Wisconsin Cheese Festival will celebrate cheese, music

LAKE GENEVA — The inaugural Wisconsin Cheese Festival will kick off summer in Lake Geneva May 17-19. Cheese lovers will congregate at the Lake Geneva House of Music for three days of food, music and family fun.

The event brings together cheese makers, artisans, farmers and vendors to celebrate Wisconsin’s rich cheese-making heritage. The festival will pair a wide variety of cheese dishes with Americana, country, folk and bluegrass music to a delightful selection of whiskey, wine and craft beer.

“We’re thrilled to host this celebration of all things cheese,” said Christopher Buttleman, owner of Lake Geneva House of Music and the event creator. “It’s an opportunity for cheese lovers to come together, enjoy fantastic music, indulge in delicious foods, and, of course, savor an array of Wisconsin cheeses.”

Activities will include cheese-themed contests, karaoke, cheese bingo, stein hoisting and a mouthwatering variety of creative foods.

“Whether you’re a cheese connoisseur or simply looking for a fun-filled family weekend, the Wisconsin Cheese Fest promises an unforgettable experience,” Buttleman said.

The event features three days of live music on two outdoor stages and free indoor after parties on Friday and Saturday nights.

Headlining Saturday’’s main stage is Tennessee Whiskey, a Chicago-land tribute to Chris Stapleton. Additional musical performances include Lara Bell, Tyler Lance Walker Gill, Chicken Wire Empire, The Thompson Duo, Lucky Pickers, Wheels North Band, Johnny Lyons & The Pride, Miles Over Mountains, Cameron Webb, The Box Band and The Best Westerns.

The Lake Geneva House of Music partnered with APG Southern Wisconsin to create the event. APG Southern Wisconsin publishes multiple newspapers in the region including The Gazette, Beloit Daily News, Watertown Daily Times and Daily Jefferson County Union.

“We are excited to partner with the Lake Geneva House of Music on this event,” said Robert Ireland, director of business development for APG Southern Wisconsin. “There’s going to be fantastic food, awesome live music and family-friendly entertainment.”

To purchase tickets to the event visit https://www.cheesefestwi.com. Sunday’s event, which is combined with the Geneva Outdoor Market, is free to the public.