The fest of times

Map it: Click here for a Google map of these spots, along with our other favorite Milwaukee restaurants, shops, bars and attractions.

Locust Street FestivalSun 10
The Locust Street Festival starts with the 31st annual Beer Run or Walk, a 1.8-mile course with four beer stops ($17, register at locust-street.com). The fest also has bands, food and crafts. Locust St between Humboldt Blvd and Holton St. Sun 10, 11am–8pm. Free.

SummerfestJun 28–Jul 8
Milwaukee’s iconic music festival brings acts like Spoon and Lupe Fiasco to its eight stages this year. A few tips: Nab a picnic table about an hour beforehand so you’ll be able to see the stage. Ditch that big-corporation brew and head to the nearest Lakefront Brewery tent. This is Wisconsin, after all. 200 N Harbor Dr. $15, noon–4pm weekdays $8, seniors and kids $3, kids under 2 free.

Bastille DaysJul 12–15
Need some Bordeaux with those freedom fries? Then head to this four-day fête in Cathedral Square Park. At night, a 43-foot-tall Eiffel Tower lights up while bands like King Solomon and Hurricane Gumbo play nearby. Other highlights include the Storming of the Bastille 5K run and gigantic puppet shows. 520 E Wells St at Jefferson St. Free.

Festa ItalianaJul 19–22
Take this for what it’s worth: Former Styx frontman Dennis DeYoung is the big attraction at the 30th annual Festa Italiana. We’re more excited about the food, fireworks and…yeah, pretty much everything else. 200 N Harbor Dr. $12.

RockerboxAug 11
This roaring motor–and–beer extravaganza boasts tattooed dudes and dudettes as far as the eye can see. Any fest that gives out a Cool As Fuck Award gets our endorsement. Center St between Weil and Pierce Sts. Free, $10 bike-entry fee.

Irish FestAug 16–19
There’s plenty to do at the Irish Fest, such as a massive tug-of-war, live music on 16 stages and hurling competitions (it’s a sport, you comedian). Of course there’s tons of beer but, sadly, not a drop of Guinness. 200 N Harbor Dr. Aug 16, $5; Aug 17–19, $15, seniors $10, kids 12 and under free.

OktoberfestSept 14–16
Milwaukee holds several Oktoberfests, but the proceeds from our fave Deutsch get-together go to Milwaukee Public Schools, so while you’re learning about the city’s rich brewing tradition (and eating, drinking and dancing), you’ll know you’re doing good. 4th St between State St and Juneau Ave. Free.