The Ultimate Guide To Riverfest La Crosse 2025: Dates, Lineup, And 10 Must-See Events
Get ready to mark your calendars! The official dates for Riverfest La Crosse 2025, the region’s premier summer celebration, have been confirmed for the Independence Day weekend. This multi-day event transforms Riverside Park into a bustling hub of national music acts, family-friendly fun, and the area's largest fireworks display. As of this current date in December 2025, early details on the lineup, ticket pricing, and key attractions are already being released, making it the perfect time to plan your trip to the beautiful banks of the Mississippi River.
The annual festival, a beloved La Crosse tradition since 1983, is set to run from Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025, through Saturday, July 5th, 2025. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor traveling to the Coulee Region, Riverfest offers four days packed with entertainment that caters to every age group, all accessible with one affordable admission button. The combination of top-tier musical talent and classic community events solidifies Riverfest's status as a Midwest summer staple.
Riverfest La Crosse 2025: Essential Event Details and Admission Guide
Understanding the basics of Riverfest is the first step to enjoying the celebration. The entire festival is held in the picturesque Riverside Park, offering stunning views of the Mississippi River and the surrounding bluffs. The event is famous for its "Admission Button" system, which grants access to all four days of the festival, including all musical performances, the car show, and the spectacular fireworks display.
Key Festival Information
- Dates: Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025 – Saturday, July 5th, 2025.
- Location: Riverside Park, La Crosse, Wisconsin.
- 2025 Commodore: Dustin Luecke (The Riverfest Commodore is an honorary title, often serving as an ambassador for the festival and the La Crosse community.)
- Main Stages: J.F. Brennan North Stage (main music venue) and Morrie's Food & Beverage Stage (additional live music).
- Family Venue: Mayo Children's Stage (dedicated entertainment for kids).
Ticket Pricing and Pre-Fest Savings
The Riverfest Admission Button is one of the best values in summer festival tickets, providing four days of entertainment for a single price. Savvy attendees can save money by purchasing their button early during the pre-fest period.
- Pre-Fest Admission Button Price: $10.
- Festival Admission Button Price: $15 (Online and at the gate during the festival).
- Pre-Fest Discount Deadline: Purchase your buttons prior to Wednesday, June 25th, 2025, to secure the $10 price and save $5.
- Purchasing: A digital ticket is emailed upon purchase and is redeemable at the gate for the official admission button.
The Confirmed Riverfest 2025 Music Lineup and Headliners
Riverfest is renowned for bringing a diverse range of musical talent to the J.F. Brennan North Stage, featuring both national touring acts and popular regional bands. While the full, minute-by-minute schedule is still being finalized, several major headliners and supporting acts have been confirmed for the 2025 festival, promising a high-energy atmosphere every night.
National and Regional Acts Confirmed
The 2025 lineup features a strong mix of country, rock, and classic party bands, ensuring there is a sound for every music lover attending the La Crosse festival. Confirmed headliners and main stage performers include:
- Cody Webb: A rising country music star, Webb is confirmed to kick off the main stage entertainment on Wednesday, July 2nd.
- Brett Westgrove: Known for his dynamic country performances, Westgrove will take the J.F. Brennan North Stage on Thursday, July 3rd.
- The Remainders: This popular regional rock act is scheduled for the main stage on Friday, July 4th, setting the mood for the Independence Day celebration.
- Boogie and the YoYos: A high-energy party and cover band, they are a frequent and highly anticipated act, often closing out the festival with a massive dance party on Saturday.
Supporting acts confirmed for the event include the Pat Watters Band, Corey Wise, and High Mileage, who will be performing on various stages throughout the four days.
Independence Day Celebrations and Traditional Riverfest Events
Beyond the music, Riverfest is deeply rooted in community traditions, particularly its spectacular celebration of the Fourth of July. The festival is a complete experience, offering unique attractions, family entertainment, and a massive car show that draws enthusiasts from across the Midwest.
The Main Event: July 4th Fireworks
The highlight of the entire festival is the colossal fireworks display over the Mississippi River on Friday, July 4th. This is considered one of the largest and most impressive Independence Day pyrotechnics shows in the region. The fireworks are scheduled to light up the night sky from approximately 9:40 PM to 10:05 PM, creating a breathtaking backdrop against the river and the La Crosse bluffs.
