Venetian Festival 2025: Lake Geneva’s Ultimate Summer Celebration

Lake Geneva’s Most Anticipated Summer Tradition

Every August, Lake Geneva transforms into a lively, colorful celebration of summer, community, and lakeside living. The 63rd Annual Lake Geneva Jaycees Venetian Festival, running Wednesday, August 13 through Sunday, August 17, 2025, is the kind of event that draws families, friends, and visitors back year after year.

For five days, the downtown area bursts with music, laughter, and the scent of festival food drifting on the breeze. It’s more than just a festival—it’s a tradition woven into the heart of Lake Geneva life, and this year’s lineup promises to deliver even more magic than ever before.

As your local lifestyle and real estate experts, Kim & Joel Reyenga of eXp Realty invite you to not just visit the festival, but to imagine making this lakeside paradise part of your everyday life.

Kicking Off the Fun: Wednesday & Thursday Nights

The celebration begins on Wednesday, August 13 with the official ribbon-cutting at 5:00 PM at the Lake Geneva Jaycees Entertainment Pavilion. Grab your friends, snag a seat, and settle in for the return of local favorites, Sons of Sconnie, rocking the stage from 8:00 PM to nearly midnight.

If carnival rides are your thing, wristband nights on Wednesday and Thursday offer unlimited rides for just $40 per person—a perfect excuse to indulge your inner kid. The smaller rides will be waiting for little festival-goers in Seminary Park, while thrill-seekers can head to Flat Iron Park for the big attractions.

On Thursday night, brace yourself for some rock nostalgia as Rok Brigade, a Def Leppard tribute band, takes the stage at 8:00 PM. Whether you grew up blasting “Pour Some Sugar on Me” or you’re hearing it live for the first time, you’ll feel the energy ripple through the crowd.

Friday Night: Country Vibes & Carnival Lights

Friday, August 15, brings a little Nashville flair to the lakeshore. Kelly Daniels, a country singer-songwriter with a warm, soulful voice, will be performing from 8:00 PM to midnight. Pair that with carnival games, a cold beer from the Entertainment Pavilion, and the sparkle of lights reflecting on Geneva Lake, and you’ve got yourself a perfect summer night.

Weekend Highlights: Arts, Crafts, Cars & Music

Saturday, August 16 kicks off with the Lake Geneva Jaycees Arts & Crafts Fair from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM in Library Park. With over 100 artists and crafters, it’s a treasure trove for unique home décor, handmade jewelry, and one-of-a-kind gifts.

Families won’t want to miss the Touch-a-Truck event in Seminary Park, where kids can explore real emergency and service vehicles up close. The entertainment lineup is stacked, with Rebecca and the Grey Notes playing from 3:00–6:00 PM, followed by the high-energy Too Hype Crew from 8:00 PM until midnight.

Sunday, August 17 is the festival’s grand finale—and it’s loaded.

• Arts & Crafts Fair: Final day, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM.
  
  
• Venetian Festival Car Show: 11:00 AM–3:00 PM, open to all makes and models, right in Seminary Park.
  
  
• Rock Central students: Noon kickoff performance at the Entertainment Pavilion.
  
  
• Big Al Wetzel Band: 3:00–6:00 PM.
  
  
• Wonder Lake Ski Team: 6:00 PM water ski show on Geneva Lake.
  
  
• Venetian All Stars: 8:00 PM–midnight, showcasing local legends.
  
  
• Lighted Boat Parade & Fireworks: At dusk, watch illuminated boats glide across the water, followed by a fireworks display that lights up the entire lakeshore.
  
  

If you’re looking for a more intimate way to enjoy the finale, consider the 2025 Venetian Masquerade Ball at The Baker House. For $30 (party only) or $55 (dinner + party), you’ll enjoy live music, dinner, and a stunning view of the boat parade and fireworks from one of Lake Geneva’s most iconic venues.

More Than Just a Festival—It’s a Lifestyle

The Venetian Festival isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about connection. It’s where neighbors bump into each other after years apart, where visitors fall in love with the charm of Lake Geneva, and where the magic of small-town living blends seamlessly with world-class events.

From sunset cruises to live music in the park, every moment feels like a postcard from the perfect summer. And when the last firework fades, the beauty of Lake Geneva doesn’t disappear—it’s here year-round, waiting to be enjoyed.

Why Locals Love Lake Geneva Year-Round

While Venetian Fest may be the highlight of August, Lake Geneva offers something special in every season:

• Fall brings vibrant foliage and cozy lakefront dining.
  
  
• Winter transforms the town into a snow-globe-worthy destination with festivals and ice castles.
  
  
• Spring & Summer are filled with farmers markets, regattas, and lakeside lounging.
  
  

For those who live here, these aren’t just vacations—they’re everyday moments.

Make Lake Geneva Your Home

If you’ve ever wandered through the Venetian Festival and thought, “I wish I could live here,” you’re not alone. That dream is more attainable than you might think.

Kim & Joel Reyenga of eXp Realty aren’t just real estate professionals—they’re locals who know every hidden beach, every scenic trail, and every best-kept-secret café in the area. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway home, an investment property, or a full-time lakeside retreat, they can guide you through every step.

When you work with Kim & Joel, you’re not just getting real estate agents—you’re gaining trusted neighbors who want you to love this community as much as they do.

Plan Your Venetian Fest Visit Now

With events and accommodations filling up quickly, now is the time to plan your trip. Whether you’re coming for a day or making it a weekend getaway, here’s a quick festival checklist:

• Bring a lawn chair or blanket for concerts and fireworks.
  
  
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking between parks.
  
  
• Pack sunscreen & water—August afternoons can be warm.
  
  
• Bring cash for food, beer tents, and local vendor booths.
  
  
• Arrive early for parking, especially on Saturday and Sunday.
  
  

Festival Quick Facts

📍 Location: Flat Iron, Seminary, and Library Parks, Lake Geneva, WI
📅 Dates: August 13–17, 2025
🎟 Admission: Varies by event; check venetianfest.com for details
💡 Tip: Wednesday & Thursday are wristband ride nights—great value for families!

Ready to make the magic of Lake Geneva part of your daily life?
Contact Kim & Joel Reyenga – eXp Realty today to start your home search and find the perfect place to call yours.

📞 (262) 325-9867
🌐 www.YourWiscoHome.com