KIMBERLY – The 38th annual Paperfest returns to Sunset Park in Kimberly on July 16-19, 2026, bringing four days of free live entertainment, family activities, patriotic celebrations and fun to the Fox Cities. The festival is presented by Community First Credit Union.
With its largest music lineup ever, Paperfest features 38 bands across three stages, offering something for every music lover with national headliners Blue Öyster Cult, Lauren Alaina, and Smash Mouth, along with Wisconsin favorites The Glam Band and Boogie & the Yo-Yo’z. One of the weekend’s most anticipated performances features Vic Ferrari with special guest Brad Gillis, legendary guitarist who has performed with Night Ranger and Ozzy Osbourne. Paperfest offers outstanding entertainment throughout the weekend while remaining completely free to attend.
From chart-topping country and classic rock to family activities and patriotic celebrations honoring America’s 250th birthday, each day of Paperfest offers a unique experience for visitors of all ages. The celebration begins Thursday with a special America250 service and singing of the National Anthem, continues Friday night with fireworks, and culminates Saturday with an all-new patriotic drone light show at dusk.
“We’re excited to welcome everyone back for another incredible weekend,” said Matthew Boots, Paperfest Event Director. “Paperfest has always been about bringing people together. Thanks to our volunteers, sponsors, and attendees, we’re able to provide four days of free entertainment while giving back to organizations that make our communities stronger.”
Music is only part of the Paperfest experience. Families can enjoy the hot air balloon glow, carnival rides, petting zoo, kids games, and more in the Kids Zone. The Craft Midway features a food truck rally, craft beer tent, and four days of nonstop original music. Visitors can browse the Saturday car show and explore the Sunday craft fair. Sporting events include the Sunset 5K run/walk, volleyball, speed lacrosse, and cornhole.
Named after the booming paper mills that brought life to the Fox River Valley, Paperfest is an annual reminder of the history our community shares. The festival continues to be organized entirely by volunteers through Kim-Com Promotion, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the Fox Cities through community events.
The music is great, the beer is cold, but the best part is the proceeds from Paperfest are donated back into the community through various Fox Cities nonprofit organizations that volunteer during the festival. Since its inception, Paperfest has donated more than $1.49 million to local nonprofit organizations throughout the Fox Cities. Last year alone, more than $130,000 was distributed to 58 local nonprofit organizations. Those funds help support youth organizations, service clubs, schools, fire departments, and many other community groups across the region. It’s all about community!
HEADLINERS AND DAILY HIGHLIGHTS
The four-day, free admission Paperfest will feature 38 bands across three stages. Find the full concert lineup at www.paperfest.com.
THURSDAY JULY 16, 2026 – Paperfest kicks off Thursday with a special America250 Service and National Anthem. Vic Ferrari returns to the Paperfest Amphitheater with a special performance featuring legendary guitarist Brad Gillis. Meanwhile, pop-rock hitmakers Smash Mouth perform fan favorites “All Star” and “I’m a Believer” on the Event Production Systems Sunset Stage.
FRIDAY JULY 17, 2026 – Country music star Lauren Alaina headlines Friday night on the Event Production Systems Sunset Stage. The other half of the rock vs country night is The Glam Band on the Amphitheater – currently the hottest cover band in Wisconsin, they will be playing the best of 80’s rock. Fireworks at dusk.
SATURDAY JULY 18, 2026 – Saturday features one of Paperfest’s biggest nights of the weekend. As the sun goes down on a day filled with family fun, carnival rides, sporting events, and more, the stage lights turn up for local favorite Boogie & the Yo-Yo’z and national classic rock group Blue Öyster Cult. This evening will also feature a patriotic drone light show and the popular hot air balloon glow.
SUNDAY JULY 19, 2026 – Paperfest wraps up with a Family Day, featuring $1 carnival rides, the popular Paperfest Craft Fair, live entertainment, and one last opportunity to enjoy great food, community fun, and a buy one, get one half off beverage special before the festival concludes.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO
Admission is free with no tickets required. Age verified wristbands are required to purchase or consume alcohol. Carry-ins are not allowed, and bags will be subject to search. Lawn chairs are welcome in designated areas but may not be kept out overnight.
Visitors are encouraged to arrive early for evening entertainment, as shuttle buses and street parking fill quickly before the national headliners take the stage. Parking is not permitted on Paperfest grounds. Free parking and shuttle buses courtesy of Lamers Bus Lines are available from JRG Middle School and Antique Up. Fox Valley Cab is also partnering with Paperfest for rides to and from the grounds.
Gates open at 4:30pm on Thursday, Noon on Friday, 9:00am on Saturday, and 11:00am on Sunday. Full concert schedule and schedule of events can be found at www.paperfest.com. Meet & greet opportunities, promotions, weather changes, and event modifications will be announced on the Paperfest Facebook page.
