“Quilts on Barns” Road Rally takes place Saturday, October 10, 2020. Enjoy spending the day – or even just a part of it if you prefer – driving around the highways and byways of Racine County where you can see the beauty of rural art, looking for the 26 quilt patterns on a variety of barns! Make your first stop the Real Racine Visitor Center to pick up a Quilts on Barns driving tour map and road rally instruction card. Take a tour of four (4) barns, Sew n’ Save Quilt Palette OR Country Rose Bakery Cafe Quilt Palette. Then take a “selfie” of each and come on down to the Quilts on Barns Road Rally Downtown Headquarters or Real Racine Visitor Center to show them off. Several lucky winners will be randomly chosen to win quilts, original artwork and other prizes!
The Quilts on Barns Driving Tour includes 26 barns with an 8′ x 8′ wooden quilt pattern. Many other “quilt treasures” adorn barns and buildings along your driving route. Feel free to visit local Racine County businesses , restaurants, art galleries, and quilt stores. You will be amazed at what you can find!
Quilts on Barns Road Rally Address:
The Rally is obviously happening all around Racine County, but the central meeting point is the Real Racine Visitors Center on Highway 20 just west of I-41/94. The address (for your GPS) is 14015 Washington Avenue/Highway 20, Sturtevant, WI 53177. For more info, call (262) 635-0261.
It’s a spooktacular experience filled with light displays and ghostly charms at the Halloween Glow Drive-Thru at Racine Zoo, running October 7th through November 1st, 2020! Enjoy this “illuminated Halloween adventure” from the safety and comfort of your vehicle. Just follow the dedicated light pathway and be prepared for surprises – but they’re all family friendly.
Halloween Glow is open Wednesdays – Sundays from 6pm to 9pm; admission is $5 per person at the gate. Children 2 years and younger are admitted FREE. Proceeds benefit Racine Zoo’s animals and programs.
You’ll find the Racine Zoo just north of downtown Racine. It’s along Main Street and Goold, abutting Lake Michigan just east of Highways 32 and 38. Highways 11 and 20 also bring you into the Belle City, all about 8 miles east of I-41/94.
Halloween Glow Address:
Racine Zoo
200 Goold Street
Racine, WI 53402
(262) 636-9189 Website
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
Germantown celebrates Oktoberfest in a big way with the annual Germantown Hunsrucker Oktoberfest in Dheinsville Historic Park on Saturday and Sunday, September 26th and 27th, 2020! Authentic German food, beer, live music, and plenty of family-friendly activities. There will be plenty of children’s activities, the annual Barleympics, the Dachshund Dash on Saturday at 3pm, a Classic Car Display on Sunday from noon – 3pm, and much more.
Germantown Hunsrucker Oktoberfest admission is FREE, and so is parking. Run by the Germantown Historical Society, the takes place at Dheinsville Historic Park, an original settlement from the 1850s filled with history. This weekend, it’ll be filled with lederhosen, accordions, and fun.
Live entertainment lineup:
Saturday September 26th:
12pm-3pm Goodtime Dutchmen
3pm-4pm Dachshund Dash
4pm-7pm Music Venders
7pm-7:30pm Pommersche Tanzdeel Freistadt
7:30pm-10:30pm Copper Box ( Pommersche Tanzdeel Freistadt during first break)
Sunday September 27th:
12pm-3pm River City Blaskapelle
3pm-3:30pm Pommersche Tanzdeel Freistadt
3:30pm-7:00pm Austrian Express
You’ll find Dheinsville Historic Park right along Highway 145 in Germantown, a few miles north of Highway 167 and east of I-41 and the U.S. 45 interchanges. Just the south, check out Main Street off Highway 145, where a series of fun establishments await in the traditional, original downtown area of Germantown.
Germantown Hunsrucker Oktoberfest Address:
Dheinsville Historic Park
N128W18780 Holy Hill Road
Germantown, WI 53022
(262) 628-3170 Website
The 19th Annual Delavan Scarecrow Fest is on – with safety measures, of course – in downtown Delavan is Saturday, September 19th, 2020. Both visitors and community members are encouraged to participate by either building a scarecrow and bringing it with you or building one right at the festival. Scarecrows will be displayed on the street posts throughout the downtown Delavan area, popping up around Labor Day. Throughout the month of September, Downtown Delavan will have “Scarecrows on Parade.”
Activities in Water Town Park include a craft fair and sidewalk sales from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Delavan Darien High School Gridiron Club will be selling Brats, Hot Dogs, Chips and beverages from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., plus there will be free pumpkin painting from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and don’t miss the Annual Pie & Cake Auction that begins at 3:00 p.m.
Sample scarecrow – and Frankenstein can be scary! This guy looks like Fred Gwynne back in the day.
Activities from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Activities include “Build-A-Scarecrow and Take it Home” for $10.00 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and the Great Delavan Duck Raffle at 2:30. The raffle tickets are $2, or 3 for $5; they can be purchased at many downtown businesses, including Bradley’s Department Store, Lauren’s Antique & Art Centre, Lubick Gallery, Del-Mart, Remember When, and more. First Place is $200, Second Place is $100, Third Place is $50, plus there are a lot more prizes to win, thanks to the local businesses who donated them for Delavan Scarecrow Fest.
Here’s the Scarecrow Fest official schedule of activities:
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Car Show
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Self-Guided WallDogs Walking Tour & Scavenger Hunt
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Fall Photo Op
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Food Trucks
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM | Stage – Alice In Dairyland
11:00 AM – 1:30 PM | Stage – Johnny B
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM | DIY Scarecrow Kit Sale
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Guided WallDogs Walking Tour
1:00 PM – 1:30 PM | Kids’ Pumpkin Pickup
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM | Guided WallDogs Walking Tour
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Stage – Sawdust Symphony Band
2:30 PM – 3:00 PM | Kids’ Pumpkin Pickup
4:00 PM | Duck Raffle
The Milwaukee Tool Shed Band is wrapping up the festival with a live concert at 7 pm at the Phoenix Park Bandshell.
They just get more and more creative with these scarecrows at Delavan Scarecrow Fest!
Check out the Walldog Mural Walking Tour, local businesses will have maps. Scarecrows will be “On Parade” throughout downtown Delavan not only Saturday, but through early October.
You can get to Delavan just off I-43, via Highways 11 or 50. Highway 11 is the main street right through downtown. Get some Andes Candies while you’re there!
Delavan Scarecrow Fest Address:
Downtown Delavan
100 W. Walworth Avenue (Highway 11)
Delavan, WI 53115 Website
Spring Green hosts its annual Spring Green Fall Festival with a huge drive-thru fish fry at Prem Meats Friday night September 18th, then live music and activities at The Shed in town Saturday afternoon and evening September 19th, 2020.
Prem Meats is right along U.S. HIghway 14, the main highway east-west through the Spring Green area. They’ll offer an amazing fish fry with a variety of options and sides and an easy (though possibly quite busy) drive-thru experience puts it right in your hands. That lasts from 4-8pm and you can pre-order by calling 608-588-2164 or checking out their Facebook Event Page.
Saturday the 19th, the action moves into the heart of town with Local Night at the Fall Festival. Live music, dinners, drinks, and fun at the Post House Garden, right behind The Shed at 123 N. Lexington. The fun includes live music by Janna Johnson.
Of course, any trip to or ever near Spring Green can include tours of Taliesin, the beautiful and fascinating Wisconsin home of Frank Lloyd Wright or the unbelievable House on the Rock, both just south of town via Highway 23. Fans of burgers, fries, and a shake coupled with rock music and classic cars have to check out Rumble Seats Drive-In, right along U.S. 14 and Highway 60. The downtown is beautiful with great architecture (natch!) and a variety of shops. One of only two opal stores in the nation is also in Spring Green, right along Highway 23. Called The Opal Store, it occupies a charming former gas station that dates back to 1916. Tower Hill State Park just to the east along County C also offers terrific hiking and activities – right as the leaves are starting to change.
Spring Green Fall Festival Address:
Friday Night: Prem Meats, E5028 U.S. Highway 14
Saturday Night for Fall Festival Local Night: The Shed, 123 N. Lexington
Spring Green, WI 53588
(608) 588-2054 Website
The Beloit restaurant scene has really boomed over the last several years, and Bites of Beloit offer a terrific opportunity to sample their fares and wares. You can enjoy prix-fixe lunch and dinner menus at a variety of Beloit’s eateries, many of which are downtown, for one week only (September 8-13), with prices ranging from $12-$35 per meal.
