Students, alumni, families and friends are invited to join Concordia at three signature summer events across Ozaukee County.
Summer in Wisconsin brings communities together. From county fairs and outdoor concerts to neighborhood festivals, people gather to enjoy some of the year’s most anticipated traditions. Concordia’s participation in these events reflects its commitment to serving and connecting with the communities it calls home.
As Executive Vice President Steven P. Taylor, EdD, explains, “Connection beyond campus is where education becomes lived experience—where partnerships turn into shared impact and lasting relationships.”
This summer, Concordia will be part of three popular events throughout Ozaukee County.
Spend an evening at Rise and Shine in the Park
July 27 | Mequon
Rise and Shine in the Park has become a summertime tradition for many local families. This year’s event features Christian recording artist Jamie MacDonald, along with live music from The Praise & Spirits Band. Guests can enjoy food vendors, a beer garden, and opportunities to gather with neighbors and friends.
This free community event takes place at The Foxyard at Foxtown Station in Mequon and does not require registration.
Concordia will once again join the celebration, offering attendees an opportunity to connect with Falcons, while enjoying an evening centered on faith, music and community.
Lori Lorenz, president of the Mequon-Thiensville Community Foundation, said Concordia has been a valued partner of the Rise and Shine Music Series since its launch in 2022.
“They have supported our annual concerts featuring Christian artists such as Danny Gokey, Cain, Unspoken and now Jamie MacDonald,” she said. “With Concordia’s support, it has grown into a vibrant community gathering rooted in hope, worship and unity.”
Doors open at 4:30 p.m. The Praise & Spirits Band performs at 5:30 p.m., followed by Jamie MacDonald at 7 p.m. Please bring lawn chairs.
Location: The FoxYard at Foxtown Station, 6209 W. Mequon Rd., Mequon, Wis.
Celebrate a community tradition at the Ozaukee County Fair
July 29-Aug. 2 | Cedarburg
Concordia will be part of the festivities at the Ozaukee County Fair, one of Wisconsin’s longest-running community traditions.
Now in its 167th year, the fair welcomes thousands of visitors each summer for five days of entertainment, agriculture, food and family activities. It also remains one of the last free county fairs in the state.
For generations, the fair has brought together families from across Ozaukee County and beyond, making it a summer tradition for many in the community.
Students and alumni visiting the fair are encouraged to stop by the Concordia booth to connect with university representatives and fellow Falcons.
This year’s fair will feature the world-famous Budweiser Clydesdales, making one of only a few Wisconsin appearances during their 2026 tour. Fairgoers can see the iconic horses throughout the week.
Families can enjoy carnival rides throughout the week, with ride hours beginning at 4 p.m. Wednesday and noon Thursday through Sunday. Special accommodations will be available from noon to 2 p.m. Friday, when free midway rides will be offered to individuals with special needs.
Location: Ozaukee County Fair Grounds, W67 N866 Washington Avenue, Cedarburg, Wis.
Look for Concordia at Country in the Burg
Aug. 28-29 | Cedarburg
Concordia’s largest sponsorship of the summer will take place at Country in the Burg.
As the event’s exclusive higher education partner and entrance sponsor, CUW will have a visible presence throughout the two-day music festival. Attendees will see Concordia branding at the main entrance, on-site engagement opportunities and recognition before featured performances.
The event draws visitors from across Wisconsin and northern Illinois, creating a lively atmosphere for country music fans and festivalgoers alike.
Students, alumni, faculty and staff can also look for Concordia’s booth, where university representatives and student ambassadors will be available to connect with attendees throughout the weekend.
Country in the Burg founder and organizer Alex Uhan believes the partnership is a natural fit.
“CUW and Country in the Burg are the perfect partners. It’s a great way for students, faculty and staff to kick off the school year with the region’s largest country music festival right down the road from campus before the fall semester begins,” he said. “It’s also great for Country in the Burg because we can promote CUW as the festival’s official university partner and give our fans a chance to see what CUW is all about as an amazing university.”
Location: Cedar Creek Park, N54 W5900 Portland Road, Cedarburg, Wis.
Growing community
Some traditions are worth showing up for because some of the best moments happen outside the classroom.
Whether it’s gathering for an evening of worship and music, spending a day at the county fair with family or making memories with friends at a summer festival, these experiences have a way of bringing people together across generations. They remind us that relationships are built one conversation, one shared experience and one moment at a time.
Whether you’re reconnecting with fellow Falcons, enjoying live music or celebrating a local tradition, these events offer meaningful ways to be part of the places Concordia proudly calls home.
Local partnerships
For additional reading on summer partnerships:
- From classroom to concert stage: CUW students pitch ideas to grow Country in the Burg
- Rise, shine and fellowship: Strategic sponsorships bring summer fun to the community
Want in?
Concordia University Wisconsin is a Lutheran higher education community committed to helping students develop in mind, body and spirit for service to Christ in the Church and the world.