La Crosse welcomes 2018 with a bang, literally. Check out amazing 6pm and Midnight fireworks on Grandad Bluff from the Skyrockers, lighting up the Mississippi Valley over La Crosse on New Years’ Eve!
The Skyrockers shoot these fireworks from on the top of Grandad Bluff. Some of the best places to vwatch include areas from near the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse campus to the parking lot of K-mart at the intersection of Losey Boulevard and State Road. Feel free to share your favorite spot to watch! Folks also watch from the bluff, downtown, while ice fishing on the river, cross-country skiing or sledding, or just drinking hot chocolate (or whatever else) around town.
La Crosse is easily accessed via I-90, U.S. 14/61, U.S. 53, and Highways 16, 33, and 35.
Skyrockers Fireworks on New Year’s Eve Address:
Grandad Bluff Park
3020 Grandad Bluff Road
La Crosse, WI 54601 Website
Start:
December 31, 2017 5:00 am
End:
January 1, 2018 1:00 am
Venue:
Grandad Bluff Park
Phone:
608-782-2366
Address:
3020 Grandad Bluff Road, La Crosse, WI, 54601, United States
Folklore Village is a nationally recognized folk arts and culture center dedicated to enriching lives through time-honored traditions. Thousands of people of all ages come to Folklore Village to gather with friends, meet new people, to eat, dance, sing and play. Come study with a master fiddler… sing with a gospel choir… dance until midnight… learn to spin wool… feast on jambalaya… join a back porch jam session… plant prairie flowers… or picture yourself as a student in a real 1890 schoolhouse… or come and enjoy the annual Festival of Christmas & Midwinter Traditions during the final week of December!
International dance instructors Liv and Bill Vanaver will lead fun and engaging international dances for all skill levels to include Balkan, Green and more! American country/folk singer Val Mindel will also be on staff from Vermont leading singing and harmony workshops. Bob and Julie Young will also be leading American social dance workshops. Other folk artists and crafts include blacksmithing, fiber arts, theater games, Ostfriesland Tea, Sankta Lucia Celebration, a Christmas Festival Auction and international meals throughout the festival – heck, even yoga daily. There is a also a wonderful Children’s Program. You are welcomed no matter what your skill level! Full and Part time registration is available and required.
Folklore Village is six miles east of Dodgeville, just south of U.S. 18/151. Highway 23 is nearby to the west. Their website has full details on all the events and updates!
Address for the Festival of Christmas & Midwinter Traditions at Folklore Village:
3210 County Road BB
Dodgeville, WI 53533
(608) 924-4000 Website
Start:
December 28, 2017
End:
January 1, 2018
Venue:
Folklore Village
Phone:
608-924-4000
Address:
3210 County Road BB, Dodgeville, WI, 53533, United States
Wonewoc has an amazing parade consisting of typically over 50 entries all glowing in lights. Kick off the Holiday season by joining in for a fun-filled evening!
The parade starts at 6pm leaving from Bakers Field traveling along Highway 33 and Center Street to the Fire Department. Other festivities start around 5pm. Local businesses are open with extended hours for you to do some Christmas Shopping. Bring out the entire family and enjoy the food and music.
Wonewoc is a beautiful little town along the Baraboo River along Highway 33. It’s also along the beautiful “400” Trail and a series of other nearby recreational trails. Check out the natural beauty surrounding the area, the holiday spirit, and some local shops. Makes for a great road trip, as you can follow 33 to Reedsburg, Portage, Baraboo, and more to enjoy their holiday events all weekend, too!
Wonewoc Lighted Christmas Parade Address:
Highway 33
Wonewoc, WI 53968
(608) 464-3114 Website
The Ice Fishing and Winter Sports Show hits Wisconsin State Fair Park the weekend of December 8-10, 2017, where you can shop row upon row of exhibits with products and services dedicated to the die-hard ice fishing and winter sports enthusiast!