Bites Of Beloit Participating Restaurants:
Beloit Club, 2327 S. Riverside Drive, Beloit, 608-364-9000
Bessie’s Diner, 1716 W. Airport Road, Beloit, 608-743-9830
Beloit runs right along Wisconsin’s southern border. I-39/90 and I-43 come together there in an interchange that’s in the middle of massive reconstruction right now, but you’ll still be able to spot the “World’s Largest Can of Chili” at the Hormel plant southwest of the interchange. Highway 81 brings you into town from the east or west; U.S. 51 runs north-south through the city, and Highway 213 brings you in at an angle from the northwest.
Bacon & Brews Fest combines running, walking, bacon, and beer along the shores of Lake Michigan in Oak Creek’s Lake Vista Park on Saturday, September 5th, 2020. It begins with a 5K run and walk, which you can participate in in person along a twisty, turny course in the park, or participate in virtually from wherever you are. Why the 5th of September? Because that’s International Bacon Day!
After the 5K, at the Lake Vista location they’ll have an after party featuring the aforementioned bacon, brews in the form of great craft beers, plus soda, water, food of all kinds, and more. All participants will receive a finishers medal, Special Swag, a T-shirt, and a bacon/beer filled lunch. The party will include social distancing measures, and masks will be provided if participants don’t have one. But be sure to party after the run… you can bring a chair, enjoy delicious food and beverages, and take in the beautiful views of Lake Vista Park!
This is all happening in Oak Creek, right at the end of Highway 100 just past where it meets with Highway 32, which runs along the shores of Lake Michigan from Milwaukee to Racine, Kenosha, and all points south. When you’re done – or even before you go – check out Drexel Town Square, which offers a ton of shops, bars and restaurants, hotels, and more! They also have their Farmers Market in the Square on Saturdays from 9am – 1pm. You’ll find the whole complex just north of Drexel Avenue just west of Highway 38/Howell Avenue. IKEA also has its only Wisconsin location along Drexel just west of I-41/I-94 (Exit #320). This is all just minutes south of downtown Milwaukee.
Bacon & Brews Fest Address:
Lake Vista Park
4001 E. Lakeside Avenue
Oak Creek, WI 53154 Website Facebook Page
The 28th annual Exeland Trout Festival, sponsored by the Exeland Rod & Gun Club, will be held over Labor Day weekend, Friday, Saturday & Sunday, September 4, 5 & 6, 2020. A $3 Trout Fest button gets you admission to get on the Sports Center grounds, and the button is good for all three days. This year’s festival motto is “Make your day a keeper!”
Festivities begin Friday at the Sports Center at 5:00 p.m. A trout fish sandwich & chips basket will be the night’s specialty at Rod’s Bar & Grill. You can sign up for the cribbage tournament, which begins at 5:00 pm (play begins at 5:30 registration fee of $10 per team.) The men’s 8-team double elimination softball tournament also starts with games at 5:45 & 6:45 p.m. Everyone is welcome to play on the Bean Bag court during the evening. Presentation of the Medallion Hunt winner is at 7:00 p.m. DJ music will be played throughout the activities.
At 7:30 pm, Chris Kroeze performs. The former star on The Voice is from nearby and will put on a terrific show with great music! Fans are urged to bring a lawn chair.
Appropriately, Saturday’s events start with a trout fishing contest. Registration is on Main Street. The contest begins at 7:30 a.m. and concludes at 11:30 a.m. Entry fee is proof of a festival button. Contest is for brook trout only. Trophies will be awarded to the top three fish. The three winners of the contest will be invited to ride on the Exeland Rod & Gun Club float in Sunday’s parade. Once again, the trout fishing in the Exeland area this year has been unbelievable!
The Dave Lindau Memorial pancake breakfast will be from 7:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. inside the Exeland Rod & Gun Clubhouse located at the Sports Center.
Main Street will be busy on Saturday morning beginning at 8:00 a.m. Rummage sales, craft sales, garage sales, and a bake sale will be going on. If you have a craft booth or other items to sell, just show up, find a spot on the street, and start selling. There is no fee to vendors.
It’s a bike rider’s paradise! This will be the fourth year of the Trout Fest off road bike ride. A 27 mile loop through some of the most beautiful country northern Wisconsin has to offer. All ages are welcome but you should be in good physical shape as it’s a very challenging route. Registration is at 9:00 a.m. on Main Street in front of Superior Choice Credit Union and the ride will begin at 10:00 a.m. Cost is a Trout Fest button. A meal coupon will be presented to all participants after the ride to be redeemed at the Sports Center.
Follow the many sporting events taking place at the Sports Center. Enjoy watching the softball tourney (10 a.m. start) & volleyball tourney (11 a.m. start).
The horseshoe court will be open all day for everyone to enjoy and compete.
The 32-team co-ed Bean Bag Toss tournament begins at 10:30 a.m. 100% payback. Top 6 places will receive cash. Entry fee for the 2-person team is $20.
Inflatable games will be scattered on the grounds to entertain the kid’s. Enough fun to entertain them all day. A wrist band needs to be purchased to get into the games.
Nobody should go hungry. Stop at one of the Rod & Gun Club’s concession areas or pay the food vendors a visit. There’s a lot of good food everywhere.
At noon in the pavilion listen to the music of the “Bare Bones” of Rice Lake, formerly known as the Porch Dogs. 4 hours of great music.
The Texas Hold’em Tourney has been cancelled year but will return next year
At 4:30 p.m. a new Trout Festival queen will be crowned. Seven beautiful girls are competing for this year’s prestigious title. Last year’s queen Grace Zimmer will pass her crown onto the new winner. One of the 16 little gals competing for the Little Princess title will also be crowned at this time.
At 5:30 p.m. the Exeland Rod & Gun Club will make a little boy and girl happy when they draw to give away two free bikes and fishing poles.
Saturday concludes with a street dance at the Sports Center pavilion from 8:00 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. Music will be provided by “The G Men”. The former Exeland band is reuniting for the first time in 30 years. Look for a fun night!
Sunday’s events continue in the morning at 7:30 a.m. with the pancake breakfast at the Rod & Gun Clubhouse located at the Sports Center. Blueberry pancakes are the specialty. Breakfast concludes at 10:30 a.m.
At high noon the “Joe Trcka Memorial Parade” with 75 units will move down Main Street. One of the best small town parades in the area with lots of candy being tossed out to the kids. If you haven’t registered your unit yet and would like to be in the parade, just show up at Swan Creek Park between 11 – 11:30 a.m. This year’s grand marshals are Neal & Marna Halberg, longtime Exeland residents who are very active in all community events.
After the parade, it’s back to the Sports Center to be part of the many events still going on. Watch the finals of all the sporting events. Once again, the kids can enjoy the inflatable games that are on the ground.
At 1:00 p.m. a delicious “chicken dinner” will be available at the new food shelter. Plus, a lot of other good food will be available all day long in and around the pavilion.
Cow Pie Bingo will take place south of the softball field shortly after the parade. $10 per square to win cash! Whichever one of the hundred spot the calf decides to crap on will determine the winner. Advance tickets are now being sold at local businesses. Event is compliments of North Star Acres Farm of Exeland.
At 2:00 p.m. the Jump River Valley Mow Masters lawn mower races will take place at the Club’s race track located southwest of the pavilion. An exciting & must see event.
If you want to stay near the pavilion and enjoy good food and cold beverages you can listen to the music of the popular “Man 2 Man” band. Denny Goin and his son will perform from 1:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
At 5:30 p.m. in the pavilion, all of the drawings will be held for the raffle prizes. The $100 cash raffle, Special 28th Anniversary raffle, the 4-wheeler, small cash prizes and a deer rifle will go to the lucky winners who have purchased raffle tickets. Two more kid’s bikes will also be given away.
Join the fun and help Exeland celebrate the 28th annual Exeland Trout Festival! Follow State Highway 48 to get to Exeland, east of Rice Lake off U.S. 53 or just a mile or so west of Highway 40 in Sawyer County. Truly a fun North Woods getaway event!
Exeland Trout Festival Address:
State Highway 48
Exeland, WI 54835
Info: (715) 943-2242 (ask for Jim) Website
The Belgium Blues Bash is this year’s big music event that the Paramount Music Festival typically hosts. The whole idea is to celebrate Paramount Records, where artists during the 1917-1932 era – typically African-American – would come to a Wisconsin chair factory and record music in a studio the company had built. The songs would be distributed on Paramount Records, which is increasingly being recognized as one of the early trailblazers in Blues, R&B, Gospel, and even Country music. Get more background from our episode covering this fascinating story and topic on the State Trunk Tour Podcast.
