Are you planning a vacation or relocating soon to Appleton, Wisconsin? Whether you’re a visitor or a resident of Appleton, there are fun events for everyone! Check out what’s happening in 2023 in Appleton, Wisconsin.

Appleton Events

Located in the Fox Cities area, Appleton is a city of around 76,000 people. With a vibrant downtown, a fantastic arts scene, family-friendly activities, and so much more, Appleton has a lot to offer. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of fun events happening in the Appleton area throughout the year. 

Whether you’re planning a day trip to Appleton, spending the night, or a local resident, enjoy both recurring events as well as one-time events. If you're looking to buy a home in Appleton, WI, we're happy to help!

Fox Cities Restaurant Week

January 29 - February 5, 2023

Enjoy a celebration of great food and drink in Appleton! Indulge in breakfast, lunch, or dinner specials at various restaurants throughout Appleton. This week-long celebration is a great time to sample new dishes offered by local restaurants. Partake in a coursed menu offering paired with drinks of choice.

Meet up with friends and make plans for a $12 breakfast special, $17 lunch special, and $28 or $34 dinner specials.

20th Annual Death by Chocolate Event

February 11, 2023

Join Downtown Appleton for a Death by Chocolate stroll. Taste a wide variety of chocolate treats while strolling through Downtown. Stop at participating businesses to shop and taste chocolate sweets along the way.

Take your valentine Downtown for a fun afternoon event!

Avenue of Ice

February 17, 2023

Walk down the streets of Downtown Appleton while taking in the beautiful ice sculptures positioned in front of boutiques, shops and restaurants. Grab a cup of hot chocolate from one of the local businesses and stay warm while viewing these outdoor sculptures. Need a new pair of mittens or a scarf to keep you warm? Swing into a boutique for new winter gear! 

Starting February 17, 2023 - these sculptures will remain up while weather permits.

Hamilton

May 9 - May 21, 2023

The Fox Cities Performing Art Center is located on College Avenue in Downtown Appleton and features a wide array of shows - including HAMILTON in May of 2023. This community center is a premier venue for many performing arts and Broadway musicals. Plan a night out in Downtown Appleton and get a bite to eat at a local restaurant before going to see HAMILTON at the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center.

Not able to make it to HAMILTON in May? No worries - check out the Fox Cities Performing Art Center upcoming schedule for a full list of events!

Downtown Appleton Farmers Market

Indoor Market

November - February

Every third Saturday of the month beginning in November, the Appleton indoor market takes place at City Center. Visit craft vendors, food spots, and kid-friendly finds at this indoor market. While downtown - be sure to check out restaurants, shops, and the museums in Downtown Appleton.

Outdoor Market

All Summer Long

Enjoy the Wisconsin weather in the summer and experience the Appleton Farmers Market. Browse local produce, enjoy live music, and splurge on tasty eats and drinks! Purchase seasonal flowers, treats, meats, baked goods, and more.

This farmers market features over 150 vendors selling everything from food items, to craft items!

Heid Music Summer Concert Series

June - August

Every Thursday throughout the summer months of June, July and August, catch free live music in Jones Park in Appleton. Enjoy food from local Downtown restaurants and vendors in the park while catching a local live band at the stage in Downtown Appleton!

Mile of Music

August 3 - 6, 2023

This one-of-a-kind summer music festival features over 200 local and national artists in Downtown Appleton. Listen to up-and-coming artists at over 60 indoor and outdoor venues along the mile long stretch. This event features original music and an unforgettable experience with almost all shows free to attend.

For a full list of events happening in Appleton, visit the Downtown Appleton event calendar, or the Greater Fox Cities events calendar.

Check out our local guides:

Fine Dining in Appleton WI