View all new ice fishing products, including fish houses, augers, underwater cameras, digital fish finders, rods and reels, tackle, accessories, apparel and much more. The show will feature new merchandise at a variety of price points to fit any budget. Whether you are an avid fisherman looking for a few new accessories, an experienced angler in need of an upgrade, or totally new to the ice fishing scene, you will find what you are looking for at this show.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there Saturday from noon to 3pm for photos – and perhaps accepting your Christmas wish list!
Show Hours
Friday: 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Sunday: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Ticket Prices
Adults: $9.00
Children 6-12: $4.00
Children 5 & Under: Free
Ice Fishing & Winter Sports Show Address:
Wisconsin State Fair Park Expo Center
640 S. 84th Street (Highways 59 & 181)
West Allis, WI 53214
(800) 848-6247 Website
Start:
December 8, 2017 12:00 pm
End:
December 10, 2017 3:00 pm
Venue:
Exposition Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park
Phone:
800-848-6247
Address:
640 S. 84th Street, West Allis, WI, 53214, United States
Bridge Street is where the annual “Bridge to Wonderland Parade” begins in beautiful downtown Chippewa Falls. This parade features a huge variety of illuminated floats, with Santa on the last float! As you enjoy the parade, savor complimentary hot drinks at businesses with red carpets and all the shops downtown have to offer.
The 2017 theme is “Christmas in Toyland”, with over 50 illuminated and musical floats, walking units, horse-drawn wagons, and more filling the streets with vibrancy and fun. The parade runs along Bridge Street from Spruce Street to Spring Street.
And don’t forget the thousands of holiday lights and decorations just up Highway 124 in Irvine Park & the Irvine Park Zoo to really keep that holiday spirit flowing!
U.S. 53, Highway 29, and Highway 124 (the historic U.S. 53 route) all bring you to Chippewa Falls. While you’re there, check out the Leinenkugels Brewery right by Irvine Park and Zoo, the historic Cook-Rutledge Mansion, the Riverbend Winery, the Heyde Center for the Performing Arts, Brewster Brothers Brewing and the Chippewa River Distillery, terrific downtown shopping, great trails, and more. There’s a lot to enjoy in Chippewa Falls, why not enjoy the parade first to kick it all off?
Bridge to Wonderland Parade Address:
Downtown Chippewa Falls
514 N. Bridge Street
Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
(715) 723-7858 Website
Start:
December 2, 2017 5:00 pm
End:
December 2, 2017 9:00 pm
Venue:
Downtown Chippewa Falls
Phone:
715-723-7858
Address:
514 N. Bridge Street, Chippewa Falls, WI, 54729, United States
Kenosha HarborMarket is great any time of year – but this is a special edition of Kenosha Winter HarborMarket! Located on on the west lawn of the Kenosha Public Museum and Civil War Museum, the market will take place outdoors in two large, heated tents. Approximately 60 vendors will be on-site offering food, beverages, giftable items, fresh produce, and more. There will also be a variety of indoor and outdoor family activities throughout the day.
This collaborative event combines the Civil War Museum’s Victorian Christmas, Kenosha Public Museum’s International Holiday, Winter HarborMarket, and more. A combination of indoor and outdoor events offering fun and food for the entire family, plus holiday shopping!
International Holiday Faire, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., inside the Kenosha Public Museum (5500 First Avenue): Celebrate traditions and holidays of cultures from around the globe. The day includes:
Shop for gifts in the International Bazaar
Food from Italy, Korea, Mexico, Germany, Norway, Greece, Armenia, and Lithuania
Traditional dance and performances
Japanese Ikebana Floral Arrangements
Stop by the hot cocoa bar and add your own toppings to warm up the day
Face Painting
Write a letter to Santa with Mrs. Claus and her elf helpers
11:30 Ed Doody on keyboard
12:30 Korean Dancers
1:30 Ballet Folklorico Regional Mexicano
2:30 MGV Harmonia German Men’s Choir
Victorian Christmas inside the Civil War Museum, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m., (5400 First Avenue): Explore the traditions of soldiers and civilians during and after the Civil War. The day includes:
Free admission to the Fiery Trial gallery
Soldier and civilian presentations
Cookie decorating
Games, crafts, and storytelling
Visit with Santa Claus, 2:30 – 6:00
11:00 MGV Harmonia German Men’s Choir
12:00 The 26th Wisconsin at Chancellorsville Lecture
1:00 Holiday favorites performed by Ed Pierce and the Palmyra Eagle Band
2:00 West Side Victorian Dancers
3:00 Kenosha Chamber Choir
Expanded Kenosha Winter HarborMarket – Two heated tents with over 60 vendors offering giftable items. Prepared food vendors will be serving hot food for you to enjoy at the event as well. Fresh produce, meats and cheeses, arts, crafts, and more will be available.
Outdoor Entertainment:
10:00 Carthachords
11:00 Jamey Buencamino
12:30 Women in Motion (with additional performance indoors following)
1:00 Rolando Canales
3:00 Milwaukee Road
4:00 Kenosha Chamber Choir
5:00 Country Crossing
Holiday Wagon Rides – Climb aboard a holiday themed, horse-drawn wagon for a ride around HarborPark. By Black Tie Carriage Service. $5 per person. (weather permitting)
Beer Garden featuring local craft beer by Rustic Road Brewing Co. and PUBLIC Craft Brewing Co.
Homemade Glog and festive centerpieces, greens and holiday decorations by Jerry Smith Produce and Pumpkin Farm.
New! Local artists have created large-scale 12 Days of Christmas pieces to be on display during the event. From 12 Drummers drumming, down to the lone Partridge in a pear tree, designs that are 4-foot by 6-foot will line the west lawn of the Kenosha Public Museum and Civil War Museum. The artwork will serve as a decoration, a photo opportunity for event attendees, and a way to showcase local talent. The artists all have significantly different art styles, so the pieces will be diverse and exciting to see together.
Enjoy FREE rides on the Electric Streetcars. Three cars will be operating from 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Use the streetcar for easy parking in any public lot in Downtown Kenosha and be dropped off at the event entrance. One streetcar will have a storyteller onboard for extra holiday cheer!
Kenosha Winter HarborMarket Address:
5500 1st Avenue
Kenosha, WI 53140
(262) 653-4140 Website
Start:
December 2, 2017 10:00 am
End:
December 2, 2017 6:00 pm
Venue:
Kenosha Public Museum
Phone:
262-653-4140
Address:
5500 1st Avenue, Kenosha, WI, 53140, United States
First Fridays in Cedarburg provides opportunity for families to come together to partake in an artistic experience, including unique educational elements for youth ranging from artist-led crafts to hands-on musical experiences. Guests are greeted with an opening band featuring local musicians at 6:00 pm. Dinner will be available for purchase from food trucks, as well as indoors from “After Party” Sponsor, The Stilthouse Restaurant. Other activities include a local handmade art show, kid’s crafts, dancing, cash bar and good times. At 7:00pm, the lights go down and the party turns up as the main act, Consult the Briefcase, takes the stage for two hours. The Center’s full cash bar and dance floor will multiply the fun. This exciting series is free of charge to members of the Cultural Center and children under 5. Non-member general admission is $5 at the door. Full details are on the Cedarburg Cultural Center website.
Historic downtown Cedarburg can be reached via Washington Avenue, which is Historic Highway 57. Today’s Highway 57, as well as Highways 60, 167, and 181, come close. I-43/Highway 32 is also a few miles to the east and you can access Cedarburg via County C (Exit 89).
Start:
November 3, 2017 4:00 pm
End:
November 3, 2017 11:00 pm
Venue:
Cedarburg Cultural Center
Phone:
262-375-3676
Address:
W62 N546 Washington Avenue, Cedarburg, WI, 53012, United States
Port Washington Ghost Walks are a fun way to celebrate the spooky Halloween season. October 27th and 28th, you can spend an evening hearing the spirited experiences of the residents of Port Washington.
Every walk explores ghost stories and sightings in the historic downtown and haunted Union Cemetery in paranormal Port Washington. Tours take about 2 hours total.
