When the air turns crisp and the trees blaze with brilliant hues of red and gold, Beaver Dam transforms into a lively autumn wonderland. The town’s annual Fall Downtown Fest and quirky Casket Races on Oct. 26 promise a full day — and night — of spooky delights that will leave you grinning like a jack-o’-lantern.
“This is our third year for the Casket Races,” said Shannon Koele, Beaver Dam Tourism marketing manager. “I believe the idea started in Colorado. We jumped on the bandwagon, and the races have become a favorite event for the locals and businesses here. It’s really something to see!”
Watch in awe as creatively constructed caskets — some decked out in themes with unique paint and decorations, propelled by teams in full costume — race down the street, competing for the coveted $1,000 grand prize. With cheers echoing and wheels whirring, the excitement is contagious.
Beaver Dam, Wisconsin's legendary Casket Races, part of their Fall Downtown Fest in 2023 brought an unforgettable showdown between the Wizard of Oz and Alien teams!
Family fun and festivities
Families are in for a treat with a wide range of exciting activities. Try your hand at pumpkin bowling, where gourds take center stage, or admire a parade of scarecrows dressed in everything from spooky classics to whimsical fall fashion. Kids can explore a box maze, embark on scavenger hunts, and participate in fun-filled costume contests and a lively kids' costume parade. Trick-or-treat at over 40 local businesses, and make sure to grab a spot to witness the grand procession of witches, zombies and other ghoulish characters leading up to the thrilling casket races.
Spooky shows and performances
Beaver Dam comes alive with enchanting performances from dancing witches as they cast their spells in the streets. The lively Swingin' Beavers Square Dancers will get you “do-si-doeing” with their energetic calls, while the talented students of Dance Now Dance Studio will thrill audiences with their haunting rendition of the iconic “Thriller” dance. To top it off, One Voice Children's Choir will charm with a selection of spooky Halloween songs, adding a festive and chilling harmony to the celebration.
More Fall Downtown Fest fun
There’s even more to enjoy at Fall Downtown Fest! The Beaver Dam Chamber and Visitor Center transforms into the spooky “Chamber of Mystery” — venture inside if you dare! With eerie surprises and ghostly fun around every corner, it’s an experience you won’t find anywhere else! Be sure to explore the vendor craft market at the Watermark, where creative makers showcase unique items perfect for fall mementos. Enjoy mouthwatering bites from food trucks, nonprofit organizations and local businesses, many of which will be offering specials and activities throughout the event. Don’t forget to take a stroll downtown and admire the festive displays and scarecrows from Beaver Dam’s fall outdoor display decorating contest, as residents go all out to celebrate the season.
“We’ll be closing down Front Street and South Spring Street this year, so it’s a very safe, walkable environment to explore with your family,” Koele said.
Don’t miss out: Get here early and make it a weekend
Why wait for the Fall Downtown Fest when you can start the autumn fun a day early? Arrive before the festival and kick off your weekend at Waldvogel’s Farm in nearby Juneau, where you can enjoy pumpkin picking, tackle the corn maze and explore over 80 family-friendly attractions now through Oct. 26.
If apples are more your style, swing by Tom Dooley Apple Orchard or Golz Orchard in Waupun for fresh-picked apples, homemade pies and cider donuts you won’t want to miss. Extend your weekend and soak in the full fall experience before the festival even begins.
Waldvogel Farm pumpkin field
Lastly, the 30,000-acre Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Refuge is a must-visit destination to experience the region’s rustic beauty. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful outdoor hike or a nature walk, this wildlife refuge is perfect for enjoying the changing seasons. The Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center is open year-round, offering an ever-evolving schedule of activities, festivals and events. From seasonal migrations to nature tours and family-friendly festivals, there’s something for everyone.
Don’t forget to visit the Explorium museum, where interactive exhibits bring the marsh's history and ecology to life — from the Ice Age to today. Plan your visit to take full advantage of all the exciting things happening throughout the year.
Mark your calendars for Saturday, Oct. 26, at 10 a.m., and gather your family and friends to experience the best of Beaver Dam this fall! With thrilling and quirky casket races, fantastic food and enchanting performances, Fall Downtown Fest is one celebration you won’t want to miss. Dress up in your spookiest attire and join the fun — snap a photo with the scarecrows or show off your costume on social media using #FallFestBD!
The festival is free to attend. For a full schedule of fall events, attractions, amenities and additional information, go to visitbeaverdam.com.
