Midsummer Celebration

media release: Sat–Sun, June 20–21, 2026 | 10 AM–4 PM

Step Into a Scandinavian Summer Celebration

Experience the mirthful magic of a Scandinavian “Midsomer,” or Midsummer, at Old World Wisconsin. An ancient seasonal tradition in Norway, Sweden, Finland, Iceland and Denmark, Midsummer celebrations have been held since the Iron Age as a means of leaving cold, dark winter nights behind in favor of bright, cheerful summers of bounty, fertility and prosperity. Immerse yourself in our faithful re-creation of this festive event!

What You’ll Experience

- Join in a traditional Maypole Dance

- Learn hands-on crafts like flower drying & wool dyeing

- Explore nature with a Norwegian-inspired study at the Raspberry School

- Watch open-hearth cooking & traditional Finnish recipes come to life

- In addition to regularly offered Time Travel Token experiences, pick up a Midsummer Flower Crown (available for one Time Travel Token—while supplies last)

- Enjoy seasonal samples from Old World–brewed casks (21+)

- Your ticket includes the Midsummer Celebration experience and Old World Wisconsin general admission access

Cost

Adult (18-64): $24

Teen (13-17): $24

Senior (65+): $20

Child (5-12): $16

Children under 5: Free

Society members receive free general admission, please verify your membership where prompted to receive discount at check out.

About the Location

Old World Wisconsin includes 60 authentically restored historic homes, farms, stores and workshops. Each region features a distinct set of stories that invite you to experience the hopes and dreams of those who came before us. From the 1840s to the 1940s, you’ll find a true panorama of early Wisconsin history, covering more than 70 years and many cultures, including African American, Danish, Finnish, Hessian, Irish, Norwegian, Polish, Pomeranian and Yankee.

Old World Wisconsin first opened in 1976. Researchers traveled throughout Wisconsin in search of historic buildings crafted by the first generation of Wisconsin immigrants and migrants. From Lake Superior to the Illinois border, and from the Mississippi River to Lake Michigan, historians documented countless historic farmhouses, outbuildings and small-town structures. Once research was complete, the meticulous construction of Old World Wisconsin began. Piece by piece, workers carefully dismantled historic structures from around the state and reconstructed them in their new home.

Know Before You Go

- Ticket includes the Midsummer Celebration experience and Old World Wisconsin general admission access.

- Event largely takes place in the Scandinavian Homesteads area at Old World Wisconsin.

- Guests must present a valid ID to purchase alcohol.

- Old World Wisconsin grounds remain open rain or shine. Programs are subject to change based on availability and weather conditions.

- Old World Wisconsin is located within the Kettle Moraine State Forest. The site features gravel roads, rough and hilly terrain, and encompasses over 400 acres of publicly accessible woodlands. Our staff recommends dressing in layers and choosing sturdy footwear. Motorized trams make scheduled stops around the site throughout the day and rides are included with admission.

- Onsite vehicle parking is available for FREE at Old World Wisconsin. The parking lot can accommodate large vehicles, RVs, and buses.

- Admission is valid for a single day, and guests may exit and re-enter during the day of their visit.

- Modern restrooms, changing rooms, and water fountains are available on site.

- Service animals are welcome. For the safety of all guests and animals on site, pets are not allowed.

- Because of the historic nature of the buildings, not all areas are ADA accessible. Guests using wheelchairs and electric scooters are eligible for complimentary admission. Guests with additional mobility needs are encouraged to contact the site directly at 262-594-6301 or oww@wisconsinhistory.org.

Have Questions?

For more information, please contact the box office at 608-264-4848 or boxoffice@wisconsinhistory.org