Steeped in a rich history and laden with awards, Door County, Wisconsin, is one of the best vacation destinations in the upper midwest. Whether you're a history buff researching the area’s 12,000-year old nomadic residents or you’re here to enjoy the vibrant art scene, Door County will deliver. For 70 years the Door County Fall Fest has been the premier festival in the region. Beginning as a way for the tourism industry to relax and celebrate after a busy summer season, it has grown to be so much more. Now the festival is a major draw for all ages and backgrounds, with thousands of festival attendees coming to Sister Bay from all over the country.
During the three-day festival, you’re sure to find something to enjoy. There is a classic car show that showcases many rare vehicles from yesteryear. If that doesn't grab your attention, then stop by the arts and crafts fair where they feature many artisans and their wares. Make sure to visit the chainsaw carving demonstration for a one-of-a-kind art experience. Kids will love all the games and activities designed just for them. You’ll find plenty of food vendors with enough delicious options that no one will go hungry. With all the activities and fun attractions, don't forget that Sister Bay has many shops, restaurants, parks, and activities that will have you wanting to extend your stay. ResortsandLodges.com got the oppotunity to interview Paige Funkhouser, the Cooridnator of the Sister Bay Advancement Assoication, about the event and the impact on the community.
RAL: How long has the event been running and what makes it unique?
PF: 2015 marks the 70th anniversary of the Sister Bay Fall Fest. Sister Bay shuts down a portion of Wisconsin Highway 42 for two days, just for this festival! There are very few other places in Wisconsin that can claim that. Festers flood the streets listening to music, enjoying food and drinks, exploring the arts and crafts fair, and meeting new and old friends.
RAL: How many people does the festival draw annually and what their demographic makeup?
PF: This is an entirely outdoor festival, so attendance is weather dependent. Fall Fest draws anywhere from 10-50,000 people, from all over the country. People born and raised in Door County, former student summer workers, people whose jobs force them to live elsewhere, all use it as a Door County homecoming.
Everybody comes to Fall Fest! We have activities and entertainment for families, and residents at our local assisted living/retirement campus make appearances.
RAL: Take me through a typical day at the event.
PF: Please visit the festival website for a schedule of the events. Please note this change to the poster schedule, no helicopter rides.
RAL: What can people expect for local lodging?
PF: Hotels throughout Door County frequently require a two- or three-night minimum stay on fall weekends, especially festival weekends. Sister Bay is already 99% booked up for Fall Fest, and has been for at least three weeks. Many Fall Festers book their room for the following year as they leave Sunday of Fall Fest weekend. If someone would like to come to our festival for the night, the best bet is to call the various community visitor centers, as they keep a tight track on lodging availability. However, your readers should know that if they call asking for one night with a water view and a dog for Fall Fest weekend, they’ll most likely hear a laugh on the other end!Festers frequently have to book a room in Sturgeon Bay (about a 45 min. drive south of Sister Bay) to find a place to sleep.
A few lodging options to consider are The Shallows Resort, Landmark Resort and The Landing Resort.
RAL: What does the event mean to the community?
PF: Fall Fest began 70 years ago as an end of the summer season party for year-round residents. Over the years, Fall Fest has changed and grown, and become one of the biggest money making weekends for Door County (not just Sister Bay). Currently, about 20 non-profit organizations from around Door County and Northeast Wisconsin (such as the Door County Humane Society, VFW, Lions Club, Snowmobile clubs, youth groups) sell food and drinks, and for most it’s their largest fundraiser of the year. This non-profit supporting tradition gives Fall Fest a more altruistic feel than most October fests around the state. Most Sister Bay and Door County retail businesses hold BIG SALES during Fall Fest weekend. Combined with the 100+ vendor Arts and Crafts Fair, Fall Fest is a great holiday shopping destination.
RAL: Why should people come to your festival?
PF: Autumn in Sister Bay and Door County is one of the top two seasons visitors choose to come to the peninsula. The colors in the trees, fall decorations, autumn fruit picking, and farmer’s markets are destination activities for visitors. And Fall Fest is the “official-unofficial” end to the season. This means that retail stores throughout the county are offering end-of-season sales, restaurants have delicious fall menu items and flavors, and hotel rates are less expensive than in the summer months of July and August. Fall Fest is consistently a family and friend reunion destination. The excitement of the party, variety of activities and events, and free entry make this an appealing festival.
For more information please visit the festival website.