06-05-2025
There's A Cheese Festival In Wisconsin With A Next-Level Cheese Ball
The Wisconsin Cheese Ball at The Art of Cheese Festival. The Art of Cheese Festival
A decked-out cheese ball with 70+ local cheeses, disco flair, and even cheese cocktails anchors this over-the-top Wisconsin fest.
In case you've been living under a rock, Wisconsin's cheese scene is legendary (and the closest you'll get to a European cheese region stateside). The state has been making cheese for over 180 years— before it even became a state. Two years ago, I stumbled upon the first-ever Art of Cheese Festival in Madison, Wisconsin—and the best part? A full-on, next-level cheese ball. Yes, there's a cheese ball!
One of my favorite moments was running into my cheesemonger friend Janeè Muha, who I last saw noshing on Gouda in the Netherlands a few years back. At the ball, she had a wedge of Uplands Cheese's Rush Creek Reserve—an ultra-coveted cheese made only in the fall, inspired by the French Vacherin Mont d'Or—stashed in her fanny pack. We stood in a corner scooping it out like ice cream, admiring everyone's cheese-forward attire (including fascinators made of cheese spread).
Janeè Muha's Rush Creek Reserve fanny pack stash at the 2023 Cheese Ball. Jenn Rice
'The first-ever Art of Cheese Festival in 2023 was such a hit, and we couldn't be more excited to bring it back—this time, even bigger and better,' says Rachel Kerr, senior director of experiential and brand marketing at Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin. 'We're bringing back festival favorites like Cheese Fair Off the Square and the Wisconsin Cheese Ball, which has a fun new theme for 2025: 'A Night in Lights.' We're also adding a few new experiences that'll give people an even deeper appreciation of Wisconsin Cheese,' she adds. This year, they're also introducing the festival to Milwaukee with a new Friday excursion.
In 2023, the inaugural festival drew more than 10,000 attendees from 26 states and Canada, showcasing over 100 cheeses from 30+ local cheese makers and creameries. 'It was a true celebration of the best Wisconsin has to offer,' Kerr says.
Wisconsin Cheese Ball at The Art of Cheese Festival. The Art of Cheese Festival
This year, the festival is pulling out all the stops. 'To kick things off on Thursday, we're hosting the inaugural Wisconsin Art of Cheese Open—a golf outing perfect for both cheese connoisseurs and golf lovers,' says Kerr. Also on the docket: a creamery tour and tasting at Crave Brothers Farmstead and a cheese-and-wine excursion that begins with a sensory evaluation course taught by experts from the University of Wisconsin-Madison's Center for Dairy Research.
Top Chef fans: There's something for you, too. The fest will include a tour and lunch with Top Chef runner-up and James Beard-nominated chef Dan Jacobs. (FYI: Season 21 of Top Chef was filmed in Wisconsin, and Wisconsin cheese played a starring role in episode three's elimination challenge.) 'Two of Wisconsin's top cheesemakers, Andy Hatch of Uplands Cheese and Pam Hodgson of Sartori Cheese, also appeared on the episode—both of their award-winning cheeses will be at the festival!' Kerr says.
Wisconsin Cheese Ball at The Art of Cheese Festival. The Art of Cheese Festival Can't-Miss Experiences for First-Timers
Obviously, the Cheese Ball is a highlight. The extravagant, disco-themed gala will feature over 70 cheeses, local cheesemakers, and creative cocktail pairings. 'This year's theme, 'A Night in Lights,' is going to be an unforgettable evening!'
For first-time attendees, Kerr recommends taking advantage of the festival's immersive experiences. 'One of the best parts of the Wisconsin Art of Cheese Festival is learning the history of cheesemaking in Wisconsin, getting a behind-the-scenes look at how award-winning cheeses are crafted, and tasting new cheeses you may have never tried before,' she says. 'Wisconsin actually wins more cheese awards than any other state or country, so the festival is the perfect opportunity to try the best of the best.'
She also suggests the Crave Brothers and Uplands Cheese and dairy farm tours. 'These excursions are unique to the festival and unavailable any other time of year,' Kerr says. And yes—she circles back to the Cheese Ball: 'It's not only about amazing cheese and drink pairings. It's a rare opportunity to meet the makers behind the cheeses you love. I also recommend checking out Cheese Fair Off the Square, which happens alongside the popular Dane County Farmers' Market, and the live taping of the Milk Street radio show and podcast!'
Marieke Penterman of Marieke Gouda/The Art of Cheese Festival. The Art of Cheese Festival Cheese Stars to Look Out For
The 2025 lineup is packed with cheese and culinary stars, including Top Chef 's Dan Jacobs, Wisconsin Foodie host Luke Zahm, and acclaimed cheesemonger Alisha Norris-Jones. 'We're also thrilled to welcome Christopher Kimball, host of the Milk Street podcast, and Dean Sommers, who will lead a fascinating class on the history of Wisconsin dairy.'
Of course, the cheesemakers themselves are the main attraction. Look out for Ron Henningfeld from Hill Valley Dairy, Andy Hatch from Uplands Cheese, and the Crave Brothers. 'We also hope to welcome back makers like Marieke Penterman of Marieke Gouda,' Kerr says. 'Marieke recently became only the fourth woman to achieve Master Cheesemaker status—an incredible accomplishment.'
Uplands Cheese dairy farm/The Art of Cheese Festival. Jenn Rice
Wisconsin is the only place outside Switzerland where someone can earn the Master Cheesemaker title. The process is intense. Candidates need at least 10 years of experience as licensed cheesemakers, five years focused on a specific cheese, and then a grueling three-year certification process.
'With so many exciting things happening this year, there's really something for everyone,' says Kerr. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or just starting your cheese journey, the Art of Cheese Festival offers a rare opportunity to taste, learn, and connect with the people behind every bite.
