The 20th annual Beloit International Film Festival (BIFF) runs from March 28th – April 6th, 2025! Run in conjunction with Beloit College, the BIFF draws thousands upon thousands of film lovers, and writers and directors from around the world for viewing, workshops, and more. The “International” in the title isn’t just for show, after all. Much of it is live, some of it will be virtual.
The Beloit International Film Festival celebrates the power of independent film from around the globe. Local residents and visitors from across the nation fill venues ranging in size from 40 to 400 seats to view more than 150 films and meet scores of filmmakers who come from throughout the U.S. and around the world. This unique festival continues to grow and has caught national attention with the New York Times calling BIFF, “a festival with a unique goal of returning the spirit of film festivals’ golden era, when guests talked film all night with directors and writers who were on hand and available for questions.” The New York Times also listed the festival as a unique alternative to other big international film festivals such as Sundance and Tribeca.
BIFF celebrates filmmakers in all genres—features, documentaries, shorts— who enjoy the Beloit setting as much as the attendees do. BIFF promises crowds of interested viewers filling venues, questioning them at the films, and stopping them on the street to talk about their shared passions and projects in independent filmmaking.
Getting to Beloit is easy! Just follow I-43 from Milwaukee, I-90 from Madison or Janesville, or Highway 81 from Monroe and points west. Highway 213 also brings you in from points northwest. Then just follow the roads to the Rock River and the downtown area. Guide signs will help you find the way downtown. And be sure to check out all the amazing new developments in downtown Beloit and throughout the area!
Beloit International Film Festival (BIFF) Address:
Various locations in Beloit, mostly downtown
Beloit, WI 53511
(608) 312-4256 Website
The 2nd annual Balloon Adventure is BACK at Pier 290 in Williams Bay, Thursday, March 6th through Sunday, March 16th, 2025!
This amazing display and show features over 100,000 balloons from 14 balloon artists who craft dazzling displays that are literally “full of hot air.”
This year, the Boat Showroom at PIER 290 in Williams Bay transforms into a magical marine adventure for the 2025 Balloon Adventure. The theme is Voyage Into the Deep Sea! From vibrant coral reefs and playful sea creatures to a whimsical oceanic ambiance, this immersive experience promises an unforgettable voyage into the deep blue.
Dive into a magical underwater world brought to life by these 100,000+ balloons. These are intricately crafted by Sara Meyer, owner of Wisconsin Balloon Decor. Plus, she welcomes in 13 professional balloon artists from around the globe. It’s an unforgettable adventure blending artistry, imagination, and community. It’s all in support of the 531 Fund’s charitable mission.
In addition, a variety of special events take place on select days. They include the Glow Waves Adventure, Rave Under the Wave, the Deep Sea Shuffle, Tales of the Sea (a family movie night), and more. Get the full list here.
Tickets for Balloon Adventure
General Admission tickets are available online here as well as at the door during the event. In advance tickets are $20, $25 at the door. Kids 2 and under are free. Special events have separate pricing.
The Balloon Adventure is a unique and fun stop while in the Lake Geneva area. Check it out at Pier 290 when you’re road tripping on Highway 67! You’ll find Williams Bay just south of Highway 50 and northeast of U.S. 14, just minutes off I-43.
Afterwards – or before if you prefer – check out the nearby Yerkes Observatory. It’s the birthplace of astrophysics, after all. They offer tours on occasion, too! Meanwhile, more adventures and fun await in Lake Geneva, just a few minutes once you head east on Highway 50.
The Balloon Adventure Address:
The Boat Showroom at PIER 290
1 Liechty Drive
Williams Bay, WI 53191 Website
The “Birkie” returns to Hayward, providing year-round, healthy, active lifestyle events for thousands of adventurous spirits of all ages and abilities. Their slogan is SKI . RUN . BIKE . LIVE! It all began in 1973, when 35 determined skiers gathered on the starting line for the American Birkebeiner. Little did they know…they were about to change everything. Today, the Birkie provides year-round, healthy, active lifestyle events for thousands of adventurous spirits of all ages and abilities. In 2025, it’s back the weekend of February 22nd and 23rd!
The official name of this main event is the Slumberland American Birkebeiner Cross-Country Ski Event. It’s North America’s largest and most prestigious X-C ski marathon; 12,000 skiers of all ages, genders and nationalities participate in the 51K Birkebeiner, the 24K Kortelopet, Prince Haakon 13K, the children’s Barnebirkie, Junior Birkie, Elite Sprints, and Family Fun Ski.
The Barkebirkie in Hayward, where people line the streets, big-time.
Other fun events include the Barkie Birkie Skijor and Thursday’s Giant Ski Competition (six people on one pair of skis. What-what?? Find out more here.) The Birkie is a year-round lifestyle choice for thousands of outdoor fitness enthusiasts of all levels. From its signature ski race, the legendary American Birkebeiner–Title Sponsor, Slumberland Furniture–the Birkie has grown into an exciting array of fitness and recreational opportunities. The 107-kilometer Birkie Trail system attracts skiers, runners, bikers, trekkers, and hikers, from casual day-trippers to elite superstars.
The Slumberland American Birkebeiner®:
Spans 50 kilometers from Cable to Hayward for Skaters, and 55K for Classic Skiers
North America’s largest cross-country ski marathon
Attracts over 10,000 Birkie/Korte skiers
Part of the Worldloppet circuit of 20 international ski marathons and part of the American Ski Marathon series of 13 races.
American Birkebeiner (the Birkie) Event Address:
10527 Main Street
Hayward, WI 54843
(715) 634-5025 Website
U.S. 63 and Highways 27 and 77 bring you to Hayward! From U.S. 53 at Trego, follow U.S. 63 north about 25 minutes.
Kenosha Restaurant Week is a nine-day celebration of the city’s and area’s delicious and diverse dining scene. It’s a way to show some LOVE to our locally owned, small restaurants, pubs, eateries, and food shops. It’s also the perfect opportunity to explore new places to dine, return to a favorite place, try something new at your go-to restaurant, or just show your support to our local restaurants.
It runs Saturday, February 22nd through Sunday, March 2nd this year. Nearly 80 restaurants are participating in Kenosha Restaurant Week, offering special menus with special pricing for breakfasts, lunches, dinners, desserts, even snacks. Here’s a video showcasing it all!
Details on participating restaurants and links to their menus are coming soon!
The annual Cedarburg Winter Festival hits the heart of Cedarburg’s ridiculously beautiful and historic downtown along Washington Avenue (Historic Highway 57) Saturday, February 15th & Sunday, February 16th, 2025. With the new decade here, this year’s theme is “Hawaii Five-3-0-1-2”!
Activities run from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, followed by a Saturday Night “Luau” that runs 6pm-9pm, and then 8:30am to 4pm on Sunday. The popular Ice Carving Contest, which runs from 8:30am – 2pm on Saturday, sets the stage along the city’s main street. Multiple 300-pound blocks of ice will be transformed into glistening pieces of Superhero-inspired art by talented ice carvers.
Explore the Vendor Market from 10am to 4pm inside the Community Gym or the Foxtown BBQ during that same time. Enjoy food trucks, parked up and down next to the gym from 10am to 5pm.
A tractor-drawn hay wagon provides a great view, but fest-goers who opt to stroll along Washington Avenue and prefer being outside can test their endurance by enjoying camel rides, egg hunts, sledding, ice skating or watching an old-fashioned dog pull. Bed Races take place Saturday afternoon at 1:30, too!
Sunday will dawn with the popular Pancake Breakfast at the Community Center from 8:30am to 11:00am. There’s a Soup Contest from Noon – 3pm too, if you want things to be… soupier.
On Sunday from 10:00am – 4:00pm, top dogs will compete in the Dog Weight Pull Competition sponsored by the Alaskan Malamute Club of Wisconsin and Fromm Foods.
Check out Granny Impersonator Bingo at the Community Gym Sunday from Noon – 2pm, and the Scavenger Hunt continues on Sunday from 10am – 4pm.
Battle on Bago is the Midwest’s largest ice fishing tournament and the family and fishing event of the year! The 18th annual Battle on Bago (winter version, there’s a summer one in June) takes place on Lake Winnebago February 14-15, 2025. There’s a Friday Fish Fry on the ice – weather permitting – with live music. Saturday’s Ice Fishing Tournament features over $275,000 in cash and prizes!
The Tournament starts Friday, February 14th at 6:00 am; scales will be open from 4pm to 8pm. On Saturday February 23rd, scales will open at 9am; the tournament ends at 2:00pm. Tournament ticket sales END at 6am Friday. You must be in line by 2:00 pm at Menominee Park in Oshkosh. Contestants will be allowed to fish Lake Winnebago and the Upper River Lakes: Lake Poygan, Lake Winneconne, and Lake Butte des Morts. Ice Fishing Permitted ONLY. You can weigh 1 fish per fishing ticket of any of the following species: Walleye (minimum length 14”), panfish (perch, bluegills, crappies), or whitebass. Any other fish not listed here will not be eligible for registration. Fish may be taken with tip-ups or by rod and reel. There is no age requirement on tournament participation.
Along with fishing, check out the heated tent and enjoy a great fish fry and other food from 5-10pm, plus live music from 7:30pm-11pm Friday night. The Raffle will be held on Saturday at 5pm. FREE Admission to all non-fishing events!
You can get tickets here. Fishing tickets are $30. You can also buy tickets are various locales in the Oshkosh area, as well as Fleet Farm stores statewide. You also need a valid fishing license from the Wisconsin DNR (888-936-7463).
More info on tickets, tournaments, entertainment, and more can be found on their website, BattleonBago.org.
You can get to Menominee Park in Oshkosh by hitting I-41 and heading into town or accessing downtown Oshkosh using Highways 21, 26, 44, 76, 91, or U.S. 45. A lot of roads lead to Oshkosh… by gosh.
Battle on Bago Address:
Menominee Park/Millers Bay
Irving Avenue & Hazel Street
Oshkosh, WI 54901
(920) 303-9200 Website
Start:
February 14, 2025
End:
February 15, 2025
Venue:
Menominee Park
Phone:
920-303-9200
Address:
East Irving Avenue at Hazel Street, Oshkosh, WI, 54903, United States
Downtown Sturgeon Bay and the Stone Harbor Resort are the epicenter for the annual Fire & Ice Festival Weekend, happening February 14-15, 2025 right along the waters of the bay in Door County. Enjoy the beauty of winter at an event So Cool, it’s Hot!
Here’s the schedule for Fire & Ice events:
Friday, February 14th
5:30pm-7pm – Candlelight Ski & Snowshoe at Crossroads at Big Creek Nature Preserve.
Kick-off Destination Sturgeon Bay’s Fire & Ice Weekend with a candlelight ski or snowshoe at Crossroads at Big Creek. Trails that wind through Crossroads’ 125-acre Big Creek nature preserve will be lit by luminaries to provide a magical, memorable winter experience. (We will offer a candlelight hike if there’s not enough snow to ski.) Bring your own equipment or borrow ours. We have skis, poles, boots and snowshoes in all sizes from tiny tot to large adult. (First come, first serve as inventory allows.) Our volunteers will be on hand to help get you started. Staggered departures and safety protocols will be followed. Please avoid others when on the trails and step off the trails when necessary to avoid contact. This is a family-friendly event offered at no charge. Freewill donations to Crossroads are accepted and appreciated. No reservations necessary.