This year… if you want an extra special experience… Join them for an actual GHOST HUNT! The 10:15 tour each night will be an extended version and exploration of the final destination! Over the years, a number of ghost walkers have reported activity in our final stop of the night. This year, we’re going to spend a bit more time there. Break out your equipment or borrow some of ours and see what you catch.
The 7:30, 8:00 and 9:45 ghost walks focus on the downtown and cemetery.
Port Washington is easily accessed from I-43 via Highway 32 or 33; Highway 57 is just to the west.
Port Washington Ghost Walks Address:
106 N. Lake Street
Port Washington, WI 53074
(262) 498-5777 Website
More details below!
Where: Tours for Port Washington Ghost Walks all meet at the Niagara Monument and the Wisconsin Chair Company monument adjacent to Dockside Deli and the marina in Port Washington.
Cost: $15.00 per person for the regular tour. $30.00 per person for the tour plus ghost hunt.
Walk-ins: If you can’t buy tickets online, we’re full. We limit the number to 20 people per tour and 8 for the tour plus ghost hunt. We cannot take credit cards for walk-in’s. Cash only.
Ages: 13 and over – primarily to accommodate youngster’s attention spans. If you have a young person who would like to go, please consider whether or not they would be happy walking around hearing ghost stories that don’t involve anyone jumping out at them.
NOTE: Ages 18 and over for the ghost hunt tours beginning at 10:15. No exceptions.
Scare Factor: Mild to Moderate. These are people’s actual stories. Some are mild, a few a bit more disturbing. No one will be jumping out at you wearing a mask.
NOTE: The scare factor on the ghost hunt could be more intense.
Tickets: No tickets will be mailed. Your name will be on a checklist with your tour leader.
Weather: It will be chilly. Wear layers and a jacket. If there’s a light rain, we will still go out.
Visibility: The downtown portion is well lit. You will not need a flashlight. The cemetery portion is dark. You may bring a flashlight but we ask that you only use when instructed.
Walking: We will be doing lots of walking including some stairs. Wear comfortable shoes.
Start:
October 27, 2017 7:30 pm
End:
October 28, 2017 11:55 pm
Venue:
Downtown Port Washington
Phone:
262-498-5777
Address:
106 N. Lake Street, Port Washington, WI, 53074, United States
What’s better than a Haunted House? A Haunted Sub! On the final weekend of October, you can board the WW II submarine USS Cobia in Manitowoc for a wild, haunted submarine experience. Are you brave enough to discover what lurks beneath the surface at night?
Cost is $8 per person.If you survive the tour, hang out in our Sub Pub and enjoy some Halloween-themed refreshments at the cash bar! May not be suitable for children under 10 (we’re talking specifically about the tour, not the cash bar.)
There’s plenty to do and see in Manitowoc and at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum, which is chock full of great exhibits about the maritime history of the area and the Great Lakes.
Manitowoc is just off I-43 via U.S. 10, U.S. 151, or Highway 42.
Haunted Sub & Pub Address:
Wisconsin Maritime Museum
75 Maritime Drive
Manitowoc, WI 54220
(920) 684-0218 Website
Start:
October 27, 2017 7:00 pm
End:
October 28, 2017 11:00 pm
Venue:
Wisconsin Maritime Museum
Phone:
920-684-0218
Address:
75 Maritime Drive, Manitowoc, WI, 54220, United States
A fun weekend can be enjoyed – in lederhosen among other outfits – with Cedarburg Oktoberfest. Bursting with gemuetlichkeit, it runs Saturday, October 14, 11 a.m.–8 p.m. and Sunday, October 15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free admission and parking!
A huge tent in the Community Center parking lot covers the bands, the dance floor and tables, lending a true Oktoberfest feel. Cedarburg Oktoberfest means authentic German music and the entertainment features Pommersche Tanzdeel Dancers, Tuba Dan, the Alte Kameraden Band, D’Lustig’n Wendlstoana Dancers and the Cedarburg Civic Band plus a wooden dance floor for Polka fans. And, if you’ve never seen a live Glockenspiel Show (Cuckoo Clock), this delightful, goofy event will make you laugh as it reappears every two hours.
