

Jefferson enjoys a strong German heritage, which is celebrated during the vibrant Gemuetlichkeit Days event. Held at the Jefferson County Fair Park, this widely popular event just marked its 38th year in 2008. The May Ball is the traditional kick-off for Gemuetlichkeit Days, and is held the second Saturday in May. At this event, the King and Queen for the year (the best kept secret in Jefferson!) are announced to reign over the event’s activities.
The second weekend after Labor Day marks the beginning of the three-day Gemuetlichkeit Days festival, which welcomes residents and visitors of all ages to partake. Young and old don traditional German garb and participate in a number of scheduled events and contests throughout the weekend. Adding to all of this is one of the finest parades in southern Wisconsin, the Arts & Craft Fair, live entertainment and a delicious variety of food including German favorites. Access further information by visiting www.gdays.org.

Jefferson is home to two of the Midwest’s largest car shows and swap meets. Hosted by Madison Classics, the Spring and Fall Jefferson Car Shows and Swap Meets stretch over 99 acres at the Jefferson County Fair Park, and draw in more than 65,000 spectators total between both events. These functions are ideal for those looking to buy and sell, as well as for those hoping to access hard to find car parts. Each car show and swap meet brings in more than 3,100 car part vendors, over 1,100 cars for sale and more than 500 show cars. Learn more at www.jeffersonswapmeet.com.
The Jefferson County Fair has been a fixture in the area since its initial run in 1853. While the event was organized at various sites, it has remained at the Jefferson County Fair Park in the city of Jefferson since 1866. The five-day event is held during July, with highlights including carnival rides, free grandstand shows, 4-H events and much more. Over the last several years, the county has worked to enhance the park’s facilities, allowing for even more year ‘round functions. Craft shows, flea markets, auctions, conventions and more can all be discovered at the Jefferson County Fair Park throughout the year. Camping facilities are also available here. More information can be accessed at www.jeffersoncountyfairpark.com.

Concerts in the Park is another fun-filled summer event sponsored by the Jefferson Chamber of Commerce, Jefferson Tourism, Jefferson Utilities and the Jefferson Area Business Center. Six free concerts, featuring a range of artists, are offered at Rotary Park throughout the summer months.
Culminating the year is the annual Christmas Parade of Lights, showcasing beautiful floats decorated with hundreds of colorful lights. The Chamber decorates Christmas trees with white lights and red bows, which are placed in the flower receptacles. Holiday banners and lighted snowflakes are put up by Jefferson Utilities, while the Chamber sponsors a retailers window-decorating contest. After the parade, everyone gathers at the Jefferson Legion to visit with Santa Claus and to enjoy refreshments and snacks. Additional information can be found at www.jeffersonchamberwi.com.