Saturday, February 15th
9am-2pm – Snow & Ice Carvings around downtown
Stroll around town to witness novice and professional carvers turn blocks of snow and ice into works of art beginning at 9 am. Businesses will have in-store specials as well as outdoor activities. For the second year in a row, don’t forget to create your own snow-friend during the Community Snowman Build (weather permitting) at Martin Park to build your very own snowman. Carrots, scarves, and other snowman making materials will be provided.
9:30am-5:30pm – Winter Bourbon & Wine Tasting
Madison Avenue Market. Bourbon & Wine Samples, Chili & More!
10am-4pm – Bay Shore Outfitters Ice Castles
Ice Castles, in-store specials, and more
11am -1pm – Boys & Girls Club Fire Demonstration
Bay Shore Outfitters. Learn how to build your own Bonfire with the Door County Boys & Girls Club!
6pm – ? Fire & Ice Gala
The weekend fun continues with our Virtual Fire & Ice Gala event! Your ticket and “Gala Gift” includes dinner for two (don’t worry–we sell single tickets, too!) from Scaturo’s Baking Co. & Cafe and a spectacular Fire & Ice created dessert from Stone Harbor Resort.
9pm – Winter on the Water Fireworks Show
Old Train Spur Bridge (at Sonny’s & Bridge Up Brewing Company)
Be sure to take a trolley around to see all of the sculptures!
For more information about the daytime activities, email vacation@sturgeonbay.net or call (920) 743-6246.
Sturgeon Bay is the seat of Door County, right where the peninsula is split by the waters the city is named after. Highways 42 and 57 bring you in, and there’s plenty else to see while you’re there – and of course, beauty and adventure await further up the peninsula!
Sturgeon Bay Fire & Ice Festival Address:
Downtown Sturgeon Bay & Stone Harbor Resort
107 N. 1st Avenue
Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
(920) 746-0700 Website
Fond du Lac hosts the Sturgeon Spectacular and the Wisconsin State Snow Sculpting Championships Friday-Sunday February 7-9, 2025 on and along the south shores of Lake Winnebago and down Main Street in the heart of Fond du Lac. The Sturgeon’s evolution dates back over 200 million years, haven’t they earned a multi-day celebration? The city at the “bottom of the lake” celebrates these famed “bottom feeders” with a top-drawer weekend of fun for all.
Whether you join the always popular Wisconsin Snow Sculpting Championship, the Outdoor Curling Funspiel, Snow Land family activities, or come out to see the awesome snow & ice sculptures and enjoy one of many great restaurants or shops in downtown Fond du Lac, this festival has something for everyone. And it’s easy to get to via I-41, U.S. 45, U.S. 151, or Highway 23 – they all offer quick and easy access to FDL’s vibrant Main Street downtown and Lakeside Park on the shores of Lake Winnebago!
This quirky and fun take on a winter festival features events on the ice and off the ice. Enjoy Spear the Beer Promotions at venues across town, activities indoors, outdoors and throughout the community. Highlights include a kick-off parade, live musical performances including Boogie and the Yo-yo’z, the hottest party band in Wisconsin, ice and snow carving, comedy shows and the hilarious Guys on Ice show. Whether you love outdoor hockey, kids zones, fat tire bike racing, chili crawls or warming up near a toasty bonfire, you and your family will NOT run out of things to do at this year’s Sturgeon Spectacular.
FREE EVENTS ALL WEEKEND LONG!
Sturgeon Spectacular Schedule of Events
Friday, February 7th
ALL Day Wisconsin Snow Sculpting Championship presented by Grande Cheese @ Downtown, outside Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
1:00 pm – 9:00 pm: Downtown Sturgeon Scavenger Hunt @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
4:30 pm – 6:15 pm: Sturgeon Spectacular Kids Kickoff @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm: Sturgeon Spectacular Kick-off Celebration and Live Music @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
Saturday, February 8th
All day: Biggest Sturgeon Contest presented by Fleet Farm @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
All day: Wisconsin Snow Sculpting Championship presented by Grande Cheese @ Downtown, outside Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
9:00 am – 12:00 pm: 5K Run/Walk & Kids Fun Run presented by SSM Health @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
9:00 am – 9:00 pm: Downtown Sturgeon Scavenger Hunt
9:00 am – 4:00 pm: High School Snow Sculping Competition @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
9:00 am – 4:00 pm: Winter Fun Event – Fond du Lac Children’s Museum @ Fond du Lac Children’s Museum
10:00 am – 2:00 pm: Downtown Fond du Lac Sweet Stroll @ Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership
10:00 am – 5:00 pm: Downtown Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides @ Downtown Fond du Lac
10:00 am – 6:00 pm: Downtown Snow Land @ Downtown Fond du Lac
10:00 am – 4:00 pm: Hammerschlagen Competition @ Fond du Lac Cyclery
10:00 am – 8:00 pm: Spearing and Beering presented by Busch Light @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
11:00 am – 3:00 pm: Downtown Chili Crawl presented by Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership @ Various locations in downtown Fond du Lac
11:00 am – 3:00 pm: Downtown Ice Sculpting Presented by U.S. Bank @ Various Locations, Downtown Fond du Lac
11:00 am – 5:00 pm: Outdoor Winter Fun Activities @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
11:00 am – 4:00 pm: Petting Zoo – Saturday @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
11:00 am – 4:00 pm: Sturgeon Mini Games & Activities @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
11:00 am – 1:00 pm: The Dragon Trainer – Dragon Training Show @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
12:30 pm – 3:00 pm: Paint Your Own Sturgeon Ornament @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm: BRRRINGO!
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Guys on Ice – Saturday Matinee @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm: Guys on Ice – Saturday Evening @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
Sunday, February 9th
All day: Wisconsin Snow Sculpting Championship presented by Grande Cheese @ Downtown, outside Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
9:00 am – 3:00 pm: Downtown Sturgeon Scavenger Hunt
10:00 am – 2:00 pm: Downtown Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides @ Downtown Fond du Lac
10:00 am – 2:00 pm: Downtown Snow Land @ Downtown Fond du Lac
10:00 am – 2:00 pm: Learn to Curl @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
10:30 am – 12:00 pm: Art of the Bloody Mary! @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
11:00 am – 1:00 pm: Petting Zoo – Sunday @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Sturgeon Spectacular Finale with Live Music @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
Sturgeon Spectacular Address:
Lakeside Park, Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts, and locations throughout town
Fond du Lac, WI 54935
(920) 923-3010 Website|
Fond du Lac is easily reached via I-41, U.S. 45, U.S. 151, and Highways 23 and 175.
Hudson bursts with color in the middle of winter with the balloon-filled Hot Air Affair! Enjoy not only hot air balloons, but a HUGE slew of events throughout the weekend, both indoors and out. The Hot Air Affair balloons, of course, are all outside. Twenty featured balloons will launch Saturday and Sunday morning at 8am.
Saturday at 7:35am is the first Balloon Launch, with 20 hot air balloons rising from River Crest Elementary School on County F, south of Hudson. Across the area, you can look to the sky and see the balloons dotting the winter sky. A Pancake Breakfast precedes this at 7am at the Hudson Masonic Lodge on Locust Street in town. A Smoosh Board Competition also takes place at River Crest from 1-2:30pm with four people strapped onto two Smooshboards.
A second balloon launch happens Saturday afternoon at 3pm, also from River Crest Elementary. All day long, River Crest also hosts the Marketplace & Craft Fair, running 8am-8pm Saturday.
Back in town, the St. Croix River Dunk goes on from 1-3pm at Lakefront Park Beach; it’s the Hudson Rotary Club’s premiere winter fundraising event and… it sounds cold.
The Sunday Balloon Launch takes place at 7:35am – yes – from River Crest. All balloon inflations and flights are weather-dependent.
Geocaching fans, the Hot Air Affair has plenty of coordinates for you to uncover, with a series of new hidden geocaches.
Saturday from 11am to 4pm, the Octagon House has walking tours and both the house/museum and the carriage house will be open for tours in return for a small, suggested donation. An After the Glow Dance Party caps off Saturday evening at The Empourium on Rodeo Drive in Hudson with live music and plenty of fun.
Sunday continues with geocaching, the Pop Up Ballon Launch at 7:35am again, and continued deals and events at shops and restaurants. At 12pm, you can check out the Hot Air Balloon Fat Bike Race. It takes place at Lakefront Park in Hudson. It’s a 3K technical sprint along the St. Croix River bottoms and through the park, with “punchy hills and twisty turns.” 3pm is the Balloonist Roundtable.
Hudson is right along the gorgeous St. Croix River on the border with Minnesota, where I-94 and U.S. 12 enter the state. Highway 35 runs through the center of town. The beautiful Willow River State Park is nearby. Check out Hudson whenever you can, but if you can make it for Hot Air Affair, it’s definitely going to be a soaring good time!
The Torchlight Parade lights up the night during Hudson’s Hot Air Affair.
Hot Air Affair Address:
Downtown Hudson as well as River Crest Elementary School
535 County Road F
Hudson, WI 54016
(715) 386-4011 or (800) 657-6775 Website
Cabin fever? Sick of winter? Shake off the winter blues at the Mount Horeb Area Scandihoovian Winter Festival the first weekend in February. Stroll, shop, eat, and play throughout one of Dane County’s most unique and charming villages and the beautiful areas that surround it. Saturday is the big day, but there will be a whole weekend full of indoor/outdoor events tailored for winter enthusiasts.
Scandihoovian Winter Festival Event Schedule:
ALL DAY EVENTS Friday – Sunday The Driftless Historium‘s Downtown Troll Town Scavenger Hunt Learn More
SATURDAY EVENTS
9-5pmKids’ Craft Activity: Make Your Own Viking Helmet*, at the Mount Horeb Public Library 9am Start Scandi-Fatty Fat Tire Bike Race*, at Tyrol BasinLearn More 10am Start Snow Sculptures*, at Evangelical Lutheran Church 10-12pm Barnespill Kids’ Games*, at the Mount Horeb Welcome Center Learn More 10-4pmScandinavian Baking Demonstrations*, at the Driftless Historium Learn More 10-6pmTelsaan Tea‘s Free Tea & Coloring Learn More 10-3pm Center Ground Studio‘s Paint Your Own Gnome: Make and Take Pottery Kits Learn More 11-12pm Sugar Troll’s Activity: Sukkar’s Scandinavian Story and Craft Learn More 12-5pm Botham Vineyards’ Scandihoovian Hike & Picnic with Wine by the FireLearn More 1-3pmScandihoovian Adult Spelling Bee*, at Martinson Hall at Buck & Honey’s Learn More 3-4pm Brix Cider’s Partner Carry Learn More 4-6pmFrozen Turkey Bowling*, at Garfield Park Ice Rink Learn More 4:30-5:30pmCave of the Mounds‘ Guided Black Light Tour Learn More
SUNDAY EVENTS 9-12:30pmMount Horeb Rotary‘s SUPER BRUNCH Learn More 9-12:30pmOptimist Club‘s Silent Auction Learn More 11-4pm Telsaan Tea’s Free Tea & Coloring Learn More
Mount Horeb’s main drag (Highway 78, historic U.S. 18/151) is not only called Main Street, but also the “Trollway.” The U.S. 18/151 freeway brings you to the area, as well as Highway 92 on top of Highway 78. Activities center in this area but are held all over the area, including the nearby Blue Mounds.
