State Trunk Tour

Canadian Pacific Holiday Train
2025-12-09 - 2025-12-11 | Canadian Pacific Railway
The annual Canadian Pacific Holiday Train will once again rumble through Wisconsin on part of its journey through the northern U.S. and Canada! Check out fun stops with beautiful lights and entertainment – the stops will take place along its CP route in Wisconsin from Tuesday, December 9th through Thursday, December 11th!

The dynamic lights dancing on the cars of the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train adds to the magical holiday feel – and makes it easy to spot as it rumbles across the state!

Here are the scheduled stops and duration for the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train through Wisconsin, from Sturtevant through the Milwaukee area and on to La Crosse, with plenty of stops in between! Again this year, there is no stop in downtown Milwaukee; however, they did retain the stop in Caledonia, in northern Racine County. Basically, the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train follows the same route as the Amtrak train – but it will really catch your eye and fill you with holiday spirit. Performers at all Wisconsin stops include American Authors and Pynk Beard. Enjoy!

Canadian Pacific Holiday Train Schedule:

Station
Address
Date
Arrival
Event Times
Departure

Sturtevant
9900 East Exploration Ct., Amtrak Depot
Tues 12-09
6:45 pm
7:00 – 7:30 pm
7:35 pm

Caledonia
11402 County G (the 5 1/2 Mile Road crossing)
Tues 12-09
8:00 pm
8:15 – 8:45 pm
8:50 pm

Wauwatosa
Harwood Ave Crossing
Wed 12-10
4:00 pm
4:15 – 4:45 pm
4:50 pm

Hartland
Level crossing at Cottonwood Avenue
Wed 12-10
5:30 pm
5:45 – 6:15 pm
6:20 pm

Oconomowoc
Silver Lake Street Railway Crossing, north side
Wed 12-10
6:30 pm
6:45 – 7:15 pm
7:20 pm

Watertown
Brandt Quirt Park parking lot, adjacent to track
Wed 12-10
7:45 pm
8:00 – 8:30 pm
8:35 pm

Columbus
Amtrak Depot
Wed 12-10
9:00 pm
9:15 – 9:45 pm
9:50 pm

Portage
CP Yard adjacent to Averbeck Street
Thurs 12-11
1:00 pm
1:15 – 1:45 pm
1:50 pm

Wisconsin Dells
100 West La Crosse Street, Amtrak Depot
Thurs 12-11
2:30 pm
2:45 – 3:15 pm
3:20 pm

Mauston
Division Street railway crossing
Thurs 12-11
4:00 pm
4:15 – 4:40 pm
4:45 pm

Tomah
205 North Superior Avenue, Amtrak Depot
Thurs 12-11
5:15 pm
5:30 – 6:00 pm
6:05 pm

Sparta
Corner of South Water Street and Milwaukee Street
Thurs 12-11
6:35 pm
6:50 – 7:20 pm
7:25 pm

La Crosse
Amtrak Station, 601 Saint Andrew Street
Thurs 12-11
8:15 pm
8:30 – 9:00 pm
9:05 pm

Closest State Trunk Tour Highways to each stop (hint: Highway 16 hits basically all of them from Hartland on west!):

Sturtevant: Highway 20, Highway 11, Highway 31

Caledonia: I-41/94, Highway 31, Highway 32, Highway 38

Wauwatosa: Highway 181, US 18, I-41, I-94

Hartland: Highway 16, Highway 83

Oconomowoc: Highway 16, Highway 67

Watertown: Highway 16, Highway 19, Highway 26

Columbus: Highway 16, Highway 60, Highway 73, Highway 89, US 151

Portage: Highway 16, Highway 33, I-39, US 51

Wisconsin Dells: I-90/94, U.S. 12, Highway 13, Highway 16, Highway 23, US 12

Mauston: US 12, Highway 16, Highway 58, Highway 82, I-90/94

Tomah: US 12, Highway 16, Highway 21, Highway 131, I-90/94

Sparta: Highway 16, Highway 21, Highway 27, Highway 71, I-90

La Crosse: I-90, Highway 16, Highway 33, Highway 35, US 14, US 53, US 61, I-90

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World Championship Vintage Snowmobile Derby
2026-01-08 - 2026-01-11 | World Championship Derby Complex, 1311 Railroad Street, Eagle River, WI, 54521, United States
Eagle River lays claim to “Snowmobile Capital of the World,” and with good reason! The Derby Complex there hosts of the biggest snowmobile races on the planet, including the World Championship Vintage Snowmobile Derby! It hits Eagle River’s world-famous Derby Track January 8-11, 2026 for some great action on classic snowmobiles. This takes place the weekend before the World Championships at the track.
Check out the list of races on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday – it’s huge. Enjoy the action right by the track or warm up in the Expo Hall, where there’s plenty to shop for, eat, and drink – including at the upper level bar, which shows the track’s live action on TV.
TICKETS range from $32 to $175. Get more info here.
Alhttps://events.eventgroove.com/event/24th-Vintage-World-Championship-Snowmobile-Races-94971l the details and events are on their website. U.S. 45 and Highways 17, 32, and 70 bring you to Eagle River – it’s the perfect time of year for the winter drive there!
World Championship Vintage Snowmobile Derby Address:
1311 Railroad Street (along Hwy 17/Hwy 32/U.S. 45)
Eagle River, WI 54521
(715) 479-4424
Website

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DelaFREEZE
2026-01-10 10:00 - 15:00 (America/Chicago) | Downtown Delafield, 412 Genesee Street, Delafield, WI, 53018, United States
Delafield embraces the January cold with DelaFREEZE, their 8th annual season celebration with ice carvings in the streets along with shopping, activities, and more. Happening Saturday, January 10th, 2026 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

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World Championship Snowmobile Derby
2026-01-15 09:00 - 2026-01-18 18:00 | World Championship Derby Complex, 1311 Railroad Street, Eagle River, WI, 54521, United States
Since 1964, Eagle River has hosted the World Championship Snowmobile Derby. Hosting oval, snocross and vintage racing, the World Championship Snowmobile Derby is not only the largest and most prestigious snowmobile competition in the sport, it is one of the highest-ranking winter sports events in the Midwest and recognized around the world. It’s the Indy 500 of the snowmobiling world, attracting more than 40,000 spectators annually. Hundreds of snowmobilers from juniors in boys and girls categories to the best competitors in the world compete in snocross and ice oval racing, grabbing huge air and hitting speeds of 100 mph on the straightaways!
Fans travel from all over the United States, Canada and beyond to watch more than 500 international drivers race their high-tech snowmobiles at speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour on a solid ice oval, or marvel at the high-flying snocross pilots as they maneuver over the demanding snocross course.

Plenty of action takes place each day Thursday, January 15th through Sunday, January 18th, when the World Derby Championship starts at 3pm. Enjoy the action up close by the track or warm up in the Expo Hall, where you can shop for great stuff, imbibe on hot food and cold beer, or watch the action on TVs in the upstairs bar. You can reserve indoor Hot Seats by calling the Derby Office at 715-479-4424; there are also Motorhome Spots available trackside.