There will be plenty of German foods and beers, wines and German desserts. Festivals of Cedarburg will dish up authentic German dinners, classics like Sauerbraten, Wiener Schnitzel, German Sausage Platter, and other delights. Cedarburg Lion’s will serve Currywurst, Bratwurst and Hotdogs. You’ll also find specialty beers such as Hofbrau, Hacker Pschorr, Leinenkugel Oktoberfest and Bluemoon. They will also have award-winning wines from Cedar Creek Winery and specialty beer from The Fermentorium.
Silly contests with prize awards include Saturday’s Best Lederhosen/Dirndl Judging Contest, and Sauerkraut Eating Contest and Sunday’s German Spelling Bee from Ault to Zither (A-Z).
There will be a merchant’s marketplace on the Cedarburg Oktoberfest grounds. Around town, arts will be highlighted all weekend long with the Cedarburg Artists Guild Covered Bridge Studio Tour. While in Cedarburg, tour the Cedarburg Cultural Center’s art exhibits, Cedarburg History Museum and Visitor Center, the historic Kuhefuss House (1849), Paul J. Yank Cedarburg Brewery (1843), Cedar Creek Winery in the Wittenberg Woolen Mill or better known as the Cedar Creek Settlement (1864), the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts and the Cedarburg Art Museum. Most are within walking distance from the Festival.
For the automobile aficionados – and what State Trunk Tourer isn’t – members of the Milwaukee Area Volkswagen Club will be displaying their cars during Cedarburg Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 14 from Noon to 3:00 p.m. Come back on Sunday, October 15 from when approximately 20 members of the Milwaukee Region Porsche Club of America will be showing their cars from noon to 3:00 p.m. A variety of Porsches is expected at this event, including some of the earliest models.
Stroll along Washington Avenue absorbing the charm and historic ambiance of thriving downtown Cedarburg, chock-full of unique retail shops and restaurants. Founded in the 1840’s, Cedarburg was declared a National Historic District listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The city is home to more than 100 restored and intact buildings of historic significance.
Cedarburg Oktoberfest Address:
Cedarburg Community Center
W63N641 Washington Avenue (Historic Highway 57)
Cedarburg, WI 53012
(262) 377-9620 Website
Check out some great fall fun in historic Cedarburg, along Historic Highway 57 (Washington Avenue) just north of Highway 167 and south of Highway 60. Highway 181 is just to the west. It’s only about 10-12 minutes off I-43/Highway 32, and it’s a great little town!
Start:
October 14, 2017 11:00 am
End:
October 15, 2017 5:00 pm
Venue:
Cedarburg Community Center
Phone:
262-377-9620
Address:
W63N641 Washington Avenue, Cedarburg, WI, 53012, United States
Marshfield hosts the CBRA (Central Bull Riders Association) National Finals on Friday, September 29 and Saturday, September 30! Hit the Central Wisconsin State Fairgrounds – home to the World’s Largest Round Barn – and see the top 15 Bull Riders & Barrel Racers compete. Enjoy live music from Dirt Road Dixie, plus plenty of food and beverage vendors will be at the ready as you can cheer on some seriously fun action!
Tickets to Central Bull Riders Association National Finals are on sale now for $10 for ages 16 and up, $5 for ages 8 to 15, and children 7 and under get in free. Tickets are only good for one-day admission. You can purchase at the door for an additional $2 in both age groups. However, children 7 and under still get in free.
The host hotel for this is Hotel Marshfield, a boutique hotel on Central Avenue that’s a State Trunk Tour favorite.
U.S. 10 and Highways 13, 80, and 97 bring you to Marshfield. While there, check out the Wildwood Zoo, the Blue Heron Brewpub, the old Yellowstone Trail through town, and Central Avenue’s downtown strip with great shops, a theater, murals, and much more.