Belgium Blues Bash Schedule:
FRIDAY AUGUST 28
6:00pm – The Jay Stulo Band
8:00pm – The Jimmys
SATURDAY AUGUST 29
12:30 – Luke Cerny
2:00 – Tommy Bentz Band
4:00 – Alex Wilson Band
6:00 – Shonn Hinton & Shotgun
8:00 – Stephen Cooper & the Nobody Famous
Reserved tables are SOLD OUT, but you can reserve a spot for a 10×10 pop up tent OR a 10×10 grass space. For $25, you can reserve a space that holds up to six people, and you get it for the weekend. A map of the grounds is available on their website.
The Belgium Blues Bash is FREE to attend in the general admission area. Food and drink will be available using tickets that you can purchase upon arrival; tickets are good for both days. Purchase your tickets when you arrive and they are good both days. You can pre-buy tickets at ParamountMusic.org.
Food available for purchase will include burgers, brats, Pulled Pork, meatballs, Tacos by Lunas Taqueria. Vendors will have products you can shop, too!
It’s an unusual year, but we can still enjoy a fun music festival safely! That’s what happening with the Junction 45 Music Festival on Saturday, August 22, 2020 at Washington County Fair Park just south of West Bend. Great music from bands like Battery, Nightrain, and Hairball, which rocks the “hair band” music of the 80s! Plus, we love that they named themselves after Highway 45, the main north-south U.S. highway through the West Bend area.
Gates open at 3:30pm. Nightrain plays at 4:30, Battery at 6:30, and Hairball at 8:30. Tickets range from $15 for general admission lawn seats to $25 for a reserved section. You can get tickets the day of the event by entering at Gate 8. They will have food and beverages available for sale; no carry-ins.
Plymouth is the Cheese Capital of the World, so it makes sense a wine walk would take on the name, too. The Cheese Capital Wine Walk takes place Friday, August 21st!
Of course, 2020 being 2020, the Cheese Capital Wine Walk will be different this year, with some needed rules in place including a) mask-wearing when not sampling wine; b) socially distancing your wine group from others; and c) use the hand sanitizer that will be made available at each location.
Now, for the fun stuff:
16 Downtown Plymouth businesses will be turned into Wine Tasting rooms. Ticketed participants will be able to go into each one and get a different taste of wine. Cheese samples and other snacks complement the wines. Live music will be at multiple stops.
You can get tickets by stopping in the Plymouth Chamber office at 647 Walton Drive (near where Highways 23 and 57 come together) Monday-Friday from 8am-4pm, or call them at 920-893-0079. Tickets are $30; you can pay by phone and have your tickets mailed ($1 extra) or pick them up at will call. Tickets must be purchased in advance!
Get to Plymouth via Highways 23, 57, or 67 to enjoy a nice evening out in Plymouth, the Cheese Capital of the World. Enjoy the murals downtown along Mill Street and nearby areas, and be sure to visit the Dairy Heritage Center, Plymouth Brewing Company, and more!
Cheese Capital Wine Walk Address:
Downtown Plymouth (Mill Street area, County C between Highways 57 and 67, south of Highway 23)
Plymouth, WI
(920) 893-0079 Website
It’s happening in 2020! The Sawyer County Fair runs August 13th through the 16th.
Of course with the way this year is, major safety precautions will be in place. But you can still check out exhibits, animal judging, watermelon bowling, veggie races, a Dilly Bar eating contest, the Pedal Power Tractor Pull, cranberry flicking, and on Sunday, the Dirt Dash & Demo Derby.
Madison Craft Beer Week promotes Madison’s thriving craft beer culture, enhancing beer knowledge and appreciation by sponsoring a ten-day countywide festival that attracts beer tourism, fosters knowledge of our regional brewing heritage, and serves as a showcase for the Madison area’s breweries, restaurants, pubs, caterers, retailers, entertainers, and other businesses with ties to the craft beer community.
Madison Craft Beer Week features a wide variety of events highlighting Dane County’s vibrant craft beer culture. MCBW features beer dinners, festivals, rare bottle tastings, cheese pairings, brewery tours, classes, movies, and more – there is truly something for everyone, from novices to connoisseurs. Craft beer week activities may include:
Hit the Lakelawn Resort on Delavan Lake for free winter thrills during the 7th Annual Sky Circus on Ice February 14-16, 2020! This three-day spectacle will feature exciting airborne performances by professional kite teams from across North America, plus snow sculpting and ice carving by top regional artists. Kite making workshops and a mix of outdoor activities and games for all ages will round out the fun.
Check out the grand launches scheduled for 11 am both Saturday and Sunday as over 400 kites take flight. Between their synchronized kite performances, experts will provide flying instruction and handy tips to attendees as they harness winter winds with their own kites out on the frozen lake. Activities and displays spread throughout downtown Delavan will also take place.
See the rest of the Schedule of Events below!
You can get to Lake Lawn Resort in Delavan via Highway 50 and 67, just south of I-43. Parking is available at Lake Lawn Resort, at the Lake Lawn Airport, and Downtown Delavan. A complimentary trolley runs Saturday and Sunday between Lake Lawn Resort and the following locations from 9:30am – 5:30pm: Lake Lawn Resort, the Super 8, Downtown Delavan, and the Comfort Suites.
Sky Circus on Ice Address:
Lake Lawn Resort
2400 E. Geneva Street (along Highway 50)
Delavan, WI 53115
(800) 338-5253 Website
Sky Circus on Ice Schedule of Events:
Friday February 14 – Sunday February 16
Snow Sculptures & Ice Carvings @ Lake Lawn Resort and Downtown
Friday – Sunday with final judging to take place on Sunday at 5:00pm
Snow Carving class led by professional carvers @ Lake Lawn Resort
Saturday and Sunday from 1:30pm – 3:00pm
Blizzard Run Snow Slide along Lakefront at Lake Lawn Resort
Friday – Sunday from 10:00am – 4:00pm
Kite-Making Workshop for All Ages in Lake Lawn Room at Lake Lawn Resort
Saturday and Sunday beginning at 10:00am – 4:00pm ongoing for fee of $4.00 per person
Aerial Candy Drop Sponsored by Andes Candies
Saturday and Sunday afternoon during performances
Outdoor Kite Activities Saturday & Sunday at Lake Lawn Resort
Team warm-ups begin at 10:00am
Flying lessons begin at 11:00am and throughout the day
Opening ceremonies begin at 11:30am
Grand Kite Launch Sponsored by Gift of Wings Saturday and Sunday at 12:00pm
Outdoor team performances from 12:00pm – 5:00pm
Kids Mad Dash Sponsored by Lake Geneva Country Meats – First 100 kids to sign up and participate will receive free kites! Lakeside at approximately 2:30pm
Indoor Kite Performances at Lake Lawn Resort
Multiple daily performances by Connor Doran from NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” in our Great Room. Shows last approximately 45-50 minutes, and begin at:
Friday – 8:00pm, Saturday – 1:00pm, 2:00pm, 4:00pm, Sunday 12:30pm, 1:30pm
Windowed hallways along the lakefront inside the resort provide ample views of the performances. Refreshments and beverages will be available.
Overnight packages will be available.
PARKING:
There will be parking available at Lake Lawn Resort, at the Lake Lawn Airport, and Downtown Delavan.
There will be a complimentary trolley running Saturday and Sunday between Lake Lawn Resort and the following locations from 9:30am – 5:30pm:
Lake Lawn Resort
Super 8
Downtown Delavan
Comfort Suites
The Lantern Festival at the Racine Zoo is a spectacular nighttime event, covering the zoo with incredible works of art! From tigers, lions, pandas, exotic flora, and a colossal dragon, Racine Zoo will be transformed into a world of illumination with custom-made lanterns. To top it off, an array of food and drink options will make the Lantern Festival a truly unforgettable event.
The Racine Zoo Lantern Festival continues in 2020 to run on weekends through February 9th.
Lantern Festival Hours:
Fridays – Sundays: 5pm – 8pm (Last entry 8pm. Zoo closes at 9pm.)
Ticket Prices: $5!!
Kids 2 and under are admitted free.
**Children 15 and younger need to be accompanied by a paying adult**. Also, note a $2.50 processing fee may be added if you pay with a credit card at the gate. But still, that’s a great deal!
Racine Zoo Lantern Festival Address:
Racine Zoo
2131 N. Main Street
Racine, WI 53402
(262) 636-9291 Website
Burlington is “Chocolate City USA,” so it makes sense for them to have Hot Chocolate Fest in winter, right? This year, Hot Chocolate Fest runs Friday, January 17th through Sunday, January 19th.
