Phil Furchi outlines West Bend Downtown Association's upcoming events and activities

The City of West Bend is gearing up for a vibrant autumn season filled with community events, as highlighted in the recent BID Board meeting held on September 2, 2025. Phil Furchi, the incoming head of the Downtown Association, provided an overview of upcoming activities that promise to engage residents and visitors alike.

One of the key highlights is the much-anticipated block party scheduled for Thursday, which will serve as the grand finale for the summer's "Music on Main" series. This event, along with the ongoing farmer's market running every Saturday until October 25, aims to foster community spirit and support local businesses.

Furchi also announced the Downtown Trick or Treat event on October 10, where downtown businesses will distribute candy to children, creating a festive atmosphere. Following that, the Autumn Wine Walk on November 22 is expected to draw a sellout crowd, themed "cozy flannel," coinciding with the Hunter's Widows weekend.

In a new initiative, the Christkindle Mart is in the planning stages, with Furchi noting the involvement of the West Bend Rotary Club in organizing this event. This market aims to celebrate the holiday season and will feature entertainment, food, and drinks.

The meeting also touched on the recent "Wheels on Main" event, which attracted approximately 425 vehicles, maintaining last year's attendance levels. While the community response was overwhelmingly positive, Furchi mentioned that the financial viability of the GlobalFest event is still under review, as the organization assesses its resources and volunteer commitments.

On the financial front, the BID Board reviewed the August financial report, indicating that expenses are on track, with no significant new bills. The board anticipates a balanced budget by the end of the year, despite some higher-than-expected audit costs.

As West Bend prepares for these exciting events, the community can look forward to a season filled with engagement and celebration, reinforcing the city's commitment to fostering a lively downtown atmosphere.