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What to Know and Where to Go

Here in Northeast Wisconsin, it’s safe to say we love family, friends, food and football! The Green Bay Packers bring our state pride and a rich history that the nation—and world—know well. This month—April 24 through April 26, to be exact—there’s a piece of history in the making that is primed to make the largest splash yet.

“The NFL Draft in Green Bay is expected to be the biggest event the city has ever hosted, with people coming from all over the country and the world to celebrate football, watch the picks and enjoy the atmosphere,” Megan Roberson, Planning Specialist, Marketing & Sales for the Green Bay Packers, says. “We know how special Green Bay and Wisconsin are, and to be able to share what we love about our home with a huge audience both in person and via broadcast will be such a great opportunity for our community. We look forward to showing the world that Green Bay is an incredible place to live, work, visit and play.”

“The NFL draft taking place in Title Town is bringing it back where it all began. It isn’t called the Lombardi trophy for nothin’,” Katie Bourassa, owner and general manager of Memories Antique Mall in Little Chute, says. “The Packers and Green Bay have always set a standard for what to expect out of an NFL franchise. Without a doubt, fans of all teams, from around the globe, will be able to experience the hospitality that the Midwest is known for and why it keeps people coming back year after year.”

There’s no doubt you’ve heard and felt the buzz surrounding the upcoming experience, one that’s been in the works for years.

“The NFL has been moving the Draft to different host cities since 2015-16 when The Draft was hosted in Chicago,” Roberson explains. “Since then, it’s traveled to seven other cities, all of which have had to go through the same bidding process as we have… We began submitting our interest to host the Draft in 2016, but the bid process has become more sophisticated over time as the event has continued to grow in scope, offerings and attendance.”

Activities before, during and after April 24-26 promise to celebrate our beloved area, including events that are family-friendly, featuring music, interactive exhibits, photo opportunities, autograph sessions and more.

“One major highlight of the event is the Draft Theater, which includes the Draft Stage where picks are announced during each round of the Draft. There are limited ticketed opportunities in the theater, but much of the space behind the theater will be available for free, first-come, first-served standing room viewing,” Roberson says. “A large portion of the event is geared toward the general public, particularly the NFL Draft Experience, which is the NFL’s free, family-friendly football festival celebrating the 2025 NFL Draft. 

“The event will be held at Titletown and in the parking lots outside Lambeau Field all three days of the Draft. Fans of all ages will be able to enjoy games, interactive exhibits, photo opportunities, player appearances/autograph sessions, sponsor experiences, youth-focused activities and opportunities to test their football skills. The Draft is also expected to feature musical performances, events and activities aimed at celebrating Wisconsin and Green Bay culture and other entertainment opportunities throughout all three days.”

Always dedicated to giving back to the community, the Green Bay Packers organization is specifically adhering to “leaving the city better than they found it” after the NFL Draft event(s).

“From the NFL’s perspective, they want to leave a positive legacy behind in each city where they host events. They make it a point to engage with the community before, during and after the Draft, incorporating activations into the event to recognize cultures and communities in northeast Wisconsin,” Roberson explains. “The NFL is also working hand-in-hand with our local organizing committee to plan a full slate of community programming around some of the NFL’s core social responsibility initiatives, from military appreciation and youth empowerment to cancer awareness and protecting the environment. 

“We also anticipate the NFL Draft sparking return tourism and business growth well after the Draft is over, generating a positive economic impact for years to come, not just in Green Bay but around the state of Wisconsin.”

That includes the Fox Cities. From Neenah to Little Chute, our community is upping their game for April’s big event.

The Draft + Fox Cities Connection

As our neighbor to the north, Green Bay is close enough to be a quick day trip away, which works vice versa. Area leaders are expecting the large Draft turnout to both stay and play in the Fox Cities.

“While the jury is still out on how many people will come to the area and what the impact will be, we know from historical events like EAA’s Airventure that large events have a very positive economic impact on the area,” Pam Seidl, Executive Director, Fox Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau, says.

“The influx of visitors means a surge in business for local hotels, restaurants, shops and entertainment venues,” Michelle Dunning, Outreach & Development Coordinator for Future Neenah, adds. “Also our community will be showcased on a national and even global stage. It’s a rare chance to highlight what makes our area unique and attract future visitors.”

Last Light Neenah

Downtown Neenah is about to shine brighter than ever! On April 26, an immersive video projection experience that will transform the cityscape with dazzling visuals and creative storytelling arrives.

“This special kickoff night coincides with the excitement of the NFL Draft in Green Bay, and we’re bringing the energy to the streets of Neenah with football-themed projections!” Dunning exclaims. “Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just love the magic of digital art, this event is the perfect way to spend an evening downtown.

Stroll through Neenah’s historic streets, grab a bite from a local restaurant, and watch as buildings come alive with vibrant imagery. Thanks to the team at Optical Productions for helping us bring this one-of-a-kind experience that blends sports, art, and community spirit to Downtown Neenah.”

Where: Downtown Neenah (134 W. Wisconsin Ave.) and Back of Future Neenah office (135 W. Wisconsin Ave.) and alleyway next to Future Neenah. 