Scandihoovian Winter Festival Address:
Mount Horeb & Blue Mounds Area
Mount Horeb, WI 53572
(608) 437-5914 Website
Lake Geneva celebrates winter like no other place. Winterfest is a brouhaha of shopping, dining, music, magic, refreshments, and activities including thrilling helicopter rides over the town and lake. It’s capped off, of course, by the amazing designs and creativity of the newly-christened America’s Snow Sculpting Invitational, formerly the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Competition. Fifteen teams of the most talented snow sculptors and artists from around the country gather to compete for a national title. The entire competition is open to the public, so Winterfest attendees can actually watch the artists at work!
Be here to witness these teams at work during an epic 72-hour competition where their artistry is put to the test in creating remarkable, larger-than-life snow sculptures.
In addition to the snow sculpting competition, you’ll find more wintery fun during Winterfest week, including the 4th annual Downtown Ice Sculpture Walk, Bonfires on the Beach, Fire & Ice Bar, a Cocoa Crawl and many more events, activities and specials around Lake Geneva and the surrounding area. It runs Wednesday through Sunday, January 29th through February 2nd, as part of Winterfest. The walk is just steps away from the snow sculpting competition, with dozens of artfully crafted ice sculptures adorning the front faces of shops, restaurants, and other businesses throughout the Downtown district. Ice sculptures will be installed Friday morning, January 31st and remain on display as long as the cold weather permits!
2025 ICE SCULPTURE LOCATIONS
Barrique Bistro & Wine Bar | 835 Wrigley Drive
Bloomingbyrds | 755 W. Main Street
Brick & Mortar Home | 832 Geneva Street
Brick & Mortar Home and Outdoor | 222 Center Street
Clearwater Outdoor Sports | 744 W. Main Street
Cornerstone Shop & Gallery | 214 Broad Street
Egg Harbor Café | 827 W Main Street
Evr drygds | 719 W. Main Street
Fancy Fair Mall | 830 W Main Street
Geneva Gifts | 150 Broad Street
Haberdapper | 253 Broad Street
Harbor Shores on Lake Geneva | 300 Wrigley Drive
Interstate Insurance Group | 811 Wrigley Drive (Popeye’s)
Kilwins | 772 Main Street
Lake Geneva Lifestyle/Donna Brongiel | 703 Main Street
Lake Geneva Motel | 201 Wrigley Drive (Visitor Info Center)
Lake Geneva Spice Company | 255 Broad Street
Marigold | 725 W Main Street
Overland Sheepskin Co. | 752 W. Main Street
Queen Bee Artisan Market | 830 W. Main Street
Sopra Bistro | 724 Main Street
The Bottle Shop | 617 W. Main Street
The Candle Mercantile | 870 W. Main Street
The Olive Oil Shops | 221 Broad Street
Thumbs Up | 260 Broad Street
Winterfest activities focus on downtown Lake Geneva, which lies right along Highway 50. U.S. 12 and Highway 120 are close to the east and Highway 67 is a few miles to the west near Delavan. It’s easy to get to – and a total blast!
A horse-drawn carriage ride through Lake Geneva is perfect on a winter day.
Lake Geneva Winterfest & America’s Snow Sculpting Invitational Address:
Downtown Lake Geneva/Riviera Park
201 Wrigley Drive
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
(262) 248-4416 Website
Lake Superior Ice Festival is a community-driven festival celebrating the coolest aspects of Superior, Douglas County, and the whole northwestern Wisconsin region. Events include fireworks, ice sculptures, bonfires, family activities, snow slide, snow shoe and fat tire bike demos, Kubb (which you can learn to play), 9-hole Disc Golf, ice racing, and more.
For 2025, the Lake Superior Ice Festival will feature 24 ice sculptures around Superior at various businesses and city landmarks, each resting on a blue base with an accompanying trivia question. Starting Friday, January 24th at 5:00 pm you can go on their website to answer the trivia questions and be entered for a chance to win one of two $250 in Superior Business Improvement District BID Bucks.
Events you can enjoy include:
Friday & Saturday, all day: Orb 365: A Community Collaborative. Ice orbs that will be arranged in the shape of Lake Superior are the heart of this community art project that also encourages good stewardship of the area’s water resources.
Snow Creations at theRichard I. Bong Veterans Historical CenterandFairlawn Mansion. Kids (and adults, too) can craft their own snow creations on the grounds of the Bong Veterans Historical Center (305 Harborview Parkway) or the Fairlawn Mansion (906 E. 2nd Street/U.S. 2/53) and even get spray bottles filled with approved color dye to make their snowy creations brilliant! This is available at the Bong Center from 9am – 5pm Friday or Saturday and at the Fairlawn Mansion on Friday or Saturday from 10am to 4pm. Both venues will also offer half-price tours during this time.
Learn to Play Kubb. The sport of Kubb (pronounced “kooob”) is an old lawn game somewhat like bowling and horseshoes. The object is to knock over wooden blocks (the “kubbs”) with wooden batons you throw at them. Legend has it the Vikings (the ancient explorers, not the Minnesota football team) used to play the game using the skulls and bones of fallen enemies. Today, that’s frowned upon. You can learn how to play and/or watch the tournament!
Disc Golf. On Saturday from 10am to 4pm, the free 9-hole disc golf course will be open for you to play disc golf, see demonstrations, and even get instructions from local pros. It’s presented by the Lake Superior Disc Golf Community.
Midwest Ice Racing Association Races will feature Motorcycles and Quads racing on the ice next to the S.S. Meteor. The action happens Saturday, with gates opening at 7am, practices at 8:30, and racing from 10am – 3:30pm.
Fat Tire Bike Demos will take place Saturday from 10am to 2pm at Barkers Island. You can try out a bike, learn about programs from the College of St. Scholastica’s Outdoor PURSUIT! and Zeitgeist, and help them kick off their Winter Bike Week festivities, which runs through February 5th.
Bonfire Pits at Festival Park from 10am – 5pm Saturday.
The Passport Scavenger Hunt takes place Saturday from 10am to 4pm, where you can win prizes by picking up a passport, participating in activities, and checking them off in the passport.
The Superior Snow Slide offers a place to sled down on a large constructed hill designed specifically for sledding. It’s available Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, but only staffed with sled rentals available on Saturday from 10am to 7pm.
Hay Bale Shuttle on the Island is a free service that will pick you up and drop you off at any of the four stops around the Island: parking area/sledding hill, Festival Park, beach area access and Barker’s Island Inn. Shuttles will be available from 10 am – 6 pm on Saturday.
The Lake Superior Ice Festival Canine King & Queen Contest happens Saturday, presented by the Humane Society of Douglas County. All entries will have been done by the weekend, but you can watch the competition and crowning ceremony, which happens at noon!
Ice Carving in Action happens several times on Saturday, with the creations of these artists from Krystal Kleer Ice Sculptures from Appleton crafting amazing sculptures before your eyes! They’ll stay up around town for as long as Mother Nature will let them.
Saturday, January 25th, Noon to 4pm: Lake Superior Ice Racing Association Stock Car Races. Full-size stock cars will race on Allouez Bay, with rear-wheel and front-wheel cars and small pickup trucks in a series of races starting at noon on Saturday.
The Beer, Cheese, and Beyond Fest – formerly Isthmus Beer & Cheese Fest – is back for year 15 in 2025, bringing a ton of brewers and cheesemakers from around Wisconsin and adjoining states to Madison, where you can meet and mingle with them while sampling hundreds of varieties. This is quite the warm, happy, and fun celebration right in the midst of winter.
The Beer, Cheese, and Beyond Fest welcomes more breweries and cheesemakers than ever, including some good NA options if you’re doing a “dry January”! Great samples, live entertainment, and plenty of camaraderie amongst all the fun at the Alliant Energy Center.
General admission tickets ($65) grant festival entry from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. and include unlimited sampling and an Isthmus Beer & Cheese Fest tasting glass. VID – Very Important Drinker – tickets ($95) allow for a more intimate atmosphere with early access to exclusive tappings & tastings from noon – 2 p.m. Premium Ticket purchases also include an official Isthmus Beer & Cheese Fest t-shirt, a tasting glass, and a meal from their Food Court Cart inside the Alliant Energy Center. Either way, it’s a great afternoon experiencing some of Wisconsin’s best eats and drinks.
Tickets tend to sell out every year, so if you want to go, score them sooner rather than later. Of course, you must be 21 to attend. You can purchase tickets online here.
You’ll find the Alliant Energy Center on Madison’s south side, right off the Beltline (U.S. 12 & U.S. 18) near Rimrock Road and John Nolen Drive. U.S. 14, 51, and 151 and Highways 30 and 113 are all nearby.
Beer, Cheese, and Beyond Fest Address:
Alliant Energy Center
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way
Madison, WI 53713
(608) 251-5627 Website
Waukesha JanBoree is called “Wisconsin’s Premier Winter Festival” and it runs for ten days in 2025. This year, it’s “Channel the Flannel” for the 39th annual JanBoree from Friday, January 17th through Sunday, January 26th.
JanBoree includes over 35 events throughout Waukesha, most of which are free. Events include disc golf, hockey, bocce ball, trivia and ComedySportz performances, a “Cosmic Colors” planetarium show, a variety of games, and more!
Opening Ceremonies are held Friday from 4-9pm at Waukesha’s Lowell Park, complete with fireworks. Details on this and other events below.
Events are held at various locations around the city, including Lowell Park, Minooka Park, the Waukesha Transit Center downtown, North High School, and more. See event pages here for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for specifics and maps.
Waukesha JanBoree Event Details:
Friday events on Opening Night include the Opening Ceremonies, an Ice Sculpting Demo, the Arctic Avalanche, the Carnival of Curiosities, a Fireworks Extravaganza, and the 350’ lighted toboggan run (reservations required.) NEW this year is the Glow Walk, a 1.7-mile walk around Frame Park – complete with a furnished glow stick!
The fireworks extravaganza tops it all off Friday night at 8pm at Lowell Park.
On Saturday, check out trolley rides, a pancake breakfast that you can burn off with the Frosty 5K Walk/Run at Frame Park, geocaching, ice sculpting, Frozen FootGolf & S’Moorball at Moor Downs, Ice Bocce Ball, a penguin egg hunt, and plenty more all day!
Sunday features the “Dinosaurs Alive” Planetarium Show, an ice fishing clinic, horse-drawn wagon rides, or the Alaskan Malamute Dog Pull at Minooka Park, and of course the Arctic Avalanche and family ice skating continues.
During the week, additional activities will include Frozen Footgolf, a snowman building contest, a goose chase scavenger hunt, airport tours, and special movie or planetarium shows.
Get all the details at the main JanBoree website. Waukesha can be a tricky city to navigate, but getting to it is easy. Follow U.S. 18, Highway 59, or Highway 164 to get there. I-94 and Highway 16 also bring you close to the city and all the fun JanBoree events.
Delafield embraces the January cold with DelaFREEZE, their 7th annual season celebration with ice carvings in the streets along with shopping, activities, and more. Happening Saturday, January 11th, 2025 it’s family-friendly, free, and because it’s focused on the streets outside, it’s easy to enjoy some fresh air.
stroll along Delafield and view the amazing works of art put into Ice Carving. This event is family-friendly and free for all ages. About 20 blocks of ice will be placed throughout the city. Each sculpture will be carved from a block of ice during our 10am to 3pm event. Our walking map will walk visitors through the area to see all of the carvings.
