Lake Moon Festival: Celebrate the Best of Summer

This was the official website for the 2015 2nd annual Lake Moon Festival. The content below is from the sites archived pages. I attended the festival with my family while visiting grandparents in Mequon. I even participated in the 5K race. It was a great way to end our vacation. However as we arrived in our town, a mini-disaster awaited us. Main Street was a parking lot and people in hazmat suits were blocking traffic. We eventually learned that they were investigating a biohazard risk when a medical waste disposal vehicle was stolen. My neighbor works for a company which is a national service that disposes of medical and biohazardous waste generated by research and medical services. From how containerized these services are, there is very likely any risk, but until Homeland Security agrees, we were stuck for 4 hours. But we really did enjoy this trip. We were all looking forward to attending the 2016 Lake Moon Festival, but learned from the festival's Facebook page that they were not going to hold one that year. Let's hope the festival returns in 2017.

SCHEDULE LAKE MOON FESTIVAL

2015 Schedule of Events

2015 Music Lineup

Life in a Tree

Jayme Dawicki

FAQ

Are carry-ins allowed?
You may bring in food for your family/group, but please no large coolers and no alcohol. A variety of food options are available for purchase at the festival.

Is there handicapped parking available?
There are about eight handicapped spots located right next to festival grounds. Extensive parking is available right on campus, and even those parked farther away should not have to walk more than the distance of 1-2 city blocks.

How may I pay for the 5k race if I register the day of?
We take cash, check, or credit.

May I bring my dog to Lake Moon Festival?
Sorry, only service dogs are allowed on campus.

More Background On Lake Moon Festival

The Lake Moon Festival is a vibrant and inclusive community event held at Concordia University Wisconsin in Mequon, set against the picturesque backdrop of Lake Michigan. This annual celebration, typically occurring in August, encapsulates the spirit of summer with a variety of activities suitable for all ages, from live music performances to unique local arts and food offerings.

Concordia University, the host location, boasts a stunning campus that's enriched with significant historical and ecological projects. Notably, the university undertook a bluff stabilization project in 2010, recognized as one of the top engineering feats in the United States for that year. This project not only protected the campus from erosion but also enhanced local biodiversity and improved public access to the lakefront.

The festival itself offers a blend of artistic, musical, and culinary delights. Attendees can enjoy performances by local musicians and artists who draw inspiration from the serene lakeside setting. The festival also incorporates a variety of family-friendly activities, ensuring that there's something to captivate visitors of all ages.

Mequon's rich history adds another layer of depth to the festival. The city, with historical ties dating back to the early 19th century when it was first settled by European immigrants, today blends its agricultural roots with residential and commercial growth​. The location of the festival at Concordia University is particularly meaningful given the university's transition from its founding as a farm for the School Sisters of Notre Dame in the 1950s to a bustling modern campus that plays an active role in the community​​.

The Lake Moon Festival not only celebrates the beauty and culture of Mequon but also embodies the community’s spirit of perseverance and appreciation for nature and heritage. It's an event that offers attendees a chance to experience the warmth of summer on the shores of Lake Michigan, enveloped in music, art, and community camaraderie.

Popularity

The Lake Moon Festival in Mequon has grown into a beloved annual event, celebrated for its engaging mix of music, art, and community activities. Held at Concordia University Wisconsin, the festival takes advantage of the scenic lakefront and the university's facilities to offer a day filled with diverse entertainment and cultural experiences.

While specific attendance numbers for the Lake Moon Festival aren't readily available, its popularity can be inferred from the broader enthusiasm for local festivals in the Mequon area. For instance, events like the Taste of Mequon attract thousands of visitors, which suggests a strong community interest in local festivals and events​. This enthusiasm likely extends to the Lake Moon Festival, especially given its unique setting and the variety of activities it offers.

The festival is not just a cultural event but also a celebration of the local community's spirit and the scenic beauty of Lake Michigan. Each year, it draws families, music lovers, and art enthusiasts who come to enjoy the performances and the natural surroundings. The inclusion of local artists and musicians adds to the appeal, making it a highlight of the summer season in Mequon.

Known For

The Lake Moon Festival is renowned for its vibrant celebration of summer, hosted in the picturesque setting of Concordia University Wisconsin, along the shores of Lake Michigan in Mequon. The festival is known for its blend of music, arts, and community activities, set against the scenic backdrop of the lake and bluffs. Key highlights include:

1. Music Performances: Featuring local and regional bands, the festival showcases a variety of music genres that cater to a diverse audience. Notable past performances have included local talents like Willy Porter, a renowned musician from the Mequon area.

2. Artistic Exhibitions: Artists inspired by the beauty of Lake Michigan and the summer season display their work, providing a platform for local artists to engage with the community.

3. Family-Friendly Activities: With a range of activities designed for all ages, the festival is a destination for families seeking a fun, engaging outdoor experience. Past events have included unique attractions like birdhouse making and bluff tours.

4. 5K Race: The festival also includes a 5K race, which adds a sporting element to the event, attracting both competitive runners and casual participants.

5. Environmental and Historical Education: Given its location on the bluff of Lake Michigan, the festival often includes educational components about the local ecology and history, particularly related to Concordia University's bluff stabilization efforts and the area’s development.

6. Community Engagement: The festival is a catalyst for community engagement, offering a space where locals and visitors alike can enjoy the natural beauty of the area, experience local culture, and participate in communal activities.

Each of these elements contributes to the Lake Moon Festival's reputation as a comprehensive celebration of community, culture, and natural beauty.

Cultural & Social Significance

The Lake Moon Festival held at Concordia University Wisconsin on the shores of Lake Michigan carries significant cultural and social value for the Mequon community and its visitors. Here are several aspects that highlight its significance:

1. Community Integration and Celebration: The festival serves as a community hub, bringing together residents from Mequon and surrounding areas. It's a day where the local community can engage in various activities, enjoy music, and appreciate the arts, fostering a sense of unity and local pride.

2. Showcase for Local Artists and Musicians: The festival provides a platform for local artists and musicians to showcase their talents. This not only enriches the cultural landscape of the area but also supports the careers of local artists, contributing to the cultural economy.

3. Educational Opportunities: With its setting at Concordia University, the festival offers educational opportunities related to the environmental and historical aspects of the area. The university's bluff stabilization project and its role in ecological preservation serve as an educational backdrop for festival-goers, raising awareness about environmental conservation.

4. Economic Impact: As a significant event in the local calendar, the Lake Moon Festival stimulates the local economy. It attracts visitors who spend on accommodations, food, and other services, benefiting local businesses and promoting economic growth.

5. Promotion of Health and Well-being: The inclusion of activities like a 5K race promotes health and well-being among participants, encouraging a healthy lifestyle within the community.

6. Cultural Diversity: The festival reflects the cultural diversity of the Mequon area, incorporating various musical genres and arts that represent different communities and backgrounds. This diversity enhances the cultural richness of the festival and promotes inclusivity.

Overall, the Lake Moon Festival is more than just an annual event; it is a celebration of community spirit, local culture, and natural beauty, all of which contribute to the social fabric of Mequon. It emphasizes the importance of community gatherings in fostering social bonds and celebrating the unique characteristics of the local area.