Cedarburg’s bustling arts scene is well represented by an assortment of galleries, co-ops and studios, many tucked away in quaint historic buildings in the heart of downtown. In addition to the Cedarburg Art Museum and the Cedarburg Cultural Center, both of which offer exhibits and workshops representing all media, be sure to check out the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts & Fiber Arts on nearby Portland Road that specializes in the preservation of fiber arts traditions.
The city’s reputation as a thriving artists’ community is in part due to the presence of a vibrant Cedarburg Artists’ Guild that boasts close to 250 members, and the guild’s popular annual events – the Plein Air Painting Event, Covered Bridge Art Studio Tour and the Holiday Art Fair – each one drawing many hundreds of visitors to the area.
The lively local entertainment scene in Cedarburg offers amazing musical talent for a fraction of the price of big city venues. The Cultural Center on Washington Avenue is home to an eclectic mix of exhibits, monthly open mic nights, historical programs and a variety of classes for all ages. Known for hosting exciting musical events throughout the entire year, the cultural center’s mission is to provide a gathering place to celebrate community, the arts and local heritage.
Nationally renowned performers of every genre are showcased through the Cedarburg Performing Arts Center Visiting Artists’ Series in its state-of-the-art theater adjacent to Cedarburg High School. Experiential opportunities for students, such as master classes and workshops with visiting performers, ensure the theater is busy all year round.
And every summer thousands of people from Cedarburg and neighboring communities attend what has been called Cedarburg’s “biggest picnic in the park.” The wildly popular Summer Sounds concerts featuring nationally recognized artists are held in Cedar Creek Park on Friday evenings, June through August. And, what’s more, they are free.