Tickets range from day passes for $35 to VIP Fan Passes for all days ($215 plus fees), skyboxes and more. Get details here.

The Derby Complex is on the north side of Eagle River, right along U.S. 45 and Highways 17 and 32. Highway 70 is just to the south in the downtown area. It’s definitely one of the winter highlights of the year!

World Championship Snowmobile Derby Address:
1311 Railroad Street (along Hwy 17/Hwy 32/U.S. 45)
Eagle River, WI 54521
(715) 479-4424
Website

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Waukesha JanBoree
2026-01-16 16:00 - 2026-01-25 18:00 | Lowell Park, 2201 Michigan Avenue, Waukesha, WI, 53188, United States
Waukesha JanBoree is called “Wisconsin’s Premier Winter Festival” and it runs for ten days in 2026. This year, it’s “Channel the Flannel” for the 41st annual JanBoree from Friday, January 16th through Sunday, January 25th.
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.
Weekday Activities:
Monday, January 19, 2026
Snow Snake Workshop
“The Sum and Su Familia” Planetarium Show
Tuesday, January 20, 2026
Winter Tyke Hike
Snow Snake Workshop
Wednesday, January 21, 2026
LumberJackie & Jilly Time
All Out Flannel Community Workout!
Thursday, January 22, 2026
Upcycle Your Flannel
Friday, January 23, 2026
Lumberjack Jaunt – Glow Walk
The second weekend (January 24-25) 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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Beer & Cheese Fest
2026-01-17 | Alliant Energy Center, 1919 Alliant Energy Center Way, Madison, WI, 53713, United States
Madison’s Beer & Cheese Fest is back for year 16 in 2026 at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison on Saturday, January 17th, bringing a ton of brewers and cheesemakers from around Wisconsin and adjoining states to Madison. Meet and mingle with the brewers and cheesemakers while sampling hundreds of varieties at this warm, happy, and fun celebration right in the midst of winter.
80+ beer and beverage vendors slinging samples. More cheese than is doctor recommended. Stein holding competitions and “hammer nailing” competitions (they note that the other word for it is trademarked…seriously) so you can totally impress your friends. Beer will always be the foundation of the event, but if mead or cider is more your style, you’ll have plenty to sample. If THC infused refreshments are your jam, you’ll find a bunch. Spiked seltzer your elixir of choice? Yep, they got those too.
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.
Madison Beer & Cheese Fest Address:
Alliant Energy Center
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way
Madison, WI 53713
(608) 251-5627
Website

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Lake Geneva Winterfest & America's Snow Sculpting Invitational
2026-01-28 - 2026-02-01 | Riviera Park, 201 Wrigley Drive, Lake Geneva, WI, 53147, United States
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 running January 28 – February 1, 2026. 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.
2026 TEAMS
• Block #1: Illinois – Team Cave People From Space
• Block #2: Michigan 2 – Team Soggy Mitten Boys
• Block #3: Wisconsin 2 – Team Snow Cronies
• Block #4: Mexico – Team Mexico
• Block #5: Wisconsin 1 – Team Sculptora Borealis
• Block #6: Minnesota 1 – Team Doing Our Best
• Block #7: Wisconsin 3 – Team Snow Blind
• Block #8: Turkey – Team Turkey
• Block #9: Pennsylvania – Team Jack of All Lanterns
• Block #10: Minnesota 2 – Team Snow Van Gogh
• Block #11: Alaska – Team AK Department of Snow
• Block #12: Iowa + Vermont – Team A NorEaster in Dubuque
• Block #13: Michigan 1 – Team Smith Family
• Block #14: Wisconsin 4 – Team Up To Snow Good
• Block #15: Colorado – Team Enchanted Forest
In addition to the snow sculpting competition, you’ll find more wintery fun during Winterfest week, including the 6th annual Downtown Ice Sculpture Walk, Bonfires on the Beach, a Cocoa Crawl and many more events, activities and specials around Lake Geneva and the surrounding area. 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 30th and remain on display as long as the cold weather permits!

2026 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

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USA Hockey Long Drink Pond Hockey National Championships
2026-01-29 - 2026-02-01 | Dollar Lake, 1458 E. Dollar Lake Road, Eagle River, WI, 54521, United States
3 Days. 24 Rinks. Nearly 300 Teams. 4-on-4 Pond Hockey. Check out the USA Hockey Long Drink Pond Hockey National Championships! It all takes place Thursday, January 29th though Sunday, February 1st on Dollar Lake in Eagle River.
Fans can download the USA Hockey Adult Events Tournament App to connect with other participants and follow all the action, including real-time scores, standings and results. For schedules and more tournament information, click here.
Have questions? Hit up Becky or Jake at (715) 479-4486. The hosting resort, the Chanticleer Inn offers plenty of natural beauty and old-school charm. Built in 1922 and updated numerous times since, the Chanticleer Inn was home to the 1st and 2nd World Championship Snowmobile Derbies and, now since 2006, the annual USA Pond Hockey Championships.
The grounds are lovingly preserved and visitors enjoy watery excursions on the famed Chain of 28 lakes and the private beach on Dollar Lake which is nestled in the woods where deer, loon, eagles and owl are often seen and heard. Located on the snowmobile trail, the Chanticleer Inn’s Lakeside Lounge & Dining Room Will Be Open for Lunch on Friday & Saturday (the 30th & 31st) and for Dinner on Thursday, Friday & Saturday (the 29th, 30th & 31st)! When You Get Cold On Dollar Lake, Come on Up To The Lodge!
Eagle River is a State Trunk Tour favorite and can be reached via U.S. 45 or Highways 17, 32, and 70.
Labatt Blue Pond Hockey National Championships Address:
1458 E. Dollar Lake Road
Eagle River, WI 54521
(715) 479-4486
Website

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Lake Superior Ice Festival
2026-01-30 - 2026-01-31 | Lake Superior Ice Festival Grounds, 14 Marina Drive, Superior, WI, 54880, United States
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 2026, 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 30th 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 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 4th.
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 31st, 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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Hudson Hot Air Affair
2026-02-06 - 2026-02-08 | River Crest Elementary School, 535 County F, Hudson, WI, 54016, United States
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. The 2026 theme “Sky Walkers Return to Rock”
Starting Friday at 10am and running all weekend, many of Hudson’s shops, destinations, and restaurants have special offers, promotions, and events. They include the Sippin’ with the Hotties Beverage Crawl and the Torchlight Parade starting at 7pm in downtown Hudson.
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

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Scandihoovian Winter Festival
2026-02-06 - 2026-02-08 | Downtown Mount Horeb, 300 E. Main Street, Mount Horeb, WI, 53572, United States
​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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Snowflake Ski Jump Tournament
2026-02-06 - 2026-02-07 | Snowflake Ski Club, E7940 County Road P, Westby, WI, 54667, United States
The Snowflake Ski Jump Tournament brings in international competition for ski jumpers to Westby in Vernon County. Held Friday night and Saturday, February 6-7, 2026, competitors from five countries will compete on the Olympic-sized hill. Entertainment, food, and live music will also be part of the festivities both nights at the Snowflake Rod & Gun Club adjacent to the hill.
Tournament Schedule:
Thursday, February 5th
Hospitality Night: Rod & Gun in Timber Coulee: 6:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.
Friday, February 6th
Kick-off breakfast at Borgen’s Cafe: 7:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
Opening Ceremonies: 7:00 p.m.
Competition: 7:30 p.m.
Saturday, February 7th
Opening Ceremonies: 12:00 p.m.
Competition: 12:30 p.m.
Long standing jump and awards ceremony will follow competition.

