The 2025 United States Championship Cheese Contest is coming to Ashwaubenon, Wisconsin, bringing together the best cheese makers from across the nation to showcase their top creations. It’s a must-attend event for cheese lovers, but if you can’t make it to Ashwaubenon this year, don’t worry—Verona offers a wide variety of local cheese experiences where you can still enjoy Wisconsin’s rich cheese heritage.
The U.S. Cheese Championship Contest: A Celebration of American Cheese
Taking place in Ashwaubenon in March 2025, the U.S. Championship Cheese Contest is the largest competition of its kind, with over 2,000 cheese entries across more than 120 categories. From cheddar and brie to gouda and cream cheese, the contest celebrates the art and craftsmanship of American cheese makers.
Whether you're a cheese connoisseur or a casual fan, the contest offers a chance to taste the finest cheeses in the country, meet the makers behind these award-winning varieties, and gain a deeper appreciation for the passion and dedication that goes into each wheel of cheese.
But if you can’t make the trip to Ashwaubenon this year, you don’t have to miss out on the fun! Verona and its surrounding areas are home to some fantastic local spots where you can sample Wisconsin’s finest cheeses and immerse yourself in the state’s celebrated dairy culture.
Celebrate Cheese in Verona: Local Cheese Experiences
Even if you’re not at the Cheese Championship in Ashwaubenon, you can still indulge in some delicious Wisconsin cheese in and around Verona. Here are a few local spots to check out:
1. The Cheese Factory Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlor
Located just a short drive from Verona, The Cheese Factory Restaurant in Brodhead, WI is a classic Wisconsin experience. Enjoy homemade ice cream, cheese curds, and a variety of Wisconsin-made cheeses while dining in a relaxed, rustic setting. It’s the perfect spot to taste local cheese and take in the charm of small-town Wisconsin.
2. Brennan’s Market
For a more hands-on cheese experience, stop by Brennan’s Market in Verona. This beloved local market features an impressive selection of Wisconsin cheeses, including many from award-winning creameries. Whether you’re looking for a unique cheese board to take home or just want to sample something new, Brennan’s has you covered. Be sure to grab some locally made cheese curds—they’re a Wisconsin must!
3. The Sow’s Ear
Not only a cozy café and yarn shop, The Sow’s Ear also offers a selection of locally sourced treats, including Wisconsin cheeses. Pair your cheese with a warm coffee or tea for the ultimate relaxed experience.
4. Cheese and Wine Pairings at Local Wineries
Several local wineries around Verona, including Tintero Winery and Venetian Gardens, offer cheese and wine pairings, giving you the opportunity to sample local cheeses while sipping on award-winning wines. It’s a great way to celebrate Wisconsin’s rich agricultural offerings in one delightful experience.
5. Take a Cheese Tour
While you can’t visit the official Cheese Championship Contest in Ashwaubenon, there are plenty of cheese tours available around the state. Wisconsin Cheese Tours offers guided trips to some of the best local creameries, where you can see the cheese-making process up close and sample the freshest cheese straight from the source.
Join the Cheese Celebration, Near or Far!
While the U.S. Cheese Championship Contest in Ashwaubenon is the place to be for serious cheese lovers, Verona and its surrounding areas offer a fantastic selection of local cheese experiences that will make you feel like you’re part of the celebration. Whether you visit a local restaurant, shop for cheese at a local market, or enjoy a wine and cheese pairing at a nearby winery, you’ll be indulging in the best Wisconsin has to offer.
Can’t make it to Ashwaubenon? Don’t worry—you can still celebrate the cheese capital of the world right here in Verona!
🧀 Mark your calendars for March 2025 and consider attending the U.S. Championship Cheese Contest in Ashwaubenon, or plan your own local cheese adventure in Verona!
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