What’s Happening at the Lake | October 2025 Edition

Brought to you by Kim & Joel Reyenga, Your Lake Geneva Lifestyle Experts with eXp Realty

As the days grow shorter and the air takes on that crisp October chill, Geneva Lake and its surrounding communities come alive with fall color, seasonal traditions, and events that blend history, music, family fun, and just the right amount of Halloween spook. October in Lake Geneva isn’t simply about changing leaves—it’s about parades, festivals, haunted hayrides, and cozy evenings that remind us why this region is so cherished.

At YourWiscoHome.com, we believe that home is more than a house—it’s the lifestyle, the traditions, and the people around you. This October lineup is filled with opportunities to enjoy everything our lake communities have to offer, whether you’re visiting for the weekend, entertaining friends, or imagining life here full-time.

Kick Off October with Film, Music & Local Flavor

Manhattan Short Film Fest (Oct. 1) – Lake Geneva Public Library

The final night of this international festival features 10 short films competing for Oscar eligibility. It’s a chance to see tomorrow’s award winners before anyone else, and you can enjoy it right downtown at the Lake Geneva Public Library

Open Mic Night (Oct. 2) – Topsy Turvy Brewery

Local talent shines at Topsy Turvy Brewery with an open mic night that invites musicians and performers to take the stage. With craft brews and community vibes, it’s the perfect Thursday outing

Wise Fest 2025 (Oct. 2–4) – Eagle, WI

One of southeastern Wisconsin’s most vibrant music festivals, Wise Fest brings together dozens of Midwestern performers. From the MilBillies to Wise Jennings and the People Brothers Band, the lineup delivers jam sessions that run from afternoon into the night. Tickets start around $53, making it an accessible way to soak in three days of music

Community Spirit: Homecoming Weekend

Nothing says “fall in Wisconsin” like high school homecoming.

• Lake Geneva Homecoming Parade (Oct. 3): Bands, floats, and community groups march through downtown Lake Geneva in a festive 30-minute parade that sets the tone for the weekend
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• Badger High School Homecoming Game (Oct. 3): Kickoff at the athletic field followed by a fireworks show. Local pride is at its peak, and whether you’re an alum or just love small-town traditions, it’s a highlight of the season
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• Homecoming Dance (Oct. 4): Students cap off the celebrations in Badger High’s main gym
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Step Into Fantasy: Dragon Days Festival (Oct. 3–5)

Lake Geneva’s Dragon Days Fall Fantasy Festival celebrates the city’s status as the birthplace of Dungeons & Dragons. This immersive weekend transforms the city into a fantasy hub:

• Opening Ceremony (Oct. 3) at Library Park.
  
  
• Fantasy Faire (Oct. 4–5) in Library Park with artisan booths, food, and live entertainment.
  
  
• Tours & Exhibits: Visit the original D&D birthplace at 330 Center St. or explore the Wizard of Lake Geneva exhibit at the Geneva Lake Museum.
  
  
• Family Fun: Storytelling, D&D play sessions at Horticultural Hall, and themed programming at the library.
  
  

Passes are $20 for the weekend or $15 for a day, making this one of the most affordable ways to step into Lake Geneva’s quirky, creative side

Classic October Thrills

Haunted Hayride & Hay Barn (Oct. 3 Onward) – Dan Patch Stables, Grand Geneva

A long-running Halloween staple, the Haunted Hayride winds through newly revamped woods filled with surprises. The first rides of the night are family-friendly, while the later rides dial up the scare factor. The adjoining Haunted Hay Barn adds even more thrills. Tickets are $25 for adults, $10 for kids, and cash only

Trick or Treat Trains (Oct. 3 & Oct. 10) – East Troy Railroad

Board a vintage train from the East Troy Railroad Depot and ride to Byrnes Park for games and trick-or-treating. Each child returns home with a pumpkin. Tickets range from $12–28 (discounted for museum members), and the whole experience lasts about 80 minutes

Big Stage Entertainment

Rock Legends Tributes

• Led Zeppelin Tribute (Oct. 3 & 4) at the Belfry Music Theatre, Delavan – Stairway to Zeppelin performs fan favorites in the intimate Belfry venue
  
  
• Pink Floyd Tribute & Laser Show (Oct. 4) at Geneva Stage, Lake Geneva – In The Flesh performs alongside an immersive laser display, creating a multi-sensory experience
  Bad Company Tribute (Oct. 10–11) at the Belfry – Burning Sky delivers a powerful take on classic rock anthems
  
  

Broadway & Beyond

• Bachelors of Broadway (Oct. 4) at Big Foot Performing Arts Center – This male vocal trio performs selections from “Wicked,” “West Side Story,” and “Phantom of the Opera.” Tickets range from $21–42
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Toasts to the Season

Wine Talk (Oct. 9) – The Bottle Shop, Lake Geneva

Scotto Cellars of Lodi, California, takes the spotlight at this guided tasting. Tickets are $15 per person, making it a great introduction to fall wine pairings

Vino & Vampires (Oct. 10) – Niche Café & Wine Bar, Geneva

Sip bold reds while celebrating spooky season. Tickets are $30 plus fees

Chateau Montelena Wine Dinner (Oct. 10) – Grand Geneva Resort

A five-course dinner paired with wines from the legendary Napa Valley producer. Tickets are $175 per person, plus tax and service

Oktoberfest Returns: Prost to 30 Years!

Downtown Lake Geneva’s 30th Annual Oktoberfest fills Flat Iron Park with German food, a lively beer garden, live music, and traditional stein-hoisting competitions.

• Saturday, Oct. 11 (11 a.m.–9 p.m.): All-day festivities with evening headliners Modern Day Romeos bringing the energy
  
  
• Sunday, Oct. 12 (11 a.m.–5 p.m.): Family-focused fun and the final chance to raise a stein this season
  

Legends, Lore & Local History

Halloween Legends & Lore (Oct. 10–11, multiple dates) – Old World Wisconsin, Eagle

This immersive evening experience includes eerie storytelling, historical reenactments, and atmospheric performances across six October dates. It’s family-friendly, with tickets $17 for kids, $20 for adults

Sordid & Scandalous Walking Tour (Oct. 11) – Lake Geneva

A guided tour through Maple Park highlights Lake Geneva’s colorful past—gangsters, scandals, and even tales of an alleged sea serpent sighting on the lake

Why October is Special in Lake Geneva

October in Lake Geneva is about connection: neighbors lining Broad Street for the homecoming parade, families bundling up for haunted hayrides, and friends toasting Oktoberfest together at Flat Iron Park.

For Kim and Joel Reyenga, it’s also a season of opportunity in real estate. “Fall often brings serious buyers who fell in love with the lake lifestyle over summer and are ready to make their move,” Joel shares. “Sellers can benefit from the season’s beauty, which showcases homes and neighborhoods in the best light.”

Plan Your October

From homecoming parades to Dragon Days, from Oktoberfest steins to wine tastings, Lake Geneva offers a season that blends tradition, creativity, and fun. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or considering making this your home, autumn here is about creating memories.

Work with Local Experts

Thinking of buying or selling in the Lake Geneva area this fall? Connect with Kim & Joel Reyenga at eXp Realty. With unmatched local insight, they can guide you to the home and lifestyle you’ve been dreaming of.

📞 Call Kim & Joel Reyenga at (262) 325-9867
🌐 Visit YourWiscoHome.com