WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) — The Wausau Parks and Recreation Committee is considering the introduction of pop-up beer gardens in local parks following positive responses to similar events in other cities.
Jamie Polley, the City and County Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Director, highlighted the success of such events in places like De Pere and Milwaukee. In Milwaukee County, for example, food trucks rotate between parks, generating substantial revenue—sometimes reaching millions of dollars.
Polley pointed out that state law permits the city to host events without a liquor license, though only beer or malt beverages are allowed to be served. There is also discussion to amend the law to permit wine sales in the future.
The committee expressed general support for the idea, with Alder Lisa Rasmussen suggesting that the “pop-up” nature of the events could be key to their success. “We should try it in a couple of different locations and see which ones work best,” she said, noting that the occasional nature of the events could increase their appeal.
Alder Tom Neal emphasized starting small. “I don’t want to make it bigger than it has to be,” Neal said. “Something small and cool that could gather steam over time.”
Polley mentioned that her colleagues in Milwaukee recommend keeping events family-friendly, with restrictions that allow children and pets, along with food options, to create a neighborhood gathering atmosphere. “They hold these events no more than once a week,” she said.
Polley plans to return to the committee with a more detailed proposal at a future meeting. The city would also need to pass an ordinance or resolution to make these events possible. Rasmussen suggested that the idea should first be discussed in the Public Health and Safety Committee before being brought before the full Council.
You Might Be Interested In:
