For nearly three decades, Brewers fans from the Coulee Region have made sure to circle one special day on the calendar.

Now in its 28th year, this beloved community event brings together almost 1,000 La Crosse residents for a day full of camaraderie, celebration and baseball.

Bright and early at 7:00 a.m., sixteen buses departed, carrying excited Brewers fans from the west side of the state. Their destination was a day of fun and sportsmanship as the Milwaukee Brewers took on the Pittsburgh Pirates at American Family Field.

Before the first pitch, attendees enjoyed a vibrant tailgate atmosphere. A live band traveled all the way from Nashville to entertain the crowd, setting the tone with great music. Kids had games to play and the grills sizzled with hot dogs and brats, filling the air with delicious smells.

Quentin Lamers, who lives in La Crosse, captured the spirit of the day perfectly. “It’s a camaraderie getting together with everybody here, getting to meet people that I work with at the hospital and seeing friends and family and everybody and the kids to enjoy, and the family atmosphere of this whole day.”

For many, Explore La Crosse Day is a highlight of the year, forging memories that last a lifetime. Daniel Meyer, an Onalaska resident reflected on his experience over his time attending the event.

“I missed three times only. One had to do with my son’s wedding. So, it’s nice to be back after missing two years, but, yeah, it’s just a great time. It’s such a mixture of different people that come with us every year and I hope tradition continues,” Meyer said. 

The festivities extended beyond the tailgate. Inside the ballpark, the La Crosse community was well-represented. The Coulee Chordsmen choir returned with a touching rendition of the national anthem before the game. 

Roger Christians shared the choir’s proud history. “Well, I think that’s quite an honor and we had to send in a CD seven years ago that they would evaluate whether we were good enough to do this. And they thought we were, and since then they’ve appreciated us coming down here. They get good comments and we think we do a good job,” Christians said. 

Dan Stacey of La Crosse threw out the ceremonial first pitch and Sergeant First Class Paul Rauf of Onalaska Legion was highlighted as hero of the game – a tribute to his service and connection to the community.

Whether you’re a La Crosse area resident or a Brewers fan, Explore La Crosse Day embodies the joy of coming together to enjoy America’s pastime with great company.Â