Wausau's Beer, Bacon & Brew Fest | Sample Top WI Craft Beer & Bacon Dishes

Exploring the Beer and Bacon Fest in Wausau, Wisconsin

Wausau, Wisconsin may be best known for its lush forests, flowing rivers, and abundant wildlife. But this midwestern city also knows how to have a good time. Case in point: the annual Beer and Bacon Fest that takes over downtown's 400 Block each summer.

A Block Party for Bacon and Brew Lovers

The Beer and Bacon Fest started in 2009 as a small block party on a closed off street in downtown Wausau. A few local restaurants offered samples of their craft beers and bacon-inspired dishes. But word spread quickly about this savory celebration. The event outgrew its original location and now spans nearly the entire 400 Block business district.

Each year over 30 breweries and eateries from around Wisconsin converge here to showcase over 100 specialty beers. And that’s not even counting all the unique bacon creations. We’re talking chocolate-covered bacon, bacon mac and cheese, bacon bloody marys, and more. It’s a meat-lover and beer connoisseur's delight.

Planning Your Visit

The 2023 Beer and Bacon Fest takes places on Saturday, August 12 from 3-7 PM. And you'll want to come hungry! Admission includes unlimited 2 oz beer samples and a sampling punch card for the bacon fare.

General admission tickets are only $5 in advance or $10 at the gate. But serious pork and brew fans will want to splurge on a $50 VIP pass. This gives you early entry at 2 PM along with a special VIP area, complimentary water and sodas, private restrooms, and a food voucher for any bacon menu item.

Transportation and Parking

Free shuttle buses run between the 400 Block and downtown parking ramps before, during and after the event. Or take advantage of Wausau's convenient downtown trolley which stops right at the festival entrance. Just look for the bright red trolley car!

If driving, public parking garages are located one block away on Scott Street and Third Street. Street parking is also available, but fills up fast. Carpooling and rideshares like Uber/Lyft are good options for safe and hassle-free transportation.

The Brews and Bacon

With breweries like Bull Falls, Mosinee, and Whitetail participating, you'll get to sample some of Wisconsin's top local craft beers. IPAs, stouts, ales and more—this fest celebrates the full spectrum of brews. Bacon dishes also run the gamut from classic BLTs to experimental creations themed for the event.

Wash down the rich, fatty bacon flavors with a refreshing ale or cut through spicy dishes with a light lager. Half the fun is mixing and matching to see what interesting beer and bacon pairings you discover.

Beyond the Beer and Bacon

In between beer and bacon sampling, check out vendor booths filled with art, crafts and other goods from local Wausau businesses. Kids can enjoy face painting, balloon animals and caricature drawings (for a small fee).

Multiple bands and musicians play throughout the event so you can dance off some of those beer and bacon calories! Expect a mix of rock, blues, country and more. Or relax nearby on the grass or at the outdoor dining patios of downtown restaurants and bars.

Accommodations for Out-of-Towners

For visitors coming into Wausau just for the Beer and Bacon Fest, plenty of hotels cater to every budget. Convenient downtown options like the Courtyard by Marriott or Hampton Inn put you close to the festival. Or choose from familiar chains like Holiday Inn, Fairfield Inn, Quality Inn and more. Campgrounds in the area offer budget rates too.

Wherever you stay, Wausau tourism provides an online guide to help you find the perfect place to rest your head after an afternoon of beer sipping and bacon sampling!

A One-of-a-Kind Festival

Wisconsin has no shortage of excellent craft breweries and artisanal bacon. The Beer and Bacon Fest lets you celebrate both in one delicious event. With live music, vendor booths, fun kids activities and more, it offers entertainment for all ages.

So come out to downtown Wausau on August 12th and discover why this unlikely pairing makes the perfect summer block party. Your tastebuds will thank you!

FAQs

What are the festival hours?

The main event takes place August 12 from 3-7 PM. VIP ticket holders get early admission at 2 PM.

How much are tickets?

General admission is $5 in advance or $10 at the gate. VIP tickets are $50 and include extra perks like early entry, drink vouchers, and access to the VIP area.

What is there to eat and drink?

Your admission includes unlimited 2 oz beer samples from over 30 Wisconsin breweries. You also get a punch card to sample a variety of creative bacon dishes from local restaurants.

Is the festival kid-friendly?

Yes! While this event is centered around beer and bacon, there are plenty of fun activities for kids like face painting, balloon animals, and live music. So feel free to bring the whole family.