The 21st annual Chippewa Valley Quilt Show is happening in 2020, on Saturday, October 3rd and Sunday, October 4th. All quilters, new and experienced, are invited. Quilts can be brought strictly for display, or be for sale.
It’s held by the Chippewa Valley Stitching Pals and takes place on the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds. Admission is $5, parking is FREE. Hours are 9am – 4pm both days.
You’ll find the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds just off Highway 124 on the north side of Chippewa Falls. It’s just north of the Leinie Lodge at Leinenkugel’s Brewing Company and Irvine Park & Zoo.
Chippewa Valley Quilt Show Address:
Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds
225 Edward Street
Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
(715) 723-2861 Website
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
Start:
October 3, 2020
End:
October 4, 2020
Venue:
Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds
Phone:
715-723-2861
Address:
225 Edward Street, Chippewa Falls, WI, 54729, United States
How about a prehistoric road trip? Take a tour at the Dinosaur Adventure Drive-Thru, where over 80 life-sized dinosaurs await.
Among the 80 dinosaurs, you can crawl past a 40-foot T-Rex, 30-foot Brachiosaurus, Triceratops, Velociraptor, and more – all from the comfort of your own vehicle. This Dinosaur Drive-Thru experience is available for three weekends at Waukesha County Expo Center. Tickets are sold online only in advance, and are purchased on a per-vehicle basis – so feel free to cram people in, up to 8 people! It runs now Thursdays through Sundays; last day is October 4th.
The Dinosaurs await you at the Waukesha County Expo Center on the north side of Waukesha, just south of where I-94 and Highway 16 meet. U.S. 18 and Highways 59 and 164 also get you close. Find out more and get tickets here.
Dinosaur Adventure Drive-Thru Address:
Waukesha County Expo Center
1000 Northview Road
Waukesha, WI 53188
(651) 504-2000
Website
The World Championship Derby Complex is gearing up for the changing seasons by hosting the Fall Motorsports Show & Swap, Friday through Sunday, September 11-13, 2020.
The Fall Motorspots Show & Swap featured 180 Swap Booths, all properly distanced across the 30 acres of Derby Complex property – so they’ll have proper COVID-19 measures because they have the room! The show opens at 3pm on Friday the 11th.
See 2021 Polaris, Ski-doo and Yamaha Snowmobiles on display, and exhibitors include: 2021 Wisconsin Military Snowmobile Ride (WMSR), American Council of Snowmobile Associations, AMSOIL, B & M Fabrications, Bag King, Bikeman Performance, Boondock Nation, Caliber, CBoysTV, Clutch Energy Drink, Composit Tracks, Conover ATV Club, Fly Racing, Great Lakes Nation, Hexco, International Snowmobile Hall of Fame, Jimmy McHugh, John Deere, Ken’s Sports, Krause Kustom Design, Meyer Yamaha, Mike Trapp 50th Anniversary Display, More Freakin’ Power, O’Reilly’s Auto Parts, Pat’s Auto and Sports, Port Yamaha/Arctic Cat & Snow Studs, Snowmobile Racing Hall of Fame, Sled Head Racing, Sled USA, Sno-Eagles Snowmobile Club, Summit Motor Sports, Thunder Products Clutching, Track Inc, TrackSide, Ultimate Groomer Drags, USSA Racing, Vintage Snowmobile Displayers, Wild Eagle Lodge, Yellow Fever Collectors and ZBroz.
7:30pm on Friday, Octane Addictions invites you, as they’re saying, to “become Part of Breathtaking History!” You can see X-Game Type Action at the Friday night show outside under the light, featuring some of the Top FMX Riders in the World: Brian McCarty, Adam Jones, Anthony Murray and Travis Cady on their motorcycles doing amazing stunts, culminating with a UTV (side by side) Back Flip by Levi Rentz for the First Time in Wisconsin History. Autograph sessions will be available for all Octane Addictions riders… Times TBA.
9pm Friday night, Live Music follows with Refuse To Rust – playing songs of today and yesterday, their way.
To celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Mike Trapp winning the 1971 World Snowmobile Championship, Mike Trapp will be on hand to Sign Autographs Friday night!
Beer Garden and Food Vendors available daily as well as Beverage Carts with Beer, Soda and water throughout the grounds.
TICKETS:
Tickets will be for sale at the gate and online. Pre-purchased tickets will be ready for pickup at the yellow “Will Call” Building on the north end of the Derby Complex, located on Hwy. 45 in front of the barn on Sept. 11-12-13. Kids ages 12 and under are Free Admission.
CAMPING:
Camping on Grounds will be allowed with the Purchase of a Pass available in “Tickets” section on the Derby Complex website. Camping is primitive; no hookups or showers. There will, however, be Portable Toilets and Hand Sanitizers throughout the grounds.
The WCDC Fall Motorsports Show & Swap is coordinated through the efforts of the St. Germain Snowmobile Racing Hall of Fame, the International Snowmobile Hall of Fame, World Snowmobile Headquarters, the World Championship Derby Complex, and the Sno-Eagles Snowmobile Club.
Fall Motorsports Show & Swap Address:
World Championship Derby Complex
1311 N. Railroad Street (U.S. 45/Highway 17/Highway 32)
Eagle River, WI 54521
(715) 479-4424 Website
Interesting name, even more interesting event! SEWERfestactually stands for South East Wisconsin Exotic Reptiles, and SEWERfest features dealers and exhibits of captive-bred reptiles in Wisconsin’s largest reptile show.
In this unusual year, SEWERfest is taking place Sunday, August 2nd from 9am – 3pm and Sunday, November 8th from 10am – 3pm at Fountain Banquet Hall. The Hall is right along Highway 11/Durand Avenue, just east of I-41/94 in Sturtevant, just west of Racine in Racine County. SEWERFest includes a wide variety of diverse captive bred animals and lets you meet quality breeders across Wisconsin, the Midwest, and all over the United States.
“Animal House” Pets & Supplies will be there with over 60 terrariums and over 100 animals to see. They’ll also have Exo Terra terrariums and Zilla Front openings of every size, Zilla Top Openings in five popular sizes, Zoo med paladariums in both sizes, as well as Zilla vertical decor, Zilla spring caves, Driftwood, Cholla wood, Jungle wood, Bamboo, Waterfalls, and more.
Check out the Captive Bred Specialties booth, where you can get a free raffle ticket with ANY purchase as you check out 10 tables of reptiles, feeders, and supplies with great discounts up to 60% off retail. exoterra terrariums, crickets, goliathworms, mealworms, and waxworms, and CB baby Red Tegus, Sudanese Uromastyx (U.Ocellata), Redfoot Tortoises, Hermann Tortoises, Elongated Tortoises, Sulcatta Tortoises, Bearded Dragon Morphs, and Adult Bearded Dragons including a Yellow Ackie Dwarf Monitor (Adult Male), Red tail boa morphs, Monkey tail skinks, Green Tree Pythons, Ambilobe Panther Chameleons, Ball python Morphs, Baby PAC-Man frog Morphs, Driftwood/Corkbark, Wildlife Photography, and more.
SEWERfest is a great opportunity to see & learn about animals that you rarely see in zoos or museums; it can be a fun, learning experience for the whole family. Fountain Banquet Hall has a number of amenities including – in true Wisconsin style – a bar.
Admission pricing is dynamic, based on the time you arrive. They have it as follows:
9-10am Adults:$10, 12 and under:$5
10am-Noon Adults:$8, 12 and under:$2
Noon-3pm Adults:$5, 12 and under:$1
SEWERFest Address:
Fountain Banquet Hall
8505 Durand Avenue (Highway 11)
Sturtevant, WI 53177
(262) 994-4547 Website
The 2020 Wisconsin Sport Show Presented by the Eau Claire Leader Telegram will be held March 20th-22nd at the Chippewa Valley Expo Center at Old Mill Plaza on the west side of Eau Claire.
The 11th Annual Wisconsin Sport Show will feature:
Over 150 Exhibits
Thousands of Dollars in Door Prizes
Hunting and Fishing Seminars
FREE Parking
Concessions and Busch Light Beer Garden
Boats, Pontoons, Docks & Lifts
ATVs, and Outdoor Vehicles
Over 5,000 square feet of retail vendors and new product displays
Check the Wisconsin Sport Show website for additional details. You’ll find the Chippewa Valley Expo Center just off U.S. 12/Clairmont Drive and Highway 312, right by I-94 at Exit 59. U.S. 53 and Highways 37, 93, and 124 also bring you to Eau Claire.
The Wisconsin Fishing Expo arrives at Exhibition Hall in Madison’s Alliant Energy Center February 28 – March 1, 2020 and continues to offer more than 125,000 square feet of exhibits!