Each sculpture will be carved from a 300-pound block of ice that has been frozen in a special process to ensure the blocks are crystal clear. The blocks are ten inches thick, twenty inches wide, and stand forty inches tall on a wooden stand. The live sculpture carving grabs many visitors’ attention! Visitors will be able to see the carver’s tools and watch them work as they transform the massive blocks of ice into an array of masterpieces.
DelaFREEZE activities include:
Interactive Ice Carvings at ClockTower Square to include:
Tic Tac Toe,Ring Toss, Bean Bag Toss, AND Mini Golf.
Free Hot Chocolate at Brunch Delafield
Enjoy Award-Winning Bloody Mary’s at the Revere’s Wells Street Station Ice Bar.
Snow Day at Delafield Public Library
Downtown Delafield also offers a nice variety of boutique shops, restaurants, bars, and a beautiful walking and hiking area along its boardwalk on the Bark River, which winds through the northern edge of the downtown streets. Check out the old Fish Hatchery building while you’re there, too!
DelaFREEZE Schedule of Events:
10:00-3:00: Follow the walking map to enjoy the Ice Sculptures.
10:00-3:00: Ice Skate at the Delafield Sports Complex Ice Skating Rink.(WEATHER PERMITTING)
10:00-1:00: Meet and Greet with H2M2-WI Husky Huddle and Malamute Snow Dogs at Chase Bank parking lot. Come visit the H2M2-WI Snow Dogs and their owners!
3:00 Ice Carving Prizes will be announced at ID Restaurant.
10:00-3:00: Dousman Transportation bus will have hot chocolate and a kids activity.
Delafield is easily accessible just north of I-94 at County C (Exit #285) in the heart of Waukesha County’s Lake Country. Highway 83 is just to the east; Highway 16 runs north of the town and U.S. 18 is a few miles to the south, just past Lapham Peak State Park.
DelaFREEZE Address:
Downtown Delafield
412 Genesee Street
Delafield, WI 53018
(262) 370-3861 Website
The Oshkosh Celebration of Lights is back for its 23rd year! Once again this lively event is taking place at the EAA Grounds at Wittman Regional Airport, where the EAA AirVenture takes place. That puts it along I-41 between the Highway 26 & 44/91 interchanges for easy access – and it’s just as much fun! This year, it runs from Friday, November 29th through Tuesday, December 31st every evening from 5:30pm to 9:00pm.
Peruse a beautiful stretch of illuminated holiday wonder. A 100-foot tree, sculptured scenes, twinkling animated light displays and accompanying holiday music makes this part of Oshkosh magical during the holidays.
Along with walking or driving through , you can enjoy a horse-pulled wagon ride through the grounds on select nights! You can book and pay for a carriage at 920-303-9200; they reserve rides in half-hour increments from 6pm to 8:30pm on the Monday and Wednesday evenings of December 2nd, 4th, 9th, 11th, 16th, and 18th. Reservations are required. Horse-pulled wagon rides hold up to 16 people and run $15 for adults, $10 for kids 4-18, kids under 4 are free provided they sit on a lap. The ticket also includes the drive through the park.
Santa will also be in his Workshop November 29th through December 23rd from 5:30 – 8:30 pm – Christmas Eve he’ll be out with his reindeer delivering presents, of course!
General Admission per carload is $20.00 with $5.00 off with a donation of a sealed hygiene item or non-perishable in-date food item. Food pantries across the area – scheduled by United Way – benefit from Celebration of Lights, so you’re helping for the holidays, too! You can also enter the Beck’s Meats $50 gift card weekly drawing.
Oshkosh Celebration of Lights is open every day, 5:30pm – 9:00pm. I-41, U.S. 45, and Highways 21, 26, 44, 76, and 91 all bring you to Oshkosh!
Oshkosh Celebration of Lights Address:
EAA Grounds
1858 Neunteufel Avenue
Oshkosh, WI 54902
(920) 303-9200 Website
The WPS Garden of Lights brings the magic to the Green Bay Botanical Garden for the 287th year on Thursdays through Sundays November 24th-26th, November 30th-December 1st-3rd, 7th-10th, 14th-17th, 21st-23rd, & 26th-30th.
Check out more than 325,000 twinkling lights. Discover a spectacular array of botanical-themed light displays featuring an enchanted icicle forest, glistening flowers, a dazzling 60-foot walk-through butterfly house, and much more. The show is topped off with northeastern Wisconsin’s tallest and brightest shining tree. Enjoy this stunning winter landscape by foot or take a horse-drawn wagon ride.
Event capacity is limited, so try to pre-buy your tickets online and arrive during the date and time frame of your tickets.
Special features at the WPS Garden of Lights:
Explore a quarter of a million twinkling lights in botanical-themed light displays
Indulge in a tasty treat or beverage from the Winterberry Café (they don’t allow carry-ins)
Enjoy a model train exhibit set up by the G-Gagers Train Club
Warm up by the campfire
Shop for holiday gifts in the WPS Trellis Gift Shop
FREE parking onsite; overflow parking is also free and within walking distance
Other Special Dates & Features:
Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides will be available as in previous years. Seating will be limited, with up to 10 guests per wagon; first come, first served. Tickets for the horse-drawn wagon rides must also be purchased in advance.
Letters to Santa will be available every night before Christmas; just place him in the North Pole mailbox.
Photos with Santa will not be available at the Green Bay Botanical Gardens this year, but appointments can be made at the nearby Ambroslus Studios at 2851 S. Packerland Drive by appointment. Call (920) 494-2294 to make one.
The WPS Trellis Gift Shop will be open every event night from 4:30 pm to 9 pm. You can shop for holiday gifts, home décor, locally handcrafted art and unique gardening items.
Dated and timed entry tickets must be purchased in advance to ensure proper capacity and parking availability. Parking is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
You’ll find the WPS Garden of Lights inside Green Bay Botanical Garden along Larsen Road, just off Packerland Drive. It’s about a mile west of I-41, between Highway 54 and Highways 29/32. I-43, U.S. 141, and Highways 57 and 172 all bring you to Green Bay, too.
WPS Garden of Lights Address:
Green Bay Botanical Garden
2600 Larsen Road
Green Bay, WI 54303
(920) 490-9457 Website
Sheboygan hosts the 13th annual Making Spirits Bright Holiday Light Show from Friday, November 29th through December 31st, except for Christmas Eve, December 24th.
Making Spirits Bright takes place at Evergreen Park in Sheboygan. You can enjoy a 1.1 mile route through the park, enjoying hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights in displays choreographed to music aired on the dedicated 89.1FM radio setting. The show will be open from 5:00 to 9:00 PM every day from November 29th through New Year’s Eve, except for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Across the street you can visit the Quarryview Center for entertainment, wreath raffles, concessions, a visit with Santa and the opportunity to board a trolley to take you through the park. The fun at Quarryview Center is available Fridays & Saturdays from 5-9pm through December 23rd.
Admission to Making Spirits Bright is FREE! However, food pantry donations are requested. Items will be delivered to the Sheboygan County Food Bank each night and their volunteers disburse to food pantries throughout the county. With the significant increase in people needing help with basic necessities, the event has historically brought in thousands of pounds of donated items each year.
Evergreen Park is just off Highway 42 in Sheboygan, just southeast of its interchange with I-43 and a few miles north of the junctions with Highways 23 and 28. Here’s a map of the driving path, right off Highway 42 at Evergreen Park on the north side of Sheboygan (.pdf).
Making Spirits Bright Holiday Light Show Address:
Evergreen Park/Quarryview Center
3100 Calumet Drive (Highway 42)
Sheboygan, WI 53083 Website Facebook Page
The Lincoln Park Zoo is a terrific free zoo in the “Coolest Coast” city of Manitowoc. Every holiday season, Lights In Lincoln Park dazzles with a “twinkly bright drive-thru wonder” from November 29th through December 7th on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, and then resuming for EVERY evening from December 12th through the 29th, 2024.
Along with beautiful lights on trees, trellises and more, enjoy over 70 wild animal light displays, many with animated characters. Among them is animated elephant, a wood duck, a standing polar bear, an animated wolf, and whispering pine tree… just to give you an idea of what you’ll get to enjoy. This is the 12th annual Lights in Lincoln Park and they manage to add new features every year.
Admission is $5 donation per car and proceeds go to benefit zoo educational programs and enhancements to the Lincoln Park Zoo. You can enter from Waldo/Lincoln Boulevard, right where U.S. 10 and Highway 42 meet. It’s just north of downtown Manitowoc, about five minutes east of I-43, following the U.S. 10 (Waldo Blvd.) exit. It’s just west of Highway 42/Memorial Drive, which is a beautiful drive along the shores of Lake Michigan between Manitowoc and Two Rivers.
Lights In Lincoln Park Hours:
November 29th – December 7th: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm- Thursday, Friday and Saturday
December 12th – December 29th: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm- Every Night You can visit Santa on Cabin 1 on Friday nights: November 29th and December 6th, 13th, and 20th.
Lights in Lincoln Park Family Night Fun Walks are Tuesday, November 26th, Wednesday, December 4th, and Monday, December 30th, 2024 from 5:00 pm- 8:00 pm, featuring a fun walk through the Lincoln Park Lights. It’s a great way for the whole family to enjoy the lights and get some steps in! Admission for the Family Night Fun Walk is $5/person or $10/family.
Lights In Lincoln Park Address:
Lincoln Park Zoo
900 Quay Street (just off Highway 42, blocks from U.S. 10)
Manitowoc, WI 54220 Website
Sam’s Christmas Village & Light Tour is a HUGE show that claims over 16 MILLION LIGHTS – so it’s probably visible from space. It runs November 29th, 2024 – January 1st, 2025. Sam’s, located right along the Apple River in Somerset, features a 1/2-mile walk-through light tour, plenty of woods with trees adorned with holiday lights, a 500-foot light tunnel, a 50-foot animated tree, and fun for all ages across 40+ acres of holiday beauty. Sam’s also features a European-style Christmas market with plenty of ideas for holiday gifts, treats, and a lot more.
Sam’s Christmas Village & Light Tour is open seven days a week. On select Mondays and Tuesdays, it’s Drive-Thru only; Wednesdays through Sundays, it’s a walk-through. Hours are 5 pm – 9 pm Sundays through Thursdays, 5 pm – 10 pm Fridays and Saturdays.
Tickets range from $15 for adults for the drive-thru $22 for the walk-thru. Kids ages 4-10 are $19; it’s free for kids 3 and younger. Military IDs get your 50% off admission as well. Parking is $10 cash on walk-through nights. You can also buy multi-day passes and there are special evening promotions on occasion, get more details here.
For even more adventure, Sam’s offers S’more Cabins, which you can book starting at $129 and enjoy the heated cabin, a S’more kit for up to 8 people, a campfire starter kit, firewood, and even a special visit from Santa. They have 21 cabins to choose from, and you can book them on drive-thru nights.
You’ll find Sam’s Christmas Village & Light Tour just off Highways 35 and 64 in Somerset, Wisconsin, along the Apple River in St. Croix County.
Calendar of Events
Calendar of Events › Festival
March 28, 2025 – April 6, 2025
Beloit International Film Festival
The 20th annual Beloit International Film Festival (BIFF) runs from March 28th – April 6th, 2025! Run in conjunction with Beloit College, the BIFF draws thousands upon thousands of film lovers, and writers and directors from around the world for viewing, workshops, and more. The “International” in the title isn’t just for show, after all. Much of it is live, some of it will be virtual.