The fest includes Pond Hockey and Broom Ball Tournaments on Echo Lake (weather permitting), the Cabin Fever 5K through downtown Burlington, campfire storytelling, a Red Chili contest with area restaurants competing, of course… a “Who has the best hot chocolate??” Contest.
Here’s the schedule Hot Chocolate Fest:
Friday- All at The Veteran’s Terrace
5pm – 9pm Open Skate
6:30pm – 8pm Un-Hich’d (Pop/Country/Rock Duo)
8:30pm – 11pm NEW Piano Guys DUELING PIANOS
Saturday-
10am – Free Family Movie- The Plaza
10am – 9pm Open Skate/Broomball/Bonfires/Smores at Vets
10am – 1pm Hot Chocolate Walk/Tasting Downtown
10am – Noon Snowman Decorating Contest at Vets
10am – 4pm Artisan Market at Mercantile Hall
1pm – 4pm Chili Walk/Tasting Downtown
6:30pm – 8pm Astro Blues Band (Classic Rock and Blues Band) at Vets
8pm – 11pm LUNCH MONEY BULLIES at Vets
Sunday-
7:30 Registration opens for Cabin Fever 5K at Vets
8 – 11am – Pancake Breakfast at the Veterans Terrace -Tickets $10 each. Proceeds will benefit both Driven Students and the new Santa Chalet.
9:00am Cabin Fever 5k begins at Veterans Terrace
Downtown Burlington has a lot of great places to check out, from the Yo-Yo Museum to Fred’s (famous for their burgers), and more. Follow Highways 11, 36, 83, or 142 – they’ll all bring you to Chocolate City USA and Hot Chocolate Fest.
Hot Chocolate Fest Address:
Echo Park
589 Milwaukee Avenue
Burlington, WI 53105
(262) 763-6044 Website
A sweeping game of pond hockey at last year’s Hot Chocolate Fest in Burlington. (Photo courtesy of the Racine Journal Times.)
Back to StateTrunkTour.com
Start:
January 17, 2020 5:00 pm
End:
January 19, 2020 4:00 pm
Venue:
Echo Park
Phone:
262-763-6044
Address:
589 Milwaukee Avenue, Burlington, WI, 53105, United States
A Pinecrest Christmas brings holiday cheer to Pinecrest Historical Village, a beautiful and attractive 19th century village featuring actual historic – and generally relocated – original Manitowoc County buildings. A Pinecrest Christmas takes place Saturday, December 14th with a ton of events.
Help decorate the tree with the Sorenson family and participate in their holiday traditions. Head on over to the Print Shop to learn the art of printing while making your own holiday cards! In the Two Creeks Town Hall, enjoy decorating Christmas cookies and sipping hot cider during breaks from dancing to live music. While the kids visit Santa in the decorated Visitor Center, adults can shop for unique gifts in the Museum Store. Pinecrest Village is the perfect place to enjoy the simple traditions of the holiday season!
Kids can enlist in the American Junior Red Cross, print their own postcard, view the latest camera technology, and more! Check out the historic buildings too, from an original bank, tavern, and schoolhouse to a town hall – all originals from around Manitowoc County.
Pinecrest Historical Village will be trimmed for the holidays, and wood-fired stoves will beckon with the promise of warmth and good cheer. Be sure to meet their 20th-century Santa and his reindeer for your one-of-a-kind holiday photo from noon to 2 p.m.
Timed Performances for A Pinecrest Christmas, at Niles Church:
Lincoln Singers, Noon – 12:30 pm
Mishicot Soundwave, 1pm – 2pm
Baked goods, hot cider, and hot chocolate will be for sale, in support of youth education programs. The Museum Store will offer historically themed gifts for all ages.
Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for children age 5 to 17, under age 5 is free
To get to Pinecrest Historical Village, follow County JJ west from I-43 and U.S. 10/Highway 42 (Waldo Drive) about six miles. Or follow County S to JJ north from US 151 just east of Valders. And of course, there’s plenty to explore in Manitowoc and Two Rivers, and throughout Manitowoc County any time of year!
Address for A Pinecrest Christmas:
Pinecrest Historical Village
924 Pinecrest Lane
Manitowoc, WI 54220
(920) 684-4445 Website
The Timm House was built in 1873 as a Greek Revival “stick style” home for one of the founders of New Holstein, with an addition competed in 1892. This year’s Timm House Christmas offers a once in a lifetime chance to view a collection of “Oz” related items which have been collected by a local historic society member over a 45-year period. You won’t see this in Kansas, or anywhere else!
As in past Timm House Christmases, the first floor of the restored Victorian residence has undergone a holiday transformation. During the month of December each first floor room is decorated to depict an element of the famous children’s book series and hit 1939 movie that introduced us to the “Land of Oz.”
The 2019 tour theme is “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” celebrating the 80th anniversary of Robert Lewis May’s 1939 story which introduced Rudolph. 2019 is also the 70th anniversary of Gene Autry’s singing rendition of “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” which was the #1 hit single record during the 1949 Christmas season.
The 2019 Timm House Christmas will feature all of the restored Victorian home’s downstairs rooms decorated with specific Rudolph artifacts and other Christmas decor related to the famous reindeer. Local musicians will also be on hand to play Christmas carols on the Timm family’s 1894 Steinway Box Grand piano. And, as always, there will be something tasty in the Timm House kitchen.
Dates for the self-guided Timm House Christmas tours continue on weekends in December: the 6th-8th, 13th-15th, and the 20th-22nd. Friday hours are 5 to 8 pm. Saturday and Sunday hours are from 11 am to 3 pm. Admission for ages 13 and over is $5.00, age six to 12 is $2.50 and five and under are admitted at no charge.
Admission for adults is $5, children 12 and under are $2.50.
The Timm House is located at 1600 Wisconsin Avenue in New Holstein along Highways 32 and 57. Tours are also available at other times, by appointment, through a call to (920) 898-5746.
A Timm House Christmas Address:
1600 Wisconsin Avenue
New Holstein, WI 53061
(920) 898-5746 Website
Note for outside of Christmastime: adjacent to the Timm House, the Pioneer Corner Museum is open on Saturday & Sunday, 1 – 4 pm from the first weekend in May through the final weekend of October. Admission is $7.00 for a single ticket to either the Timm House or Pioneer Corner Museum. A $10.00 combo ticket provides admission to both the TH and PCM. Admissions purchased with a combo ticket do not have to occur on the same day. Combo ticket for a child, 12 & under, is $5.00.
Special appointment tours are also available by calling (920) 898-5746.
The 10th Annual Lake Geneva Beer & Spirits Festival takes place Saturday, November 16, 2019 at the Ridge Hotel right along Highway 50! Located just west of downtown Lake Geneva and open to the public, the Lake Geneva Beer & Spirits Festival will feature over 35 craft breweries and distilleries with over 120 different beers, spirits, ciders, and malt beverages for sampling. There will also be sample specialty liquors and foods that pair well with beer, plus music and a photo booth.
The 35+ brewers and distillers come from Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana, Utah, Kentucky, Michigan, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Missouri, Ohio, and more.
$60 Early Admission (get in at noon instead of 1pm, commemorative souvenir, three exclusive beer tastings not available after 1pm)
$45 General Admission (commemorative tasting glass, unlimited sampling of craft brewery and distillery offerings)
$15 Designated Driver Ticket (unlimited soda, access to festival amenities)
Lake Geneva Beer & Spirits Festival Address:
The Ridge Hotel
W4240 Highway 50
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
(262) 729-4471 Website
Calendar of Events
Calendar of Events › Festival
October 10, 2020
Quilts on Barns Road Rally
“Quilts on Barns” Road Rally takes place Saturday, October 10, 2020. Enjoy spending the day – or even just a part of it if you prefer – driving around the highways and byways of Racine County where you can see the beauty of rural art, looking for the 26 quilt patterns on a variety of barns! Make your first stop the Real Racine Visitor Center to pick up a Quilts on Barns driving tour map and road rally instruction card. Take a tour of four (4) barns, Sew n’ Save Quilt Palette OR Country Rose Bakery Cafe Quilt Palette. Then take a “selfie” of each and come on down to the Quilts on Barns Road Rally Downtown Headquarters or Real Racine Visitor Center to show them off. Several lucky winners will be randomly chosen to win quilts, original artwork and other prizes!