In 2017, the Wisconsin Fishing Expo expanded for additional fishing- and hunting-related wildlife art and goods. In 2018, a new wing opened focusing on kayaks and other silent watercraft. This year, the Wisconsin Fishing Expo continues to add vendors and booths both upstairs and downstairs to further expand what you can explore!
You can still expect mom-and-pop fishing vendors with gear that anglers can’t find at box stores. There will also be a tremendous presence from some of the leading national brands in the fishing industry, including Clam, Berkley, Beaver Dam, ACME, Fenwick, Okuma, Gamakatsu, Ray Marine, Garmin, St. Croix, Fishing Hot Spots, Stren, and many, many more. Check out and meet
For boats, over 20 brands will be ready to sell from top bets like Crestliner, Alumacraft, Bass Cat, Yar Craft, Tracker, Ranger, Triton, Smoker Craft, Bennington, and others.
Plenty of Youth Activities will be available, bigger and better than ever. Check it out!
Kids mock Fishing Pond (brown bags .50 a try)
Free Face Painting
Free Balloon Animals
Free Rods, Reels and Gear at Youth Fishing Seminars (limited supply!)
Free Bow Fishing (Shoot at Fish Targets)
Minnow Races
Trout Pond with Tagged Fish for EXTRA PRIZES!
Kids Casting Competition
The Alliant Energy Center is easily accessed via Madison’s Beltline (U.S. 12/18) off John Nolen Drive (Exit 263) or Rimrock Road (Exit 262). U.S. 14 & 151 are close by. You can also come through downtown via U.S. 151 and follow John Nolen Drive down the causeway. There’s so much else to see and do in Madison, too!
Show Hours:
Friday – 3:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
Saturday – 9:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.
Sunday – 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.
Admission:
$10.00 for Adult (Kids 12 and under are FREE)
A parking fee is charged per car by Dane County. (fee subject to change by Dane County, it’s usually $7 cash.)
Here’s a previous ad for the Wisconsin Fishing Expo:
Wisconsin Fishing Expo Address:
Exhibition Hall at Alliant Energy Center
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way
Madison, WI 53703
(262) 305-1907 Website
The WBAY Home & Garden Show is northeastern Wisconsin’s largest home & garden show. With its new location inside the Lambeau Field Atrium, you have one stop shopping to meet with professionals in all areas of home building, remodeling, landscaping, interior design, pools & spas, bedding & bath and much more. This large exhibit space is filled with the area’s best professionals to complete your home and garden projects no matter how large or how small. Check out presentations with Melinda Myers and many others who will help you with ideas, resources, and more. Save time and money by shopping for all your home improvement needs in one convenient location. Understand how affordable it is to improve your home while visiting with local and regional experts covering every topic on your “to do” list!
The WBAY Home & Garden Show runs Friday, February 28th – Sunday, March 1st at the Lambeau Field Atrium in Green Bay. Check out all the cool stuff around the Titletown District while you’re at it! I-41, U.S. 141, and Highways 29, 32, 54, 57, and 172 all bring you to Green Bay.
Plan your dream wedding with guidance from the nearly 200 exhibitors at this year’s Wonderful World of Weddings in the Expo Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park. See the latest trends in wedding gowns, tuxedos, photographers, florists, music, and more. Sample wedding cakes and food tastings from local restaurants and catering companies! They’ve been hosting the Wonderful World of Weddings for over 50 years and are known as Wisconsin’s oldest, largest, and most prestigious wedding event. You won’t want to miss it! You know, if you like weddings or are planning on being in one…
The events takes place at Wisconsin State Fair Park’s Exposition Hall on the corner of Highways 59 and 181 (84th & Greenfield) in West Allis, just south of I-94 and U.S. 18.
Hours:
Saturday, January 4: 10am – 4pm
Sunday, January 5: 10am – 4pm
Admission:
Adult (13 and over): $12.00 ($8 in advance HERE)
Children (12 and under): FREE
Senior: $10.00
Military: $10.00
Trainfest is America’s largest operating model railroad show! Join over 20,000 families and check out over FIVE football fields’ worth of serious train fun, as Trainfest has expanded into the Cream Puff Pavilion at State Fair Park! Explore well over 75 highly creative scenic railroads. Kids from 5 to 99 can run the trains at many of them, part of more hands-on opportunities than ever before! Build a Memory in the expanded Kids’ Activity Zone filled with Free crafts, new make ‘n takes, the “Junior Engineer” program, and plenty of train-themed fun! Trainfest 2019 has grown considerably too, with additional space, more layouts, and more activities… especially for kids!
Thanks to Wm. K. Walthers Inc., traditional train layouts will receive a brand new perspective when children ages 5-14, display their personal creative train layouts in the new “Trainfest Builders” Kids Layout Section. Trainfest is collaborating with a number of educators and clubs to ensure the program supports, promotes, and culminates the benefits of a STEAM education. (The grouping of Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math academic disciplines to enable children to apply classroom knowledge successfully through analysis and problem solving.)
All children ages 5-14 are invited to participate. Three categories of exhibiting are offered: layouts of toy trains themed by the child; a display of running railroads that incorporates elements of model building; or creation of a Module to spec. Find out more about Trainfest Builders here!
Hobbyists can attend a variety of clinics, there’s a photo contest, and opportunities to buy and see models, from locomotives to accessories.
Rounding out this spectacular show are model train manufacturers and retailers from coast-to-coast. Trainfest has something for everyone in its 230,000 square feet of display area. Discounted advanced tickets available online.
You’ll find Trainfest at the Exposition Center inside Wisconsin State Fair Park in West Allis. The Expo Center is right at the corner of Highway 59/Greenfield Avenue and Highway 181/84th Street. I-94, U.S. 18, I-41/U.S 45, and Highway 100 all bring you close!
Trainfest Address:
State Fair Park Expo Center
640 S. 84th Street (Highways 59 & 181)
West Allis, WI 53214
(262) 820-3566 Website
Stockholm Women’s Weekend offers a slew of fun events along Highway 35 in this lovely town along the Mississippi River November 1-3, 2019. It’s a great time to take a moment to slow down and recharge, treat yourself, connect with friends, shop locally handcrafted items, and meet the artists.
Check out Friday’s Happy Hour & Welcome at Gelly’s Too, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Saturday is “Wine & Wander” throughout the village, focusing on the hours from noon until 5 pm. Enjoy progressive wine tastings with complimentary pairings at each stop.
Sunday, enjoy “Sunday Samplings,” including a Mimosa bar with pastries. Check out the mimosas at Stockholm Village Bistro from 9:00 am – 11:00 am. During Sunday afternoons, check out Pie Flights with wine, beer, and cider pairings at Stockholm Pie & General Store from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm (that’s a special ticketed event, by the way.)
Check out some of the specialty stores, too, for Stockholm Women’s Weekend:
SANDY’S CLOTHING AND ART
Check out not only complementary wine pairings at the unique boutique known as Sandy’s Clothing and Art, but explore the inside porch, which will be filled with Holiday Dressings all at 50% off!
HUGGA BUGGA
“Take a Break Station” Rest and relax from your busy day of shopping with coffee and a homemade treat.
HUMBLE MOON FOLKSTEAD (aka Antique Furniture)… AN EXPERIENCE
Owners Dan & Sarah created Humble Moon Folkstead with the idea in mind that they could live out their dreams in having a creative outlet and also to create an experience and inspiration for visitors. They have been customizing the property to suit their family needs so that the business can nurture and become part of their family lifestyle, not dominate their life. It is designed to have something of interest to men, women and children. It is a cozy casual environment where all are welcome to be themselves.
THE PURPLE TURTLE ARTISAN COLLECTIVE
Trunk show with local jeweler, CS King, who produces Earth-inspired, dark-roasted jewelry. Also, Beth Yelesky will be showcasing her skin and self care products.
THE PALATE
The Palate will feature appetizers along with wine pairings, along with recipes and more to complement what they have to offer in their charming store. They also offer cooking classes.
ABODE GALLERY
Trunk show with Robbin Firth from Heart Felt Silks. Extraordinary handcrafted fashion, and home decor in Eco dyed felted wool and silk. Scarves, runners, clothing and more.
STOCKHOLM PIE & GENERAL STORE
Check out, among their other excellent options, the FYRA: four flaky wedges of our world famous crust baked with cinnamon and sugar, topped with cardamon whipped cream, lingonberry sauce and local honey. Definitely tasty!
AND MUCH MORE!
Reach Stockholm via Highway 35, one of the most beautiful drives in the nation.
You’ll find beautiful Stockholm right along the Great River Road, Highway 35, in Pepin County where the Mississippi River widens into Lake Pepin. Definitely enjoy the drive, one of the most beautiful in America.
Catalano Square in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward hosts the Under One Moon Festival, a three-day pop-up festival that celebrates everything lunar.