The Beloit International Film Festival celebrates the power of independent film from around the globe. Local residents and visitors from across the nation fill venues ranging in size from 40 to 400 seats to view more than 150 films and meet scores of filmmakers who come from throughout the U.S. and around the world. This unique festival continues to grow and has caught national attention with the New York Times calling BIFF, “a festival with a unique goal of returning the spirit of film festivals’ golden era, when guests talked film all night with directors and writers who were on hand and available for questions.” The New York Times also listed the festival as a unique alternative to other big international film festivals such as Sundance and Tribeca.
BIFF celebrates filmmakers in all genres—features, documentaries, shorts— who enjoy the Beloit setting as much as the attendees do. BIFF promises crowds of interested viewers filling venues, questioning them at the films, and stopping them on the street to talk about their shared passions and projects in independent filmmaking.
Get the Beloit International Film Festival Film Lineup here
Getting to Beloit is easy! Just follow I-43 from Milwaukee, I-90 from Madison or Janesville, or Highway 81 from Monroe and points west. Highway 213 also brings you in from points northwest. Then just follow the roads to the Rock River and the downtown area. Guide signs will help you find the way downtown. And be sure to check out all the amazing new developments in downtown Beloit and throughout the area!
Beloit International Film Festival (BIFF) Address:
Various locations in Beloit, mostly downtown
Beloit, WI 53511
(608) 312-4256
Website
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March 6, 2025 – March 16, 2025
The Balloon Adventure
The 2nd annual Balloon Adventure is BACK at Pier 290 in Williams Bay, Thursday, March 6th through Sunday, March 16th, 2025!
This year, the Boat Showroom at PIER 290 in Williams Bay transforms into a magical marine adventure for the 2025 Balloon Adventure. The theme is Voyage Into the Deep Sea! From vibrant coral reefs and playful sea creatures to a whimsical oceanic ambiance, this immersive experience promises an unforgettable voyage into the deep blue.
Dive into a magical underwater world brought to life by these 100,000+ balloons. These are intricately crafted by Sara Meyer, owner of Wisconsin Balloon Decor. Plus, she welcomes in 13 professional balloon artists from around the globe. It’s an unforgettable adventure blending artistry, imagination, and community. It’s all in support of the 531 Fund’s charitable mission.
In addition, a variety of special events take place on select days. They include the Glow Waves Adventure, Rave Under the Wave, the Deep Sea Shuffle, Tales of the Sea (a family movie night), and more. Get the full list here.
Tickets for Balloon Adventure
General Admission tickets are available online here as well as at the door during the event. In advance tickets are $20, $25 at the door. Kids 2 and under are free. Special events have separate pricing.
The Balloon Adventure is a unique and fun stop while in the Lake Geneva area. Check it out at Pier 290 when you’re road tripping on Highway 67! You’ll find Williams Bay just south of Highway 50 and northeast of U.S. 14, just minutes off I-43.
Afterwards – or before if you prefer – check out the nearby Yerkes Observatory. It’s the birthplace of astrophysics, after all. They offer tours on occasion, too! Meanwhile, more adventures and fun await in Lake Geneva, just a few minutes once you head east on Highway 50.
The Balloon Adventure Address:
The Boat Showroom at PIER 290
1 Liechty Drive
Williams Bay, WI 53191
Website
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February 22, 2025 – February 23, 2025
Slumberland American Birkebeiner
The “Birkie” returns to Hayward, providing year-round, healthy, active lifestyle events for thousands of adventurous spirits of all ages and abilities. Their slogan is SKI . RUN . BIKE . LIVE! It all began in 1973, when 35 determined skiers gathered on the starting line for the American Birkebeiner. Little did they know…they were about to change everything. Today, the Birkie provides year-round, healthy, active lifestyle events for thousands of adventurous spirits of all ages and abilities. In 2025, it’s back the weekend of February 22nd and 23rd!
The official name of this main event is the Slumberland American Birkebeiner Cross-Country Ski Event. It’s North America’s largest and most prestigious X-C ski marathon; 12,000 skiers of all ages, genders and nationalities participate in the 51K Birkebeiner, the 24K Kortelopet, Prince Haakon 13K, the children’s Barnebirkie, Junior Birkie, Elite Sprints, and Family Fun Ski.
Other fun events include the Barkie Birkie Skijor and Thursday’s Giant Ski Competition (six people on one pair of skis. What-what?? Find out more here.) The Birkie is a year-round lifestyle choice for thousands of outdoor fitness enthusiasts of all levels. From its signature ski race, the legendary American Birkebeiner–Title Sponsor, Slumberland Furniture–the Birkie has grown into an exciting array of fitness and recreational opportunities. The 107-kilometer Birkie Trail system attracts skiers, runners, bikers, trekkers, and hikers, from casual day-trippers to elite superstars.
The Slumberland American Birkebeiner®:
American Birkebeiner (the Birkie) Event Address:
10527 Main Street
Hayward, WI 54843
(715) 634-5025
Website
U.S. 63 and Highways 27 and 77 bring you to Hayward! From U.S. 53 at Trego, follow U.S. 63 north about 25 minutes.
Check out a recent recap here!
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February 22, 2025 – March 2, 2025
Kenosha Restaurant Week
It runs Saturday, February 22nd through Sunday, March 2nd this year. Nearly 80 restaurants are participating in Kenosha Restaurant Week, offering special menus with special pricing for breakfasts, lunches, dinners, desserts, even snacks. Here’s a video showcasing it all!
Details on participating restaurants and links to their menus are coming soon!
Kenosha Restaurant Week Locations (coming soon)
Kenosha Restaurant Week Website
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February 15, 2025 – February 16, 2025
Cedarburg Winter Festival
Activities run from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, followed by a Saturday Night “Luau” that runs 6pm-9pm, and then 8:30am to 4pm on Sunday. The popular Ice Carving Contest, which runs from 8:30am – 2pm on Saturday, sets the stage along the city’s main street. Multiple 300-pound blocks of ice will be transformed into glistening pieces of Superhero-inspired art by talented ice carvers.
Explore the Vendor Market from 10am to 4pm inside the Community Gym or the Foxtown BBQ during that same time. Enjoy food trucks, parked up and down next to the gym from 10am to 5pm.
A tractor-drawn hay wagon provides a great view, but fest-goers who opt to stroll along Washington Avenue and prefer being outside can test their endurance by enjoying camel rides, egg hunts, sledding, ice skating or watching an old-fashioned dog pull. Bed Races take place Saturday afternoon at 1:30, too!
Sunday will dawn with the popular Pancake Breakfast at the Community Center from 8:30am to 11:00am. There’s a Soup Contest from Noon – 3pm too, if you want things to be… soupier.
On Sunday from 10:00am – 4:00pm, top dogs will compete in the Dog Weight Pull Competition sponsored by the Alaskan Malamute Club of Wisconsin and Fromm Foods.
Check out Granny Impersonator Bingo at the Community Gym Sunday from Noon – 2pm, and the Scavenger Hunt continues on Sunday from 10am – 4pm.
Plenty more events are happening at the Cedarburg Winter Festival, check their site for the full lineup!
Cedarburg Winter Festival Address:
Downtown Cedarburg
Washington Avenue
Cedarburg, WI 53012
(262) 377-9620
Website
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February 14, 2025 – February 15, 2025
Battle on Bago
The Tournament starts Friday, February 14th at 6:00 am; scales will be open from 4pm to 8pm. On Saturday February 23rd, scales will open at 9am; the tournament ends at 2:00pm. Tournament ticket sales END at 6am Friday. You must be in line by 2:00 pm at Menominee Park in Oshkosh. Contestants will be allowed to fish Lake Winnebago and the Upper River Lakes: Lake Poygan, Lake Winneconne, and Lake Butte des Morts. Ice Fishing Permitted ONLY. You can weigh 1 fish per fishing ticket of any of the following species: Walleye (minimum length 14”), panfish (perch, bluegills, crappies), or whitebass. Any other fish not listed here will not be eligible for registration. Fish may be taken with tip-ups or by rod and reel. There is no age requirement on tournament participation.
Along with fishing, check out the heated tent and enjoy a great fish fry and other food from 5-10pm, plus live music from 7:30pm-11pm Friday night. The Raffle will be held on Saturday at 5pm. FREE Admission to all non-fishing events!
You can get tickets here. Fishing tickets are $30. You can also buy tickets are various locales in the Oshkosh area, as well as Fleet Farm stores statewide. You also need a valid fishing license from the Wisconsin DNR (888-936-7463).
More info on tickets, tournaments, entertainment, and more can be found on their website, BattleonBago.org.
You can get to Menominee Park in Oshkosh by hitting I-41 and heading into town or accessing downtown Oshkosh using Highways 21, 26, 44, 76, 91, or U.S. 45. A lot of roads lead to Oshkosh… by gosh.
Battle on Bago Address:
Menominee Park/Millers Bay
Irving Avenue & Hazel Street
Oshkosh, WI 54901
(920) 303-9200
Website
February 14, 2025 – February 15, 2025
Fire & Ice Festival, Sturgeon Bay
Here’s the schedule for Fire & Ice events:
Friday, February 14th
5:30pm-7pm – Candlelight Ski & Snowshoe at Crossroads at Big Creek Nature Preserve.
Kick-off Destination Sturgeon Bay’s Fire & Ice Weekend with a candlelight ski or snowshoe at Crossroads at Big Creek. Trails that wind through Crossroads’ 125-acre Big Creek nature preserve will be lit by luminaries to provide a magical, memorable winter experience. (We will offer a candlelight hike if there’s not enough snow to ski.) Bring your own equipment or borrow ours. We have skis, poles, boots and snowshoes in all sizes from tiny tot to large adult. (First come, first serve as inventory allows.) Our volunteers will be on hand to help get you started. Staggered departures and safety protocols will be followed. Please avoid others when on the trails and step off the trails when necessary to avoid contact. This is a family-friendly event offered at no charge. Freewill donations to Crossroads are accepted and appreciated. No reservations necessary.
Saturday, February 15th
9am-2pm – Snow & Ice Carvings around downtown
Stroll around town to witness novice and professional carvers turn blocks of snow and ice into works of art beginning at 9 am. Businesses will have in-store specials as well as outdoor activities. For the second year in a row, don’t forget to create your own snow-friend during the Community Snowman Build (weather permitting) at Martin Park to build your very own snowman. Carrots, scarves, and other snowman making materials will be provided.
9:30am-5:30pm – Winter Bourbon & Wine Tasting
Madison Avenue Market. Bourbon & Wine Samples, Chili & More!
10am-4pm – Bay Shore Outfitters Ice Castles
Ice Castles, in-store specials, and more
11am -1pm – Boys & Girls Club Fire Demonstration
Bay Shore Outfitters. Learn how to build your own Bonfire with the Door County Boys & Girls Club!
6pm – ? Fire & Ice Gala
The weekend fun continues with our Virtual Fire & Ice Gala event! Your ticket and “Gala Gift” includes dinner for two (don’t worry–we sell single tickets, too!) from Scaturo’s Baking Co. & Cafe and a spectacular Fire & Ice created dessert from Stone Harbor Resort.
9pm – Winter on the Water Fireworks Show
Old Train Spur Bridge (at Sonny’s & Bridge Up Brewing Company)
Be sure to take a trolley around to see all of the sculptures!
