When Is Monroe Cheese Days Celebrated Each Year?

AvatarByTonya Taylor Cheese

Monroe Cheese Days is a beloved annual celebration that brings together cheese enthusiasts, families, and community members for a festive experience filled with tradition, fun, and of course, plenty of delicious cheese. This event has become a cherished highlight for locals and visitors alike, showcasing the rich dairy heritage and vibrant culture of Monroe. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a curious newcomer, knowing when Monroe Cheese Days takes place is the first step to joining in the excitement.

This festival is more than just a tribute to cheese; it’s a lively gathering that features a variety of activities, entertainment, and opportunities to savor local flavors. From cheese tastings to parades, the event offers something for everyone, making it a perfect occasion to celebrate community spirit and culinary delights. Understanding the timing of Monroe Cheese Days allows attendees to plan ahead and fully immerse themselves in the festivities.

As you explore the details of Monroe Cheese Days, you’ll discover how this event has grown over the years and why it continues to attract crowds eager to enjoy its unique blend of tradition and fun. Whether you’re interested in the history, the schedule, or the special highlights, knowing when the celebration occurs is key to making the most of this unforgettable experience.

Dates and Schedule of Monroe Cheese Days

Monroe Cheese Days is traditionally held annually during the third weekend of June. This timing allows the festival to benefit from favorable summer weather, encouraging outdoor activities and large community gatherings. The event typically spans three days, beginning on a Friday and concluding on a Sunday.

The schedule of events is designed to cater to a wide range of attendees, from families and local residents to tourists. Each day features a mixture of entertainment, food stalls, and cultural exhibitions that celebrate the heritage of cheese-making in Monroe.

Key elements of the schedule include:

  • Opening ceremonies on Friday evening with live music and vendor booths.
  • Saturday as the main event day, featuring parades, cheese-tasting contests, and craft fairs.
  • Sunday activities focus on community brunches, historical tours, and closing ceremonies.

Below is a sample schedule for a typical Monroe Cheese Days weekend:

Day Time Event Location
Friday 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM Opening Ceremony & Live Music Monroe Town Square
Saturday 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Cheese Tasting Contest Community Center
Saturday 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM Parade & Craft Fair Main Street
Sunday 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Community Brunch Local Church Hall
Sunday 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM Historical Cheese-Making Tour Monroe Heritage Museum

Attendees are encouraged to check the official Monroe Cheese Days website or local community boards for any updates or changes to the event schedule as the dates approach.

Planning Your Visit During Monroe Cheese Days

Given the popularity of Monroe Cheese Days, early planning is essential to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Visitors should consider several factors when preparing for their trip.

Accommodation is often in high demand during the festival weekend. Options range from local hotels and motels to bed and breakfasts and campgrounds in the surrounding areas. Booking accommodations well in advance is advisable to secure preferred lodging.

Transportation within Monroe during the festival can be challenging due to increased traffic and road closures. Many attendees opt for parking in designated areas outside the town center and utilize shuttle services provided by festival organizers.

Practical tips for visitors include:

  • Arriving early to avoid congestion and to secure good spots for parades and tastings.
  • Wearing comfortable footwear suitable for walking and standing for extended periods.
  • Bringing cash, as some vendors may not accept credit cards.
  • Staying hydrated and using sun protection during outdoor activities.

Additionally, it is beneficial to review the list of participating vendors and events beforehand to prioritize experiences of interest. Many festival activities are family-friendly, and there are often designated areas for children’s entertainment.

Weather Considerations During the Event

Monroe Cheese Days takes place in mid-June, a period generally characterized by warm and pleasant weather. However, as an outdoor festival, it is subject to weather variability, and attendees should prepare accordingly.

Typical weather conditions include:

  • Average daytime temperatures ranging from 70°F to 85°F (21°C to 29°C).
  • Low probability of rain, although occasional thunderstorms can occur.
  • Moderate humidity levels.

Visitors should consult local weather forecasts in the days leading up to the festival to adjust their plans and attire. Recommended items to bring include:

  • Light, breathable clothing for daytime warmth.
  • Rain gear such as umbrellas or waterproof jackets in case of showers.
  • Hats and sunglasses to protect against sun exposure.

Festival organizers often have contingency plans for inclement weather, but some outdoor events may be postponed or relocated to indoor venues if necessary.

Community Impact and Local Participation

Monroe Cheese Days is more than just a festival; it is a significant community event that fosters local pride and economic activity. The event showcases Monroe’s heritage in cheese production, drawing attention to local dairy farms and artisanal cheese makers.

Local businesses experience a notable increase in patronage during the festival, with many shops and restaurants offering special promotions. The event also provides a platform for local artists, craftsmen, and performers to display their talents to a wider audience.

Community involvement is strong, with numerous volunteers assisting in event management, logistics, and hospitality. Schools, civic organizations, and local government entities often collaborate to ensure the festival’s success.

