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

Kohler Food & Wine Experience

One of the state’s most indulgent food celebrations, this extravaganza features celebrity chefs, cocktails, tastings, culinary seminars and parties, all held at the American Club in the idyllic town of Kohler. Learn about pairing rosé and beer can chicken, matching up whiskey and chocolate, how to select cheeses to go with chocolates and more. americanclubresort.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

Madison Freakfest

This party on the street event is the region’s largest annual Halloween party and music festival. Featuring popular artists on three different stages, Freakfest has been a spooktacular event for over 10 years. madfreakfest.com

Boo at the Zoo

Calling all candy collectors for this day-long trick-or-treating fiasco, which incorporates all of the zoo’s furry and scaly friends. At the event, kids can also enjoy a straw bale maze, arts and crafts, and pumpkin decorating. racinezoo.org

Beer & Spirits Festival

Thirty-five Midwest craft brewers and distillers will be on hand at this fest, featuring brewers such as Milwaukee-based Mob Craft Beer, Madison-located One Barrel Brewing Company and Lake Geneva’s Lake Geneva Brewing Co. lakegenevabeerandspirits.com