For more information about the daytime activities, email vacation@sturgeonbay.net or call (920) 743-6246.
Sturgeon Bay is the seat of Door County, right where the peninsula is split by the waters the city is named after. Highways 42 and 57 bring you in, and there’s plenty else to see while you’re there – and of course, beauty and adventure await further up the peninsula!
Sturgeon Bay Fire & Ice Festival Address:
Downtown Sturgeon Bay & Stone Harbor Resort
107 N. 1st Avenue
Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235
(920) 746-0700
Website
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February 7, 2025 – February 9, 2025
Sturgeon Spectacular
Fond du Lac hosts the Sturgeon Spectacular and the Wisconsin State Snow Sculpting Championships Friday-Sunday February 7-9, 2025 on and along the south shores of Lake Winnebago and down Main Street in the heart of Fond du Lac. The Sturgeon’s evolution dates back over 200 million years, haven’t they earned a multi-day celebration? The city at the “bottom of the lake” celebrates these famed “bottom feeders” with a top-drawer weekend of fun for all.
Whether you join the always popular Wisconsin Snow Sculpting Championship, the Outdoor Curling Funspiel, Snow Land family activities, or come out to see the awesome snow & ice sculptures and enjoy one of many great restaurants or shops in downtown Fond du Lac, this festival has something for everyone. And it’s easy to get to via I-41, U.S. 45, U.S. 151, or Highway 23 – they all offer quick and easy access to FDL’s vibrant Main Street downtown and Lakeside Park on the shores of Lake Winnebago!
This quirky and fun take on a winter festival features events on the ice and off the ice. Enjoy Spear the Beer Promotions at venues across town, activities indoors, outdoors and throughout the community. Highlights include a kick-off parade, live musical performances including Boogie and the Yo-yo’z, the hottest party band in Wisconsin, ice and snow carving, comedy shows and the hilarious Guys on Ice show. Whether you love outdoor hockey, kids zones, fat tire bike racing, chili crawls or warming up near a toasty bonfire, you and your family will NOT run out of things to do at this year’s Sturgeon Spectacular.
FREE EVENTS ALL WEEKEND LONG!
Sturgeon Spectacular Schedule of Events
Friday, February 7th
ALL Day Wisconsin Snow Sculpting Championship presented by Grande Cheese @ Downtown, outside Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
1:00 pm – 9:00 pm: Downtown Sturgeon Scavenger Hunt @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
4:30 pm – 6:15 pm: Sturgeon Spectacular Kids Kickoff @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm: Sturgeon Spectacular Kick-off Celebration and Live Music @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
Saturday, February 8th
All day: Biggest Sturgeon Contest presented by Fleet Farm @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
All day: Wisconsin Snow Sculpting Championship presented by Grande Cheese @ Downtown, outside Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
9:00 am – 12:00 pm: 5K Run/Walk & Kids Fun Run presented by SSM Health @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
9:00 am – 9:00 pm: Downtown Sturgeon Scavenger Hunt
9:00 am – 4:00 pm: High School Snow Sculping Competition @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
9:00 am – 4:00 pm: Winter Fun Event – Fond du Lac Children’s Museum @ Fond du Lac Children’s Museum
10:00 am – 2:00 pm: Downtown Fond du Lac Sweet Stroll @ Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership
10:00 am – 5:00 pm: Downtown Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides @ Downtown Fond du Lac
10:00 am – 6:00 pm: Downtown Snow Land @ Downtown Fond du Lac
10:00 am – 4:00 pm: Hammerschlagen Competition @ Fond du Lac Cyclery
10:00 am – 8:00 pm: Spearing and Beering presented by Busch Light @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
11:00 am – 3:00 pm: Downtown Chili Crawl presented by Downtown Fond du Lac Partnership @ Various locations in downtown Fond du Lac
11:00 am – 3:00 pm: Downtown Ice Sculpting Presented by U.S. Bank @ Various Locations, Downtown Fond du Lac
11:00 am – 5:00 pm: Outdoor Winter Fun Activities @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
11:00 am – 4:00 pm: Petting Zoo – Saturday @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
11:00 am – 4:00 pm: Sturgeon Mini Games & Activities @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
11:00 am – 1:00 pm: The Dragon Trainer – Dragon Training Show @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
12:30 pm – 3:00 pm: Paint Your Own Sturgeon Ornament @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
2:00 pm – 5:00 pm: BRRRINGO!
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Guys on Ice – Saturday Matinee @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
7:00 pm – 9:00 pm: Guys on Ice – Saturday Evening @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
Sunday, February 9th
All day: Wisconsin Snow Sculpting Championship presented by Grande Cheese @ Downtown, outside Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
9:00 am – 3:00 pm: Downtown Sturgeon Scavenger Hunt
10:00 am – 2:00 pm: Downtown Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides @ Downtown Fond du Lac
10:00 am – 2:00 pm: Downtown Snow Land @ Downtown Fond du Lac
10:00 am – 2:00 pm: Learn to Curl @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
10:30 am – 12:00 pm: Art of the Bloody Mary! @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
11:00 am – 1:00 pm: Petting Zoo – Sunday @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
12:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Sturgeon Spectacular Finale with Live Music @ Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts
Sturgeon Spectacular Address:
Lakeside Park, Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts, and locations throughout town
Fond du Lac, WI 54935
(920) 923-3010
Website|
Fond du Lac is easily reached via I-41, U.S. 45, U.S. 151, and Highways 23 and 175.
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February 7, 2025 – February 9, 2025
Hudson Hot Air Affair
Hudson bursts with color in the middle of winter with the balloon-filled Hot Air Affair! Enjoy not only hot air balloons, but a HUGE slew of events throughout the weekend, both indoors and out. The Hot Air Affair balloons, of course, are all outside. Twenty featured balloons will launch Saturday and Sunday morning at 8am.
Saturday at 7:35am is the first Balloon Launch, with 20 hot air balloons rising from River Crest Elementary School on County F, south of Hudson. Across the area, you can look to the sky and see the balloons dotting the winter sky. A Pancake Breakfast precedes this at 7am at the Hudson Masonic Lodge on Locust Street in town. A Smoosh Board Competition also takes place at River Crest from 1-2:30pm with four people strapped onto two Smooshboards.
A second balloon launch happens Saturday afternoon at 3pm, also from River Crest Elementary. All day long, River Crest also hosts the Marketplace & Craft Fair, running 8am-8pm Saturday.
Back in town, the St. Croix River Dunk goes on from 1-3pm at Lakefront Park Beach; it’s the Hudson Rotary Club’s premiere winter fundraising event and… it sounds cold.
The Sunday Balloon Launch takes place at 7:35am – yes – from River Crest. All balloon inflations and flights are weather-dependent.
Geocaching fans, the Hot Air Affair has plenty of coordinates for you to uncover, with a series of new hidden geocaches.
Saturday from Noon to 3pm is the Bean Bag Tournament at Hop & Barrel Brewing Company on 310 2nd Street, which also happens to be Highway 35.
Saturday from 11am to 4pm, the Octagon House has walking tours and both the house/museum and the carriage house will be open for tours in return for a small, suggested donation. An After the Glow Dance Party caps off Saturday evening at The Empourium on Rodeo Drive in Hudson with live music and plenty of fun.
Sunday continues with geocaching, the Pop Up Ballon Launch at 7:35am again, and continued deals and events at shops and restaurants. At 12pm, you can check out the Hot Air Balloon Fat Bike Race. It takes place at Lakefront Park in Hudson. It’s a 3K technical sprint along the St. Croix River bottoms and through the park, with “punchy hills and twisty turns.” 3pm is the Balloonist Roundtable.
Hudson is right along the gorgeous St. Croix River on the border with Minnesota, where I-94 and U.S. 12 enter the state. Highway 35 runs through the center of town. The beautiful Willow River State Park is nearby. Check out Hudson whenever you can, but if you can make it for Hot Air Affair, it’s definitely going to be a soaring good time!
Hot Air Affair Address:
Downtown Hudson as well as River Crest Elementary School
535 County Road F
Hudson, WI 54016
(715) 386-4011 or (800) 657-6775
Website
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February 7, 2025 – February 9, 2025
Scandihoovian Winter Festival
Cabin fever? Sick of winter? Shake off the winter blues at the Mount Horeb Area Scandihoovian Winter Festival the first weekend in February. Stroll, shop, eat, and play throughout one of Dane County’s most unique and charming villages and the beautiful areas that surround it. Saturday is the big day, but there will be a whole weekend full of indoor/outdoor events tailored for winter enthusiasts.
Scandihoovian Winter Festival Event Schedule:
ALL DAY EVENTS
Friday – Sunday The Driftless Historium‘s Downtown Troll Town Scavenger Hunt Learn More
SATURDAY EVENTS
9-5pm Kids’ Craft Activity: Make Your Own Viking Helmet*, at the Mount Horeb Public Library
9am Start Scandi-Fatty Fat Tire Bike Race*, at Tyrol Basin Learn More
10am Start Snow Sculptures*, at Evangelical Lutheran Church
10-12pm Barnespill Kids’ Games*, at the Mount Horeb Welcome Center Learn More
10-4pm Scandinavian Baking Demonstrations*, at the Driftless Historium Learn More
10-6pm Telsaan Tea‘s Free Tea & Coloring Learn More
10-3pm Center Ground Studio‘s Paint Your Own Gnome: Make and Take Pottery Kits Learn More
11-12pm Sugar Troll’s Activity: Sukkar’s Scandinavian Story and Craft Learn More
12-5pm Botham Vineyards’ Scandihoovian Hike & Picnic with Wine by the Fire Learn More
1-3pm Scandihoovian Adult Spelling Bee*, at Martinson Hall at Buck & Honey’s Learn More
3-4pm Brix Cider’s Partner Carry Learn More
4-6pm Frozen Turkey Bowling*, at Garfield Park Ice Rink Learn More
4:30-5:30pm Cave of the Mounds‘ Guided Black Light Tour Learn More
SUNDAY EVENTS
9-12:30pm Mount Horeb Rotary‘s SUPER BRUNCH Learn More
9-12:30pm Optimist Club‘s Silent Auction Learn More
11-4pm Telsaan Tea’s Free Tea & Coloring Learn More
Mount Horeb’s main drag (Highway 78, historic U.S. 18/151) is not only called Main Street, but also the “Trollway.” The U.S. 18/151 freeway brings you to the area, as well as Highway 92 on top of Highway 78. Activities center in this area but are held all over the area, including the nearby Blue Mounds.
Scandihoovian Winter Festival Address:
Mount Horeb & Blue Mounds Area
Mount Horeb, WI 53572
(608) 437-5914
Website
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January 29, 2025 – February 2, 2025
Lake Geneva Winterfest & America’s Snow Sculpting Invitational
L
ake Geneva celebrates winter like no other place. Winterfest is a brouhaha of shopping, dining, music, magic, refreshments, and activities including thrilling helicopter rides over the town and lake. It’s capped off, of course, by the amazing designs and creativity of the newly-christened America’s Snow Sculpting Invitational, formerly the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Competition. Fifteen teams of the most talented snow sculptors and artists from around the country gather to compete for a national title. The entire competition is open to the public, so Winterfest attendees can actually watch the artists at work!
Be here to witness these teams at work during an epic 72-hour competition where their artistry is put to the test in creating remarkable, larger-than-life snow sculptures.
