Theodore Roosevelt in 1912 was shot at the old Gilpatrick Hotel, now the site of the Hyatt Regency. In the registration packet will be tickets to enter the German Fest grounds, which registrants can enjoy before and after the reception. The grounds are within walking distance of all hotels, but free shuttle service will also be available. German Fest, a celebration of German culture and heritage, is held each year in Milwaukee at the Henry W. Maier Festival Park on Lake Michigan. German immigrants played a vital role in the development of the city of Milwaukee and the State of Wisconsin.
Residents celebrate their history by honoring the unique aspects of German life.
In addition to polka bands, the festival features a variety of entertaining events ranging from tuba contests to the Mercedes Benz Club Vintage Auto Show. Get a dose of German heritage at the many cultural events including a German fashion show, live Glockenspiel, documentary films, and displays of authentic German crafts. This is the first annual meeting in which buses will be used to shuttle people to and from the overflow hotels to the convention center. Please refer to daily scheduled hours and pick-up points at each hotel below as well as information regarding bus service from all hotels for the Welcome Fest, Night Out and Run. Pick-ups and returns will be made to all hotels except the Hyatt Regency.