It's another exciting summer in the Fox Cities
The 73rd Annual EAA (Experimental Aviation Association) AirVenture, the largest fly-in and aviation celebration in the world, runs through Sunday, July 26. More than 500,000 visitors are expected to attend throughout the week. Last year’s attendance set a record of roughly 704,000 attendees from 94 different countries. During the event each year, the Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh becomes the busiest airport in the world.
There are activities for all ages, including everything from rocket building to flight simulators to world-class air shows. Check out the daily lineup at the EAA website.
EEA is just one of any number of events taking place during another busy summer in the area. As the Fox Cities Convention and Visitors Bureau puts it, “there's no shortage of ways to make each and every visit to the Fox Cities a one-of-a-kind adventure.
Symphony Under the Stars Friday, July 24
The Fox Valley Symphony Orchestra (FVSO), under the direction of Kevin Sutterlin, will present its annual Symphony Under the Stars concert on Friday, July 24, at the Neuroscience Group Field, the home of the Timber Rattlers. Parking and admission are free. The stadium parking lot opens at 5 p.m. The stadium doors open at 6, with the concert starting at 7:30.
The program will feature light classical music, including a few John Philip Sousa marches. In addition, concertgoers will be treated to performances by Russ and the Renegades, the FVSO’s own rock band, the MacDowell Male Chorus, and the Fox Valleyaires, a men’s barbershop chorus. Expect the unexpected with a mix of Wham, Kenny Loggins, and Aerosmith. The evening extravaganza will end with a fireworks display.
Art at the Park July 25-26
Over 200 artists will display their handiwork at Art at the Park on Saturday, July 25 (9:00 AM – 5:00 PM) and Sunday, July 26 (9:00 AM – 4:00 PM). The two-day summer festival, sponsored by the Trout Museum of Art, is held in Appleton’s City Park. In addition to original artwork, there will be live music, food trucks and family art activities.
The Trout Museum of Art is located at 325 E College Avenue in downtown Appleton. Thanks to the financial support of The Boldt Company, admission to the Trout Museum of Art is free for all visitors through 2026.
Mile of Music July 30-Aug. 2
The Mile of Music 2026 festival is taking place from Thursday, July 30 to Sunday, August 2, 2026, in Downtown Appleton, Wisconsin. Over 200 artists playing original music will be performing across 35 different venues. Attendees can download the official mobile app for schedule tracking, or purchase paid "Music-Makers" passes to access exclusive hospitality lounges and early-entry showcase events. Check out a few recommendations published by The Dairyland Patriot.
Read music critic Scott Peeples top picks for this year’s Mile.