2025 TEAMS
• Block #1: Team Minnesota 2: House of Thune
• Block #2: Team Illinois: The Band of Misfit Boys
• Block #3: Team Florida: Flozen
• Block #4: Team Vermont 1
• Block #5: Team Wisconsin 1: Snowblind
• Block #6: Team Washington: WA Awesome
• Block #7: Team Wisconsin 3: Sculptora Borealis
• Block #8: Team Vermont 2: The Pour Saps
• Block #9: Team Colorado: The Enchanted Forest
• Block #10: Team Minnesota 1: The KWE
• Block #11: Team New Hampshire: Granite State Snow Carvers
• Block #12: Team North Dakota: North Dakota Sculpting Team
• Block #13: Team Alaska: AK Department of Snow
• Block #14: Team Wisconsin 2: Team USA
• Block #15: Team Michigan: The Three Amigos
In addition to the snow sculpting competition, you’ll find more wintery fun during Winterfest week, including the 4th annual Downtown Ice Sculpture Walk, Bonfires on the Beach, Fire & Ice Bar, a Cocoa Crawl and many more events, activities and specials around Lake Geneva and the surrounding area. It runs Wednesday through Sunday, January 29th through February 2nd, as part of Winterfest. The walk is just steps away from the snow sculpting competition, with dozens of artfully crafted ice sculptures adorning the front faces of shops, restaurants, and other businesses throughout the Downtown district. Ice sculptures will be installed Friday morning, January 31st and remain on display as long as the cold weather permits!
Barrique Bistro & Wine Bar | 835 Wrigley Drive
Bloomingbyrds | 755 W. Main Street
Brick & Mortar Home | 832 Geneva Street
Brick & Mortar Home and Outdoor | 222 Center Street
Clearwater Outdoor Sports | 744 W. Main Street
Cornerstone Shop & Gallery | 214 Broad Street
Egg Harbor Café | 827 W Main Street
Evr drygds | 719 W. Main Street
Fancy Fair Mall | 830 W Main Street
Geneva Gifts | 150 Broad Street
Haberdapper | 253 Broad Street
Harbor Shores on Lake Geneva | 300 Wrigley Drive
Interstate Insurance Group | 811 Wrigley Drive (Popeye’s)
Kilwins | 772 Main Street
Lake Geneva Lifestyle/Donna Brongiel | 703 Main Street
Lake Geneva Motel | 201 Wrigley Drive (Visitor Info Center)
Lake Geneva Spice Company | 255 Broad Street
Marigold | 725 W Main Street
Overland Sheepskin Co. | 752 W. Main Street
Queen Bee Artisan Market | 830 W. Main Street
Sopra Bistro | 724 Main Street
The Bottle Shop | 617 W. Main Street
The Candle Mercantile | 870 W. Main Street
The Olive Oil Shops | 221 Broad Street
Thumbs Up | 260 Broad Street
Winterfest activities focus on downtown Lake Geneva, which lies right along Highway 50. U.S. 12 and Highway 120 are close to the east and Highway 67 is a few miles to the west near Delavan. It’s easy to get to – and a total blast!
Lake Geneva Winterfest & America’s Snow Sculpting Invitational Address:
Downtown Lake Geneva/Riviera Park
201 Wrigley Drive
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
(262) 248-4416
Website
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January 24, 2025 – January 25, 2025
Lake Superior Ice Festival
For 2025, the Lake Superior Ice Festival will feature 24 ice sculptures around Superior at various businesses and city landmarks, each resting on a blue base with an accompanying trivia question. Starting Friday, January 24th at 5:00 pm you can go on their website to answer the trivia questions and be entered for a chance to win one of two $250 in Superior Business Improvement District BID Bucks.
Events you can enjoy include:
Friday & Saturday, all day: Orb 365: A Community Collaborative. Ice orbs that will be arranged in the shape of Lake Superior are the heart of this community art project that also encourages good stewardship of the area’s water resources.
Snow Creations at the Richard I. Bong Veterans Historical Center and Fairlawn Mansion. Kids (and adults, too) can craft their own snow creations on the grounds of the Bong Veterans Historical Center (305 Harborview Parkway) or the Fairlawn Mansion (906 E. 2nd Street/U.S. 2/53) and even get spray bottles filled with approved color dye to make their snowy creations brilliant! This is available at the Bong Center from 9am – 5pm Friday or Saturday and at the Fairlawn Mansion on Friday or Saturday from 10am to 4pm. Both venues will also offer half-price tours during this time.
Learn to Play Kubb. The sport of Kubb (pronounced “kooob”) is an old lawn game somewhat like bowling and horseshoes. The object is to knock over wooden blocks (the “kubbs”) with wooden batons you throw at them. Legend has it the Vikings (the ancient explorers, not the Minnesota football team) used to play the game using the skulls and bones of fallen enemies. Today, that’s frowned upon. You can learn how to play and/or watch the tournament!
Disc Golf. On Saturday from 10am to 4pm, the free 9-hole disc golf course will be open for you to play disc golf, see demonstrations, and even get instructions from local pros. It’s presented by the Lake Superior Disc Golf Community.
Midwest Ice Ra
Fat Tire Bike Demos will take place Saturday from 10am to 2pm at Barkers Island. You can try out a bike, learn about programs from the College of St. Scholastica’s Outdoor PURSUIT! and Zeitgeist, and help them kick off their Winter Bike Week festivities, which runs through February 5th.
Bonfire Pits at Festival Park from 10am – 5pm Saturday.
The Passport Scavenger Hunt takes place Saturday from 10am to 4pm, where you can win prizes by picking up a passport, participating in activities, and checking them off in the passport.
The Superior Snow Slide offers a place to sled down on a large constructed hill designed specifically for sledding. It’s available Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, but only staffed with sled rentals available on Saturday from 10am to 7pm.
Hay Bale Shuttle on the Island is a free service that will pick you up and drop you off at any of the four stops around the Island: parking area/sledding hill, Festival Park, beach area access and Barker’s Island Inn. Shuttles will be available from 10 am – 6 pm on Saturday.
The Lake Superior Ice Festival Canine King & Queen Contest happens Saturday, presented by the Humane Society of Douglas County. All entries will have been done by the weekend, but you can watch the competition and crowning ceremony, which happens at noon!
Ice Carving in Action happens several times on Saturday, with the creations of these artists from Krystal Kleer Ice Sculptures from Appleton crafting amazing sculptures before your eyes! They’ll stay up around town for as long as Mother Nature will let them.
Saturday, January 25th, Noon to 4pm: Lake Superior Ice Racing Association Stock Car Races. Full-size stock cars will race on Allouez Bay, with rear-wheel and front-wheel cars and small pickup trucks in a series of races starting at noon on Saturday.
Snowshoeing at the Lake Superior National Estuarine Research Reserve is available on Saturday from 1pm to 3pm, where the staff has a trail and obstacle course you can try out with your snowshoes. Timed races at 2:30!
Sterling Silver Fire Twirlers will perform Saturday from 3 to 4pm. They’re a local group performing in Superior since 1991. They’ll light the Fire & Ice Sculpture at the end of their performance!
Enjoy Fireworks Saturday at 6:15pm to celebrate the entire festival.
Lake Superior Ice Festival Sculpture Locations:
The grounds for the festival are located on the shores of Lake Superior, right off U.S. 2/53, just north of Highway 13 and east of Highway 35.
Lake Superior Ice Festival Address:
14 Marina Drive
Superior, WI 54880
(715) 395-7270
Website
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January 18, 2025
Beer, Cheese, and Beyond Fest
The Beer, Cheese, and Beyond Fest – formerly Isthmus Beer & Cheese Fest – is back for year 15 in 2025, bringing a ton of brewers and cheesemakers from around Wisconsin and adjoining states to Madison, where you can meet and mingle with them while sampling hundreds of varieties. This is quite the warm, happy, and fun celebration right in the midst of winter.
The Beer, Cheese, and Beyond Fest welcomes more breweries and cheesemakers than ever, including some good NA options if you’re doing a “dry January”! Great samples, live entertainment, and plenty of camaraderie amongst all the fun at the Alliant Energy Center.
General admission tickets ($65) grant festival entry from 2 p.m. – 6 p.m. and include unlimited sampling and an Isthmus Beer & Cheese Fest tasting glass. VID – Very Important Drinker – tickets ($95) allow for a more intimate atmosphere with early access to exclusive tappings & tastings from noon – 2 p.m. Premium Ticket purchases also include an official Isthmus Beer & Cheese Fest t-shirt, a tasting glass, and a meal from their Food Court Cart inside the Alliant Energy Center. Either way, it’s a great afternoon experiencing some of Wisconsin’s best eats and drinks.
Tickets tend to sell out every year, so if you want to go, score them sooner rather than later. Of course, you must be 21 to attend. You can purchase tickets online here.
You’ll find the Alliant Energy Center on Madison’s south side, right off the Beltline (U.S. 12 & U.S. 18) near Rimrock Road and John Nolen Drive. U.S. 14, 51, and 151 and Highways 30 and 113 are all nearby.
Beer, Cheese, and Beyond Fest Address:
Alliant Energy Center
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way
Madison, WI 53713
(608) 251-5627
Website
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January 17, 2025 – January 26, 2025
Waukesha JanBoree
Waukesha JanBoree is called “Wisconsin’s Premier Winter Festival” and it runs for ten days in 2025. This year, it’s “Channel the Flannel” for the 39th annual JanBoree from Friday, January 17th through Sunday, January 26th.
JanBoree includes over 35 events throughout Waukesha, most of which are free. Events include disc golf, hockey, bocce ball, trivia and ComedySportz performances, a “Cosmic Colors” planetarium show, a variety of games, and more!
Opening Ceremonies are held Friday from 4-9pm at Waukesha’s Lowell Park, complete with fireworks. Details on this and other events below.
Events are held at various locations around the city, including Lowell Park, Minooka Park, the Waukesha Transit Center downtown, North High School, and more. See event pages here for Friday, Saturday, and Sunday for specifics and maps.
Friday events on Opening Night include the Opening Ceremonies, an Ice Sculpting Demo, the Arctic Avalanche, the Carnival of Curiosities, a Fireworks Extravaganza, and the 350’ lighted toboggan run (reservations required.) NEW this year is the Glow Walk, a 1.7-mile walk around Frame Park – complete with a furnished glow stick!
The fireworks extravaganza tops it all off Friday night at 8pm at Lowell Park.
On Saturday, check out trolley rides, a pancake breakfast that you can burn off with the Frosty 5K Walk/Run at Frame Park, geocaching, ice sculpting, Frozen FootGolf & S’Moorball at Moor Downs, Ice Bocce Ball, a penguin egg hunt, and plenty more all day!
Sunday features the “Dinosaurs Alive” Planetarium Show, an ice fishing clinic, horse-drawn wagon rides, or the Alaskan Malamute Dog Pull at Minooka Park, and of course the Arctic Avalanche and family ice skating continues.
During the week, additional activities will include Frozen Footgolf, a snowman building contest, a goose chase scavenger hunt, airport tours, and special movie or planetarium shows.
Weekday Activities:
Monday, January 20, 2025
Snow Snake Workshop
“The Sum and Su Familia” Planetarium Show
Tuesday, January 21, 2025
Winter Tyke Hike
Snow Snake Workshop
Wednesday, January 22, 2025
LumberJackie & Jilly Time
All Out Flannel Community Workout!
