Decoration Day
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Event Details
Sat–Sun, May 30–31, 2026 | 10 AM–4 PM
Discover the Historic Predecessor to Memorial Day
Before Memorial Day, there was Decoration Day—a historic precursor in which participants honored soldiers who died in the Civil War by visiting cemeteries and bringing flowers to the fallen. Visit Old World Wisconsin and learn the story behind this unique predecessor to our modern day of observance at Pleasant Ridge, a replica of one of the earliest refuges for formerly enslaved people and an early example of integrated communities in America.
What You’ll Experience
- A unique opportunity to learn about the origins of Memorial Day
- An educational experience in a replica of Pleasant Ridge, an early integrated community with history dating back to 1850
- Your ticket includes Decoration Day experience and Old World Wisconsin general admission access
Cost
Adult (18-64): $24
Teen (13-17): $24
Senior (65+): $20
Child (5-12): $16
Children under 5: Free
Society members receive free admission
About the Location
Old World Wisconsin includes 60 authentically restored historic homes, farms, stores and workshops—and a fully operational 1930s tavern. Each region features a distinct set of stories that invite you to experience the hopes and dreams of those who came before us. From the 1840s to the 1940s, you’ll find a true panorama of early Wisconsin history, covering more than 70 years and many cultures, including African American, Danish, Finnish, Hessian, Irish, Norwegian, Polish, Pomeranian and Yankee.
Old World Wisconsin first opened in 1976. Researchers traveled throughout Wisconsin in search of historic buildings crafted by the first generation of Wisconsin immigrants and migrants. From Lake Superior to the Illinois border, and from the Mississippi River to Lake Michigan, historians documented countless historic farmhouses, outbuildings and small-town structures. Once research was complete, the meticulous construction of Old World Wisconsin began. Piece by piece, workers carefully dismantled historic structures from around the state and reconstructed them in their new home.
Old World Wisconsin
W372 S9727 Hwy 67
Eagle, WI 53119
Know Before You Go & Accessibility
- Ticket includes Decoration Day experience and Old World Wisconsin general admission access.
- Old World Wisconsin grounds remain open rain or shine. Programs are subject to change based on availability and weather conditions.
- Old World Wisconsin is located within the Kettle Moraine State Forest. The site features gravel roads, rough and hilly terrain, and encompasses over 400 acres of publicly accessible woodlands. Our staff recommends dressing in layers and choosing sturdy footwear. Motorized trams make scheduled stops around the site throughout the day and rides are included with admission.
- Onsite vehicle parking is available for FREE at Old World Wisconsin. The parking lot can accommodate large vehicles, RVs, and buses.
- Admission is valid for a single day, and guests may exit and re-enter during the day of their visit.
- Modern restrooms, changing rooms, and water fountains are available on site.
- Because of the historic nature of the buildings, not all areas are ADA accessible. Guests using wheelchairs and electric scooters are eligible for complimentary admission. Guests with additional mobility needs are encouraged to contact the site directly at 262-594-6301 or oww@wisconsinhistory.org.
Have Questions?
For more information, please contact the box office at 608-264-4848 or boxoffice@wisconsinhistory.org
*Times, dates, and prices of any activity posted to our calendars are subject to change. Please be sure to click through directly to the organization’s website to verify.