Snowflake Ski Jump Tournament Address:
Snowflake Ski & Golf Course
E7940 County Road P
Westby, WI 54667
(608) 634-3211
Website

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Snow Daze, Kenosha
2026-02-07 | Library Park, 711 59th Place, Kenosha, WI, 53140, United States
Saturday, February 7th, 2026 is a great day to Visit Kenosha because the 14th annual Snow Daze Festival in Library Park will celebrate winter with an ice carving demonstration and display of ice sculptures. More than 40 ice sculptures will decorate Library Park and sidewalks throughout downtown Kenosha.

Featuring:
Ice artists from Art Below Zero in Franksville will create a one-of-a-kind ice sculpture beginning at 2 p.m.
Midwest DJ Productions will add fun and music to the event.
Free kits for s’mores at the park beginning at 2 p.m. until supplies run out; sponsored by Zeigler Hyundai. People may use the fire pits set up near the Veterans Memorial fountain at the park to toast marshmallows for the s’mores.
Additional treats are available for purchase from vendors.
Stroll around the park to view ice sculptures sponsored by:
-Align Wellness Collective | Sculpture: Custom
-Blackhawk Community Credit Union | Sculpture: Piggy Bank
-City of Kenosha | Custom Ice Carving Demo
-Kenosha Area Chamber of Commerce | Sculpture: American Flag
-Snap-on | Sculpture: Tools
-The Gratzi | Sculpture: Custom
-Visit Kenosha | Sculpture: Custom Logo

View the Downtown Ice Sculpture Tour map here. The ice sculptures are expected to last up to two weeks, depending on the weather.
Get updates and more details on the Snow Daze website!
You can access downtown Kenosha via Highways 32, 50, or 158. I-41/94 and Highway 31 also get you close.

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Fire & Ice Festival, Sturgeon Bay
2026-02-13 - 2026-02-14 | Stone Harbor Resort, 107 1st Avenue, Sturgeon Bay, WI, 54235, United States
Downtown Sturgeon Bay and the Stone Harbor Resort are the epicenter for the annual Fire & Ice Festival Weekend, happening February 13-14, 2026 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 13th
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 14th
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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Sturgeon Spectacular
2026-02-13 08:00 - 2026-02-15 17:00 | Lakeside Park, 71 Promen Drive, Fond du Lac, WI, 54935, United States
Fond du Lac hosts the Sturgeon Spectacular and the Wisconsin State Snow Sculpting Championships Friday-Sunday February 13-15, 2026 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 13th
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 14th
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 15th
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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Ashland Book Across the Bay
2026-02-14 | Maslowski Beach Park, US Highway 2 West, Ashland, WI, 54806, United States
Ashland’s Book Across the Bay is one of the upper Midwest’s most unique winter events, open to over 4,000 skiers and snowshoers of all ages and ability levels. The 10-kilometer course, which is groomed for both classic-style and skate skiing, starts in Ashland and ends in Washburn, and follows a route not on land, but over the frozen surface of Lake Superior, the world’s largest lake. The event is held at night, and the course is lit by the stars above and up to 1,000 candles in ice luminaries that line the entire route!
This is a FREE point-to-point race that, this year, starts in Washburn and ends in Ashland. Please plan your transportation accordingly. They strongly urge you to park your car in Washburn near the finish area at Thompson’s West End Park just off Highway 13, and catch a shuttle to Ashland before the race. Buses will run from Ashland to Washburn 1:00–5:00 pm prior to the race.
The race itself starts in waves, from competitive skiers and snowshoers to recreational, and then walkers who may prefer not to be timed. The start area is at Maslowski Beach, which is located along U.S. Highway 2 at the far west end of Ashland. The finish line is in Washburn, on the bay near Thompson’s West End Park. A heated tent will be set up there for the post-race chili feed, beer and soda, music and awards.
Three Fun Races take place on Lake Superior in front of The Blue Wave:

The Penguin Fun Race starts at 11:00AM for children under 8 years old
The Fox Fun Race starts at 11:15AM for children 8 to 10 years old. Each participant in the Penguin and Fox races will receive an award, hot chocolate and cookies
The Polar Bear Race starts at 11:30AM for children 11 to 14 years of age. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place; cookie and hot chocolate

Participate, or just marvel at it. It’s a fun party and the area is beautiful this time of year – as long as you’re bundled up properly!
Also on Sunday, February 15th: Bike Across the Bay!
Bike Across the Bay at 10am, hosted by North Coast Cycling Association. The race will start from the Washburn Shore. Registration will be from 8:30-9:30am at the Harbor View Event Center, 130 Harbor View Dr, Washburn. Get more info at www.northcoastcycling.com.
U.S. 2 and Highway 13 are the main highways to and from Ashland. U.S. 63 guides you there from western Wisconsin, and local Highways 112 and 118 help you navigate the area. More things to do for this event in Ashland are available below.
Book Across the Bay Address:
Maslowski Beach Park
U.S. Highway 2 West
Ashland, WI 54806
(715) 682-2500
Website

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Slumberland American Birkebeiner
2026-02-18 - 2026-02-22 | Downtown Hayward, 10527 Main Street, Hayward, WI, 54843, United States
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 2026, it’s back for Birkie Week February 18th through the 22nd!
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.

Check out a recent recap here!

