Connecting the Wausau Community Through Art for 50+ Years
Mark your calendars for September 12-13, 2026!
Wausau Festival of Arts
September 12-13, 2026
Saturday 10am-5pm & Sunday 10am-4pm
Downtown Wausau
The Wausau Festival of Arts has been Central Wisconsin’s largest outdoor arts festival since 1965. Each fall, more than 100 juried fine artists showcase and sell their work. Visitors can explore a wide variety of art, including fiber, pottery, paintings, sculpture, jewelry, glass, and more—making it a one‑of‑a‑kind shopping experience at the start of Wisconsin’s autumn season.
The festival is a community celebration of art and culture, bringing diversity and visual wonder to our lives. Guests can meet artists, connect with their work, and enjoy programs that give back to the arts community:
Emerging Artists Program – supporting new career artists
Silent Auction for Scholarships – helping high school graduates pursue their degree
Young Collectors Program – giving kids the opportunity to buy art and discover the joy it brings
In addition to the art, the festival features live performances on the 400 Block main stage and live music throughout the shopping area. All food vendors donate their proceeds to local Wausau area non‑profits, making the festival a true community event.
The Wausau Festival of Arts takes place in the heart of historic downtown Wausau. Visitors can enjoy a vibrant mix of local businesses—from cocktail bars and coffee shops to home goods stores, hotels, and more—all within walking distance. Free and convenient parking makes access simple.
For the festival weekend, 3rd Street transforms into a pedestrian shopping street from the 600 block to the 900 block, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere.
Plan your trip to Wausau, September 12–13, 2026!
Be a part of the Wausau Festival of Arts
Get Involved
Be part of the magic behind the scenes at the Wausau Festival of Arts! Volunteer during festival weekend and help bring art to life in our community. From welcoming guests to supporting artists, you’ll play a key role in creating an unforgettable experience.
Join the team, make new friends, and celebrate creativity while giving back.
Call for Artists
Showcase your work at the Wausau Festival of Arts! Apply through ZAPPlication to be one of 120 plus juried fine artists featured at Central Wisconsin’s largest outdoor arts festival.
Join the WFOA artist community, share your work with thousands of visitors, and be part of a tradition that has celebrated art since 1965.
Become a Sponsor
Support the Wausau Festival of Arts and help strengthen the community and art culture of Central Wisconsin. By becoming a sponsor, you’ll show your passion for the region while making a lasting impact on artists, families, and visitors alike.
Your contribution helps keep the festival vibrant, accessible, and inspiring for all.
Join us in celebrating creativity—be a sponsor today!
Support Wisconsin’s Leading Artists.
Support the Wausau Festival of Arts and help strengthen the community and art culture of Central Wisconsin