Its centerpiece is the Museum of the Moon, a 23-foot diameter, inflatable art installation of the lunar surface by Luke Jerram that rises over Catalano Square all weekend. The lunar celebration, going on night and day, includes moon songs, chalk art, original dance, lectures from leading space experts and much more. The festival is produced under the direction of Black Box Fund, a 501c3 nonprofit organization that supports public art, music and performances that inspire and educate.
The remarkable detail of the Moon installation, which suspends from a crane and hangs over the Catalano Square Fountain, is the centerpiece. It shines at night and serves as a beacon for the festival. You’ll find it right along Highway 32 as you drive through Milwaukee’s Third Ward, along Milwaukee and Young Streets, also bounded by Erie and Menomonee Streets.
Under One Moon Festival Address:
Catalano Square
100 Block of N. Broadway
Milwaukee, WI 53202 Facebook Page
DeerFest Is Everything Deer! This 10th Annual event, the largest all-deer event in the nation – returns to Washington County Fair Park just south of West Bend the weekend of August 2nd-4th, 2019.
DeerFest will feature over 250 booths in the Rage and Muzzy Halls, outdoor exhibits, and all the leading archery companies in the Block Archery Pavilion, where you can test-shoot the all new bows. Expert seminars, archery tournaments, pop-up archery, Browning trail camera photo contest, celebrity appearances, shed dog trials, Sunday live auction, door prizes and more complement the activities.
Willie Robertson, Travis “T-Bone” Turner, Lee & Tiffany Lakosky, Michael Waddell and more outdoor TV personalities will also appear and sign free autographs.
Friday Night Happy Hour sponsored by Stone Ridge Meats offers all DeerFest attendees ½ price concessions from 6pm to 9pm. Fresh, home made burgers, brats, and beverages all half price courtesy of Stone Ridge.
Check out the Live Gun Auction, as DeerFest 2019 will feature one of the largest live gun auctions to ever take place in Wisconsin. Over 375 firearms will be auctioned off live, along with crossbows from Ten Point and Raven along with hundreds of additional outdoor related products. This will be the largest live auction in DeerFest history.
DeerFest 10th Anniversary attendees will also have the exciting opportunity to shoot a fun and challenging 3D course featuring 20 of Kirsch Hunting’s most popular North American game animals. All participants will be entered into a free drawing with a chance to win over $7,500 in prizes including a guided Whitetail hunt with Buck Chasers! Find out more here.
Ticketed admission to DeerFest ranges from $10 per day (plus a $2.54 fee when you buy online) to $25 for a three-day pass. Children under 12 are admitted for $5. There is an extra charge to participate in select special events, such as the Stars & Stripes Shoot. Details here.
DeerFest Address:
Washington County Fair Park
3000 Highway PV (just off the U.S. 45 freeway)
West Bend, WI 53095
(262) 677-5060 Website
Green Bay once again has been awarded the honor of hosting a fleet of tall ships as part of the TALL SHIPS CHALLENGE® Great Lakes 2019 Race Series. One of only 11 ports in North America and one of 7 in the USA, the Port of Green Bay will be home to nine majestic vessels July 26-28 as part of Nicolet Bank Tall Ships®, offering a wide variety of entertainment and experiences.
Dockside touring ships allow event-goers to learn about each ship’s rich history and meet the crew. Sailing ships offer even more of an experience as they hoist their anchor and sail down the river to the mouth of the bay. Daily programming includes a full day of entertainment that is sure to make lasting memories. In addition to sail excursions and on-board tours, this year a variety of on-board experiences will be available for purchase.
Activities include:
Day and sunset sail excursions
Friday night on-board Green Bay Gamblers Fireworks viewing
Appledore IV 3-hour sailing experience out to the Bay of Green Bay
Onboard, dockside ship tours
George Kress Foundation Educational Stage
Tundraland Entertainment Stage
Dunkin’ Kids Zone
Oneida Nation Welcome Center
Ticket Star Family Day is Sunday, July 28, where kids ages 5-12 are only $5
Port of Green Bay Boardwalk
North Coast Marine Manufacturing Alliance Ship Yard
The World’s Largest Rubber Duck – presented by Miron Construction
Art in the Schools Project featuring area high school art students
Maritime Vendor Village
Greater Green Bay Convention & Visitor Bureau Trolley service
For parking, you can use metered and un-metered street parking throughout downtown. Parking lots and ramps plus bicycle parking are also available. Limited ADA parking will be available at Leicht Park on a first come, first served basis. The Neville Museum, across the street from the festival, will be selling parking and will have ADA spaces available also on a first come first served basis.
Parking shuttles, powered by the Greater Green Bay Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, will be running from the Main Street Ramp (East) and Larsen Green (West side near Titletown Brewery) and the Neville Museum near the festival entrance.
Leicht Memorial Park is along the Fox River in downtown Green Bay, right where U.S. 141 (Main/Dousman Streets) crosses the river. Highway 29 crosses just to the south. Titletown Brewing Company is right next door. I-43’s massive Leo Frigo Bridge leapfrogs the area a few blocks to the north. I-41 and Highways 32, 54, 57, and 172 also bring you to Green Bay so you can enjoy this massive event!
Tall Ships Address:
Leicht Memorial Park
128 Dousman Street (U.S. 141)
Green Bay, WI 54303 Website
Astronomy lovers and people who just like “far out” things, this is for you! The Modine-Benstead Observatory is hosing one of its Open House Racine County events Saturday night, June 8th for free exploration of the observatory and the stars and planets its telescopes gaze upon.
Seriously, you can just go in for free and look at the universe through their telescopes. Depending on conditions, you can check out the moon, planets, and many deep sky objects. If they’re deep enough, remember that you’re actually looking back in time. For example, when you view the Andromeda galaxy, you are looking back in time 2.9 million years. Trippy, man!
These public open house events are held monthly from April through October. Parking is free along with free admission. The Racine Astrological Society, which runs the whole thing, is a non-profit, volunteer-run organization and of course small donations are welcomed to help defray the yearly costs of observatory maintenance and care. While families are welcome, be sure to keep young children close (it’s a dark area, since the grounds are not illuminated to promote better observing) and instruct them to be careful with the telescope equipment, which is provided by RAS members. Note that there may be lines to make observations through some telescopes. Questions are expected and welcomed, since part of their club mission is to educate and inspire people to participate in the world of amateur astronomy. Astronomical equipment you’ll find at the RAS observatory will range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars in value.The night of an open house there will be a message on the observatory answering machine (262-878-2774) if the skies are too cloudy.
The Modine-Benstead Observatory is located at the intersection of County Highway A & 63rd Drive in Yorkville, less than a mile south of Highway 20, a little over a mile east of U.S. 45, and less than 3 miles west of I-41/94 (take Exit 333/Highway 20 west.)
Open House at Modine-Benstead Observatory Event Address:
Modine-Benstead Observatory
112 63rd Avenue
Union Grove, WI 53182
(262) 878-2774 Website
Additional Modine-Benstead Observatory Open House Days in 2019:
Spring Astronomy Day
Sat., May 11th
8:30 – 11:00 PM
Friday, June 7th
8:30 – 11:00 PM
Solar Observing
Sat., June 8th
1:00 – 4:00 PM
Friday, July 12th
8:30 – 11:00 PM
Friday, August 16th
8:00 – 11:00 PM
Friday, Sept. 13th
8:00 – 11:00 PM
Fall Astronomy Day
Sat., October 5th
7:00 – 10:00 PM
Start:
June 8, 2019 8:00 pm
End:
June 8, 2019 11:00 pm
Venue:
Modine-Benstead Observatory
Phone:
262-878-2774
Address:
112 63rd Avenue, Union Grove, WI, 53182, United States
If you’re an animal lover, you love working with different fibers, or are just looking for a free, family activity with over 300 alpacas, head to West Bend for the Wisconsin Alpaca & Fiber Fest!
WisAFF is the premiere alpaca halter and fleece show in Wisconsin. Throughout the weekend, alpacas will be on display in the show ring. This are also fleece shows, fiber arts contests, a spin off, fiber classes, and seminars for people interested in alpacas. There will also be many vendors selling fiber and alpaca themed items.
NEW FOR 2019 WALKING FLEECE SHOW, with Sara Jane Maclennan serving as the 2019 walking fleece judge.
Wisconsin Alpaca & Fiber Fest admission & parking are both free!
Public Schedule
Saturday, April 27th, 2019
7:00 AM – Doors Open for exhibitors
8:00 AM – Halter show opens
8:30 AM – Show opens to public. Free Parking!
8:30 AM – Vendors open in lobby, Ziegler building and Pavilion
9:30 AM – Halter show photographer set up
10:00 AM – Spin-Off Display opens. Good luck!
