3-4)

This unique fall festival is packed with carnival rides, tasty treats, local crafts, the iconic giant pumpkin drop, and plenty of giant pumpkins.

That’s your Buzz for the week. If you make it to any of these events—or capture a winter scene worth sharing—reply to any of our daily newsletters with a photo. We always look forward to seeing what Wisconsin looks like through your eyes.

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