Beef, Boats, and Big Fun: Celebrate Minocqua’s Beef-A-Rama Weekend at Northern Resort
- Kamadu
- 1 hour ago
- 2 min read
On the last Saturday of September, every year since 1964, Minocqua turns into one big, delicious, and delightfully quirky celebration of all things beef. For over 60 years, the famous Beef-A-Rama festival brings food, fun, and Northwoods charm to the heart of town.
If you’ve never experienced it before, this is the year to join in. Whether you’re here for the sizzling roasts, the parade, or just the lively community atmosphere, Northern Resort makes the perfect home base for your festival weekend.
We're also within walking distance, in case those ice cold drafts get to your head or you want to avoid parking alongside over 12,000 other visitors trying to do the same!
What is Beef-A-Rama?
Beef-A-Rama has been a Minocqua tradition for more than 50 years. What started as a small fall cookout has grown into a full-day event attracting thousands of visitors.
Expect streets filled with the mouthwatering smell of roasting beef, creative costumes, live music, and plenty of opportunities to eat your fill. The event is famously lighthearted, so don’t be surprised if you spot someone dressed as a cow or carrying a giant fork.
Festival Highlights You Won’t Want to Miss
Rump Roast Run (5K/10K) – Kick off the day with a fun run through beautiful Minocqua scenery. Costumes encouraged!
Parade of Roasts – The iconic procession of decorated beef roasts through downtown.
Live Music & Entertainment – Bands and performers keep the energy up all day.
Craft & Food Vendors – From local artisans to hearty Northwoods fare, there’s something for everyone.
Kid-Friendly Fun – Face painting, games, and a petting zoo make it great for families.
Tips for Making the Most of Beef-A-Rama
Arrive Early – The streets fill up quickly, especially for the parade.
Use Park-and-Ride Shuttles – Skip the downtown parking scramble by taking advantage of festival shuttle services (or stay at the resort and walk the short 5 minutes to downtown along the Bearskin Trail).
Bring Layers – Late September in the Northwoods can start cool and warm up by midday.
Bring Your Appetite – Between the roasts and food vendors, you won’t want to miss a bite.
Explore Beyond the Festival – Take advantage of your time here to enjoy the lake or browse our plethora of downtown shops.
Why Stay at Northern Resort for Beef-A-Rama
After a day in the heart of the festivities, nothing beats returning to a peaceful cabin retreat. At Nitschke’s Northern Resort, you’re close enough to enjoy the convenience of town, but far enough away to unwind with a lake view and a campfire.
With fully furnished cabins, private beach access, and amenities like fire pits and docks, you can stretch your festival into a full Northwoods getaway, complete with fishing, boating, or just lounging in comfort.
Book Early for the Festival Weekend
Cabins for Beef-A-Rama weekend go quickly, sometimes months in advance. If you want to pair the fun of the festival with the relaxation of a lakeside retreat, now is the time to reserve your spot.
Call 715-356-7795 today to secure your cabin and get ready for a weekend of sizzling roasts, community spirit, and classic Northwoods fun.
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