1:00 PM – Bar opens in Ziegler building
5:30 PM – Alpaca Halter Show ends for the day; building closed to public
7:00 PM – Bar closes
7:30 PM – Breeder’s Reception and Dinner at host hotel (invite only)
8:00 PM – Buildings close for day
Food and refreshments will be available for purchase all day long in the Ziegler building. We are pleased to have Washington County 4-H provide our food.
Sunday, April 28th, 2019
8:00 AM – Halter show begins
8:30 AM – Open to public, free parking
8:30 AM – Vendors open in lobby, Ziegler building and Pavilion
TBA – Production Classes – Breeder’s Best, Get of Sire, Produce of Dam, Showmanship, then balance of halter show classes
9:30 AM – Halter show photographer set up
1:30 pm Spin-Off Display and Fleece Show end. Owners may pick up items
3:30 PM Show closes to public
You’ll find the Washington County Fair Park & Conference Center just off U.S. 45 on County PV (Pleasant Valley Road.) Highway 60 is just to the south, Highways 33 and 144 are just to the north in West Bend.
Wisconsin Alpaca and Fiber Fest Address:
3000 County PV
West Bend, WI 53095
(608) 219-6369 Website
Start:
April 27, 2019 8:30 am
End:
April 28, 2019 3:00 pm
Venue:
Washington County Fair Park & Conference Center
Phone:
608-219-6369
Address:
3000 Highway PV, West Bend, WI, 53095, United States
Wheel & Sprocket hosts its 35th annual Wheel & Sprocket Bike Expo – the nation’s largest bike sale – at the Wisconsin State Fair Exposition Center. This year, it takes place April 4-7, 2019! Over 2,000 bikes and thousands of accessories are on sale at the best prices of the year. Seminars and exhibitors are all around, too – let it get you in the mood for spring!
If you are looking for a new bike for you or a friend, this is the best time to buy at the lowest prices of the season, trade-in a used bike, or get all the necessary bike accessories you need to ensure you can “enjoy Your Ride!”
Bicycles are available for every type of riding from the best brands in cycling. Road bikes, mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, cruisers, and more. Get amazing discounts on bikes for women and children, plus cycling apparel for all riders on clearance.
Check out the FREE Electric Bike Test Ride Course (sponsored by Bosch) to finally try out an electric bike, state of the art digital fit stations to ensure you get the right size bike, along with an Expo Women’s Night on Thursday April 4th (learn more).
Ready to upgrade your bike? Check out the Trade-In, Trade-Up used bike trade program that lets you Bring in your quality used bike and get a gift card for the trade-in value of the bike as appraised by Bicycle Blue Book. It’s a great way to recoup value from your old bike and make space in your garage for a brand new one!
Meet the experts and take advantage of the FREE Seminar Program with topics focusing for every kind of rider click to learn more.
Learn more about people to pedal with, places to explore, and reasons to rides that will make 2019 your year for cycling!
Admission is FREE. Hours are:
Thursday, April 4: 5pm – 9pm
Friday, April 5: 12pm – 9pm
Saturday, April 6: 10am – 8pm
Sunday, April 7: 11am – 5pm
You’ll find the Wisconsin State Fair Exposition Center at the corner of Highway 59/Greenfield Avenue and Highway 181/84th Street just south of I-94 in West Allis. U.S. 18/Bluemound Road is just to the north, I-41/894/U.S. 45 is a mile and a half to the west and Highway 175/Miller Park Way is a few miles to the east.
Wheel & Sprocket Bike Expo Address:
Wisconsin State Fair Park Expo Center
640 S. 84th Street (Highway 181 @ 59)
West Allis, WI 53214
(414) 336-1270 Website
Start:
April 4, 2019 5:00 pm
End:
April 7, 2019 5:00 pm
Venue:
Wisconsin State Fair Exposition Center
Phone:
414-336-1270
Address:
640 S. 84th Street, West Allis, WI, 53214, United States
The 49th annual Rock Gem & Mineral Show hits the Rock County Fairgrounds Saturday, March 23rd and Sunday, March 24th. The Badger Lapidary and Geological Society presents this show, with dealers, excellent speakers, many beautiful club displays, lapidary demonstrations, club sales table, door prizes, educational films and activities for kids. A full menu is available.
Eleven dealers will be at this show dealing in minerals, fossils, gems, and jewelry. Children’s activities include a fish pond, scavenger hunt, rock crafts, and the Roaming Rock Wizard.
Rock Gem & Mineral Show Hours:
Saturday, March 23rd: 9 am – 5 pm
Sunday, March 24th: 9 am – 4 pm
You’ll find the Rock County Fairgrounds on the east side of Janesville, the “City of Parks.” I-39/90, U.S. 14, U.S. 51, and Highways 11 and 26 all bring you there!
Rock Gem & Mineral Show Address:
Craig Center, Rock County Fairgrounds
1301 Craig Avenue
Janesville, WI 53545 Website
The Madison Art Bead & Glass Show hits the Alliant Energy Center Saturday, March 23rd and Sunday, March 24th with classes throughout the weekend and the sales floor open Saturday and Sunday. A huge variety of the crafts will be available for browsing and on sale for purchase. There are Make & Take activities, where six different hands-on projects can be created from six different instructors in a four-hour period. You don’t even need to bring supplies!
Check out the Bead Challenge, or just find pieces of art, beads, or glass creations you’d like to purchase.
It’s all happening at the Madison Art Bead & Glass Show, a perfect stop for artists and creatives of all stripes! It’s right off the Beltline (U.S. 12/18) along Rimrock Road near John Nolen Drive. U.S. 14 & 151 bring you close by, too!
Admission is $7 for one day, $11 for both days. You can buy tickets here.
Hours:
Saturday, 10am – 5pm
Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Madison Art Bead & Glass Show Address:
Alliant Energy Center
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way
Madison, WI 53713
(608) 838-8011 Website
Start:
March 23, 2019
End:
March 24, 2019
Venue:
Alliant Energy Center
Phone:
608-838-8011
Address:
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way, Madison, WI, 53713, United States
The 95th annual REALTORS Home & Garden Show is the nation’s longest running Home & Garden Show. It returns to the Wisconsin State Fair Park Expo Center from Friday, March 22nd through Sunday, March 31st, with the exception of Monday-Tuesday, March 25th-26th.
Sweep aside your outdated and overgrown home and garden spaces and get inspired at this year’s REALTORS® Home & Garden Show presented by Unilock®. There’s no better place to learn about all the hottest home improvement tips and trends.
If you’re looking for inspiration, stop by the show to visit with any of 350+ exhibitors. Learn about the latest available products and chat with industry professionals regarding landscaping, windows, decks, kitchen and bath design, plumbing or HVAC needs, foundation repair, tree services, and much more.
And don’t forget to take advantage of one of the show’s many culinary demos or daily seminars provided at the Solutions Stage at Breckenridge Landscape Park.
Finally, a visit to the REALTORS Home & Garden Show would not be complete without a tour of the stunning Garden Promenade, presented by the Wisconsin Landscape Contractors Association. Always a clear reminder that spring is just around the corner, the showcase features 12 elaborately designed landscape displays. Designed by the area’s top landscapers, each garden combines plantings, water features and hardscapes with creature comforts like outdoor kitchens, sound systems and fire pits to create a haven for relaxing or entertaining.
With so much to see and do at this year’s show, there certainly is no space like home.
Admission is $8.00; Children 12 & under are FREE, as are all Active Military personnel with valid ID.
You’ll find the Wisconsin State Fair Exposition Center at the corner of Highway 59/Greenfield Avenue and Highway 181/84th Street, just south of I-94 and U.S. 18, two miles east of I-41/U.S. 45, three miles east of Highway 100, two miles west of Highway 175/Miller Park Way, and three miles west of Highway 57.
Start:
March 22, 2019 10:00 am
End:
March 31, 2019 8:00 pm
Venue:
Wisconsin State Fair Exposition Center
Phone:
414-778-4929
Address:
640 S. 84th Street, West Allis, WI, 53214, United States
The United States Championship Cheese Contest® is the nation’s premier technical cheese, butter, and yogurt competition. 2019 marks the 20th biennial edition, hosted by the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association. Lambeau Field in Green Bay hosts the United States Championship Cheese Contest March 5-7, 2019 and the term “cheeseheads” will never be the same!
March 5-6: Watch the Preliminary Rounds FREE!
The U.S. Championship Cheese Contest is free and open to the public during the preliminary rounds of judging which take place on Tuesday, March 5th from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and Wednesday, March 6th from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. The judging takes place in the Atrium at the Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
The announcement of the 2019 United States Champion will happen in the evening on March 7, at Cheese Champion.
March 7: Meet the Experts and Taste the Winners!
The Championship round takes place Thursday, March 7 from 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at the KI Convention Center in downtown Green Bay (333 Main Street.) This is a ticketed event, with all tickets sold in advance. You can buy yours for $30 starting in January.