Family Fun and Entertainment at the Mayo Children's Stage
Riverfest prides itself on being a family-friendly festival, dedicating a significant portion of its programming to younger audiences at the Mayo Children's Stage and Center Park area. Families can expect a packed schedule of performers and activities throughout the day, including:
- Kenny Ahern: A renowned Family Comedy Show performer, confirmed to appear on multiple days, including Saturday, July 5th.
- Magic of Isaiah: Offering both stage shows and walk-around magic, delighting children and adults alike.
- Mike Mauthe: Known for his creative balloon animals.
- Spunky the Clown: Providing classic festival entertainment and fun.
- Arts & Crafts Vendors: A dedicated area south of the main entrance featuring various arts and crafts merchants.
The Annual Car Show and Classic Traditions
The festival's final day features one of its most popular non-music events: the Riverfest Car Show. This event, hosted by Chariots4Hope WI, takes place on the road by the North Levee on Saturday, July 5th, running from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is a must-see for classic car and hot rod enthusiasts.
Other classic Riverfest traditions include the Pepsi Community Tent, the Community Sponsor Social, and various traditional Fourth of July events like bean bag (corn hole) tournaments and water ski shows, which are often held nearby or in conjunction with the festival.
Exploring the Riverfest Food Fair and Beverage Tents
No major summer festival is complete without an array of delicious food and refreshing beverages. Riverfest La Crosse features a massive Food Fair and several dedicated beverage tents, with the Morrie's Food & Beverage Stage often hosting additional entertainment.
What to Eat
The Food Fair features numerous food trucks and vendors offering classic festival fare and local specialties. Confirmed food items and vendor staples include:
- Fresh Squeezed Lemonade
- Corn Dogs
- Hand Battered Cheese Curds (a Wisconsin essential)
- Fresh Fries
- Hamburgers and Cheeseburgers
The variety of food trucks ensures that attendees can find everything from sweet treats to savory dinner options, making the food experience a central part of the celebration.
Beverage Tents and Socializing
Multiple beverage tents are set up throughout Riverside Park, offering a selection of beer, soda, and other refreshments. Attendees must be 21+ to purchase and consume alcohol at the festival. The atmosphere in the beverage tents is lively, providing a perfect spot to take a break from the main stage crowds and socialize with friends and family.
Planning Your 2025 Riverfest Experience: Tips and Takeaways
To make the most of your four-day Riverfest experience, consider these essential planning tips. Since the event is held in Riverside Park, parking can be limited, so planning alternative transportation is highly recommended. Many attendees utilize the La Crosse area's public transportation or local shuttle services.
The event is held rain or shine, so checking the La Crosse weather forecast for early July is crucial for packing appropriately—sunscreen, hats, and comfortable walking shoes are always a must. With the pre-fest button discount ending on June 25th, 2025, purchasing your admission early is the smartest way to save money and ensure a smooth entry into the park. The 2025 Riverfest promises to continue its tradition as the ultimate Fourth of July celebration in the Coulee Region, delivering unforgettable music, spectacular fireworks, and family fun on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River. Don't miss out on this classic La Crosse summer festival!
Detail Author:
- Name : Sophia Fay
- Username : schmeler.lurline
- Email : nicklaus.kihn@abbott.com
- Birthdate : 1982-03-26
- Address : 971 Tomas Street Apt. 707 Margueritemouth, FL 00790
- Phone : 847-516-3261
- Company : Gusikowski, Medhurst and Bogisich
- Job : Welder-Fitter
- Bio : Id in minus et vel. Est possimus est facere voluptatem. Quam eius id sint libero nemo. Magni quia atque labore corrupti accusantium ut.
Socials
tiktok:
- url : https://tiktok.com/@kenneth1086
- username : kenneth1086
- bio : Et facilis explicabo consequatur reiciendis.
- followers : 3207
- following : 2661
linkedin:
- url : https://linkedin.com/in/kfritsch
- username : kfritsch
- bio : Qui ut deserunt quibusdam est magni.
- followers : 355
- following : 1355
facebook:
- url : https://facebook.com/kenneth_real
- username : kenneth_real
- bio : Nisi aspernatur velit esse ab aliquid quo. Ut est commodi qui nihil reiciendis.
- followers : 6219
- following : 1989