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Battle on Bago
2026-02-20 - 2026-02-21 | Menominee Park, East Irving Avenue at Hazel Street, Oshkosh, WI, 54903, United States
Battle on Bago is the Midwest’s largest ice fishing tournament and the family and fishing event of the year! The 19th annual Battle on Bago (winter version, there’s a summer one in June) takes place on Lake Winnebago February 20th-21st, 2026. 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 20th at 6:00 am; scales will be open from 4pm to 8pm. On Saturday February 21st, 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 $40. 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

Kenosha Restaurant Week
2026-02-21 - 2026-03-01
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 21st through Sunday, March 1st this year. Over 80 restaurants are participating in Kenosha Restaurant Week – the most yet – 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 (latest list here)

Kenosha Restaurant Week Website

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Cedarburg Winter Festival
2026-02-21 10:00 - 2026-02-22 16:00 | Downtown Cedarburg, W63N641 Washington Avenue, Cedarburg, WI, 53012, United States
The annual Cedarburg Winter Festival hits the heart of Cedarburg’s ridiculously beautiful and historic downtown along Washington Avenue (Historic Highway 57) Saturday, February 21st & Sunday, February 22nd, 2026. It’s a weekend full of fun across this beautiful city!
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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Wisconsin Fishing Expo
2026-02-27 16:00 - 2026-03-01 16:00 | Alliant Energy Center, 1919 Alliant Enery Center Way, Madison, WI, 53713, United States
The Wisconsin Fishing Expo arrives at Exhibition Hall in Madison’s Alliant Energy Center February 27 – March 1, 2026 and continues to offer more than 125,000 square feet of exhibits!
You can still expect mom-and-pop fishing vendors with gear that anglers can’t find at box stores. There will also be a tremendous presence from some of the leading national brands in the fishing industry, including Clam, Berkley, Beaver Dam, ACME, Fenwick, Okuma, Gamakatsu, Ray Marine, Garmin, St. Croix, Fishing Hot Spots, Stren, and many, many more. Check out and meet
For boats, over 20 brands will be ready to sell from top bets like Crestliner, Alumacraft, Bass Cat, Yar Craft, Tracker, Ranger, Triton, Smoker Craft, Bennington, and others.
Plenty of Youth Activities will be available, bigger and better than ever. Check it out!

Kids mock Fishing Pond (brown bags .50 a try)
Free Face Painting
Free Balloon Animals
Free Rods, Reels and Gear at Youth Fishing Seminars (limited supply!)
Free Bow Fishing (Shoot at Fish Targets)
Minnow Races
Trout Pond with Tagged Fish for EXTRA PRIZES!
Kids Casting Competition

The Alliant Energy Center is easily accessed via Madison’s Beltline (U.S. 12/18) off John Nolen Drive (Exit 263) or Rimrock Road (Exit 262). U.S. 14 & 151 are close by. You can also come through downtown via U.S. 151 and follow John Nolen Drive down the causeway. There’s so much else to see and do in Madison, too!
Show Hours:
Friday – 1:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M.
Saturday – 9:00 A.M. to 6:00 P.M.
Sunday – 9:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.
Admission:
$12.00 for Adults, $10.00 for Military & First Responders, Kids 12 and under are FREE.
A parking fee is charged per car by Dane County. (fee subject to change by Dane County, it’s usually $7 cash.)

Here’s a previous ad for the Wisconsin Fishing Expo:

Wisconsin Fishing Expo Address:
Exhibition Hall at Alliant Energy Center
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way
Madison, WI 53703
(262) 305-1907
Website

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Vintage Shop Hop
2026-03-06 - 2026-03-07
The Vintage Shop Hop combines two great activities – shopping and road trips! Explore over 400 vintage shops, antique malls, ladies’ boutiques, consignment shops, and barn sales across a big swath of central and southern Wisconsin and even into northern Illinois (yes, we’ll go out of state for this one.)
The Vintage Shop Hop is a two-day, self-guided road trip of vintage & boutique shopping held twice a year. We gather 300 to 400+ vintage & antique shops, along with barn sales, women’s boutiques & home decor shops in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin who roll out the red carpet for you on March 6 & 7, 2026. You just have to grab your friends, hit the road, and shop hard!

Each participating shop offers up an “in-store” promotion–fun things like discounts, demonstrations, artists on-site, prize drawings, treats, entertainment, food trucks, swag bags, punch cards, parking lot sales, and more…whatever they want to offer to customers to make your visit special. All shops will be open from at least 10am to 5pm and some earlier or later! Be sure to check our list and map over the next several weeks for each shop’s times…the list grows every day!

This could be the BEST. ROAD TRIP. EVER. Small businesses welcome you inside their doors. You can travel a wide combination of roads and highways, exploring cities and towns, learning about history, sampling at craft breweries, wineries, and distilleries, and just enjoying spring-like weather the whole time as you bop from shop to shop.

The spring 2026 Vintage Shop Hop takes place Friday, March 6th and Saturday, March 7th. The fall 2026 version will happen October 2nd and 3rd.
Vintage Shop Hop Master List of Places
Shop Hop Facebook Page

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Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Sports Show
2026-03-06 12:00 - 2026-03-08 18:00 | Wisconsin State Fair Exposition Center, 640 S. 84th Street, West Allis, WI, 53214, United States
The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Sports Show features outdoor sports exhibits and interactive fun for the entire family. It’s a sporting tradition dating back to 1940 where people from all over Wisconsin and northern Illinois who love fishing, boating, hunting, and camping come to try and buy the latest in outdoor equipment as well as book their summer vacation sporting adventure.
There are an absolute ton of vendors, showcases, and demonstrations. Find them at places like the Chevy Dealers Main Stage, the Mercury Marine Boating Pavilion, Lake-Link Seminar Hall, Usinger’s Outdoor Grilling Stage, the MPTV/Outdoor Wisconsin Family Adventure Pavilion, Historical Fishing Displays, “World’s Outstanding Whitetails,” the Sports Show Trout Pond, the Old Duck Hunter Exhibit, West Town Archery Clinics, Archery Lessons and Competitions, and more. See “Lake Milwaukee” for fun, too! The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Sports Show website has all the details on scheduled events.
It all takes place March 6-8, 2026 at the Wisconsin State Fair Park Expo Center, right where Highway 59 (Greenfield Avenue) and Highway 181 (84th Street) meet in West Allis, just south of I-94. I-41/I-894/U.S. 45, U.S. 18, and Highway 100 all get you close, too!
Admission is $12 to the show in advance, $15 at the gate. Youth tickets (age 6-14) are $6. Children 5 and under are FREE. Active duty military and veterans are also free every day. Parking will be available on the grounds, as well as at the Milwaukee Mile race track. You can also park for blocks around, and check out one of our favorite pizzas at Mama Mia’s (86th & Greenfield) or great fried chicken at TomKen’s on 80th & Greenfield! (These are some of the State Trunk Tour’s guilty pleasures.)
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Sports Show Address:
Wisconsin State Fair Park Exposition Center
640 S. 84th Street (Highway 181 at 59)
West Allis, WI 53214
(888) 488-4286
Website

Check out a Schedule of Events below!