Thousands of cheeses will compete for the elusive U.S. Championship Cheese crown, but of course only one can win. Entries are evaluated by a team of skilled technical judges from across the nation. Starting from a maximum possible 100 points, deductions are made for various defects found by each judge. Defects are noted in the areas of flavor, body and texture, salt, color, finish, packaging, and other appropriate attributes. A Gold medal, Silver medal and Bronze medal are awarded to the three highest scoring entries in each class. You can be there to watch it happen and you taste 40 of the best cheeses in the country! Mix and match your favorite beer and cheese pairings, and meet and mingle with 45 of the top cheese judges in the United States.
Worth noting is that the 2019 U.S. Championship Cheese Contest is open to only 400 attendees, with all tickets sold in advance. You’ll enjoy complimentary beer and cheese pairings, samples of at least 40 cheeses, and cash bar. So hurry!
United States Championship Cheese Contest Address:
Lambeau Field
1265 N. Lombardi Avenue
Green Bay, WI 54304
(920) Website
Start:
March 5, 2019 9:00 am
End:
March 8, 2019 9:00 pm
Venue:
Lambeau Field
Phone:
608-286-1001
Address:
1265 Lombardi Avenue, Green Bay, WI, 54304, United States
Calendar of Events
Calendar of Events › Expo
October 3, 2020 – October 4, 2020
Chippewa Valley Quilt Show
The 21st annual Chippewa Valley Quilt Show is happening in 2020, on Saturday, October 3rd and Sunday, October 4th. All quilters, new and experienced, are invited. Quilts can be brought strictly for display, or be for sale.
It’s held by the Chippewa Valley Stitching Pals and takes place on the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds. Admission is $5, parking is FREE. Hours are 9am – 4pm both days.
You’ll find the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds just off Highway 124 on the north side of Chippewa Falls. It’s just north of the Leinie Lodge at Leinenkugel’s Brewing Company and Irvine Park & Zoo.
Chippewa Valley Quilt Show Address:
Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds
225 Edward Street
Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
(715) 723-2861
Website
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September 17, 2020 – October 4, 2020
Dinosaur Adventure Drive-Thru
Among the 80 dinosaurs, you can crawl past a 40-foot T-Rex, 30-foot Brachiosaurus, Triceratops, Velociraptor, and more – all from the comfort of your own vehicle. This Dinosaur Drive-Thru experience is available for three weekends at Waukesha County Expo Center. Tickets are sold online only in advance, and are purchased on a per-vehicle basis – so feel free to cram people in, up to 8 people! It runs now Thursdays through Sundays; last day is October 4th.
The Dinosaurs await you at the Waukesha County Expo Center on the north side of Waukesha, just south of where I-94 and Highway 16 meet. U.S. 18 and Highways 59 and 164 also get you close. Find out more and get tickets here.Dinosaur Adventure Drive-Thru Address:
Waukesha County Expo Center 1000 Northview Road Waukesha, WI 53188 (651) 504-2000 WebsiteBack to StateTrunkTour.com
September 11, 2020 – September 13, 2020
WCDC Fall Motorsports Show & Swap, Eagle River
The World Championship Derby Complex is gearing up for the changing seasons by hosting the Fall Motorsports Show & Swap, Friday through Sunday, September 11-13, 2020.
The Fall Motorspots Show & Swap featured 180 Swap Booths, all properly distanced across the 30 acres of Derby Complex property – so they’ll have proper COVID-19 measures because they have the room! The show opens at 3pm on Friday the 11th.
See 2021 Polaris, Ski-doo and Yamaha Snowmobiles on display, and exhibitors include: 2021 Wisconsin Military Snowmobile Ride (WMSR), American Council of Snowmobile Associations, AMSOIL, B & M Fabrications, Bag King, Bikeman Performance, Boondock Nation, Caliber, CBoysTV, Clutch Energy Drink, Composit Tracks, Conover ATV Club, Fly Racing, Great Lakes Nation, Hexco, International Snowmobile Hall of Fame, Jimmy McHugh, John Deere, Ken’s Sports, Krause Kustom Design, Meyer Yamaha, Mike Trapp 50th Anniversary Display, More Freakin’ Power, O’Reilly’s Auto Parts, Pat’s Auto and Sports, Port Yamaha/Arctic Cat & Snow Studs, Snowmobile Racing Hall of Fame, Sled Head Racing, Sled USA, Sno-Eagles Snowmobile Club, Summit Motor Sports, Thunder Products Clutching, Track Inc, TrackSide, Ultimate Groomer Drags, USSA Racing, Vintage Snowmobile Displayers, Wild Eagle Lodge, Yellow Fever Collectors and ZBroz.
7:30pm on Friday, Octane Addictions invites you, as they’re saying, to “become Part of Breathtaking History!” You can see X-Game Type Action at the Friday night show outside under the light, featuring some of the Top FMX Riders in the World: Brian McCarty, Adam Jones, Anthony Murray and Travis Cady on their motorcycles doing amazing stunts, culminating with a UTV (side by side) Back Flip by Levi Rentz for the First Time in Wisconsin History. Autograph sessions will be available for all Octane Addictions riders… Times TBA.
9pm Friday night, Live Music follows with Refuse To Rust – playing songs of today and yesterday, their way.
To celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Mike Trapp winning the 1971 World Snowmobile Championship, Mike Trapp will be on hand to Sign Autographs Friday night!
Beer Garden and Food Vendors available daily as well as Beverage Carts with Beer, Soda and water throughout the grounds.
TICKETS:
Tickets will be for sale at the gate and online. Pre-purchased tickets will be ready for pickup at the yellow “Will Call” Building on the north end of the Derby Complex, located on Hwy. 45 in front of the barn on Sept. 11-12-13. Kids ages 12 and under are Free Admission.
CAMPING:
Camping on Grounds will be allowed with the Purchase of a Pass available in “Tickets” section on the Derby Complex website. Camping is primitive; no hookups or showers. There will, however, be Portable Toilets and Hand Sanitizers throughout the grounds.
The WCDC Fall Motorsports Show & Swap is coordinated through the efforts of the St. Germain Snowmobile Racing Hall of Fame, the International Snowmobile Hall of Fame, World Snowmobile Headquarters, the World Championship Derby Complex, and the Sno-Eagles Snowmobile Club.
Fall Motorsports Show & Swap Address:
World Championship Derby Complex
1311 N. Railroad Street (U.S. 45/Highway 17/Highway 32)
Eagle River, WI 54521
(715) 479-4424
Website
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August 2, 2020
SEWERFest
Interesting name, even more interesting event! SEWERfest actually stands for South East Wisconsin Exotic Reptiles, and SEWERfest features dealers and exhibits of captive-bred reptiles in Wisconsin’s largest reptile show.
In this unusual year, SEWERfest is taking place Sunday, August 2nd from 9am – 3pm and Sunday, November 8th from 10am – 3pm at Fountain Banquet Hall. The Hall is right along Highway 11/Durand Avenue, just east of I-41/94 in Sturtevant, just west of Racine in Racine County. SEWERFest includes a wide variety of diverse captive bred animals and lets you meet quality breeders across Wisconsin, the Midwest, and all over the United States.
“Animal House” Pets & Supplies will be there with over 60 terrariums and over 100 animals to see. They’ll also have Exo Terra terrariums and Zilla Front openings of every size, Zilla Top Openings in five popular sizes, Zoo med paladariums in both sizes, as well as Zilla vertical decor, Zilla spring caves, Driftwood, Cholla wood, Jungle wood, Bamboo, Waterfalls, and more.
Check out the Captive Bred Specialties booth, where you can get a free raffle ticket with ANY purchase as you check out 10 tables of reptiles, feeders, and supplies with great discounts up to 60% off retail. exoterra terrariums, crickets, goliathworms, mealworms, and waxworms, and CB baby Red Tegus, Sudanese Uromastyx (U.Ocellata), Redfoot Tortoises, Hermann Tortoises, Elongated Tortoises, Sulcatta Tortoises, Bearded Dragon Morphs, and Adult Bearded Dragons including a Yellow Ackie Dwarf Monitor (Adult Male), Red tail boa morphs, Monkey tail skinks, Green Tree Pythons, Ambilobe Panther Chameleons, Ball python Morphs, Baby PAC-Man frog Morphs, Driftwood/Corkbark, Wildlife Photography, and more.
SEWERfest is a great opportunity to see & learn about animals that you rarely see in zoos or museums; it can be a fun, learning experience for the whole family. Fountain Banquet Hall has a number of amenities including – in true Wisconsin style – a bar.