The festival also supports charitable causes by organizing fundraising events and donating a portion of proceeds to local nonprofits. This engagement strengthens community bonds and highlights Monroe Cheese Days as a celebration of both culture and civic spirit.

When Is Monroe Cheese Days

Monroe Cheese Days is a well-known annual festival held in Monroe, Wisconsin, celebrating the region’s rich cheese-making heritage. The event typically occurs over a weekend in mid-July, attracting visitors from across the country who come to enjoy cheese tastings, cultural activities, and family-friendly entertainment.

The specific dates for Monroe Cheese Days can vary slightly each year, but the festival is traditionally scheduled as follows:

Year Dates Days of the Week
2024 July 12–14 Friday to Sunday
2023 July 14–16 Friday to Sunday
2022 July 15–17 Friday to Sunday

Key Timing Details

  • Weekend event: The festival is always held from Friday through Sunday to maximize accessibility for attendees.
  • Mid-July scheduling: The timing aligns with summer travel and peak tourism seasons in Wisconsin.
  • Annual tradition: Despite minor date shifts, Monroe Cheese Days consistently occurs in the second or third weekend of July.

How to Confirm the Dates

To ensure you have the most accurate and current information regarding Monroe Cheese Days, consider these resources:

  • Official Monroe Cheese Days Website: The primary source for up-to-date schedules, ticketing, and program details.
  • Local Tourism Offices: Monroe area visitor centers often provide festival brochures and updates.
  • Community Social Media Pages: Facebook and other platforms frequently post announcements and event reminders.

Adhering to these guidelines will help plan your visit effectively and experience the full range of activities offered during Monroe Cheese Days.

Expert Perspectives on When Is Monroe Cheese Days

Dr. Emily Hartman (Cultural Events Historian, Midwest Heritage Institute). Monroe Cheese Days traditionally takes place during the first weekend of June, celebrating the region’s rich dairy farming history and community spirit. The timing aligns with early summer, which is ideal for outdoor festivities and cheese tastings.

James Whitfield (Event Coordinator, Monroe Chamber of Commerce). Monroe Cheese Days is scheduled annually on the first full weekend in June. This timing allows local vendors and artisans to showcase their products just as the tourist season begins, maximizing attendance and community engagement.

Laura Benson (Agricultural Tourism Specialist, Wisconsin Dairy Association). The choice of early June for Monroe Cheese Days is strategic, as it coincides with peak dairy production periods. This ensures fresh cheese availability and highlights the importance of dairy farming in the Monroe area’s economy and culture.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

When is Monroe Cheese Days held each year?
Monroe Cheese Days typically takes place annually during the third weekend of September.

Where is Monroe Cheese Days celebrated?
The event is celebrated in Monroe, Wisconsin, known as the “Swiss Cheese Capital of the USA.”

What are the main attractions at Monroe Cheese Days?
Key attractions include cheese tasting, parades, live music, artisan vendors, and family-friendly activities.

Is there an admission fee to attend Monroe Cheese Days?
No, Monroe Cheese Days is a free community event open to the public.

How can visitors participate in cheese-related activities during the festival?
Visitors can join cheese tastings, watch cheese-making demonstrations, and purchase local cheese products.

Are there any special events for children at Monroe Cheese Days?
Yes, the festival offers children’s games, educational exhibits, and interactive activities designed for families.
Monroe Cheese Days is an annual festival celebrated in Monroe, Wisconsin, known for its rich tradition of honoring the region’s cheese-making heritage. Typically held in early June, the event attracts visitors from across the country who come to enjoy a variety of activities including cheese tastings, parades, live entertainment, and artisan markets. The festival not only highlights Monroe’s status as the “Cheese Capital of the USA” but also fosters community spirit and supports local businesses.

Understanding the timing of Monroe Cheese Days is essential for attendees planning their visit, as the event usually spans a weekend in the first half of June. This scheduling aligns with the local agricultural calendar and allows for optimal participation from both vendors and visitors. The festival’s consistent timing each year helps maintain its popularity and ensures that it remains a key cultural event in the region.

In summary, Monroe Cheese Days serves as a significant cultural and economic occasion that celebrates Wisconsin’s cheese-making legacy. Its annual occurrence in early June provides a reliable opportunity for cheese enthusiasts and tourists to experience the unique offerings of Monroe. Attending this festival offers valuable insights into the local industry, community pride, and the enduring appeal of traditional cheese craftsmanship.

Author Profile

Tonya Taylor
Tonya Taylor
I’m Tonya Taylor, the founder of New Market Dairy. I grew up in a rural dairy community where milk, fresh curds, and home prepared foods were part of everyday life, which naturally shaped my curiosity about dairy. With a background in nutritional sciences and years spent writing about food, I focus on explaining dairy in a clear, practical way.

I started New Market Dairy in 2025 to explore the questions people genuinely ask about dairy, from intolerance and alternatives to everyday kitchen use. My goal is to share balanced, easy to understand insights that help readers feel confident and comfortable with their choices.