The Quilts on Barns Driving Tour includes 26 barns with an 8′ x 8′ wooden quilt pattern. Many other “quilt treasures” adorn barns and buildings along your driving route. Feel free to visit local Racine County businesses , restaurants, art galleries, and quilt stores. You will be amazed at what you can find!
Quilts on Barns Road Rally Address:
The Rally is obviously happening all around Racine County, but the central meeting point is the Real Racine Visitors Center on Highway 20 just west of I-41/94. The address (for your GPS) is 14015 Washington Avenue/Highway 20, Sturtevant, WI 53177. For more info, call (262) 635-0261.
More info is available on the Racine Arts Council website.
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October 7, 2020 – November 1, 2020
Halloween Glow Drive-Thru at Racine Zoo
It’s a spooktacular experience filled with light displays and ghostly charms at the Halloween Glow Drive-Thru at Racine Zoo, running October 7th through November 1st, 2020! Enjoy this “illuminated Halloween adventure” from the safety and comfort of your vehicle. Just follow the dedicated light pathway and be prepared for surprises – but they’re all family friendly.
Halloween Glow is open Wednesdays – Sundays from 6pm to 9pm; admission is $5 per person at the gate. Children 2 years and younger are admitted FREE. Proceeds benefit Racine Zoo’s animals and programs.
You’ll find the Racine Zoo just north of downtown Racine. It’s along Main Street and Goold, abutting Lake Michigan just east of Highways 32 and 38. Highways 11 and 20 also bring you into the Belle City, all about 8 miles east of I-41/94.
Halloween Glow Address:
Racine Zoo
200 Goold Street
Racine, WI 53402
(262) 636-9189
Website
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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 26, 2020 – September 27, 2020
Germantown Hunsrucker Oktoberfest
Germantown celebrates Oktoberfest in a big way with the annual Germantown Hunsrucker Oktoberfest in Dheinsville Historic Park on Saturday and Sunday, September 26th and 27th, 2020! Authentic German food, beer, live music, and plenty of family-friendly activities. There will be plenty of children’s activities, the annual Barleympics, the Dachshund Dash on Saturday at 3pm, a Classic Car Display on Sunday from noon – 3pm, and much more.
Germantown Hunsrucker Oktoberfest admission is FREE, and so is parking. Run by the Germantown Historical Society, the takes place at Dheinsville Historic Park, an original settlement from the 1850s filled with history. This weekend, it’ll be filled with lederhosen, accordions, and fun.
Live entertainment lineup:
Saturday September 26th:
12pm-3pm Goodtime Dutchmen
3pm-4pm Dachshund Dash
4pm-7pm Music Venders
7pm-7:30pm Pommersche Tanzdeel Freistadt
7:30pm-10:30pm Copper Box ( Pommersche Tanzdeel Freistadt during first break)
Sunday September 27th:
12pm-3pm River City Blaskapelle
3pm-3:30pm Pommersche Tanzdeel Freistadt
3:30pm-7:00pm Austrian Express
Get the full activity list here (.PDF)
You’ll find Dheinsville Historic Park right along Highway 145 in Germantown, a few miles north of Highway 167 and east of I-41 and the U.S. 45 interchanges. Just the south, check out Main Street off Highway 145, where a series of fun establishments await in the traditional, original downtown area of Germantown.
Germantown Hunsrucker Oktoberfest Address:
Dheinsville Historic Park
N128W18780 Holy Hill Road
Germantown, WI 53022
(262) 628-3170
Website
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September 19, 2020
Delavan Scarecrow Fest
The 19th Annual Delavan Scarecrow Fest is on – with safety measures, of course – in downtown Delavan is Saturday, September 19th, 2020. Both visitors and community members are encouraged to participate by either building a scarecrow and bringing it with you or building one right at the festival. Scarecrows will be displayed on the street posts throughout the downtown Delavan area, popping up around Labor Day. Throughout the month of September, Downtown Delavan will have “Scarecrows on Parade.”
Activities in Water Town Park include a craft fair and sidewalk sales from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Delavan Darien High School Gridiron Club will be selling Brats, Hot Dogs, Chips and beverages from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., plus there will be free pumpkin painting from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. and don’t miss the Annual Pie & Cake Auction that begins at 3:00 p.m.
Activities from 11:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Activities include “Build-A-Scarecrow and Take it Home” for $10.00 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and the Great Delavan Duck Raffle at 2:30. The raffle tickets are $2, or 3 for $5; they can be purchased at many downtown businesses, including Bradley’s Department Store, Lauren’s Antique & Art Centre, Lubick Gallery, Del-Mart, Remember When, and more. First Place is $200, Second Place is $100, Third Place is $50, plus there are a lot more prizes to win, thanks to the local businesses who donated them for Delavan Scarecrow Fest.
Here’s the Scarecrow Fest official schedule of activities:
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Car Show
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Self-Guided WallDogs Walking Tour & Scavenger Hunt
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Fall Photo Op
10:00 AM – 4:00 PM | Food Trucks
10:30 AM – 11:00 AM | Stage – Alice In Dairyland
11:00 AM – 1:30 PM | Stage – Johnny B
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM | DIY Scarecrow Kit Sale
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Guided WallDogs Walking Tour
1:00 PM – 1:30 PM | Kids’ Pumpkin Pickup
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM | Guided WallDogs Walking Tour
2:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Stage – Sawdust Symphony Band
2:30 PM – 3:00 PM | Kids’ Pumpkin Pickup
4:00 PM | Duck Raffle
The Milwaukee Tool Shed Band is wrapping up the festival with a live concert at 7 pm at the Phoenix Park Bandshell.
Check out the Walldog Mural Walking Tour, local businesses will have maps. Scarecrows will be “On Parade” throughout downtown Delavan not only Saturday, but through early October.
You can get to Delavan just off I-43, via Highways 11 or 50. Highway 11 is the main street right through downtown. Get some Andes Candies while you’re there!
Delavan Scarecrow Fest Address:
Downtown Delavan
100 W. Walworth Avenue (Highway 11)
Delavan, WI 53115
Website
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September 18, 2020 – September 19, 2020
Spring Green Fall Festival in the Valley
Spring Green hosts its annual Spring Green Fall Festival with a huge drive-thru fish fry at Prem Meats Friday night September 18th, then live music and activities at The Shed in town Saturday afternoon and evening September 19th, 2020.
Prem Meats is right along U.S. HIghway 14, the main highway east-west through the Spring Green area. They’ll offer an amazing fish fry with a variety of options and sides and an easy (though possibly quite busy) drive-thru experience puts it right in your hands. That lasts from 4-8pm and you can pre-order by calling 608-588-2164 or checking out their Facebook Event Page.
Saturday the 19th, the action moves into the heart of town with Local Night at the Fall Festival. Live music, dinners, drinks, and fun at the Post House Garden, right behind The Shed at 123 N. Lexington. The fun includes live music by Janna Johnson.
Of course, any trip to or ever near Spring Green can include tours of Taliesin, the beautiful and fascinating Wisconsin home of Frank Lloyd Wright or the unbelievable House on the Rock, both just south of town via Highway 23. Fans of burgers, fries, and a shake coupled with rock music and classic cars have to check out Rumble Seats Drive-In, right along U.S. 14 and Highway 60. The downtown is beautiful with great architecture (natch!) and a variety of shops. One of only two opal stores in the nation is also in Spring Green, right along Highway 23. Called The Opal Store, it occupies a charming former gas station that dates back to 1916. Tower Hill State Park just to the east along County C also offers terrific hiking and activities – right as the leaves are starting to change.
Spring Green Fall Festival Address:
Friday Night: Prem Meats, E5028 U.S. Highway 14
Saturday Night for Fall Festival Local Night: The Shed, 123 N. Lexington
Spring Green, WI 53588
(608) 588-2054
Website
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September 8, 2020 – September 13, 2020
Bites of Beloit Restaurant Week
The Beloit restaurant scene has really boomed over the last several years, and Bites of Beloit offer a terrific opportunity to sample their fares and wares. You can enjoy prix-fixe lunch and dinner menus at a variety of Beloit’s eateries, many of which are downtown, for one week only (September 8-13), with prices ranging from $12-$35 per meal.
Bites Of Beloit Participating Restaurants:
Get more updates on the Bites of Beloit website!
Beloit runs right along Wisconsin’s southern border. I-39/90 and I-43 come together there in an interchange that’s in the middle of massive reconstruction right now, but you’ll still be able to spot the “World’s Largest Can of Chili” at the Hormel plant southwest of the interchange. Highway 81 brings you into town from the east or west; U.S. 51 runs north-south through the city, and Highway 213 brings you in at an angle from the northwest.
