Knoxville Weekend
Mark your calendars for May 1–2, 2026, because Knoxville’s cheesiest weekend is back—and it’s bigger, bolder, and brie‑llianter than ever! Hosted at the Barrelhouse by Gypsy Circus on Lamar Street, this year’s festival brings together award‑winning Wisconsin cheeses, craft ciders, local brews, flavor‑packed pairings, and all the creamy, melty magic your taste buds can handle.
🧀 Knoxville Cheese Fest 2026
Wisconsin Cheese Derby
Friday, May 1
🥂 Friday Night: The Cheese Concert
Kick things off with our re‑imagined Friday night bash—The Cheese Concert! Cheese Ambassador Michael Peterman will guide you through 10 bold cheeses paired with bubbly ciders, crafty beers, and a signature Wisconsin Derby Cocktail. Expect music, trivia, charcuterie vibes, and maximum cheesy energy. Bring your appetite and your A‑game—those Cheese Derby trivia prizes are legit!
Knoxville Cheese Fest
Saturday, May 2nd
🧀 Saturday: Tasting Sessions & Cheese Adventures
Come back Saturday for our iconic tasting sessions, featuring the best bites from the Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin plus surprise guest cheeses that always steal the show. Sip on four curated pours from Gypsy Circus or Atomic City Brewing as Certified Cheese Professional Jess Benoit and the School of Cheese team guide you through a two‑hour flavor journey.
🎓 Level Up at Cheese Academy
For the overachievers (you know who you are), our festival‑favorite Cheese Academy returns with classes led by top experts—including cheese ambassador Michael Peterman—so you can sharpen your pairing skills and master the art of cheese like a pro. (Classes sold separately!)
Wisconsin Cheese Derby
Friday, May 1
Derby Attire Encouraged!
Session 1 6:00 - 7:30pm
Session 2 8:00-9:30 pm
Single tickets $45
Pair of tickets $80
Compete in the Derby with your Friends!
Table of 6 tickets $250
Knoxville Cheese Fest
Saturday, May 2nd
Derby Attire Encouraged!
Session 1 | 11:00am - 1:00 pm
Session 2 | 1:30 pm - 3:30 pm
Session 3 | 4-6pm
Single tickets $40
Pair of tickets $70
Cheese Academy by Michael Peterman (additional ticket)
Classes TBD