The Lake Geneva Wisconsin Venetian Festival is a vibrant five-day celebration held annually in August. This iconic event features a carnival, craft fair, water ski show, lighted boat parade, and spectacular fireworks display. Founded in 1962 by the Lake Geneva Jaycees, the festival has grown into a beloved community tradition, attracting thousands of visitors each year to enjoy family-friendly activities, live music, and the beauty of Lake Geneva.
What Is the History of the Lake Geneva Wisconsin Venetian Festival?
The Lake Geneva Venetian Festival has a rich history dating back to 1962. Originally started as a modest boat parade by the Lake Geneva Jaycees, it has evolved into a multi-day extravaganza that captures the essence of summer fun in Wisconsin. Over the decades, the festival has expanded to include:
- A carnival with thrilling rides and games
- A craft fair showcasing local artisans
- Water ski shows featuring skilled performers
- Live music performances by popular bands
- A beer tent for adult refreshments
- A spectacular fireworks display to close the event
The festival’s growth has made it the largest revenue generator for the Lake Geneva Jaycees, with net profits being reinvested into the local community and organizations.
When and Where Does the Lake Geneva Wisconsin Venetian Festival Take Place?
The 2024 Lake Geneva Venetian Festival is scheduled for August 14th to 18th. The festival spans several locations throughout Lake Geneva, Wisconsin:
- Flat Iron and Seminary Parks: Host to the carnival and some events
- Library Park: Location of the craft fair
- Geneva Lakefront: Site of the water ski show and lighted boat parade
- Downtown Lake Geneva: Best viewing area for the fireworks display
What Activities Are Available at the Lake Geneva Wisconsin Venetian Festival?
The Lake Geneva Venetian Festival offers a wide array of activities for all ages:
- Carnival
- Location: Flat Iron and Seminary Parks
- Times:
- Wednesday to Thursday: 5pm to 10:30pm
- Friday: 5pm to 11:00pm
- Saturday: Noon to 11:00pm
- Sunday: Noon to 10:30pm
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Features: Rides, games, and attractions
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Craft Fair
- Location: Library Park
- Times:
- Saturday: 10am to 5pm
- Sunday: 10am to 4pm
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Features: 110 exhibitors showcasing handmade items, jewelry, and artwork
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Water Ski Show
- Location: Geneva Lakefront by Library Park & The Riviera
- Time: Sunday at 6pm
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Performed by: Wonder Lake Ski Team
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Lighted Boat Parade
- Location: Geneva Lakefront
- Time: Sunday at dusk
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Participants decorate their boats with lights and compete for the best-decorated boat
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Fireworks Display
- Location: Geneva Bay, downtown Lake Geneva
- Time: Sunday approximately at 9pm
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Best viewed from Library Park, the Lake Front, Riviera Beach, and Flat Iron Park
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Live Music
- Location: Main Stage in the beer tent
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Various bands perform each day, including Sons of Sconnie, Lunch Money Bullies, and Kelly Daniels
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Baggo Tournament
- Location: Flat Iron Park
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Time: Saturday from 11:30am to 3:00pm
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Lumberjack Show
- Location: Seminary Park
- Times: Saturday at 2pm, 4pm, and 6pm
- Free admission
What Is the Complete Schedule for the Lake Geneva Wisconsin Venetian Festival?
Here’s a detailed day-by-day schedule for the 2024 Lake Geneva Venetian Festival:
Wednesday, August 14th
- Beer Tent: 5pm to Midnight
- Carnival: 5pm to 10:30pm
- Live Music: Sons of Sconnie (Main Stage)
Thursday, August 15th
- Beer Tent: 5pm to Midnight
- Carnival: 5pm to 10:30pm
- Live Music: Lunch Money Bullies (Main Stage)
Friday, August 16th
- Beer Tent: 5pm to Midnight
- Carnival: 5pm to 11:00pm
- Live Music: Kelly Daniels (Main Stage)
Saturday, August 17th
- Beer Tent: Noon to Midnight
- Carnival: Noon to 11:00pm
- Craft Fair: 10am to 5pm
- Baggo Tournament: 11:30am to 3:00pm
- Live Music: Jack Whittle Band & Too Hype Crew (Main Stage)
- Lumberjack Show: 2pm, 4pm, and 6pm
Sunday, August 18th
- Beer Tent: Noon to Midnight
- Carnival: Noon to 10:30pm
- Craft Fair: 10am to 4pm
- Water Ski Show: 6pm
- Lighted Boat Parade: Dusk
- Fireworks Display: Approximately 9pm
- Live Music: Rock Central, Big Al Wetzel Band, Dirty Canteen (Main Stage)
What Are the Ticketing Options for the Lake Geneva Wisconsin Venetian Festival?
While the festival itself is free to attend, some activities require tickets or wristbands:
| Activity | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| General Admission | Free | Access to festival grounds |
| Carnival Wristbands | $40 per person | All-you-can-ride, sold until 10pm daily |
| Beer Tent | $5 cover charge | Starts at 6pm for some bands, 21+ only |
| Craft Fair | Free | No tickets required |
| Parking | $10 | At Geneva Lakes Family YMCA (Fri-Sun) |
Special carnival wristband offers are available on Wednesday and Thursday from 5pm to 10pm and Saturday from Noon to 5pm.
How Has the Lake Geneva Wisconsin Venetian Festival Evolved Over the Years?
Since its inception in 1962, the Lake Geneva Venetian Festival has undergone significant changes:
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Expansion of Activities: From a simple boat parade, it has grown to include a carnival, craft fair, water ski show, and live music performances.
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Community Impact: The festival has become a major fundraiser for the Lake Geneva Jaycees, with profits reinvested in local community projects.
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New Attractions: Recent additions include the lumberjack show, enhancing the variety of entertainment options.
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Increased Scale: The craft fair has expanded to feature more exhibitors, while the carnival now offers a wider range of rides and attractions.
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Fireworks Finale: The fireworks display has become one of the largest in the area, serving as a grand conclusion to the festival each year.
The Lake Geneva Wisconsin Venetian Festival continues to be a cherished summer tradition, blending nostalgia with new experiences for visitors of all ages.