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- Special Interest
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- AmericanAppreciationHistorical
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every February 15
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- 🧀
National Wisconsin Day celebrates the vibrant state of Wisconsin every February 15. This day honors its rich history, diverse landscapes, and the industrious spirit of its people. Embrace the dairy delights, explore the natural beauty, and learn about the innovations that have shaped this incredible state. Join in the festivities by supporting local businesses, sharing your favorite Wisconsin memories, and discovering new aspects of its unique charm.
Want to sponsor National Wisconsin Day? Learn how
Expected National Wisconsin Day Deals
While specific 2027 promotions are still in the works, National Wisconsin Day often inspires local businesses and state-wide brands to offer special deals and experiences. Expect local breweries like New Glarus Brewing Company to feature taproom specials, and cheese shops such as Carr Valley Cheese to highlight Wisconsin-made products. Restaurants across the state, from supper clubs to casual diners, may offer discounts on classic Wisconsin dishes like cheese curds and bratwurst. Retailers like Kwik Trip could run promotions on regional snacks and beverages. Even sports teams, such as the Green Bay Packers, might engage fans with special merchandise or events. We will update this page with confirmed live deals as February 15 approaches.
Platform Guide for National Wisconsin Day
Tag @nationaltoday_ and use #NationalWisconsinDay. Share photos of your favorite Wisconsin landmarks, local foods, or outdoor adventures.
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Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalWisconsinDay. Tweet about your favorite Wisconsin fact, historical figure, or a local business you love.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalWisconsinDay. Post about how you’re celebrating the Badger State with friends and family.
National Wisconsin Day Hero
Frank Lloyd Wright
History of National Wisconsin Day
Toward the end of the Ice Age, Paleo-Indians came to Wisconsin. It was inhabited by large animals such as mammoths, mastodons, and giant beavers, which the Paleo-Indians hunted. Eventually, these animals neared extinction and the Paleo-Indians moved to smaller animals such as deers and bison. By the early Woodland Period, plants became important in diets and small-scale agriculture, and pottery emerged in Wisconsin.
Jean Violet, the first known European inhabitant, arrived in Wisconsin in the French period and paved the way for innumerable other Europeans to follow. The British eventually gained full control of Wisconsin in 1763. The U.S. acquired Wisconsin in the Treaty of Paris in 1783. However, it didn’t exercise proper control over the state until the War of 1812. Even following this control, several wars were fought in and for Wisconsin. It was made a part of different territories before it became its own Wisconsin Territory in 1836.
Finally, on May 29, 1848, Wisconsin was officially signed into the union of the U.S., becoming the 30th state to join. Since then, it has been ethnically heterogeneous, a valuable resource, and an important player in modernizing government. It has attained many names such as the Dairy Land, Water Park Capital, Badger State, Copper State, e.t.c., in reference to the countless things that it has to offer. In 2019, Governor Tony Evers declared February 15 as National Wisconsin Day because he believed that Wisconsin, its residents, and anyone that worked hard historically to make the state what it is today deserved to be celebrated and recognized.
National Wisconsin Day timeline
Paleo-Indians, the first known inhabitants, arrive in Wisconsin.
Wisconsin Territory is created by an act of the United States Congress.
Wisconsin officially becomes a part of the union of the U.S.
Governor Tony Evers dedicates February 15 to Wisconsin.
How Businesses Can Celebrate National Wisconsin Day
Local Wisconsin businesses can celebrate National Wisconsin Day by highlighting their connection to the state. Restaurants could offer a ‘Taste of Wisconsin’ menu featuring local ingredients and classic dishes like cheese curds, brats, or a Friday fish fry. Retailers might curate displays of Wisconsin-made products, from artisan cheeses and craft beers to locally sourced apparel and gifts. Service businesses could run promotions for Wisconsin residents or share facts about the state’s history and culture on their social media, encouraging community engagement and pride. Bolding local brands or products in their promotions can also draw attention.
National Wisconsin Day FAQs
When is National Wisconsin Day?
In 2027, National Wisconsin Day is observed on Monday, February 15. This mid-week observance provides a great chance to kick off the week with a celebration of the Badger State.
What is Wisconsin famous for?
Beyond its reputation for cheese and beer, Wisconsin is also a hub for manufacturing, particularly in industries like engines, motorcycles, and plumbing fixtures. The state’s vibrant cultural scene, including its supper clubs and German heritage, also contributes to its unique identity.
How many people live in Wisconsin?
The population of Wisconsin consistently hovers around 5.9 million residents, making it the 20th most populous state in the U.S. This steady population base supports a robust economy and a strong sense of community throughout the state.
Why is Wisconsin called the 'Badger State'?
The ‘Badger State’ nickname is a historical nod to the resilient spirit of Wisconsin’s early settlers. While the animal is also the state animal, the term primarily refers to the hardy miners who burrowed into hillsides for shelter, reflecting the state’s industrious roots.
National Wisconsin Day Activities
Visit Wisconsin
Wisconsin has so much to offer: an array of water parks (it is the water park capital, after all), innumerable different art museums, and lots more. You can even plan a visit to one of its many great lakes — Wisconsin has over 15,000 lakes.
Learn more about Wisconsin
It is a great state with a rich history. This National Wisconsin Day, spend a little time doing some research about the state and all that it has to offer, what led to its discovery, etc. You could even read or watch documentaries of and about it.
Bring Wisconsin to you
Celebrate the state from the comfort of your home. Go to your local stores and try to find Wisconsin beers and cheeses and other things from the state. You could even have some friends over to enjoy these snacks and have a polka dance party!
5 Lesser Known Facts About Wisconsin
It’s not the badger you think
Nope, not the animal — the Badger State refers to lead miners who used to travel and dig tunnels to stay warm and sleep.
It’s America’s dairyland
Wisconsin is the number one producer of cheese in the United States.
The birthplace of Harley Davidson
William Harley and brothers Walter and Arthur Davidson built the first motorcycle in Wisconsin.
It can get spooky
As per Wisconsinites, there are more ghosts per square mile here than in any other state.
The first-ever ice cream sundae
George Hallauer asked a Twin Rivers soda shop for a dish of ice cream and sauces on a random Sunday, and the rest is history.
Why We Love National Wisconsin Day
We love Wisconsin
With an abundance of resources, beautiful lakes, delicious cheeses and beers, and lots more — what’s not to love? It is a state that keeps on giving and we’re all for celebrating it.
It reflects on the history
We see what the United States of America is today, but there is in fact an extensive history that led to its creation. National Wisconsin Day highlights the joining of this state and reminds us of other historic events that occurred.
It is an opportunity to learn more
As an extension to the above reason, a day like this also serves as an opportunity to educate ourselves more. The world is big, beautiful, and diverse, and there is so much to learn!
National Wisconsin Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2027 | February 15 | Monday |
| 2028 | February 15 | Tuesday |
| 2029 | February 15 | Thursday |
| 2030 | February 15 | Friday |
| 2031 | February 15 | Saturday |
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