Admission pricing is dynamic, based on the time you arrive. They have it as follows:
9-10am Adults:$10, 12 and under:$5
10am-Noon Adults:$8, 12 and under:$2
Noon-3pm Adults:$5, 12 and under:$1
Fountain Banquet Hall
8505 Durand Avenue (Highway 11)
Sturtevant, WI 53177
(262) 994-4547
Website
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March 20, 2020 – March 22, 2020
Wisconsin Sport Show, Eau Claire
The 2020 Wisconsin Sport Show Presented by the Eau Claire Leader Telegram will be held March 20th-22nd at the Chippewa Valley Expo Center at Old Mill Plaza on the west side of Eau Claire.
Tickets are available for $7.00 in advance, $10.00 at the door. Children 11 and under are free.
Advanced, discount tickets are available at Festival Foods and at the Eau Claire and Rice Lake Menards stores.
Freedom Friday: All retired and active-duty military members get in FRIDAY for just $5. ID/proof of service may be required.
Senior Sunday: All individuals 62 years of age and older get in SUNDAY only for just $5. ID/proof of age may be required.
Wisconsin Sport Show Address:
Chippewa Valley Expo Center
5150 Old Mill Plaza Drive
Eau Claire, WI 54703
(715) 579-7127
Website
Hours:
Friday 3pm – 8pm
Saturday 9am – 6pm
Sunday 9am – 4pm
Check the Wisconsin Sport Show website for additional details. You’ll find the Chippewa Valley Expo Center just off U.S. 12/Clairmont Drive and Highway 312, right by I-94 at Exit 59. U.S. 53 and Highways 37, 93, and 124 also bring you to Eau Claire.
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February 28, 2020 – March 1, 2020
Wisconsin Fishing Expo
In 2017, the Wisconsin Fishing Expo expanded for additional fishing- and hunting-related wildlife art and goods. In 2018, a new wing opened focusing on kayaks and other silent watercraft. This year, the Wisconsin Fishing Expo continues to add vendors and booths both upstairs and downstairs to further expand what you can explore!
You can still expect mom-and-pop fishing vendors with gear that anglers can’t find at box stores. There will also be a tremendous presence from some of the leading national brands in the fishing industry, including Clam, Berkley, Beaver Dam, ACME, Fenwick, Okuma, Gamakatsu, Ray Marine, Garmin, St. Croix, Fishing Hot Spots, Stren, and many, many more. Check out and meet
For boats, over 20 brands will be ready to sell from top bets like Crestliner, Alumacraft, Bass Cat, Yar Craft, Tracker, Ranger, Triton, Smoker Craft, Bennington, and others.
Plenty of Youth Activities will be available, bigger and better than ever. Check it out!
The Alliant Energy Center is easily accessed via Madison’s Beltline (U.S. 12/18) off John Nolen Drive (Exit 263) or Rimrock Road (Exit 262). U.S. 14 & 151 are close by. You can also come through downtown via U.S. 151 and follow John Nolen Drive down the causeway. There’s so much else to see and do in Madison, too!
Show Hours:
Friday – 3:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
Saturday – 9:00 A.M. to 7:00 P.M.
Sunday – 9:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M.
Admission:
$10.00 for Adult (Kids 12 and under are FREE)
A parking fee is charged per car by Dane County. (fee subject to change by Dane County, it’s usually $7 cash.)
Here’s a previous ad for the Wisconsin Fishing Expo:
Wisconsin Fishing Expo Address:
Exhibition Hall at Alliant Energy Center
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way
Madison, WI 53703
(262) 305-1907
Website
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February 28, 2020 – March 1, 2020
WBAY Home & Garden Show
The WBAY Home & Garden Show runs Friday, February 28th – Sunday, March 1st at the Lambeau Field Atrium in Green Bay. Check out all the cool stuff around the Titletown District while you’re at it! I-41, U.S. 141, and Highways 29, 32, 54, 57, and 172 all bring you to Green Bay.
Hours:
Friday, 2pm-8pm
Saturday, 10am-7pm
Sunday, 10am-4pm
Admission:
Adults $9
Seniors (over 62) $8
Children 17 & Under: Free
Weekend Pass: $15
Parking $6
WBAY Home & Garden Show Address:
Lambeau Field Atrium
1265 Lombardi Avenue
Green Bay, WI 54304
(920) 494-3401
Website
Check out some schedule highlights below!
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January 4, 2020 – January 5, 2020
51st Annual Wonderful World of Weddings
Plan your dream wedding with guidance from the nearly 200 exhibitors at this year’s Wonderful World of Weddings in the Expo Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park. See the latest trends in wedding gowns, tuxedos, photographers, florists, music, and more. Sample wedding cakes and food tastings from local restaurants and catering companies! They’ve been hosting the Wonderful World of Weddings for over 50 years and are known as Wisconsin’s oldest, largest, and most prestigious wedding event. You won’t want to miss it! You know, if you like weddings or are planning on being in one…
The events takes place at Wisconsin State Fair Park’s Exposition Hall on the corner of Highways 59 and 181 (84th & Greenfield) in West Allis, just south of I-94 and U.S. 18.
Hours:
Saturday, January 4: 10am – 4pm
Sunday, January 5: 10am – 4pm
Admission:
Adult (13 and over): $12.00 ($8 in advance HERE)
Children (12 and under): FREE
Senior: $10.00
Military: $10.00
Advanced tickets are available to purchase online only.
For more information prior to the show, check out their website or call 262-719-8890 or 414-727-8862.
Wonderful World of Weddings Address:
Wisconsin State Fair Park Expo Center – Hall C
8200 W. Greenfield Avenue (Highway 59 at 181)
West Allis, WI 53214
(262) 719-8890
Website
November 9, 2019 – November 10, 2019
Trainfest
All children ages 5-14 are invited to participate. Three categories of exhibiting are offered: layouts of toy trains themed by the child; a display of running railroads that incorporates elements of model building; or creation of a Module to spec. Find out more about Trainfest Builders here!
Hobbyists can attend a variety of clinics, there’s a photo contest, and opportunities to buy and see models, from locomotives to accessories.
Rounding out this spectacular show are model train manufacturers and retailers from coast-to-coast. Trainfest has something for everyone in its 230,000 square feet of display area. Discounted advanced tickets available online.
You’ll find Trainfest at the Exposition Center inside Wisconsin State Fair Park in West Allis. The Expo Center is right at the corner of Highway 59/Greenfield Avenue and Highway 181/84th Street. I-94, U.S. 18, I-41/U.S 45, and Highway 100 all bring you close!
Trainfest Address:
State Fair Park Expo Center
640 S. 84th Street (Highways 59 & 181)
West Allis, WI 53214
(262) 820-3566
Website
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November 1, 2019 – November 3, 2019
Stockholm Women’s Weekend
Stockholm Women’s Weekend offers a slew of fun events along Highway 35 in this lovely town along the Mississippi River November 1-3, 2019. It’s a great time to take a moment to slow down and recharge, treat yourself, connect with friends, shop locally handcrafted items, and meet the artists.
Check out Friday’s Happy Hour & Welcome at Gelly’s Too, 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Saturday is “Wine & Wander” throughout the village, focusing on the hours from noon until 5 pm. Enjoy progressive wine tastings with complimentary pairings at each stop.
Sunday, enjoy “Sunday Samplings,” including a Mimosa bar with pastries. Check out the mimosas at Stockholm Village Bistro from 9:00 am – 11:00 am. During Sunday afternoons, check out Pie Flights with wine, beer, and cider pairings at Stockholm Pie & General Store from 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm (that’s a special ticketed event, by the way.)
Check out some of the specialty stores, too, for Stockholm Women’s Weekend:
SANDY’S CLOTHING AND ART
Check out not only complementary wine pairings at the unique boutique known as Sandy’s Clothing and Art, but explore the inside porch, which will be filled with Holiday Dressings all at 50% off!
HUGGA BUGGA
“Take a Break Station” Rest and relax from your busy day of shopping with coffee and a homemade treat.
HUMBLE MOON FOLKSTEAD (aka Antique Furniture)… AN EXPERIENCE
Owners Dan & Sarah created Humble Moon Folkstead with the idea in mind that they could live out their dreams in having a creative outlet and also to create an experience and inspiration for visitors. They have been customizing the property to suit their family needs so that the business can nurture and become part of their family lifestyle, not dominate their life. It is designed to have something of interest to men, women and children. It is a cozy casual environment where all are welcome to be themselves.
THE PURPLE TURTLE ARTISAN COLLECTIVE
Trunk show with local jeweler, CS King, who produces Earth-inspired, dark-roasted jewelry. Also, Beth Yelesky will be showcasing her skin and self care products.
THE PALATE
The Palate will feature appetizers along with wine pairings, along with recipes and more to complement what they have to offer in their charming store. They also offer cooking classes.
ABODE GALLERY
Trunk show with Robbin Firth from Heart Felt Silks. Extraordinary handcrafted fashion, and home decor in Eco dyed felted wool and silk. Scarves, runners, clothing and more.
