Sheboygan's Annual Brat Days

Sheboygan has a festival that occurs annually since 1953. Brat Days has a long run in the city and has over the years become the necessary thing to do in Sheboygan. In the early years, the event was held on 8th street and people from everywhere came to enjoy brats and beer. Entertainment has changed over the years, but it was for the better. After moving to Kiwanis Park, Brat Days spread out over the entire area. Today, you have a family spot at Fountain Park and the big entertainers and brat-eating contest at Kiwanis Park.

The proceeds that come from the event have filtered back into the community, providing various charities with a substantial amount of money to help keep them open. The Jaycee’s host the annual event and other events throughout the year. In 2006, ESPN broadcast the Championship Brat Eating contest where people from all over the world participated. Brat Days sure has changed over the years. Every year they seem to get better and provide more things to do than just drink beer and eat brats.

The controversy surrounding the brat-eating contest surfaced in 2005, when one local resident complained about overstuffing yourself. This has been the topic of discussion every year before and after the completion. Will it stop? Not if Sheboygan residents continue to support it.

I remember going to Brat Days as a young girl on 8th Street where J.C. Penney’s and H.C. Pranges were located. There also was a Woolworth’s store. The streets were filled with people and the smell of brat and smoke filter throughout the streets. The one thing that has not changed is the flea market that takes place every year, only now it is located at the main event by Kiwanis Park.

Fountain Park hosts the family side of the event with activities throughout the day for children. They have brats and other foods for the little ones to enjoy as well.