There is so much to do and see in the Minocqua area, including some fun and unique events. From live music and weekly concerts to runs and races, along with many arts events and community organization activities there are a ton of events throughout the year.  Here are some popular events you might want to mark on your calendar this year. 

boat show

Island City Spring Wine Walk

June 19th, 2026

Enjoy wine tasting, shopping, live music, and lakeside views at the Island City Spring Wine Walk in downtown Minocqua! Stroll through unique shops while sampling wines and hors d'oeuvres from participating businesses. Tickets include a commemorative wine glass, event bag, wristband, and event map. Hosted by the Minocqua Island Business Association, this annual event supports local nonprofits and community activities. Participants must be 21+ with valid ID.

Minocqua Antique & Classic Boat Show

June 19-20th, 2026

The Minocqua Antique & Classic Boat Show returns to Torpy Park on Lake Minocqua. This 30+ year annual event draws 80+ beautiful boats. The in-water and on-land boats include nostalgic wooden boats from the 40s-70s, vintage fiberglass boats, as well as newer wooden boats. Don’t miss the boat parade Friday evening during the intermission of the Min-Aqua-Bat Water Ski Show. 

Bear Cupboard Run

June 27th, 2026

Join the fun for a great cause at the 17th Annual Bear Cupboard Run, benefiting the Lakeland Pantry! This family-friendly event offers something for everyone—from the littlest runners in the “Cubby” Run to seasoned participants in their 80s. Choose from a 5K Walk/Run or challenge yourself with the Half Marathon.

 

4th of july

4th of July

July 4th, 2026

The Minocqua area is the quintessential place to celebrate the 4th of July. The annual Independence Day festivities always occur on July 4th in downtown Minocqua and is one of the most popular celebrations in the Northwoods.  Enjoy the kiddie parade & main parade,a special Min-Aqua Bats Show, & fireworks over Lake Minocqua.

 

Woodruff Hog & Hops

July 25th, 2026

Get ready for a full day of fun, flavor, and community spirit at the Woodruff Hog & Hops event.  Building on the tradition of the annual Pig Roast fundraiser, this year we’re turning up the excitement by welcoming 10+ microbreweries for a craft beer tasting experience you won’t want to miss.  But that’s just the beginning—there will be live music, food, domestic beer, raffles, water fights, and kids' activities, making this a true family-friendly event. 

 

craft show

After Loon Delight Art & Craft Show

August 6th, 2026

Continue the celebration after Mercer’s Loon Day in Minocqua on Thursday, August 6th, 2026 with the After Loon Delight Art & Craft Show. The show fills the beach level of Torpy Park on Lake Minocqua from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. More than 75 exhibitors set up rain or shine and sell a wide variety of unique handcrafted items. You will see original artwork, pottery, jewelry, tapestries, clothing, photography, wood creations, leather goods, and more. 

Arbor Vitae Fireman's Summerfest

August 1st & 2nd, 2026

Celebrate a Northwoods tradition at the 50th Annual Arbor Vitae Fire & Rescue Summerfest, happening August 1st & 2nd at Fireman’s Park! For five decades, this beloved community celebration has brought families, friends, and visitors together for an unforgettable weekend of summer fun — and this year’s milestone event promises to be bigger and better than ever. Hosted by the Arbor Vitae Fire & Rescue Department, Summerfest features two full days of live music, delicious food, cold drinks, family-friendly activities, crowd-favorite water fights, and plenty more entertainment for all ages.

dragon boat

Minocqua Dragon Boat Festival

August 15th, 2026

The Minocqua Dragon Boat Festival is back for its 10th year! Over 100 teams from across 13 states and Canada will race 300m from East to West, finishing in front of Torpy Park’s swimming beach in an intense display of strength and teamwork. The excitement and energy from this event has had an immense impact on the health and wellness of our community by raising over $1 million to benefit our state-of-the-art hospitals including Howard Young Medical Center and Aspirus Eagle River Hospital, the Aspirus Tick-Borne Illness Center, and Autism Services.

For more great events throughout the summer, browse our events calendar for a full listing of things to do.