Overview
- Many non-profit groups donate grillers and servers. Local celebrities and politicians volunteer time as servers during the event. Past servers have included Wisconsin Governor Jim Doyle and Congresswoman Tammy Baldwin.
- 208,752 brats were consumed during the 2009 festivities, which is believed to be a world record for single festival over a 4-day period. In 2010, that number grew even larger, to 209,376
- In 2005, Brat Fest was relocated from its Hilldale Mall location, which had grown too small for the crowds, to Willow Island at the Alliant Energy Center.
- For many years, the Brat Fest was held over both the Memorial Day and Labor Day weekends. After the move to the Willow Island site, organizers decided to hold the event only on Memorial Day weekend, to minimize expenses.
- In 2006, two filmmakers, Benjamin Lamb and Vernon Johnson, created a documentary film honoring Brat Fest. Released on July 15, 2006, the film contained interviews with Governor James Doyle, Brat Fest Organizer Tim Metcalfe, Kevin Metcalfe and the wife of Tom Metcalfe.
- In 2010 Brat Fest sets a new "self proclaimed" world record by selling 209,376 brat during the four day festival.
- In 2011 is chosen by Parade magazine as one of the top 50 festivals in the US
- The 2012 Brat Fest was held May 25 through May 28 .
- In 2011, donations to the campaigns of Scott Walker by executives and employees of Johnsonville triggered alternative Bratfests as a boycott movement.
- In 2012 Brat Fest add two new offerings. Field Roast Frankfurters (Vegan), and the New Johnsonville Chicken Sausage Chipotle Monterey Jack Cheese
- In 2012 Brat Fest is again recognized by Parade magazine as one of the top festivals in the US
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