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September 5, 2020
Bacon & Brews Fest, Oak Creek
Bacon & Brews Fest combines running, walking, bacon, and beer along the shores of Lake Michigan in Oak Creek’s Lake Vista Park on Saturday, September 5th, 2020. It begins with a 5K run and walk, which you can participate in in person along a twisty, turny course in the park, or participate in virtually from wherever you are. Why the 5th of September? Because that’s International Bacon Day!
After the 5K, at the Lake Vista location they’ll have an after party featuring the aforementioned bacon, brews in the form of great craft beers, plus soda, water, food of all kinds, and more. All participants will receive a finishers medal, Special Swag, a T-shirt, and a bacon/beer filled lunch. The party will include social distancing measures, and masks will be provided if participants don’t have one. But be sure to party after the run… you can bring a chair, enjoy delicious food and beverages, and take in the beautiful views of Lake Vista Park!
This is all happening in Oak Creek, right at the end of Highway 100 just past where it meets with Highway 32, which runs along the shores of Lake Michigan from Milwaukee to Racine, Kenosha, and all points south. When you’re done – or even before you go – check out Drexel Town Square, which offers a ton of shops, bars and restaurants, hotels, and more! They also have their Farmers Market in the Square on Saturdays from 9am – 1pm. You’ll find the whole complex just north of Drexel Avenue just west of Highway 38/Howell Avenue. IKEA also has its only Wisconsin location along Drexel just west of I-41/I-94 (Exit #320). This is all just minutes south of downtown Milwaukee.
Bacon & Brews Fest Address:
Lake Vista Park
4001 E. Lakeside Avenue
Oak Creek, WI 53154
Website
Facebook Page
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September 4, 2020 – September 6, 2020
Exeland Trout Festival
The 28th annual Exeland Trout Festival, sponsored by the Exeland Rod & Gun Club, will be held over Labor Day weekend, Friday, Saturday & Sunday, September 4, 5 & 6, 2020. A $3 Trout Fest button gets you admission to get on the Sports Center grounds, and the button is good for all three days. This year’s festival motto is “Make your day a keeper!”
Festivities begin Friday at the Sports Center at 5:00 p.m. A trout fish sandwich & chips basket will be the night’s specialty at Rod’s Bar & Grill. You can sign up for the cribbage tournament, which begins at 5:00 pm (play begins at 5:30 registration fee of $10 per team.) The men’s 8-team double elimination softball tournament also starts with games at 5:45 & 6:45 p.m. Everyone is welcome to play on the Bean Bag court during the evening. Presentation of the Medallion Hunt winner is at 7:00 p.m. DJ music will be played throughout the activities.
At 7:30 pm, Chris Kroeze performs. The former star on The Voice is from nearby and will put on a terrific show with great music! Fans are urged to bring a lawn chair.
Appropriately, Saturday’s events start with a trout fishing contest. Registration is on Main Street. The contest begins at 7:30 a.m. and concludes at 11:30 a.m. Entry fee is proof of a festival button. Contest is for brook trout only. Trophies will be awarded to the top three fish. The three winners of the contest will be invited to ride on the Exeland Rod & Gun Club float in Sunday’s parade. Once again, the trout fishing in the Exeland area this year has been unbelievable!
The Dave Lindau Memorial pancake breakfast will be from 7:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. inside the Exeland Rod & Gun Clubhouse located at the Sports Center.
Main Street will be busy on Saturday morning beginning at 8:00 a.m. Rummage sales, craft sales, garage sales, and a bake sale will be going on. If you have a craft booth or other items to sell, just show up, find a spot on the street, and start selling. There is no fee to vendors.
It’s a bike rider’s paradise! This will be the fourth year of the Trout Fest off road bike ride. A 27 mile loop through some of the most beautiful country northern Wisconsin has to offer. All ages are welcome but you should be in good physical shape as it’s a very challenging route. Registration is at 9:00 a.m. on Main Street in front of Superior Choice Credit Union and the ride will begin at 10:00 a.m. Cost is a Trout Fest button. A meal coupon will be presented to all participants after the ride to be redeemed at the Sports Center.
Follow the many sporting events taking place at the Sports Center. Enjoy watching the softball tourney (10 a.m. start) & volleyball tourney (11 a.m. start).
The horseshoe court will be open all day for everyone to enjoy and compete.
The 32-team co-ed Bean Bag Toss tournament begins at 10:30 a.m. 100% payback. Top 6 places will receive cash. Entry fee for the 2-person team is $20.
Inflatable games will be scattered on the grounds to entertain the kid’s. Enough fun to entertain them all day. A wrist band needs to be purchased to get into the games.
Nobody should go hungry. Stop at one of the Rod & Gun Club’s concession areas or pay the food vendors a visit. There’s a lot of good food everywhere.
At noon in the pavilion listen to the music of the “Bare Bones” of Rice Lake, formerly known as the Porch Dogs. 4 hours of great music.
The Texas Hold’em Tourney has been cancelled year but will return next year
At 4:30 p.m. a new Trout Festival queen will be crowned. Seven beautiful girls are competing for this year’s prestigious title. Last year’s queen Grace Zimmer will pass her crown onto the new winner. One of the 16 little gals competing for the Little Princess title will also be crowned at this time.
At 5:30 p.m. the Exeland Rod & Gun Club will make a little boy and girl happy when they draw to give away two free bikes and fishing poles.
Saturday concludes with a street dance at the Sports Center pavilion from 8:00 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. Music will be provided by “The G Men”. The former Exeland band is reuniting for the first time in 30 years. Look for a fun night!
Sunday’s events continue in the morning at 7:30 a.m. with the pancake breakfast at the Rod & Gun Clubhouse located at the Sports Center. Blueberry pancakes are the specialty. Breakfast concludes at 10:30 a.m.
At high noon the “Joe Trcka Memorial Parade” with 75 units will move down Main Street. One of the best small town parades in the area with lots of candy being tossed out to the kids. If you haven’t registered your unit yet and would like to be in the parade, just show up at Swan Creek Park between 11 – 11:30 a.m. This year’s grand marshals are Neal & Marna Halberg, longtime Exeland residents who are very active in all community events.
After the parade, it’s back to the Sports Center to be part of the many events still going on. Watch the finals of all the sporting events. Once again, the kids can enjoy the inflatable games that are on the ground.
At 1:00 p.m. a delicious “chicken dinner” will be available at the new food shelter. Plus, a lot of other good food will be available all day long in and around the pavilion.
Cow Pie Bingo will take place south of the softball field shortly after the parade. $10 per square to win cash! Whichever one of the hundred spot the calf decides to crap on will determine the winner. Advance tickets are now being sold at local businesses. Event is compliments of North Star Acres Farm of Exeland.
At 2:00 p.m. the Jump River Valley Mow Masters lawn mower races will take place at the Club’s race track located southwest of the pavilion. An exciting & must see event.
If you want to stay near the pavilion and enjoy good food and cold beverages you can listen to the music of the popular “Man 2 Man” band. Denny Goin and his son will perform from 1:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.
At 5:30 p.m. in the pavilion, all of the drawings will be held for the raffle prizes. The $100 cash raffle, Special 28th Anniversary raffle, the 4-wheeler, small cash prizes and a deer rifle will go to the lucky winners who have purchased raffle tickets. Two more kid’s bikes will also be given away.
Join the fun and help Exeland celebrate the 28th annual Exeland Trout Festival! Follow State Highway 48 to get to Exeland, east of Rice Lake off U.S. 53 or just a mile or so west of Highway 40 in Sawyer County. Truly a fun North Woods getaway event!
Exeland Trout Festival Address:
State Highway 48
Exeland, WI 54835
Info: (715) 943-2242 (ask for Jim)
Website
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August 28, 2020 – August 29, 2020
Belgium Blues Bash
Hosted by the Paramount Music Association, this year’s big (and socially-distanced) music celebration takes place in Belgium, Wisconsin. It’s called the Belgium Blues Bash, and it celebrates the remarkable music history of the area. There’s a reason neighboring towns Grafton and Port Washington are the northernmost locations on the Mississippi Blues Trail, after all. A nice lineup is on deck, and there will be plenty of room for social distancing.
The Belgium Blues Bash is this year’s big music event that the Paramount Music Festival typically hosts. The whole idea is to celebrate Paramount Records, where artists during the 1917-1932 era – typically African-American – would come to a Wisconsin chair factory and record music in a studio the company had built. The songs would be distributed on Paramount Records, which is increasingly being recognized as one of the early trailblazers in Blues, R&B, Gospel, and even Country music. Get more background from our episode covering this fascinating story and topic on the State Trunk Tour Podcast.
