With just 450 residents who call it home, those not from the area might not be familiar with the village of Warrens, Wis. But this little village makes a big splash every year by hosting the World’s Largest Cranberry Festival.
Hosted annually on the last weekend of September, Warren’s Cranberry Festival (AKA Cranfest) brings in over 1,200 vendors and 175,000 visitors to the Cranberry Capital of Wisconsin.
How did Warrens Cranfest start?
Warrens Cranberry Festival got its start when a group of ladies started sharing ideas around a kitchen table. They wanted to support and bring people to the community while showcasing the cranberry culture of the region.
“In August 1973, Jean Case held a meeting at her home in Warrens to see if there was interest in having a festival,” said Warrens Cranberry Festival General Manager Kim Schroeder. “They had money left over from the Warrens Centennial Fund to start the festival and decided cranberries were plenty in the area, so they decided to have a cranberry festival.”
The first festival came together in just two months, featuring 75 vendors and welcoming 3,500 attendees. Since then, the festival has become an honored tradition for the community and its visitors alike.
What is Warrens Cranfest?
While the festival is well-known for its craft vendors and shopping opportunities, it truly is a cultural experience. There are a variety of contests, live music performances, self-guided marsh walking tours, delectable culinary offerings and a grand parade.
“We try to have something for everyone,” said Kim.
It is not uncommon to walk around the festival and see groups of visitors dressed up in costumes and outfits for the occasion.
“As the festival kept getting larger, visitors started dressing up so they could find each other,” said Kim. “We made it into a contest, and they get to be our special guests in the next year’s festival. They ride in the parade, get special cranberry foods, cranberries, merchandise and so much more.”
How is Cranfest organized?
The festival is overseen by a board of directors and advisory board comprised of 14 members and supported by over 250 volunteers. It is not only community-driven, but it also serves the community by shedding valuable light on area cranberry growers and giving back to local organizations.
Over its 53 years, the festival has returned more than $3 million to the Warrens community. Despite a small loss and a $500 loan in its third year, it has stayed financially strong thanks to community support and its volunteer network.
“We hope that others have seen an enhanced quality of life for our small village,” said Kim. “Donations to the fire department, school, playground equipment and many more organizations have been enhanced from holding our annual festival.”
Mark your calendar to attend the 54th Annual Warrens Cranberry Festival, September 24 to 26, 2027.
Photos provided by Wisconsin Cranberry Growers Association.