In the summertime, Manitowoc’s downtown and parks are filled with can’t-miss festivals and events. Read more below about five upcoming summer events that you need to add to your calendar! 

 

1.       Wisconsin Sand Sculpting Festival

One of this summer’s biggest events is the Wisconsin Sand Sculpting Festival on July 19-21, 2024. The only of its kind in the state, this annual festival will feature 15 semi-pro sand sculptors who will create massive sand sculptures along Red Arrow Park Beach. Live entertainment, sand sculpting lessons, craft vendors, and food trucks are just some of many things that make the Wisconsin Sand Sculpting Festival a can’t-miss event. The Manitowoc Sunrise Rotary co-host this event and put the proceeds back to serving the community. Tickets are available day-of during the event. 

Bob May Sand Sculpting Winner

2.        Lakeshore Balloon Glow

Each year, thousands of people flood downtown Manitowoc for Lakeshore Balloon Glow, an annual family-friendly event hosted by The Chamber of Manitowoc County, City of Manitowoc and Visit Manitowoc. The free event features glowing hot air balloons, delicious food trucks and cold drinks, a water ski show, kids’ zone, entertainment, fireworks and more! Lakeshore Balloon Glow 2024 is set for Friday, August 16 from 5:00-9:00 pm.

Waterski Show

3.       Malt City Brewfest

Malt City Brewfest, a beer-lovers festival, hosted by Manitowoc’s Briess Malt & Ingredient Co., is set for Saturday, July 27. The event will feature over 30 brewers personally serving up their favorite craft brews alongside live music and tasty food trucks. It all takes place in downtown Manitowoc along the riverfront. 

Malt City Brewfest

4.       Fourth on the Shore and Subfest

When many people hear “summer,” they immediately think of the heart of the season and Independence Day. Manitowoc celebrates the holiday in a big way with Fourth on the Shore. This event takes over the downtown riverfront and extends along the Lake Michigan shores, complete with food trucks, live music and entertainment, a parade and fireworks to cap off the day's festivities. In conjunction with this event, the Wisconsin Maritime Museum hosts Subfest from July 4-7, with a jam-packed schedule of kids activities, ceremonies and live music. 

uss cobia erika

5.       Maritime Bay Classic

You don’t have to be a cyclist to enjoy this fast-paced downtown bike race! Part of the Tour of America’s Dairyland series, the largest bike series in the United States, the Maritime Bay Classic takes over downtown Manitowoc on Sunday, June 16. Throughout the day, hundreds of racers will zip through the downtown streets. Featuring children's activities, delicious food and cold drinks, this is the perfect Father's Day event for the whole family to enjoy. 

Maritime Bay Bike Race feat Pizza Garden