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel Sports Show Schedule of Events:
Friday, March 6th
Mercury Marine Hawg Trough Stage:
12:00 p.m. “Catching Summer Bass” with Mike Norris, Master Angler and Host of Outdoors with Mike Norris on WBIG 1280 AM
Mike Norris will present proven tips and strategies for catching largemouth and smallmouth bass during the “Dog Days” of summer. Mike is a fully licensed fishing guide on Wisconsin’s Big Green Lake and a 2025 Inductee into the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame. His tips and strategies for summertime bass will work wherever you fish for smallmouth bass.
1:00 p.m. “Extending Your Hunting Season with CVA Muzzleloaders” Tim Andrus, Host of Rush Outdoors TV; World of Rush Outdoors TV; and National Pro Staffer for Realtree Tim Andrus will be giving away a CVA Muzzleloader at his presentation.
2:00 p.m. “Wisconsin Hunting Camps” with Loren Voss, Wisconsin Turkey Commander
Dive into the rich traditions and thrilling experiences of hunting in Wisconsin. Loren will share expert tips, captivating stories, and invaluable insights into the best hunting practices and locations across the state. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a curious beginner, this presentation promises to be both informative and inspiring.
3:00 p.m. “Smallie Success with the Ned Rig & and Other Top Lures!” with Bill Schultz, Smallmouth Bass Legend
Join Bill Schultz as he delves into the secrets of his smallmouth bass fishing success. Since adopting the Ned Rig in 2016, Bill has significantly boosted his catch numbers, reaching an impressive total of 33,359 smallies. This presentation is packed with insights for both seasoned anglers and newcomers alike. Bill will cover the techniques and strategies that have worked for him in various rivers and the renowned waters of Sturgeon Bay/Door County.
4:00 p.m. “Mastering Modern Bass Fishing” with Joe Thomas, Professional Bass Angler; TV personality and Host of Pelican’s Ultimate Match Fishing and Stihl’s Reel in the Outdoors with Joe Thomas on the OUTDOOR Channel
Joe will demonstrate modern bass fishing tactics, lures and techniques. This seminar is designed to help anglers of all ages and skill levels catch more fish!
5:00 p.m. “Catch Your First Musky” with Steve Heiting, Professional Musky Angler and Freshwater Fishing Hall of Famer
Fishing Hall of Famer Steve Heiting will discuss tackle, lures, lakes and patterns that will help anyone who has ever dreamed of fishing muskies. In addition to his multi-media seminar, Steve will demonstrate in the Hawg Trough five lures every musky angler — beginner or pro — should use.
6:00 p.m. Pete Maina, North America’s #1 Authority on Muskie & Pike Fishing
Join Pete Maina as he explores the diverse techniques for working muskie baits. Learn why it’s crucial to avoid falling into repetitive patterns with your retrieves and discover the realities of modern-day fishing.
Lumberjack Stage:
12:00 p.m. Milwaukee Dog Training Club Agility Demo
As the oldest dog training club in the Midwest, the Milwaukee Dog Training Club has been fostering a love for dogs and training excellence since 1929. They offer classes in obedience, agility, flyball, and more. Their agility demo highlights the incredible skills and teamwork between dogs and their handlers as they navigate challenging obstacles. Come and see their amazing dogs in action!
1:00 p.m. Timberworks Lumberjack Show
One of the most exciting events at the show is the Timberworks Lumberjack Show. There’s nothing like watching trained lumberjack athletes compete in a variety of events, including cross-cut sawing, ax throwing, chopping, speed climbing, a chainsaw race and everyone’s favorite, the log rolling competition.
2:00 p.m. Fastest Retriever: Qualifier #1
Watch as up to 12 dogs compete in the Fastest Retriever Qualifier Round, running individually down and back a 100-foot run. Each dog must retrieve a toy and cross both lines to qualify. The top three dogs with the fastest times from each qualifier will advance to the finals on Sunday for a chance to win cash prizes. This event is a crowd favorite!
3:00 p.m. Timberworks Lumberjack Show
One of the most exciting events at the show is the Timberworks Lumberjack Show. There’s nothing like watching trained lumberjack athletes compete in a variety of events, including cross-cut sawing, ax throwing, chopping, speed climbing, a chainsaw race and everyone’s favorite, the log rolling competition.
4:00 p.m. Milwaukee Dog Training Club Agility Demo
As the oldest dog training club in the Midwest, the Milwaukee Dog Training Club has been fostering a love for dogs and training excellence since 1929. They offer classes in obedience, agility, flyball, and more. Their agility demo highlights the incredible skills and teamwork between dogs and their handlers as they navigate challenging obstacles. Come and see their amazing dogs in action!
5:00 p.m. Timberworks Lumberjack Show
One of the most exciting events at the show is the Timberworks Lumberjack Show. There’s nothing like watching trained lumberjack athletes compete in a variety of events, including cross-cut sawing, ax throwing, chopping, speed climbing, a chainsaw race and everyone’s favorite, the log rolling competition.
6:00 p.m. Fastest Retriever: Qualifier #2
Watch as up to 12 dogs compete in the Fastest Retriever Qualifier Round, running individually down and back a 100-foot run. Each dog must retrieve a toy and cross both lines to qualify. The top three dogs with the fastest times from each qualifier will advance to the finals on Sunday for a chance to win cash prizes. This event is a crowd favorite!
Usinger’s Cooking Stage
12:00 p.m. “Midwest Grill’n” with Mad Dog & Merrill
They want nothing more than to make everyone a better griller and have a ton of fun doing it! Mad Dog & Merrill® travel the country performing in front of live audiences and hosting the TV series Mad Dog & Merrill® Midwest Grill’n that shows viewers how easy it is to be creative and entertain in their own backyard.
1:00 p.m. “Cooking Gone Wild” with Starla Batzko
As a seasoned hunter and owner of Starla’s Seasonings, Dips, and Mixes, Starla brings her expertise in cooking and seasoning game to the stage. Starla’s recipes and tips are designed to be accessible to everyone, making it easy for both beginners and experienced cooks to create delicious dishes.
3:00 p.m. “Midwest Grill’n” with Mad Dog & Merrill
They want nothing more than to make everyone a better griller and have a ton of fun doing it! Mad Dog & Merrill® travel the country performing in front of live audiences and hosting the TV series Mad Dog & Merrill® Midwest Grill’n that shows viewers how easy it is to be creative and entertain in their own backyard.
5:00 p.m. “Midwest Grill’n” with Mad Dog & Merrill
They want nothing more than to make everyone a better griller and have a ton of fun doing it! Mad Dog & Merrill® travel the country performing in front of live audiences and hosting the TV series Mad Dog & Merrill® Midwest Grill’n that shows viewers how easy it is to be creative and entertain in their own backyard.
Saturday, March 7th
Mercury Marine Hawg Trough Stage
11:00 a.m. “Fishing Basics” with Greg Karch, Learn 2 Fish With Us
Fishing Basics uses an interactive approach to introduce people to the skills and equipment needed to begin fishing. This seminar is perfect for families, youth and adults. You will learn: safety while fishing, how to use a spin cast and spinning fishing combo, how to cast accurately and safely, different basic fishing presentations, how to tie a Clinch and Palomar knot, fish identification, live and artificial baits we use to fish, keeping a fishing journal and so much more… This seminar is great for all ages who want to fish! The first 75 Youth 16 and under that attend the seminar will receive a spin cast fishing combo and fishing education book.
12:00 p.m. Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony
Join us for the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, where we honor individuals who have made significant contributions to freshwater fishing. Celebrate their achievements, hear inspiring stories, and be part of a tradition that highlights the rich history and bright future of freshwater fishing.
1:00 p.m. Pete Maina, North America’s #1 Authority on Muskie & Pike Fishing; alongside Kristine Fisher, Tournament Musky and Bass Angler
2:00 p.m. Violet Talley, Champion Tournament Angler; Hunter; Entrepreneur; Creative Expert
3:00 p.m. “Do’s and Don’ts’ of Running a Trail Camera” Tim Andrus, Host of Rush Outdoors TV; World of Rush Outdoors TV; and National Pro Staffer for Realtree Since 1996
Tim Andrus will be giving away a Covert Trail Camera at his presentation.
4:00 p.m. “What Makes Up a Hunting Camp” with Loren Voss, Wisconsin Turkey Commander
Learn about the essential elements that create a successful hunting camp, from gear and setup to camaraderie and tradition. Loren will share his expertise and personal experiences to help you build the perfect hunting camp.
5:00 p.m. “Spring Fishing in Door County” with Dale Stroschein, Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame Angler; Head Guide – Wacky Walleye Guide Service
Join legendary angler Dale Stroschein for an engaging fishing seminar focused on spring fishing in Door County. Drawing on over 40 years of experience, Dale will share expert techniques and strategies for targeting both walleye and smallmouth bass. This presentation offers anglers of all skill levels the chance to learn from one of the most respected names in the sport.
6:00 p.m. “Time on the Water = More River Smallmouth” with Mike Mladenik, Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame Guide for 40+ years
With over 47 years of experience as a Wisconsin Fishing Guide, Mike emphasizes that time on the water is essential for success. He explains how to consistently catch big river smallmouth bass throughout spring, summer, and fall. His presentation includes tips on using topwater baits and soft plastics, as well as techniques for fishing various types of river structures.