STOCKHOLM PIE & GENERAL STORE
Check out, among their other excellent options, the FYRA: four flaky wedges of our world famous crust baked with cinnamon and sugar, topped with cardamon whipped cream, lingonberry sauce and local honey. Definitely tasty!
AND MUCH MORE!
Reach Stockholm via Highway 35, one of the most beautiful drives in the nation.
Stockholm Women’s Weekend Event Address:
2040 Spring Street
Stockholm, WI 54769
(715) 442-2266
Website
Facebook Page
You’ll find beautiful Stockholm right along the Great River Road, Highway 35, in Pepin County where the Mississippi River widens into Lake Pepin. Definitely enjoy the drive, one of the most beautiful in America.
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August 9, 2019 – August 11, 2019
Under One Moon Festival, Milwaukee
Catalano Square in Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward hosts the Under One Moon Festival, a three-day pop-up festival that celebrates everything lunar.
Its centerpiece is the Museum of the Moon, a 23-foot diameter, inflatable art installation of the lunar surface by Luke Jerram that rises over Catalano Square all weekend. The lunar celebration, going on night and day, includes moon songs, chalk art, original dance, lectures from leading space experts and much more. The festival is produced under the direction of Black Box Fund, a 501c3 nonprofit organization that supports public art, music and performances that inspire and educate.
The remarkable detail of the Moon installation, which suspends from a crane and hangs over the Catalano Square Fountain, is the centerpiece. It shines at night and serves as a beacon for the festival. You’ll find it right along Highway 32 as you drive through Milwaukee’s Third Ward, along Milwaukee and Young Streets, also bounded by Erie and Menomonee Streets.
Under One Moon Festival Address:
Catalano Square
100 Block of N. Broadway
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Facebook Page
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August 2, 2019 – August 4, 2019
DeerFest
DeerFest Is Everything Deer! This 10th Annual event, the largest all-deer event in the nation – returns to Washington County Fair Park just south of West Bend the weekend of August 2nd-4th, 2019.
DeerFest will feature over 250 booths in the Rage and Muzzy Halls, outdoor exhibits, and all the leading archery companies in the Block Archery Pavilion, where you can test-shoot the all new bows. Expert seminars, archery tournaments, pop-up archery, Browning trail camera photo contest, celebrity appearances, shed dog trials, Sunday live auction, door prizes and more complement the activities.
Willie Robertson, Travis “T-Bone” Turner, Lee & Tiffany Lakosky, Michael Waddell and more outdoor TV personalities will also appear and sign free autographs.
Friday Night Happy Hour sponsored by Stone Ridge Meats offers all DeerFest attendees ½ price concessions from 6pm to 9pm. Fresh, home made burgers, brats, and beverages all half price courtesy of Stone Ridge.
Check out the Live Gun Auction, as DeerFest 2019 will feature one of the largest live gun auctions to ever take place in Wisconsin. Over 375 firearms will be auctioned off live, along with crossbows from Ten Point and Raven along with hundreds of additional outdoor related products. This will be the largest live auction in DeerFest history.
DeerFest 10th Anniversary attendees will also have the exciting opportunity to shoot a fun and challenging 3D course featuring 20 of Kirsch Hunting’s most popular North American game animals. All participants will be entered into a free drawing with a chance to win over $7,500 in prizes including a guided Whitetail hunt with Buck Chasers! Find out more here.
Ticketed admission to DeerFest ranges from $10 per day (plus a $2.54 fee when you buy online) to $25 for a three-day pass. Children under 12 are admitted for $5. There is an extra charge to participate in select special events, such as the Stars & Stripes Shoot. Details here.
DeerFest Address:
Washington County Fair Park
3000 Highway PV (just off the U.S. 45 freeway)
West Bend, WI 53095
(262) 677-5060
Website
Check out DeerFest TV here!
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July 26, 2019 – July 28, 2019
Tall Ships Festival, Green Bay
Dockside touring ships allow event-goers to learn about each ship’s rich history and meet the crew. Sailing ships offer even more of an experience as they hoist their anchor and sail down the river to the mouth of the bay. Daily programming includes a full day of entertainment that is sure to make lasting memories. In addition to sail excursions and on-board tours, this year a variety of on-board experiences will be available for purchase.
Activities include:
For parking, you can use metered and un-metered street parking throughout downtown. Parking lots and ramps plus bicycle parking are also available. Limited ADA parking will be available at Leicht Park on a first come, first served basis. The Neville Museum, across the street from the festival, will be selling parking and will have ADA spaces available also on a first come first served basis.
Parking shuttles, powered by the Greater Green Bay Convention and Visitor’s Bureau, will be running from the Main Street Ramp (East) and Larsen Green (West side near Titletown Brewery) and the Neville Museum near the festival entrance.
Leicht Memorial Park is along the Fox River in downtown Green Bay, right where U.S. 141 (Main/Dousman Streets) crosses the river. Highway 29 crosses just to the south. Titletown Brewing Company is right next door. I-43’s massive Leo Frigo Bridge leapfrogs the area a few blocks to the north. I-41 and Highways 32, 54, 57, and 172 also bring you to Green Bay so you can enjoy this massive event!
Tall Ships Address:
Leicht Memorial Park
128 Dousman Street (U.S. 141)
Green Bay, WI 54303
Website
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June 8, 2019
Open House Racine County at Modine-Benstead Observatory
Astronomy lovers and people who just like “far out” things, this is for you! The Modine-Benstead Observatory is hosing one of its Open House Racine County events Saturday night, June 8th for free exploration of the observatory and the stars and planets its telescopes gaze upon.
Seriously, you can just go in for free and look at the universe through their telescopes. Depending on conditions, you can check out the moon, planets, and many deep sky objects. If they’re deep enough, remember that you’re actually looking back in time. For example, when you view the Andromeda galaxy, you are looking back in time 2.9 million years. Trippy, man!
These public open house events are held monthly from April through October. Parking is free along with free admission. The Racine Astrological Society, which runs the whole thing, is a non-profit, volunteer-run organization and of course small donations are welcomed to help defray the yearly costs of observatory maintenance and care. While families are welcome, be sure to keep young children close (it’s a dark area, since the grounds are not illuminated to promote better observing) and instruct them to be careful with the telescope equipment, which is provided by RAS members. Note that there may be lines to make observations through some telescopes. Questions are expected and welcomed, since part of their club mission is to educate and inspire people to participate in the world of amateur astronomy. Astronomical equipment you’ll find at the RAS observatory will range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars in value.The night of an open house there will be a message on the observatory answering machine (262-878-2774) if the skies are too cloudy.
The Modine-Benstead Observatory is located at the intersection of County Highway A & 63rd Drive in Yorkville, less than a mile south of Highway 20, a little over a mile east of U.S. 45, and less than 3 miles west of I-41/94 (take Exit 333/Highway 20 west.)
Open House at Modine-Benstead Observatory Event Address:
Modine-Benstead Observatory
112 63rd Avenue
Union Grove, WI 53182
(262) 878-2774
Website
Additional Modine-Benstead Observatory Open House Days in 2019:
Spring Astronomy Day
Sat., May 11th
8:30 – 11:00 PM
Friday, June 7th
8:30 – 11:00 PM
Solar Observing
Sat., June 8th
1:00 – 4:00 PM
Friday, July 12th
8:30 – 11:00 PM
Friday, August 16th
8:00 – 11:00 PM
Friday, Sept. 13th
8:00 – 11:00 PM
Fall Astronomy Day
Sat., October 5th
7:00 – 10:00 PM
April 27, 2019 – April 28, 2019
Wisconsin Alpaca & Fiber Fest
Wisconsin Alpaca & Fiber Fest
If you’re an animal lover, you love working with different fibers, or are just looking for a free, family activity with over 300 alpacas, head to West Bend for the Wisconsin Alpaca & Fiber Fest!
WisAFF is the premiere alpaca halter and fleece show in Wisconsin. Throughout the weekend, alpacas will be on display in the show ring. This are also fleece shows, fiber arts contests, a spin off, fiber classes, and seminars for people interested in alpacas. There will also be many vendors selling fiber and alpaca themed items.
NEW FOR 2019 WALKING FLEECE SHOW, with Sara Jane Maclennan serving as the 2019 walking fleece judge.
Wisconsin Alpaca & Fiber Fest admission & parking are both free!
Public Schedule
Saturday, April 27th, 2019
7:00 AM – Doors Open for exhibitors
8:00 AM – Halter show opens
8:30 AM – Show opens to public. Free Parking!
8:30 AM – Vendors open in lobby, Ziegler building and Pavilion
9:30 AM – Halter show photographer set up
10:00 AM – Spin-Off Display opens. Good luck!