Belgium Blues Bash Schedule:
FRIDAY AUGUST 28
6:00pm – The Jay Stulo Band
8:00pm – The Jimmys
SATURDAY AUGUST 29
12:30 – Luke Cerny
2:00 – Tommy Bentz Band
4:00 – Alex Wilson Band
6:00 – Shonn Hinton & Shotgun
8:00 – Stephen Cooper & the Nobody Famous
Reserved tables are SOLD OUT, but you can reserve a spot for a 10×10 pop up tent OR a 10×10 grass space. For $25, you can reserve a space that holds up to six people, and you get it for the weekend. A map of the grounds is available on their website.
The Belgium Blues Bash is FREE to attend in the general admission area. Food and drink will be available using tickets that you can purchase upon arrival; tickets are good for both days. Purchase your tickets when you arrive and they are good both days. You can pre-buy tickets at ParamountMusic.org.
Food available for purchase will include burgers, brats, Pulled Pork, meatballs, Tacos by Lunas Taqueria. Vendors will have products you can shop, too!
Belgium Blues Bash Address:
Belgium Community Park
106 Beach Street
Belgium, WI 53004
Website
Facebook Page
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August 22, 2020
Junction 45 Music Festival
It’s an unusual year, but we can still enjoy a fun music festival safely! That’s what happening with the Junction 45 Music Festival on Saturday, August 22, 2020 at Washington County Fair Park just south of West Bend. Great music from bands like Battery, Nightrain, and Hairball, which rocks the “hair band” music of the 80s! Plus, we love that they named themselves after Highway 45, the main north-south U.S. highway through the West Bend area.
Gates open at 3:30pm. Nightrain plays at 4:30, Battery at 6:30, and Hairball at 8:30. Tickets range from $15 for general admission lawn seats to $25 for a reserved section. You can get tickets the day of the event by entering at Gate 8. They will have food and beverages available for sale; no carry-ins.
Junction 45 Music Festival Address:
Washington County Fair Park
3000 County Highway PV
West Bend, WI 53095
(262) 677-5060
Website
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August 21, 2020
Cheese Capital Wine Walk, Plymouth
Plymouth is the Cheese Capital of the World, so it makes sense a wine walk would take on the name, too. The Cheese Capital Wine Walk takes place Friday, August 21st!
Of course, 2020 being 2020, the Cheese Capital Wine Walk will be different this year, with some needed rules in place including a) mask-wearing when not sampling wine; b) socially distancing your wine group from others; and c) use the hand sanitizer that will be made available at each location.
Now, for the fun stuff:
16 Downtown Plymouth businesses will be turned into Wine Tasting rooms. Ticketed participants will be able to go into each one and get a different taste of wine. Cheese samples and other snacks complement the wines. Live music will be at multiple stops.
You can get tickets by stopping in the Plymouth Chamber office at 647 Walton Drive (near where Highways 23 and 57 come together) Monday-Friday from 8am-4pm, or call them at 920-893-0079. Tickets are $30; you can pay by phone and have your tickets mailed ($1 extra) or pick them up at will call. Tickets must be purchased in advance!
Get to Plymouth via Highways 23, 57, or 67 to enjoy a nice evening out in Plymouth, the Cheese Capital of the World. Enjoy the murals downtown along Mill Street and nearby areas, and be sure to visit the Dairy Heritage Center, Plymouth Brewing Company, and more!
Cheese Capital Wine Walk Address:
Downtown Plymouth (Mill Street area, County C between Highways 57 and 67, south of Highway 23)
Plymouth, WI
(920) 893-0079
Website
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August 13, 2020 – August 16, 2020
Sawyer County Agricultural Fair
It’s happening in 2020! The Sawyer County Fair runs August 13th through the 16th.
Of course with the way this year is, major safety precautions will be in place. But you can still check out exhibits, animal judging, watermelon bowling, veggie races, a Dilly Bar eating contest, the Pedal Power Tractor Pull, cranberry flicking, and on Sunday, the Dirt Dash & Demo Derby.
Here’s the full schedule, by day.
Major evening events include:
Sawyer County Agricultural Fair Admissions:
Daily Pass(6 & up) – $10
Season Pass(6 & up) – $25
Age 5 & under – Free
Senior Citizens Daily Pass(65+) – $5
Senior Citizen Season Pass – $15
Sawyer County Fair Address:
Sawyer County Fairgrounds
14655 County Highway B
Hayward, WI 54843
(715) 296-9000
Website
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April 24, 2020 – May 3, 2020
Madison Craft Beer Week
Madison Craft Beer Week promotes Madison’s thriving craft beer culture, enhancing beer knowledge and appreciation by sponsoring a ten-day countywide festival that attracts beer tourism, fosters knowledge of our regional brewing heritage, and serves as a showcase for the Madison area’s breweries, restaurants, pubs, caterers, retailers, entertainers, and other businesses with ties to the craft beer community.
Check madcraftbeerweek.com for updates. This year, it runs April 24 – May 3, 2020!
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February 14, 2020 – February 16, 2020
Sky Circus on Ice
Hit the Lakelawn Resort on Delavan Lake for free winter thrills during the 7th Annual Sky Circus on Ice February 14-16, 2020! This three-day spectacle will feature exciting airborne performances by professional kite teams from across North America, plus snow sculpting and ice carving by top regional artists. Kite making workshops and a mix of outdoor activities and games for all ages will round out the fun.
Check out the grand launches scheduled for 11 am both Saturday and Sunday as over 400 kites take flight. Between their synchronized kite performances, experts will provide flying instruction and handy tips to attendees as they harness winter winds with their own kites out on the frozen lake. Activities and displays spread throughout downtown Delavan will also take place.
See the rest of the Schedule of Events below!
You can get to Lake Lawn Resort in Delavan via Highway 50 and 67, just south of I-43. Parking is available at Lake Lawn Resort, at the Lake Lawn Airport, and Downtown Delavan. A complimentary trolley runs Saturday and Sunday between Lake Lawn Resort and the following locations from 9:30am – 5:30pm: Lake Lawn Resort, the Super 8, Downtown Delavan, and the Comfort Suites.
Sky Circus on Ice Address:
Lake Lawn Resort
2400 E. Geneva Street (along Highway 50)
Delavan, WI 53115
(800) 338-5253
Website
Sky Circus on Ice Schedule of Events:
Friday February 14 – Sunday February 16
Snow Sculptures & Ice Carvings @ Lake Lawn Resort and Downtown
Friday – Sunday with final judging to take place on Sunday at 5:00pm
Snow Carving class led by professional carvers @ Lake Lawn Resort
Saturday and Sunday from 1:30pm – 3:00pm
Blizzard Run Snow Slide along Lakefront at Lake Lawn Resort
Friday – Sunday from 10:00am – 4:00pm
Kite-Making Workshop for All Ages in Lake Lawn Room at Lake Lawn Resort
Saturday and Sunday beginning at 10:00am – 4:00pm ongoing for fee of $4.00 per person
Aerial Candy Drop Sponsored by Andes Candies
Saturday and Sunday afternoon during performances
Outdoor Kite Activities Saturday & Sunday at Lake Lawn Resort
Team warm-ups begin at 10:00am
Flying lessons begin at 11:00am and throughout the day
Opening ceremonies begin at 11:30am
Grand Kite Launch Sponsored by Gift of Wings Saturday and Sunday at 12:00pm
Outdoor team performances from 12:00pm – 5:00pm
Kids Mad Dash Sponsored by Lake Geneva Country Meats – First 100 kids to sign up and participate will receive free kites! Lakeside at approximately 2:30pm
Indoor Kite Performances at Lake Lawn Resort
Multiple daily performances by Connor Doran from NBC’s “America’s Got Talent” in our Great Room. Shows last approximately 45-50 minutes, and begin at:
Friday – 8:00pm, Saturday – 1:00pm, 2:00pm, 4:00pm, Sunday 12:30pm, 1:30pm
Windowed hallways along the lakefront inside the resort provide ample views of the performances. Refreshments and beverages will be available.
Overnight packages will be available.
PARKING:
There will be parking available at Lake Lawn Resort, at the Lake Lawn Airport, and Downtown Delavan.
There will be a complimentary trolley running Saturday and Sunday between Lake Lawn Resort and the following locations from 9:30am – 5:30pm:
Lake Lawn Resort
Super 8
Downtown Delavan
Comfort Suites
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January 24, 2020 – February 9, 2020
Racine Zoo Lantern Festival
The Lantern Festival at the Racine Zoo is a spectacular nighttime event, covering the zoo with incredible works of art! From tigers, lions, pandas, exotic flora, and a colossal dragon, Racine Zoo will be transformed into a world of illumination with custom-made lanterns. To top it off, an array of food and drink options will make the Lantern Festival a truly unforgettable event.
