Milwaukee Named 2024 World Festival & Event City by the International Festivals & Events Association

MILWAUKEE (October 2, 2024) –Visit Milwaukee is thrilled to announce that Milwaukee has been recognized as a 2024 World Festival & Event City by the prestigious International Festivals & Events Association (IFEA). This accolade honors cities worldwide that excel in hosting events that bring communities together, celebrate diversity, and foster a vibrant cultural landscape.

With this award, IFEA’s World Festival & Event City Award acknowledges Milwaukee’s enduring commitment to creating a dynamic environment for both residents and visitors through festivals that reflect its rich heritage, creativity, and communal spirit. Known for its thriving festivals like Summerfest, the world’s largest music festival, and many others celebrating arts, culture, and heritage, Milwaukee continues to serve as a beacon of celebration and inclusivity.

“We are incredibly proud to receive this recognition from IFEA,” says Peggy Williams-Smith, president and CEO of Visit Milwaukee. “Milwaukee has long been a city that knows how to celebrate. From cultural festivals on the lakefront to street and neighborhood festivals occurring year-round, these events bring people together in meaningful and memorable ways, while driving tourism to our community.”

“Milwaukee is a city with a rich history, vibrant culture, and unwavering spirit,” says Sarah Pancheri, president and CEO of Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. “As the city of festivals, we will continue to create experiences that unite our community and celebrate the heart of this city.”

This award places Milwaukee alongside other globally recognized cities that share a passion for producing events that not only entertain but build community. The International Festivals & Events Association is renowned for its dedication to promoting excellence in festival and event production, and this award highlights Milwaukee’s position on the world’s stage as a top destination for festival-goers.

For more information on Milwaukee’s award-winning festivals and events, visit https://www.visitmilwaukee.org/events/.

About Visit Milwaukee

Visit Milwaukee creates economic impact and supports a stronger, more inclusive community by promoting the Greater Milwaukee area as a premier tourism destination. Strengthened by Visit Milwaukee’s dynamic convention and leisure marketing initiatives, tourism to Milwaukee contributes $6.388 billion to the local economy, supporting nearly 44,000 hospitality employees. Visit Milwaukee has over 900 members, including hotels/motels, restaurants, attractions, services, and area businesses. The Wisconsin Center District, with its recently completed $456 million Baird Center expansion, the city of Wauwatosa, and Potawatomi Casino | Hotel are strategic partners with Visit Milwaukee, providing funding support for conventions and tourism programs. For more information call (800) 554-1448 or visit www.visitmilwaukee.org.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.