Central Bull Riders Association National Finals Event Address in Marshfield:
Central Wisconsin State Fairgrounds
517 E. 17th Street
Marshfield, WI 54449
(715) 384-4642 Website
Start:
September 29, 2017 7:00 pm
End:
September 30, 2017 10:00 pm
Venue:
Central Wisconsin State Fairgrounds
Phone:
763-389-1399
Address:
513 E. 17th Street, Marshfield, WI, 54449, United States
Check out historic Villa Louis, right along the Mississippi River in Wisconsin’s second oldest city, from top to bottom. “Villa Louis Behind the Scenes” offers extended tours of the mansion, giving visitors a glimpse into the life of a historic house museum. Highlighting the care and upkeep of a unique object from the Dousman collection, tours include visits to the nooks and crannies of this historic and beautiful restored mansion.
Prairie du Chien lies just north of where the Wisconsin River flows into the Mississippi in one of the most beautiful areas of Wisconsin. U.S. 18 and Highways 27, 35, and 60 all bring you there.
For full Villa Louis information, check out their website!
Start:
September 29, 2017 10:30 am
End:
September 30, 2017 5:00 pm
Venue:
Villa Louis
Phone:
608-326-2721
Address:
521 N. Villa Louis Road, Prairie du Chien, WI, 53821, United States
The Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds brims with antiques and vendors at the 2nd annual Chippewa Falls Antique Show Sale. Nearly 40 vendors with a wide variety of antique and collectibles, food vendors, and more.
It all takes place in Exhibition Hall C on the Fairgrounds, right off Highway 124. Admission is $5, which is good for both days; parking is free. Get more details on their Facebook page!
The Leinenkugel Brewery and beautiful Irvine Park (with a fantastic free zoo, to boot) are right next door, so make it an awesomely fun weekend in Chippewa Falls! U.S. 53 and Highways 29 and 178 also bring you to town.
Chippewa Falls Antique Show Sale Address:
Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds
225 Edward Street (just off Highway 124)
Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
(715) 617-4310 Website
Start:
September 29, 2017 9:00 am
End:
September 30, 2017 4:00 pm
Venue:
Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds
Phone:
715-617-4310
Address:
225 Edward Street, Chippewa Falls, WI, 54729, United States
Cambridge Fall Fest embraces the spirit of autum. Apple pies and crisp falling leaves beckon the whole family to play in Cambridge, a charming town east of Madison along U.S. 12 & 18.
At Cambridge Fall Fest, you can take a tractor hayride, build a scarecrow, or bid on an award-winning homemade pie. There will be live music, chainsaw art, beekeeping demos, face painting, and the FFA farm animal petting zoo.
The Cambridge Community Activities Program will also be conducting its annual Fun Run and Family Wellness Fair in the morning at downtown West Side Park as well.
Cambridge Fall Fest Address:
Veterans Park
100 E. Main Street (U.S. 12)
Cambridge, WI 53523
(608) 423-3780 Website
Start:
September 16, 2017 10:00 am
End:
September 16, 2017 3:00 pm
Venue:
Veterans Park
Phone:
608-423-3780
Address:
100 E. Main Street, Cambridge, WI, 53523, United States
The EAA Warbirds “Badger Squadron Six” 9th Annual Oconto Fly-in takes place at the Oconto’s J. Douglas Bake Municipal Airport. (KOCQ) on Saturday, September 16th.
Warbird aircraft that attended in 2016 are Yaks, WACO, L 19 Bird Dogs, a TBM Avenger and various others. In 2015 there were over 50 different types of aircraft that attended.
Remote Controlled (RC’s) will fly during the day with a one hour show scheduled at 2pm. The car and tractor show in 2015 had 250 Model A’s & T’s, muscle cars, tractors and everything in between. The army encampment expands every year.Vendors, crafters and artisans were in attendance and the visitors enjoyed the variety available. An opening ceremony honoring our Veterans is scheduled at 10:30am.
There is always a wide variety of food, beverages and desserts. Airplane and helicopter rides will be available for a fee. Ages 12 and under admission is FREE & Parking is Free!