The Racine Zoo Lantern Festival continues in 2020 to run on weekends through February 9th.
Lantern Festival Hours:
Fridays – Sundays: 5pm – 8pm (Last entry 8pm. Zoo closes at 9pm.)
Ticket Prices: $5!!
Kids 2 and under are admitted free.
**Children 15 and younger need to be accompanied by a paying adult**. Also, note a $2.50 processing fee may be added if you pay with a credit card at the gate. But still, that’s a great deal!
Racine Zoo Lantern Festival Address:
Racine Zoo
2131 N. Main Street
Racine, WI 53402
(262) 636-9291
Website
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January 17, 2020 – January 19, 2020
Hot Chocolate Fest, Burlington
Burlington is “Chocolate City USA,” so it makes sense for them to have Hot Chocolate Fest in winter, right? This year, Hot Chocolate Fest runs Friday, January 17th through Sunday, January 19th.
The fest includes Pond Hockey and Broom Ball Tournaments on Echo Lake (weather permitting), the Cabin Fever 5K through downtown Burlington, campfire storytelling, a Red Chili contest with area restaurants competing, of course… a “Who has the best hot chocolate??” Contest.
Here’s the schedule Hot Chocolate Fest:
Friday- All at The Veteran’s Terrace
5pm – 9pm Open Skate
6:30pm – 8pm Un-Hich’d (Pop/Country/Rock Duo)
8:30pm – 11pm NEW Piano Guys DUELING PIANOS
Saturday-
10am – Free Family Movie- The Plaza
10am – 9pm Open Skate/Broomball/Bonfires/Smores at Vets
10am – 1pm Hot Chocolate Walk/Tasting Downtown
10am – Noon Snowman Decorating Contest at Vets
10am – 4pm Artisan Market at Mercantile Hall
1pm – 4pm Chili Walk/Tasting Downtown
6:30pm – 8pm Astro Blues Band (Classic Rock and Blues Band) at Vets
8pm – 11pm LUNCH MONEY BULLIES at Vets
Sunday-
7:30 Registration opens for Cabin Fever 5K at Vets
8 – 11am – Pancake Breakfast at the Veterans Terrace -Tickets $10 each. Proceeds will benefit both Driven Students and the new Santa Chalet.
9:00am Cabin Fever 5k begins at Veterans Terrace
Downtown Burlington has a lot of great places to check out, from the Yo-Yo Museum to Fred’s (famous for their burgers), and more. Follow Highways 11, 36, 83, or 142 – they’ll all bring you to Chocolate City USA and Hot Chocolate Fest.
Hot Chocolate Fest Address:
Echo Park
589 Milwaukee Avenue
Burlington, WI 53105
(262) 763-6044
Website
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December 14, 2019
A Pinecrest Christmas
A Pinecrest Christmas brings holiday cheer to Pinecrest Historical Village, a beautiful and attractive 19th century village featuring actual historic – and generally relocated – original Manitowoc County buildings. A Pinecrest Christmas takes place Saturday, December 14th with a ton of events.
Help decorate the tree with the Sorenson family and participate in their holiday traditions. Head on over to the Print Shop to learn the art of printing while making your own holiday cards! In the Two Creeks Town Hall, enjoy decorating Christmas cookies and sipping hot cider during breaks from dancing to live music. While the kids visit Santa in the decorated Visitor Center, adults can shop for unique gifts in the Museum Store. Pinecrest Village is the perfect place to enjoy the simple traditions of the holiday season!
Kids can enlist in the American Junior Red Cross, print their own postcard, view the latest camera technology, and more! Check out the historic buildings too, from an original bank, tavern, and schoolhouse to a town hall – all originals from around Manitowoc County.
Pinecrest Historical Village will be trimmed for the holidays, and wood-fired stoves will beckon with the promise of warmth and good cheer. Be sure to meet their 20th-century Santa and his reindeer for your one-of-a-kind holiday photo from noon to 2 p.m.
Timed Performances for A Pinecrest Christmas, at Niles Church:
Lincoln Singers, Noon – 12:30 pm
Mishicot Soundwave, 1pm – 2pm
Baked goods, hot cider, and hot chocolate will be for sale, in support of youth education programs. The Museum Store will offer historically themed gifts for all ages.
Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for children age 5 to 17, under age 5 is free
To get to Pinecrest Historical Village, follow County JJ west from I-43 and U.S. 10/Highway 42 (Waldo Drive) about six miles. Or follow County S to JJ north from US 151 just east of Valders. And of course, there’s plenty to explore in Manitowoc and Two Rivers, and throughout Manitowoc County any time of year!
Address for A Pinecrest Christmas:
Pinecrest Historical Village
924 Pinecrest Lane
Manitowoc, WI 54220
(920) 684-4445
Website
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December 6, 2019 – December 22, 2019
Timm House Christmas
The Timm House was built in 1873 as a Greek Revival “stick style” home for one of the founders of New Holstein, with an addition competed in 1892. This year’s Timm House Christmas offers a once in a lifetime chance to view a collection of “Oz” related items which have been collected by a local historic society member over a 45-year period. You won’t see this in Kansas, or anywhere else!
As in past Timm House Christmases, the first floor of the restored Victorian residence has undergone a holiday transformation. During the month of December each first floor room is decorated to depict an element of the famous children’s book series and hit 1939 movie that introduced us to the “Land of Oz.”
The 2019 tour theme is “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” celebrating the 80th anniversary of Robert Lewis May’s 1939 story which introduced Rudolph. 2019 is also the 70th anniversary of Gene Autry’s singing rendition of “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer” which was the #1 hit single record during the 1949 Christmas season.
The 2019 Timm House Christmas will feature all of the restored Victorian home’s downstairs rooms decorated with specific Rudolph artifacts and other Christmas decor related to the famous reindeer. Local musicians will also be on hand to play Christmas carols on the Timm family’s 1894 Steinway Box Grand piano. And, as always, there will be something tasty in the Timm House kitchen.
Dates for the self-guided Timm House Christmas tours continue on weekends in December: the 6th-8th, 13th-15th, and the 20th-22nd. Friday hours are 5 to 8 pm. Saturday and Sunday hours are from 11 am to 3 pm. Admission for ages 13 and over is $5.00, age six to 12 is $2.50 and five and under are admitted at no charge.
Admission for adults is $5, children 12 and under are $2.50.
The Timm House is located at 1600 Wisconsin Avenue in New Holstein along Highways 32 and 57. Tours are also available at other times, by appointment, through a call to (920) 898-5746.
A Timm House Christmas Address:
1600 Wisconsin Avenue
New Holstein, WI 53061
(920) 898-5746
Website
Note for outside of Christmastime: adjacent to the Timm House, the Pioneer Corner Museum is open on Saturday & Sunday, 1 – 4 pm from the first weekend in May through the final weekend of October. Admission is $7.00 for a single ticket to either the Timm House or Pioneer Corner Museum. A $10.00 combo ticket provides admission to both the TH and PCM. Admissions purchased with a combo ticket do not have to occur on the same day. Combo ticket for a child, 12 & under, is $5.00.
Special appointment tours are also available by calling (920) 898-5746.
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November 16, 2019
Lake Geneva Beer & Spirits Festival
The 10th Annual Lake Geneva Beer & Spirits Festival takes place Saturday, November 16, 2019 at the Ridge Hotel right along Highway 50! Located just west of downtown Lake Geneva and open to the public, the Lake Geneva Beer & Spirits Festival will feature over 35 craft breweries and distilleries with over 120 different beers, spirits, ciders, and malt beverages for sampling. There will also be sample specialty liquors and foods that pair well with beer, plus music and a photo booth.
The 35+ brewers and distillers come from Wisconsin, Minnesota, Illinois, Indiana, Utah, Kentucky, Michigan, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Missouri, Ohio, and more.
Tickets:
$60 Early Admission (get in at noon instead of 1pm, commemorative souvenir, three exclusive beer tastings not available after 1pm)
$45 General Admission (commemorative tasting glass, unlimited sampling of craft brewery and distillery offerings)
$15 Designated Driver Ticket (unlimited soda, access to festival amenities)
Lake Geneva Beer & Spirits Festival Address:
The Ridge Hotel
W4240 Highway 50
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
(262) 729-4471
Website
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