Lumberjack Stage
12:00 p.m. Milwaukee Dog Training Club Agility Demo
As the oldest dog training club in the Midwest, the Milwaukee Dog Training Club has been fostering a love for dogs and training excellence since 1929. They offer classes in obedience, agility, flyball, and more. Their agility demo highlights the incredible skills and teamwork between dogs and their handlers as they navigate challenging obstacles. Come and see their amazing dogs in action!
1:00 p.m. Timberworks Lumberjack Show
One of the most exciting events at the show is the Timberworks Lumberjack Show. There’s nothing like watching trained lumberjack athletes compete in a variety of events, including cross-cut sawing, ax throwing, chopping, speed climbing, a chainsaw race and everyone’s favorite, the log rolling competition.
2:00 p.m. Fastest Retriever: Qualifier #3
Watch as up to 12 dogs compete in the Fastest Retriever Qualifier Round, running individually down and back a 100-foot run. Each dog must retrieve a toy and cross both lines to qualify. The top three dogs with the fastest times from each qualifier will advance to the finals on Sunday for a chance to win cash prizes. This event is a crowd favorite!
3:00 p.m. Timberworks Lumberjack Show
One of the most exciting events at the show is the Timberworks Lumberjack Show. There’s nothing like watching trained lumberjack athletes compete in a variety of events, including cross-cut sawing, ax throwing, chopping, speed climbing, a chainsaw race and everyone’s favorite, the log rolling competition.
4:00 p.m. Milwaukee Dog Training Club Agility Demo
As the oldest dog training club in the Midwest, the Milwaukee Dog Training Club has been fostering a love for dogs and training excellence since 1929. They offer classes in obedience, agility, flyball, and more. Their agility demo highlights the incredible skills and teamwork between dogs and their handlers as they navigate challenging obstacles. Come and see their amazing dogs in action!
5:00 p.m. Timberworks Lumberjack Show
One of the most exciting events at the show is the Timberworks Lumberjack Show. There’s nothing like watching trained lumberjack athletes compete in a variety of events, including cross-cut sawing, ax throwing, chopping, speed climbing, a chainsaw race and everyone’s favorite, the log rolling competition.
6:00 p.m. Fastest Retriever: Qualifier #4
Watch as up to 12 dogs compete in the Fastest Retriever Qualifier Round, running individually down and back a 100-foot run. Each dog must retrieve a toy and cross both lines to qualify. The top three dogs with the fastest times from each qualifier will advance to the finals on Sunday for a chance to win cash prizes. This event is a crowd favorite!
Usinger’s Cooking Stage
12:00 p.m. “Midwest Grill’n” with Mad Dog & Merrill
They want nothing more than to make everyone a better griller and have a ton of fun doing it! Mad Dog & Merrill® travel the country performing in front of live audiences and hosting the TV series Mad Dog & Merrill® Midwest Grill’n that shows viewers how easy it is to be creative and entertain in their own backyard.
1:00 p.m. “Cooking Gone Wild” with Starla Batzko
As a seasoned hunter and owner of Starla’s Seasonings, Dips, and Mixes, Starla brings her expertise in cooking and seasoning game to the stage. Starla’s recipes and tips are designed to be accessible to everyone, making it easy for both beginners and experienced cooks to create delicious dishes.
3:00 p.m. “Midwest Grill’n” with Mad Dog & Merrill
They want nothing more than to make everyone a better griller and have a ton of fun doing it! Mad Dog & Merrill® travel the country performing in front of live audiences and hosting the TV series Mad Dog & Merrill® Midwest Grill’n that shows viewers how easy it is to be creative and entertain in their own backyard.
5:00 p.m. “Midwest Grill’n” with Mad Dog & Merrill
They want nothing more than to make everyone a better griller and have a ton of fun doing it! Mad Dog & Merrill® travel the country performing in front of live audiences and hosting the TV series Mad Dog & Merrill® Midwest Grill’n that shows viewers how easy it is to be creative and entertain in their own backyard.
Sunday, March 8th
Mercury Marine Hawg Trough Stage
11:00 a.m. “Beyond the Basics” with Greg Karch, Learn 2 Fish With Us
Beyond The Basics builds upon the skills and equipment learned in the Fishing Basics seminar. This seminar uses an interactive approach and is perfect for families, adults and youth. In this seminar you will learn: safety while fishing, how to use a bait caster and line counter reel, different presentations such as jigging, trolling, pulling crawler harnesses, how locators work, how to utilize lake/river maps along with a discussion on where and when to find fish, how to fillet a fish along with ways to cook fish and so much more…
The first 75 youth 16 and under will receive a Future Pro shirt, mini tackle box with tackle and a fishing education book.
All attending Beyond The Basics seminar will go into a drawing for Pflueger Spinning fishing combo, Berkley Series 1 Spinning Rod Medium Light and a pair of Off Shore Tackle Company planer boards with tattle flags. 3 Winners will be Selected.
12:00 p.m. “Best Bites around Milwaukee” with Jim O’Neil, TV & Podcast Host of Midwest Outdoors
Discover the Best Bites around Milwaukee with Jim’s monthly calendar, featuring top spots to visit, the best gear to use, and tips on how to make the most of your fishing trips—all within a short drive of Milwaukee!
1:00 p.m. “Chasing GIANT Bass” with Mark Zona, Host of Zona’s Awesome Fishing Show on the OUTDOOR Channel; Co-Host of the Bassmaster Elite Series on ESPN2; Bass Fishing Hall of Famer
Join Mark Zona for an exhilarating presentation on the art of bass fishing. Discover the secrets behind catching those elusive giant bass, learn tips and techniques from one of the best in the business, and get ready for an engaging and entertaining session that will leave you inspired to hit the water!
Lumberjack Stage
11:00 a.m. Fastest Retriever: Qualifier #5
Watch as up to 12 dogs compete in the Fastest Retriever Qualifier Round, running individually down and back a 100-foot run. Each dog must retrieve a toy and cross both lines to qualify. The top three dogs with the fastest times from each qualifier will advance to the finals on Sunday for a chance to win cash prizes. This event is a crowd favorite!
12:00 p.m. Milwaukee Dog Training Club Agility Demo
As the oldest dog training club in the Midwest, the Milwaukee Dog Training Club has been fostering a love for dogs and training excellence since 1929. They offer classes in obedience, agility, flyball, and more. Their agility demo highlights the incredible skills and teamwork between dogs and their handlers as they navigate challenging obstacles. Come and see their amazing dogs in action!
1:00 p.m. Timberworks Lumberjack Show
One of the most exciting events at the show is the Timberworks Lumberjack Show. There’s nothing like watching trained lumberjack athletes compete in a variety of events, including cross-cut sawing, ax throwing, chopping, speed climbing, a chainsaw race and everyone’s favorite, the log rolling competition.
2:00 p.m. Milwaukee Dog Training Club Agility Demo
As the oldest dog training club in the Midwest, the Milwaukee Dog Training Club has been fostering a love for dogs and training excellence since 1929. They offer classes in obedience, agility, flyball, and more. Their agility demo highlights the incredible skills and teamwork between dogs and their handlers as they navigate challenging obstacles. Come and see their amazing dogs in action!
3:00 p.m. Timberworks Lumberjack Show
One of the most exciting events at the show is the Timberworks Lumberjack Show. There’s nothing like watching trained lumberjack athletes compete in a variety of events, including cross-cut sawing, ax throwing, chopping, speed climbing, a chainsaw race and everyone’s favorite, the log rolling competition.
4:00 p.m. Fastest Retriever: Finals
Watch as the top 15 dogs from the Fastest Retriever qualifier rounds compete in the Finals for cash prizes! Each dog will run individually down and back a 100-foot run, retrieve a toy, and cross both lines. The fastest retrievers will vie for 1st place ($300), 2nd place ($150), and 3rd place ($75). Don’t miss out on the excitement as these incredible dogs race to the finish!
Usinger’s Cooking Stage
12:00 p.m. “Midwest Grill’n” with Mad Dog & Merrill
They want nothing more than to make everyone a better griller and have a ton of fun doing it! Mad Dog & Merrill® travel the country performing in front of live audiences and hosting the TV series Mad Dog & Merrill® Midwest Grill’n that shows viewers how easy it is to be creative and entertain in their own backyard.
1:00 p.m. “Cooking Gone Wild” with Starla Batzko
As a seasoned hunter and owner of Starla’s Seasonings, Dips, and Mixes, Starla brings her expertise in cooking and seasoning game to the stage. Starla’s recipes and tips are designed to be accessible to everyone, making it easy for both beginners and experienced cooks to create delicious dishes.
2:00 p.m. Wisconsin Buck & Bear Club Awards Ceremony
The Awards Ceremony will celebrate the best trophy deer entries at the Milwaukee Sports Show across three categories: Firearms, Archery, and Crossbow. Special honors include Judge’s Choice, Overall Best of Show Typical, Overall Best of Show Non-Typical, Best of Show Bear, and Best of Show Found/Collected. Don’t miss this opportunity to witness the crowning of the finest trophy deer!
3:00 p.m. “Midwest Grill’n” with Mad Dog & Merrill
They want nothing more than to make everyone a better griller and have a ton of fun doing it! Mad Dog & Merrill® travel the country performing in front of live audiences and hosting the TV series Mad Dog & Merrill® Midwest Grill’n that shows viewers how easy it is to be creative and entertain in their own backyard.