Thursday, January 23, 2025
Upcycle Your Flannel
Friday, January 24, 2025
Lumberjack Jaunt – Glow Walk
The second weekend (January 21-22) will feature the Frosty 5K, an Ice-Sculpting Competition, and a Candlelight Hike in Minooka Park at sunset.
Get all the details at the main JanBoree website. Waukesha can be a tricky city to navigate, but getting to it is easy. Follow U.S. 18, Highway 59, or Highway 164 to get there. I-94 and Highway 16 also bring you close to the city and all the fun JanBoree events.
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January 11, 2025
DelaFREEZE
stroll along Delafield and view the amazing works of art put into Ice Carving. This event is family-friendly and free for all ages. About 20 blocks of ice will be placed throughout the city. Each sculpture will be carved from a block of ice during our 10am to 3pm event. Our walking map will walk visitors through the area to see all of the carvings.
Each sculpture will be carved from a 300-pound block of ice that has been frozen in a special process to ensure the blocks are crystal clear. The blocks are ten inches thick, twenty inches wide, and stand forty inches tall on a wooden stand. The live sculpture carving grabs many visitors’ attention! Visitors will be able to see the carver’s tools and watch them work as they transform the massive blocks of ice into an array of masterpieces.
DelaFREEZE activities include:
Downtown Delafield also offers a nice variety of boutique shops, restaurants, bars, and a beautiful walking and hiking area along its boardwalk on the Bark River, which winds through the northern edge of the downtown streets. Check out the old Fish Hatchery building while you’re there, too!
DelaFREEZE Schedule of Events:
10:00-3:00: Follow the walking map to enjoy the Ice Sculptures.
10:00-3:00: Ice Skate at the Delafield Sports Complex Ice Skating Rink.(WEATHER PERMITTING)
10:00-1:00: Meet and Greet with H2M2-WI Husky Huddle and Malamute Snow Dogs at Chase Bank parking lot. Come visit the H2M2-WI Snow Dogs and their owners!
3:00 Ice Carving Prizes will be announced at ID Restaurant.
10:00-3:00: Dousman Transportation bus will have hot chocolate and a kids activity.
Delafield is easily accessible just north of I-94 at County C (Exit #285) in the heart of Waukesha County’s Lake Country. Highway 83 is just to the east; Highway 16 runs north of the town and U.S. 18 is a few miles to the south, just past Lapham Peak State Park.
DelaFREEZE Address:
Downtown Delafield
412 Genesee Street
Delafield, WI 53018
(262) 370-3861
Website
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November 29, 2024 – December 31, 2024
Oshkosh Celebration of Lights
The Oshkosh Celebration of Lights is back for its 23rd year! Once again this lively event is taking place at the EAA Grounds at Wittman Regional Airport, where the EAA AirVenture takes place. That puts it along I-41 between the Highway 26 & 44/91 interchanges for easy access – and it’s just as much fun! This year, it runs from Friday, November 29th through Tuesday, December 31st every evening from 5:30pm to 9:00pm.
Peruse a beautiful stretch of illuminated holiday wonder. A 100-foot tree, sculptured scenes, twinkling animated light displays and accompanying holiday music makes this part of Oshkosh magical during the holidays.
Along with walking or driving through , you can enjoy a horse-pulled wagon ride through the grounds on select nights! You can book and pay for a carriage at 920-303-9200; they reserve rides in half-hour increments from 6pm to 8:30pm on the Monday and Wednesday evenings of December 2nd, 4th, 9th, 11th, 16th, and 18th. Reservations are required. Horse-pulled wagon rides hold up to 16 people and run $15 for adults, $10 for kids 4-18, kids under 4 are free provided they sit on a lap. The ticket also includes the drive through the park.
General Admission per carload is $20.00 with $5.00 off with a donation of a sealed hygiene item or non-perishable in-date food item. Food pantries across the area – scheduled by United Way – benefit from Celebration of Lights, so you’re helping for the holidays, too! You can also enter the Beck’s Meats $50 gift card weekly drawing.
Oshkosh Celebration of Lights is open every day, 5:30pm – 9:00pm. I-41, U.S. 45, and Highways 21, 26, 44, 76, and 91 all bring you to Oshkosh!
Oshkosh Celebration of Lights Address:
EAA Grounds
1858 Neunteufel Avenue
Oshkosh, WI 54902
(920) 303-9200
Website
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November 29, 2024 – December 30, 2024
WPS Garden of Lights at Green Bay Botanical Garden
The WPS Garden of Lights brings the magic to the Green Bay Botanical Garden for the 287th year on Thursdays through Sundays November 24th-26th, November 30th-December 1st-3rd, 7th-10th, 14th-17th, 21st-23rd, & 26th-30th.
Check out more than 325,000 twinkling lights. Discover a spectacular array of botanical-themed light displays featuring an enchanted icicle forest, glistening flowers, a dazzling 60-foot walk-through butterfly house, and much more. The show is topped off with northeastern Wisconsin’s tallest and brightest shining tree. Enjoy this stunning winter landscape by foot or take a horse-drawn wagon ride.
Event capacity is limited, so try to pre-buy your tickets online and arrive during the date and time frame of your tickets.
Other Special Dates & Features:
Horse-Drawn Wagon Rides will be available as in previous years. Seating will be limited, with up to 10 guests per wagon; first come, first served. Tickets for the horse-drawn wagon rides must also be purchased in advance.
Letters to Santa will be available every night before Christmas; just place him in the North Pole mailbox.
Photos with Santa will not be available at the Green Bay Botanical Gardens this year, but appointments can be made at the nearby Ambroslus Studios at 2851 S. Packerland Drive by appointment. Call (920) 494-2294 to make one.
The WPS Trellis Gift Shop will be open every event night from 4:30 pm to 9 pm. You can shop for holiday gifts, home décor, locally handcrafted art and unique gardening items.
Dated and timed entry tickets must be purchased in advance to ensure proper capacity and parking availability. Parking is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
You’ll find the WPS Garden of Lights inside Green Bay Botanical Garden along Larsen Road, just off Packerland Drive. It’s about a mile west of I-41, between Highway 54 and Highways 29/32. I-43, U.S. 141, and Highways 57 and 172 all bring you to Green Bay, too.
WPS Garden of Lights Address:
Green Bay Botanical Garden
2600 Larsen Road
Green Bay, WI 54303
(920) 490-9457
Website
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November 29, 2024 – December 31, 2024
Making Spirits Bright Holiday Light Show, Sheboygan
Sheboygan hosts the 13th annual Making Spirits Bright Holiday Light Show from Friday, November 29th through December 31st, except for Christmas Eve, December 24th.
Across the street you can visit the Quarryview Center for entertainment, wreath raffles, concessions, a visit with Santa and the opportunity to board a trolley to take you through the park. The fun at Quarryview Center is available Fridays & Saturdays from 5-9pm through December 23rd.
Admission to Making Spirits Bright is FREE! However, food pantry donations are requested. Items will be delivered to the Sheboygan County Food Bank each night and their volunteers disburse to food pantries throughout the county. With the significant increase in people needing help with basic necessities, the event has historically brought in thousands of pounds of donated items each year.
Evergreen Park is just off Highway 42 in Sheboygan, just southeast of its interchange with I-43 and a few miles north of the junctions with Highways 23 and 28. Here’s a map of the driving path, right off Highway 42 at Evergreen Park on the north side of Sheboygan (.pdf).
Making Spirits Bright Holiday Light Show Address:
Evergreen Park/Quarryview Center
3100 Calumet Drive (Highway 42)
Sheboygan, WI 53083
Website
Facebook Page
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November 29, 2024 – December 29, 2024
Lights in Lincoln Park, Manitowoc
The Lincoln Park Zoo is a terrific free zoo in the “Coolest Coast” city of Manitowoc. Every holiday season, Lights In Lincoln Park dazzles with a “twinkly bright drive-thru wonder” from November 29th through December 7th on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, and then resuming for EVERY evening from December 12th through the 29th, 2024.
Along with beautiful lights on trees, trellises and more, enjoy over 70 wild animal light displays, many with animated characters. Among them is animated elephant, a wood duck, a standing polar bear, an animated wolf, and whispering pine tree… just to give you an idea of what you’ll get to enjoy. This is the 12th annual Lights in Lincoln Park and they manage to add new features every year.
Admission is $5 donation per car and proceeds go to benefit zoo educational programs and enhancements to the Lincoln Park Zoo. You can enter from Waldo/Lincoln Boulevard, right where U.S. 10 and Highway 42 meet. It’s just north of downtown Manitowoc, about five minutes east of I-43, following the U.S. 10 (Waldo Blvd.) exit. It’s just west of Highway 42/Memorial Drive, which is a beautiful drive along the shores of Lake Michigan between Manitowoc and Two Rivers.
Lights In Lincoln Park Hours:
November 29th – December 7th: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm- Thursday, Friday and Saturday
December 12th – December 29th: 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm- Every Night
You can visit Santa on Cabin 1 on Friday nights: November 29th and December 6th, 13th, and 20th.
Lights in Lincoln Park Family Night Fun Walks are Tuesday, November 26th, Wednesday, December 4th, and Monday, December 30th, 2024 from 5:00 pm- 8:00 pm, featuring a fun walk through the Lincoln Park Lights. It’s a great way for the whole family to enjoy the lights and get some steps in! Admission for the Family Night Fun Walk is $5/person or $10/family.
Lights In Lincoln Park Address:
Lincoln Park Zoo
900 Quay Street (just off Highway 42, blocks from U.S. 10)
Manitowoc, WI 54220
Website
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November 29, 2024 – January 1, 2025
Sam’s Christmas Village & Light Tour, Somerset
Sam’s Christmas Village & Light Tour is a HUGE show that claims over 16 MILLION LIGHTS – so it’s probably visible from space. It runs November 29th, 2024 – January 1st, 2025. Sam’s, located right along the Apple River in Somerset, features a 1/2-mile walk-through light tour, plenty of woods with trees adorned with holiday lights, a 500-foot light tunnel, a 50-foot animated tree, and fun for all ages across 40+ acres of holiday beauty. Sam’s also features a European-style Christmas market with plenty of ideas for holiday gifts, treats, and a lot more.
Sam’s Christmas Village & Light Tour is open seven days a week. On select Mondays and Tuesdays, it’s Drive-Thru only; Wednesdays through Sundays, it’s a walk-through. Hours are 5 pm – 9 pm Sundays through Thursdays, 5 pm – 10 pm Fridays and Saturdays.
Tickets range from $15 for adults for the drive-thru $22 for the walk-thru. Kids ages 4-10 are $19; it’s free for kids 3 and younger. Military IDs get your 50% off admission as well. Parking is $10 cash on walk-through nights. You can also buy multi-day passes and there are special evening promotions on occasion, get more details here.
For even more adventure, Sam’s offers S’more Cabins, which you can book starting at $129 and enjoy the heated cabin, a S’more kit for up to 8 people, a campfire starter kit, firewood, and even a special visit from Santa. They have 21 cabins to choose from, and you can book them on drive-thru nights.
You’ll find Sam’s Christmas Village & Light Tour just off Highways 35 and 64 in Somerset, Wisconsin, along the Apple River in St. Croix County.
Sam’s Christmas Village & Light Tour Address:
710 Spring Street
Somerset, WI 54025
(715) 247-5099
Website
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