Nicknamed the "Spirit on the Lake," the city of Sheboygan, Wisconsin, hugs the shores of Lake Michigan -- a setting that inspires artists and provides a scenic backdrop for cultural events. Sheboygan's natural assets invite hiking, biking, boating, surfing and other outdoor recreation, but the town also knows how to throw a celebration. Local festivals engage the young and young at heart in cultural pleasures, while community interactions fuse worlds of imagination to the best of Wisconsin life.
Midsummer Celebration of the Arts
- Every July, downtown Sheboygan comes alive with creative spirit as art lovers gather for the Midsummer Festival of the Arts at the John Michael Kohler Arts Center. The free weekend event features exhibits by more than 100 artists. Collectors and buyers from across the country flock to the fest for opportunities to purchase sculptures, paintings, ceramics, jewelry, photography and other works. Workshops for kids provide budding artists the chance for self-expression. Concerts in the Library Sculpture Garden fill the air with sweet sounds. Ethnic foods, brats, ice cream and beverages round out the event. The good times begin at 10 a.m. and conclude at 5 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday.
Inspiration for the Next Generation
- Designed to inspire young minds, the Sheboygan Children's Book Festival is the state's only free book festival for kids. The October event celebrates children's literature and nurtures the love of reading, writing and other artistic pursuits. The weekend festival provides opportunity to meet authors and illustrators and participate in workshops, readings and discussions. Past events have included bedtime story sessions for pajama-clad kids, art making workshops with Caldecott award-winning illustrators and Japanese storytelling. Festival venues include the John Michael Kohler Arts Center, Mead Public Library and Bookworm Gardens. Check the festival website for dates and times.
Salute to Independence Day
- Sheboygan shows its patriotism every July Fourth with an array of events topped off with fireworks above Lake Michigan. The celebration begins on the evening of July 3 with a traditional Venetian Boat Parade at the Harbor Centre River Walk. Live music on South Pier kicks up the festive spirit and excitement. Sheboygan's Independence Day party begins at 9 a.m with a parade through the downtown district. Marching bands, entertainment and treats salute the country's birthday. Other happenings throughout the day include live music, volleyball tournaments, children's activities, food and refreshments. The Sheboygan Art Armada at Rotary Riverview Park is a festival highlight and a floating show of creativity. Teams build cardboard boats according to a predetermined theme and compete for good-humored awards.
Plymouth's Twin Celebrations
- Each June, the western Sheboygan County town of Plymouth goes all out to celebrate the arts. The free Plymouth Mural and Arts Festival provides a cultural feast with a juried art fair, live music, community theater events, a cabaret show and children's activities. It pays tribute to the town's 25 hand-painted murals by inviting festival goers to contribute to mural making at locations across town. The city event coincides with the Festival of Fine Arts at Plymouth Arts Center. This premier Sheboygan County arts destination in downtown Plymouth inspires with art exhibits and sales, live music, children's art workshops, art demonstrations, food, wine and a silent auction.