When: Saturday, April 26 with projections beginning at dusk.

“Bring your friends, family or fellow football fans and be part of this unforgettable visual

Celebration,” Dunning says. “The football-themed projections will run all weekend during the Draft; however, on the official kick-off we will have a special showing that football fans will not want to miss!

“Batley’s Grill & Bar will host a Draft Watch Party on April 24 starting at 5 p.m. They will have a DJ, giveaways, raffles, drink and food specials all night,” Dunning adds. “The drink and food specials will continue all weekend during the Draft.”

Memories Antique Mall, Little Chute

Shopping will no doubt be on visitors’ minds, and that’s exactly what Katie Bourassa, owner and general manager of Memories Antique Mall, and her vendors are banking on.

“I believe that the increase in traffic will be a huge boon to the local economy, which in turn may allow smaller businesses to get ahead or to try out a new item/event that may not have been possible without the additional influx,” she says.

“A lot of our 150 vendors will be running special sales and discounts for the weekend. The Auction House at Memories will be hosting a LIVE Auction on the morning of Saturday, April 26, the final day of the draft: a Mega Sports-Centric Auction with something for everyone, regardless of budget.

“We have clients from all around the country that enjoy coming to the area and shopping the diverse booths that we have. Combining that with the sales that will be offered that weekend—it is sure to be an epic time.”

MyDraft Experience

Partnering with 32 local businesses and with a goal of bringing visibility to small businesses while giving back, visitors and natives alike can dial in to exclusive deals in Green Bay and the Fox Cities by purchasing the MyDraft Experience booklet.

“We are partnered with 32 local businesses including bars & breweries, restaurants, and coffee shops! This is a time where all businesses will be ecstatic to bring in any and all customers to show off what they are really about,” founders Jack Christensen and Luke Rexing, say. “Using our booklet, you get access to great deals at some awesome establishments. We want to promote people to get out and try new places during this draft time.

“10% of all proceeds generated from sales of our booklet will be donated to Curative Connections, a non-profit organization aimed at helping those with health impairments achieve independence.

“The draft is going to bring in a whole new crowd of customers that are not aware of all these hidden gems the city has to offer. This is an opportunity for local bars, restaurants, and cafes to get some great brand recognition,” founders of MyDraft Experience, Jack Christensen and Luke Rexing, say.

Find out more @mydraftexperience

Shuttle to The Draft!

While local Fox Cities businesses are expecting an uptick in visitors during the Draft, it’s also safe to say there will be a flood of people making their way to Green Bay. The Fox Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) and a number of other entities are making it easier and hassle free.

“These shuttles will all serve to provide a safe and efficient mode of transportation and cut down on traffic congestion in Green Bay,” Seidl says. “The CVB is coordinating a Park N Ride service from the Fox River Mall parking lot to Green Bay.

There will be a cost for the shuttles and priority will be given to guests at area hotels. Any unsold seats will be offered to the general public about 10 days in advance of the Draft event.

The Fox Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau has a Draft webpage where we will feature information on all shuttle options in the area: https://www.foxcities.org/events/2025draft/

How To Stay Informed

“NFL OnePass is the NFL’s app that gets fans connected to event information, allows them to take part in activities and serves as their go-to guide for all things Draft. It’s a great resource for fans to receive updates as they plan for their visit to the Draft, as well as access information while they’re here on-site. While the Draft is a free, non-ticketed event for most of the areas on the Draft campus, we encourage everyone attending to download and register on OnePass so they can get all the necessary info leading up to the Draft,” Roberson, Planning Specialist, Marketing & Sales for the Green Bay Packers, says.

“NFL Source is the NFL’s procurement program that’s utilized for events like the Draft to enable the league to engage with event-ready local and underrepresented businesses. The Packers have been working with the NFL and its vendors to connect with eligible businesses throughout the state of Wisconsin, with many businesses accepted to the program receiving contract opportunities to help bring the NFL Draft to life, including businesses. While the program is already full for this year, it’s a great example of how the NFL aims to leave a positive legacy with host cities after the Draft.”

Mark Your Calendar for Touchdown Downtown!
April 23 + April 26: Draft City Music Fest

Free and open to the public, two music events begin and end the Draft experience in Leicht Park, downtown Green Bay.
Attendees can expect national musical acts, glow giveaway items and activities, a family zone including a play area, and food and beverage tents. Fireworks presented by Festival Foods will then light up the nighttime sky, prior to the musical headliner.

“We’re thrilled to set the stage for the draft’s first trip to Titletown,” Mike Hooper, president of presenting sponsor Wisconsin Public Service Foundation, says. “The Draft Kickoff presented by WPS Foundation will boost economic development throughout the region while allowing football fans of all ages a unique opportunity to experience the excitement of the draft. We’re proud to support this event as part of our commitment to strengthen the communities we serve.”

“We have something very special planned to showcase the energy of our City as we welcome visitors and local residents to experience our City’s downtown during Draft Week,” Mayor Eric Genrich, City of Green Bay, adds. “To ensure these festivities are free to our community and visitors, sponsorships will play a vital role, which is why we’re so grateful to the WPS Foundation and Festival Foods for their support!”