ELLSWORTH — Ellsworth’s Cheese Curd Festival has once again earned national recognition, ranking #4 in the 2026 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Specialty Food Festival in the nation.

This marks the fourth year the Cheese Curd Festival has been named among the 10Best list for specialty food festivals in the country. The recognition continues to shine a national spotlight on Ellsworth and its proud identity as the Cheese Curd Capital of Wisconsin, home to the world-famous curds produced by Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery.

The annual USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards begin with nominations curated by a panel of travel and food experts, with the final rankings determined by public voting. This year’s competition featured standout festivals from across the United States celebrating iconic regional foods.

“This year is especially meaningful as we prepare to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Cheese Curd Festival,” said Executive Director of the Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce Kim Beebe. “We’re incredibly proud to see the festival recognized on a national stage for the fourth year. This honor reflects the passion of our community, the support of our visitors, and the dedication of the many volunteers, businesses, and partners who help bring this event to life each year.”

Held annually in Ellsworth’s East End Park and surrounding East End Business District, the Cheese Curd Festival has grown from a local celebration into a nationally recognized event that draws more than 25,000 visitors each year. Approximately 96 percent travel from outside the Ellsworth area. According to the Wisconsin Department of Tourism, the festival generates an estimated $2.55 million in economic impact annually, providing a meaningful boost to local businesses, tourism, and the regional economy.

Beyond its economic impact, the festival also gives back to the community. Through the festival’s volunteer program, more than $138,000 has been reinvested into the local nonprofits that help make the event possible.

The 2026 Cheese Curd Festival will take place June 26–27, marking the festival’s milestone 25th year of celebrating cheese curds, community, and Wisconsin’s rich agricultural tradition. The festival celebrates Wisconsin’s dairy heritage with deep-fried cheese curds, including the famous curds produced by Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery, along with creative tasting experiences, live music on multiple stages, a car show, artisan market vendors, and family-friendly activities.

For more information about the Cheese Curd Festival, visit cheesecurdfestival.com. To see the full list of winners in the 2026 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for Best Specialty Food Festival, visit: 10best.usatoday.com/awards/best-specialty-food-festival.

Submitted by Ellsworth Chamber of Commerce