Oconto is right along U.S. 41 at the east end of Highway 22 near the waters of Green Bay. Check out the town, Copper Culture State Park, and more while you’re there!
EAA Warbirds Fly-In Address:
2983 Airport Road
Oconto, WI 54153
(920) 246-5620 Website
Start:
September 16, 2017 9:00 am
End:
September 16, 2017 5:00 pm
Venue:
Oconto Airport
Phone:
920-246-5620
Address:
2983 Airport Road, Oconto, WI, 54153, United States
“The Happiest 5K on Earth” is the slogan for The Color Run, a unique paint race that celebrates healthiness, happiness, and individuality. Now the largest running series in the world, The Color Run has been experienced by over 6 million runners worldwide in 35+ countries. On Saturday, September 16th, The Color Run comes to Racine!
This year’s race is called The Color Run 2017 Dream Tour and it features giant unicorns, the all-new Cloud Foam Zone, the whimsical Dream Wall and much more!
Runners/walkers will go through a 5k course on the streets of Racine where they’ll be doused with colored powder. Stick around for the high-energy post-run party. Entry fee ($39.99 for team members, $44.99 for individuals) includes official TCR soft tee, color runner headband, color packet and Unicorn finisher medal.
The Color Run starts 9 a.m. on Pershing Drive behind Gateway Technical College, 1001 S. Main St.
Save $5 per entry with code REALRACINE17
How The Color Run Works
It’s designed to be less about your 10-minute-mile and more about having the time of your life. The Color Run is a five-kilometer (3.1-mile), un-timed event in which thousands of participants, or “Color Runners”, are doused from head to toe in different colors at each kilometer. With only two rules, the idea is easy to follow:
1. Wear white at the starting line!
2. Finish plastered in color!
After Color Runners complete the race, the fun continues with an unforgettable Finish Festival. This larger than life party is equipped with music, dancing and massive color throws, which create millions of vivid color combinations.
Team members run for $39.99 each, individuals for $44.99. That includes entry, a white tee (that will end up in color), a headband, a Unicorn Finishers’ Medal, and a color packet.
Check out in Racine’s Pershing Park, right along Lake Michigan! Highways 11, 20, 32, and 38 bring you there!
Start:
September 16, 2017 9:00 am
End:
September 16, 2017 12:00 pm
Venue:
Pershing Park
Address:
800 Pershing Drive, Racine, WI, 53402, United States
Algoma’s Von Stiehl Winery hosts its annual Wet Whistle Wine Fest the weekend of September 15-16, 2017 this year. Wet Whistle Wine Fest offers award-winning wines, a grape stomp, heritage foods, & live music!
It isn’t the 2,000 visitors smiling all the time that’s weird. Nor is it the trombonist standing in a grape-filled barrel while playing an amazing riff. Nor the people with sticky purple feet dancing onstage. This is normal at a wine fest and to be expected. What’s odd at Wet Whistle Wine Fest are all the costumes. They don’t ask anyone to show up dressed as wine bottles, or nuns who smoke cigarettes while downing Naughty Girl wine. And these are just a couple examples of Wet Whistle Wine Fest goings-on that weren’t made up. Don’t take their word for it… come to the wine fest and see it for yourself!
This Wet Whistle Wine Fest is a fundraiser for the Community Improvement of Algoma, Algoma Fire and Rescue.
Wet Whistle Wine Fest Schedule
Friday
Free admission, but canned food donations for Kewaunee County Food Pantry are welcome! All weekend, children under 12 FREE. Under 21 must be accompanied by an adult.
Band: Cat Five • 4–8pm
Specialty Foods • 4–8pm
Saturday
$10 Admission. All weekend, children under 12 FREE. Under 21 must be accompanied by an adult.