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Waukesha Art Crawl
2026-03-07 14:00 - 20:00 | Downtown Waukesha, 337 W. Main Street, Waukesha, WI, 53186, United States
Downtown Waukesha, along with being a crazy maze of streets, offers up a lot of fun places. That includes art galleries. For the Waukesha Art Crawl, over 175 artisans at 20 galleries and showplaces, live music, gift shops and more are featured at this seasonal event. Walk the downtown streets to discover your next artistic treasure, shop the boutiques, listen to live music or indulge in food and drink.
The next Waukesha Art Crawl on Saturday, March 7th with a theme to be announced. This crawl takes place throughout downtown Waukesha from 2pm – 8pm.
Check out WaukeshaArt.com for all the updates and details!

How do you get into Waukesha? I-94 and Highway 16 bring you to the north side; Highways 59 and 164 round the south and east sides. U.S. 18 cuts right through, take that or East or St. Paul Avenues.
Waukesha Art Crawl Address:
Downtown Waukesha
337 W. Main Street
Waukesha, WI 53186
(262) 542-1522
Website

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Canoecopia
2026-03-13 16:00 - 2026-03-15 17:00 | Alliant Energy Center, 1919 Alliant Energy Center Way, Madison, WI, 53713, United States
Canoecopia is the largest paddlesports consumer event in the world. More than 250,000 square feet of kayaks, canoes, stand up paddleboards, outdoor equipment and clothing, all at the best prices of the season, make Canoecopia a “must go” place for gear! Over 100 seminars and clinics make Canoecopia an educational event where you can learn about the perfect gear for your style of paddling, develop skills to get you where you want to go, and discover some of the many places to paddle, both near and far.
If you’re interested in experiencing life on the water, Canoecopia is the best place to spend the weekend! Learn about gear for your style of paddling, develop skills to get you where you want to go, and discover many wonderful places to paddle, both near and far. The hard part may be deciding which to see.
“Meet the folks who make the boats!” Kayaks, canoes, stand up paddleboards, outdoor equipment and clothing, all at the best prices of the season. See what’s new in paddlesports and outdoor equipment, chat with experts about destinations in the Midwest and beyond, discover what’s newest, best and coolest! Admission is $17 for one day, $35 for a three-day pass. Children 17 and under are free. No credit cards; cash or check only at admission. Parking is $8/day, you can save on multiple days here.
You can reach the Alliant Energy Center easily from the Beltline (U.S. 12/18) via John Nolen Drive from the south, from John Nolen Drive from downtown (U.S. 151) or Park Street & Olin Avenues. Of course, U.S. 14, U.S. 151, and Highways 30 and 113 also bring you to Madison, where there’s plenty else to check out!
Canoecopia Hours:
Friday: 4pm – 9pm
Saturday: 9am – 6pm
Sunday: 10am – 5pm
Canoecopia Address:
Alliant Energy Center
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way
Madison, WI 53713
(608) 267-3976
Website

