What is the Taste of Wisconsin?

As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, Kenosha is known for all of its festivals. One of the biggest festivals in Kenosha is the Taste of Kenosha. But, what exactly is the Taste of Kenosha?

In short, the Taste of Kenosha is a three-day event, usually held midsummer, that celebrates the diverse foods offered around the state (and Illinois). The Taste is a Great opportunity to taste exotic food, listen to live music and celebrate summer on the lakefront.

Continue reading to learn more about the Taste of Wisconsin, including where and when its held, vendor information, and other facts about the event.

What is the Taste of Wisconsin?

The taste of Wisconsin is an event held on the lakefront, just Northeast of downtown Kenosha. This event features food, drinks, and fun for every age group. This event begins at 3 pm Friday and wraps up Sunday afternoon.

This event offers attendees the opportunity to sample smaller portions of offerings at their restaurant/food truck. In addition, you can purchase various types of beer and wine (as long as you’re 21) and receive information for local and state services. Finally, some vendors offer coupons and raffles with dreams of bringing in new customers.

The purpose of the Taste of Wisconsin is to raise funds for local charities like The Shalom Center, Kenosha Meals on Wheels, Kiwanis Youth Baseball, and more. Last year, there were over 30 vendors that offered everything from funnel cakes to Mexican cuisine.

Where is the Taste of Wisconsin held?

The Taste of Kenosha is held at Harbor Park, just Northeast of downtown Kenosha. Harbor Park is home to many Kenosha festivals during the summer. As the name suggests, Harbor Park is located right at the edge of Lake Michigan.

Click here to find the address to Harbor Park

How do I Buy Food at the Event?

Buying food is simple, just stand in line, place your order, and pay with cash or credit card (if available). Unlike bigger events like the Taste of Chicago, you do not need to purchase a series of tickets before buying food. One of the drawbacks of the ticketing system is you always end up with too many, or too few tickets.

The only drawback of the system used at the Taste of Wisconsin is the lines tend to move a little slower. This is especially true if you pay with a credit card. If possible, do yourself a favor and bring cash.

Where to Park?

The closest place to park is the field between Harbor Park and the museum parking lot. Parking is free, and they accept standard cars, trucks, and motorcycles. I recommend, however, not to drive down to Harbor Park because the road is only one lane. In addition, you will find your self stopping frequently as people cross the street, or cars stopping to take pictures.

I recommend a few different options including parking a mile or two west, and walking down to Harbor Park. This is better as you will have more exits to leave when you’re ready, and there is less congestion.

Another option is to park along the streetcar route. As I’ve mentioned, Kenosha offers a streetcar ride through downtown Kenosha. This streetcar will make a stop right in front of Harbor Park. Like the parking west option, this will save you some time and frustration when you are ready to leave. Before hopping on the streetcar, be aware of the end times. You don’t want to find yourself with a longer than expected walk to the car!

Another option is to bike to the park. Like the first two options, you can park a distance away and ride your bike down. There are places near the park to park your bike. Don’t forget your bike lock!

Can I Bring My Dog?

Yes, the Taste of Wisconsin allows some types of dogs. Check out their website for a list of approved pets. General, I wouldn’t bring a pet if they are a little nervous around people, enjoys human food too much or is startled by kids.

Don’t leave your dog in the car on a hot day.

Why should I attend the taste of Wisconsin?

Here are some reasons we attend the Taste of Wisconsin every year:

• Funnel cake
• Kids zone
• Cheese curds
• Live music
• It’s cooler by the lake
• Socialize

Let’s take a quick look at each of these reasons

Funnel Cake

I believe I’ve mentioned funnel cake in almost every Kenosha blog I have written. But, at the Taste of Kenosha, you will have multiple options to eat funnel cake. If you’re unsure of what funnel cake is, it’s fried dough topped with powdered sugar, whipped cream, and other toppings. I have no idea why it tastes so good, but you should try it.

Kids Zone

The Taste of Wisconsin also includes a kid’s, a place where kids can jump in bounce houses, as well as other activities. While these bounce houses aren’t free, it is an opportunity for kids to have fun, and for parents to tire their kids out.

Cheese Curds

Cheese curds are a Wisconsin staple. And, like funnel cake, is available at multiple booths. Cheese curds are basically fried cheese nuggets that pop in your mouth by the handful. Many people from Wisconsin dip them in Ranch, others choose a spicier sauce.

Live Music

The Taste of Wisconsin features several live acts including local over bands, and other regions acts. You haven’t lived until you hear thousands of people singing hits from the 70s and 80s at the top of their lungs.

Kenosha is Cooler Near the Lake

If you’ve been to Kenosha, then you know there is a dramatic temperature difference between west and east Kenosha. During the summer, it is possible that there is a 10-degree difference between the lakefront and Indian Trial High School. On a hot day, being on the Lake for The Taste of Wisconsin is the only option.

Before heading down, make sure you bring a hat and some sunscreen as there is limited shade at the park. Also, the shade you do find will be shared amongst 10 new friends.

How Much Does it Cost?

While there is no cost to enter the Taste of Wisconsin, there is a small fee to buy food, drinks, and fun. You can expect to pay anywhere between $3 and $20 for food and drink. Remember that some of this cost goes toward a good cause, while the other covers the cost for the vendors to make the trip down.

When is the taste of Wisconsin?

Usually, the taste of Wisconsin is held the last week in July. The taste of Wisconsin in 2018 was held July 27 – July 29th. Check with the official sites for the exact days and times. The event begins at 3 pm on that Friday and concludes at 7 pm the next Sunday.

Which Vendors Attend the Event?

The event vendors include restaurants that are both local to Kenosha and others from around the state. These vendors include chain restaurants, and restaurants privately owned. Here is a brief list of vendors that attended the Taste of Wisconsin in 2018.

• Baco’s Tacos
• Brat Stop
• Dee Fried Cheese Curds
• Fry Daddy’s Steaks & Cakes
• Ruffolo’s Special Pizza 2
• Tres Flores Funnel Cake
• Twisted Cuisine
• Yum-Yum Home Made Ice Cream

Head over to the Taste of Wisconsin’s website for a complete list of vendors.

Can I become a Vendor?

Yes, you can become a vendor as long as you meet the following criteria.

• You have a food related business
• Adhere to fire safety rules
• Adhere to food safety guidelines
• Can receive a Kenosha county Health Permit

For more information on how to become a vendor, go to the taste of Kenosha page and click on more info -> vendors.

Conclusion

The taste of Wisconsin is an event held in Harbor Park, Kenosha, that brings food and drink from all over the region to the shores of Lake Michigan. This event is free to get in but will cost money if you want to eat or drink. The food provided is a smaller sample of the foods offered at full-service restaurants.

While you can park across from the park, it is much easier if you park a mile or two away and walk to the event. Kenosha also offers alternative modes of transportation to make the trip easier.

You should check out the Taste of Wisconsin if you enjoy food, drinks, or fun in the sun. It’s also a great opportunity to get the kids out of the house during the long, dog days of summer. Speaking of dogs, you can bring your dog, but there is a policy you must adhere to.

I recommend not bringing your dog, but that is up to you.

Additional Questions

Is the Taste of Kenosha Different than the Taste of Wisconsin?

Yes the two tastes are different. The primary difference is the taste is open to all vendors in the region, whereas the take of Kenosha features primary Kenosha residents.