Doors Open Milwaukee

Take behind-the-scenes tours of over 170 of Milwaukee’s coolest commercial buildings, breweries, apartments buildings, art galleries, community gardens and more during this fun, mostly free event. Many tours have no charge, while others have a nominal fee that detail Milwaukee’s fascinating history and architectural delights in historic neighborhoods. doorsopenmilwaukee.org

Warrens Cranberry Festival

Get ready for a celebration of the state’s fruit at this fun fest. Experience three miles of shopping, a huge Sunday parade and cranberry marsh tours. Also nibble on Cranberries Jubilee, pancakes with cranberry syrup, cranberry cream puffs and even deep-fried cranberries on a stick. cranfest.com

World Dairy Expo

The World Dairy Expo serves as a forum for dairy producers, companies, organizations and other dairy enthusiasts to come together to show animals, exchange ideas, knowledge, technology and commerce. Watch animal competitions, sample dairy delights and meet animals in person. worlddairyexpo.com

Fermentation Fest

Billing itself as “an annual celebration of live culture in all its forms, from dance to yogurt, poetry to sauerkraut” this festival is an eclectic mix of art events, demonstrations, cooking classes and more. Listen to talks on Native American medicines and foods, the future of farming in Wisconsin, kombucha and home brewing, pretzel and cheesemaking,

Cheesefest

The town of Shullsburg welcomes visitors to try a variety of Wisconsin’s local cheeses in an event that offers fun for the whole family. Enjoy cheese tasting events, entertainment, craft and food vendors, and other autumn-themed activities. shullsburgwisconsin.org

Pumpkin Patch Festival

This free fest has live music, carnival rides, arts and crafts fair and autumn-themed activities available for the whole family to enjoy. eggharbordoorcounty.org/events/pumpkin-patch

Wisconsin Science Festival

This four-day statewide event celebrates science, technology, arts and culture, the natural world and more. Challenge the mind to various science, technology, engineering and math related activities that are fun for adults and children alike. wisconsinsciencefest.org

Wisconsin Book Festival

Every fall, thousands of people gather for this celebrated literary event that connects the active Midwest literary community with the great authors of today. Check out discussions, readings and activities based on the books themselves. wisconsinbookfestival.org

5K Zombie Run

This zombie-themed 5K is a great way to get out and be active while showing off spooky Halloween attire. Prizes are awarded to runners who finish among the top of their group as well as those voted best costume. spoonerzombierun.com

Downtown Appleton Soup Walk

Warm up and walk along the streets of downtown Appleton and taste all kinds of soups from restaurants along the way. At the event’s conclusion, vote for your favorite soup. appletondowntown.org/soup-walk