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The Balloon Adventure
2026-03-19 - 2026-03-29 | Pier 290, 1 Liechty Drive, Williams Bay, WI, 53191, United States
The 3rd annual Balloon Adventure is BACK at Pier 290 in Williams Bay, Thursday, March 19th through Sunday, March 29th, 2026!
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 years theme is “Bug Out!”
The Boat Showroom at PIER 290 in Williams Bay transforms into a magical marine adventure for the 2026 Balloon Adventure. The “Bug Out!” theme lets you get ready to shrink down and bug out in a balloon-filled world where butterflies, beetles, and bumblebees take over. From dazzling balloon artistry to interactive experiences, photo ops, themed nights, and family fun—this whimsical event is for all ages! 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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Beloit International Film Festival
2026-03-25 - 2026-03-29 | Downtown Beloit, Various locations, Beloit, WI, 53511, United States
The 21st annual Beloit International Film Festival (BIFF) runs from March 25th – 29th, 2026! 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.
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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International PEEPS Art Exhibition at the Racine Art Museum
2026-04-01 - 2026-04-18 | Racine Art Museum, 441 Main Street, Racine, WI, 53403, United States
Within the pristine white walls of a contemporary art museum that overlooks Lake Michigan, the Racine Art Museum presents a rather non-traditional exhibition showcasing fluffy, sugar-coated marshmallow PEEPS®. Over the years, many entrants have been become experts in marshmallow candy as a material, using methods like carving, painting, hole punching, gluing, and melting to manipulate PEEPS into incredible shapes. For this show, Richard W. Marklin, Jr. melted a flock of PEEPS to make Raul the Rooster, a realistic barnyard bird; while April Harris and Autumn Kyle assembled the holiday treats into a bust of Black Panther Peeper.
This year, the RAM 17th Annual International PEEPS Art Exhibition takes place now through April 18th; awards will be handed out after. Previous shows have drawn over 4,000 visitors to the museum during its three-week run, setting daily spring attendance records along the way. Previous pieces included Peep Swift: The Marshmallow Era (yes, channeling Taylor); the It’s 5 O’Clock Somewhere parrot-looking PEEP with the Jimmy Buffett vibe; Funky Peepcock fashioned in sparkling glass beads and feathers; Pop Art Peeps crafted in glazed stoneware; and Sweet Meets Wild, an inlaid box made of different hardwoods. Inspired by inventive puns, pop culture, sports, and famous artists, many of the PEEPS art entries are by local artists, families, and organizations but quite a few artists from out-of-state also participate.
Vote for Your Favorite PEEPS
Stop by the museum to vote for your favorite PEEPS creation. You will decide who wins the coveted PEEPles Choice Award, announced at the end of the show.
You’ll find the Racine Art Museum along Main Street/Highway 32 in downtown Racine, just blocks from Lake Michigan. Highways 20 and 38 also bring you downtown, and Highway 11 is just to the south. It’s a little over a 10-minute drive east of I-41/94, depending on traffic and how you lit the lights. There is plenty else to see and do there, from picking up a fresh kringle at one of Racine’s famous Danish bakeries to exploring the city’s heritage at the Racine Historical Museum, enjoying the beautiful harbor and waterfront, shopping the stores of 6th Street and Main Street, or even exploring Hotel Verdant, the new boutique hotel downtown. These are all within walking distance of the Racine Art Museum!
International PEEPS Art Exhibition Address:
Racine Art Museum
441 Main Street (Highway 32)
Racine, WI 53403
(262) 638-8300
Website

PEEPS Exhibit called “Mt. PEEPmore” by Elizabeth Peterson. Yes, it’s a mountain of PEEPs. Photo credit: Christina Lieffring, Racine Journal-Times.
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East Troy Bunny Train
2026-04-04 09:30 - 2026-04-05 16:00 | East Troy Electric Railroad Museum, 2002 Church Street, East Troy, WI, 53120, United States
The East Troy Bunny Train provides Easter weekend family fun on Saturday and Sunday, April 4th and 5th. The ride is a ten-mile round trip starting at the East Troy Depot. Board the heated train where kids can participate in Easter themed activities during the ride to the Elegant Farmer. Enjoy bunny displays by local 4-H Students and treats at the Elegant Farmer. Every Child with a ticket will receive an Easter gift! Boarding is only done at the East Troy Depot and advance reservations are required. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable, all ticket sales are final. Tickets can be purchased online or by phone & leave a message. A volunteer will return your call, and they appreciate your interest and support!
More details and advance ticket purchases can be made on their website.
You can get to the East Troy Depot via Highway 20 or Highway 120, just north I-43. It’s also known as Church Street just north of the town square.
East Troy Bunny Train Address:
East Troy Railroad Depot
2002 Church Street
East Troy, WI 53120
Website

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Gallery Night & Day, Milwaukee
2026-04-17 - 2026-04-18 | Downtown & Historic Third Ward, 400 N. Water Street, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, United States
Happening quarterly, Gallery Night & Day is one of the premier art events in Milwaukee. It’s the “Ultimate Art Weekend,” with over 50 venues throughout the Historic Third Ward and Downtown that serve as showcases for viewing art from paintings to sculptures to other creative outlets. Bars and restaurants stay open later than usual Friday night, while Saturday is a prime time to continue the gallery gallivanting while also enjoying the area’s unique and eclectic selection of shops.
Along with art galleries, Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward is filled with locally-owned boutique shops along with national stores like Anthropologie, Designs Within Reach, Francesca’s, Mod Gen, Retique, Warby Parker, Lululemon Athletica, and more. You can also stop in Wizard Works Brewing or Broken Bat Brewery for craft beer, or Vino 100 or Thief Wine in the Milwaukee Public Market for a fantastic selection of wines. Numerous restaurants in the Third Ward offer everything from bar food to Asian fusion, Indian cuisine, American and Korean barbecue, and Italian – plus Shake Shack. The Milwaukee Public Market draws visitors from all over and offers takeaway and ready-to-eat food, drinks, and sundries in one dynamic setting.
This quarter, Gallery Night runs Friday and Saturday, April 17th and 18th. Activities begin late afternoon Friday and run through Saturday afternoon. I-43/94, I-794, U.S. 18, and Highway 32 are all amidst where it takes place; Highways 38, 59, and 145 get you close! The city has signs directing you to the Third Ward from the Marquette Interchange. You can also ride The Hop, the local streetcar
Full details and venue listings are available on their website. You’ll find the latest listings of shops, galleries, bars, restaurants, and more – things develop and change quickly in the Third Ward!
Gallery Night & Day Address:
Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward
300 N. Broadway (and all over the area)
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Website

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