1:00 PM – Bar opens in Ziegler building
5:30 PM – Alpaca Halter Show ends for the day; building closed to public
7:00 PM – Bar closes
7:30 PM – Breeder’s Reception and Dinner at host hotel (invite only)
8:00 PM – Buildings close for day
Food and refreshments will be available for purchase all day long in the Ziegler building. We are pleased to have Washington County 4-H provide our food.
Sunday, April 28th, 2019
8:00 AM – Halter show begins
8:30 AM – Open to public, free parking
8:30 AM – Vendors open in lobby, Ziegler building and Pavilion
TBA – Production Classes – Breeder’s Best, Get of Sire, Produce of Dam, Showmanship, then balance of halter show classes
9:30 AM – Halter show photographer set up
1:30 pm Spin-Off Display and Fleece Show end. Owners may pick up items
3:30 PM Show closes to public
You’ll find the Washington County Fair Park & Conference Center just off U.S. 45 on County PV (Pleasant Valley Road.) Highway 60 is just to the south, Highways 33 and 144 are just to the north in West Bend.
Wisconsin Alpaca and Fiber Fest Address:
3000 County PV
West Bend, WI 53095
(608) 219-6369
Website
April 4, 2019 – April 7, 2019
Wheel & Sprocket Bike Expo at WI State Fair
Wheel & Sprocket hosts its 35th annual Wheel & Sprocket Bike Expo – the nation’s largest bike sale – at the Wisconsin State Fair Exposition Center. This year, it takes place April 4-7, 2019! Over 2,000 bikes and thousands of accessories are on sale at the best prices of the year. Seminars and exhibitors are all around, too – let it get you in the mood for spring!
If you are looking for a new bike for you or a friend, this is the best time to buy at the lowest prices of the season, trade-in a used bike, or get all the necessary bike accessories you need to ensure you can “enjoy Your Ride!”
Bicycles are available for every type of riding from the best brands in cycling. Road bikes, mountain bikes, hybrid bikes, cruisers, and more. Get amazing discounts on bikes for women and children, plus cycling apparel for all riders on clearance.
Check out the FREE Electric Bike Test Ride Course (sponsored by Bosch) to finally try out an electric bike, state of the art digital fit stations to ensure you get the right size bike, along with an Expo Women’s Night on Thursday April 4th (learn more).
Ready to upgrade your bike? Check out the Trade-In, Trade-Up used bike trade program that lets you Bring in your quality used bike and get a gift card for the trade-in value of the bike as appraised by Bicycle Blue Book. It’s a great way to recoup value from your old bike and make space in your garage for a brand new one!
Meet the experts and take advantage of the FREE Seminar Program with topics focusing for every kind of rider click to learn more.
Learn more about people to pedal with, places to explore, and reasons to rides that will make 2019 your year for cycling!
Admission is FREE. Hours are:
Thursday, April 4: 5pm – 9pm
Friday, April 5: 12pm – 9pm
Saturday, April 6: 10am – 8pm
Sunday, April 7: 11am – 5pm
You’ll find the Wisconsin State Fair Exposition Center at the corner of Highway 59/Greenfield Avenue and Highway 181/84th Street just south of I-94 in West Allis. U.S. 18/Bluemound Road is just to the north, I-41/894/U.S. 45 is a mile and a half to the west and Highway 175/Miller Park Way is a few miles to the east.
Wheel & Sprocket Bike Expo Address:
Wisconsin State Fair Park Expo Center
640 S. 84th Street (Highway 181 @ 59)
West Allis, WI 53214
(414) 336-1270
Website
March 23, 2019 – March 24, 2019
Rock Gem & Mineral Show, Janesville
The 49th annual Rock Gem & Mineral Show hits the Rock County Fairgrounds Saturday, March 23rd and Sunday, March 24th. The Badger Lapidary and Geological Society presents this show, with dealers, excellent speakers, many beautiful club displays, lapidary demonstrations, club sales table, door prizes, educational films and activities for kids. A full menu is available.
Eleven dealers will be at this show dealing in minerals, fossils, gems, and jewelry. Children’s activities include a fish pond, scavenger hunt, rock crafts, and the Roaming Rock Wizard.
Rock Gem & Mineral Show Hours:
Saturday, March 23rd: 9 am – 5 pm
Sunday, March 24th: 9 am – 4 pm
You’ll find the Rock County Fairgrounds on the east side of Janesville, the “City of Parks.” I-39/90, U.S. 14, U.S. 51, and Highways 11 and 26 all bring you there!
Rock Gem & Mineral Show Address:
Craig Center, Rock County Fairgrounds
1301 Craig Avenue
Janesville, WI 53545
Website
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March 23, 2019 – March 24, 2019
Madison Art, Bead & Glass Show
Check out the Bead Challenge, or just find pieces of art, beads, or glass creations you’d like to purchase.
It’s all happening at the Madison Art Bead & Glass Show, a perfect stop for artists and creatives of all stripes! It’s right off the Beltline (U.S. 12/18) along Rimrock Road near John Nolen Drive. U.S. 14 & 151 bring you close by, too!
Admission is $7 for one day, $11 for both days. You can buy tickets here.
Hours:
Saturday, 10am – 5pm
Sunday, 10am – 4pm
Madison Art Bead & Glass Show Address:
Alliant Energy Center
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way
Madison, WI 53713
(608) 838-8011
Website
March 22, 2019 – March 31, 2019
REALTORS Home & Garden Show
Sweep aside your outdated and overgrown home and garden spaces and get inspired at this year’s REALTORS® Home & Garden Show presented by Unilock®. There’s no better place to learn about all the hottest home improvement tips and trends.
If you’re looking for inspiration, stop by the show to visit with any of 350+ exhibitors. Learn about the latest available products and chat with industry professionals regarding landscaping, windows, decks, kitchen and bath design, plumbing or HVAC needs, foundation repair, tree services, and much more.
And don’t forget to take advantage of one of the show’s many culinary demos or daily seminars provided at the Solutions Stage at Breckenridge Landscape Park.
Finally, a visit to the REALTORS Home & Garden Show would not be complete without a tour of the stunning Garden Promenade, presented by the Wisconsin Landscape Contractors Association. Always a clear reminder that spring is just around the corner, the showcase features 12 elaborately designed landscape displays. Designed by the area’s top landscapers, each garden combines plantings, water features and hardscapes with creature comforts like outdoor kitchens, sound systems and fire pits to create a haven for relaxing or entertaining.
With so much to see and do at this year’s show, there certainly is no space like home.
Admission is $8.00; Children 12 & under are FREE, as are all Active Military personnel with valid ID.
Check the Realtors Home & Garden Show website for full details on vendors, events, and more.
You’ll find the Wisconsin State Fair Exposition Center at the corner of Highway 59/Greenfield Avenue and Highway 181/84th Street, just south of I-94 and U.S. 18, two miles east of I-41/U.S. 45, three miles east of Highway 100, two miles west of Highway 175/Miller Park Way, and three miles west of Highway 57.
March 5, 2019 – March 8, 2019
United States Championship Cheese Contest
The United States Championship Cheese Contest® is the nation’s premier technical cheese, butter, and yogurt competition. 2019 marks the 20th biennial edition, hosted by the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association. Lambeau Field in Green Bay hosts the United States Championship Cheese Contest March 5-7, 2019 and the term “cheeseheads” will never be the same!
March 5-6: Watch the Preliminary Rounds FREE!
The U.S. Championship Cheese Contest is free and open to the public during the preliminary rounds of judging which take place on Tuesday, March 5th from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm and Wednesday, March 6th from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. The judging takes place in the Atrium at the Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
The announcement of the 2019 United States Champion will happen in the evening on March 7, at Cheese Champion.
March 7: Meet the Experts and Taste the Winners!
The Championship round takes place Thursday, March 7 from 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. at the KI Convention Center in downtown Green Bay (333 Main Street.) This is a ticketed event, with all tickets sold in advance. You can buy yours for $30 starting in January.
Thousands of cheeses will compete for the elusive U.S. Championship Cheese crown, but of course only one can win. Entries are evaluated by a team of skilled technical judges from across the nation. Starting from a maximum possible 100 points, deductions are made for various defects found by each judge. Defects are noted in the areas of flavor, body and texture, salt, color, finish, packaging, and other appropriate attributes. A Gold medal, Silver medal and Bronze medal are awarded to the three highest scoring entries in each class. You can be there to watch it happen and you taste 40 of the best cheeses in the country! Mix and match your favorite beer and cheese pairings, and meet and mingle with 45 of the top cheese judges in the United States.
Worth noting is that the 2019 U.S. Championship Cheese Contest is open to only 400 attendees, with all tickets sold in advance. You’ll enjoy complimentary beer and cheese pairings, samples of at least 40 cheeses, and cash bar. So hurry!
United States Championship Cheese Contest Address:
Lambeau Field
1265 N. Lombardi Avenue
Green Bay, WI 54304
(920)
Website