Band: Beaker Street • 10am–1:30pm
Band: The Groove Hogs • 2–6pm
Tours & Wine Tasting • At Winery, 9am–6pm
Specialty Foods • 10am–6pm
Celebrity Stomp Off • 11am & 11:20 am
Grape Stomp Heats: 12:20pm, 1:30pm & 3 pm
Grand Grape Stomp Off • 4:30pm
Vintage Wine Tasting • 12:30-3:30pm in the production building
Wet Whistle Wine Fest Address:
115 Navarino Street
Algoma, WI 54201
(920) 487-5208 Website
You’ll find Von Stiehl Winery and Legion Memorial Park in downtown Algoma, just off Highway 42 blocks north of where Highway 54 ends at Lake Michigan. While downtown, check out the cool murals, increasing numbers of shops offering unique items, and the nice beach along the lakefront.
Start:
September 15, 2017 4:00 pm
End:
September 16, 2017 6:00 pm
Venue:
Von Stiehl Winery
Phone:
800-955-5208
Address:
115 Navarino Street, Algoma, WI, 54201, United States
Turn back the clock with the 26th annual Fall Harvest Days at the Racine County Fairgrounds September 15-17!
The Southeastern Wisconsin Antique Power Collectibles Society presents displays of antique tractors, trucks, gasoline engines and farm equipment. In addition to static displays of antique tractors and equipment, there will be large display of antique engines, garden tractors, and vintage cars and trucks. This year they’re featuring 175 Years of Case Tractors and Equipment.
The entire family can enjoy demonstrations of corn shelling, hay baling, threshing, sawmills, plus shingle mill and homemaking demonstrations. There’s a daily tractor parade, children’s activities, horse-drawn wagon rides, crafts, flea market, farm toys and great, down-home food. There are also indoor and outdoor flea markets, crafts, and farm toy displays. Many food and drink vendors are on the grounds. There is a big tractor/equipment parade each day of the show. Each year the club raffles off a hand–made Amish quilt.
Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. $7 adults; kids 12 and under free. Free parking. You’ll find the Racine County Fairgrounds in Union Grove, along Highway 11 near the junction with U.S. 45.
Fall Harvest Days Address:
Racine County Fairgrounds
19805 Durand Avenue (Highway 11)
Union Grove, WI 53182
(414) 529-2413 Website
Start:
September 15, 2017 8:00 am
End:
September 17, 2017 5:00 pm
Venue:
Racine County Fairgrounds
Phone:
414-529-2413
Address:
19805 Durand Avenue, Union Grove, WI, 53182, United States
The 8th annual Taste of Lake Geneva features the best fare in and around Lake Geneva, from deep fried cheese curds to barbecued ribs, and from homemade soups to tantalizing desserts. Along with great food, local artists will entertain with their tunes as you enjoy the view of Geneva Lake from Flat Iron Park.
Participating Restaurants at Taste of Lake Geneva include Avant, Constant Cravings, Franks, Simple Bakery, Sprecher, Lake Geneva Country Meats, The Geneva Inn, Crafted, Heart & Soul, Mama Ciminos, Tuscan and Geneva Java.
It runs from 11am – 6pm on Saturday, September 9, 2017. Admission is $2, food samples range from $3 to $9.
Taste of Lake Geneva Address:
Flat Iron Park
201 Wrigley Drive
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
(262) 248-4416 Website
Start:
September 9, 2017 11:00 am
End:
September 9, 2017 6:00 pm
Venue:
Flat Iron Park
Phone:
262-248-4416
Address:
201 Wrigley Drive, Lake Geneva, WI, 53147, United States
Check out Kenosha’s Electric Streetcars as they get celebrated on Saturday, September 9th! These beautifully restored electric streetcars travel a 2-mile loop throughout the year, providing easy access and a scenic tour of the Lake Michigan shoreline, HarborPark, two historic districts, downtown business district and the METRA train station.
Kenosha Streetcar Day features tours of the “streetcar barn” (Joseph McCarthy Transit Center), interactive displays, vendors, a streetcar trivia game, and more. The Streetcars will be in operation and of course they’ll be available for photo-ops. Spend the day riding as many of Kenosha’s streetcars as you want, explore the downtown area with its shops, museums, restaurants, and bars. Two cars will be running at a time, with others out for display.
You can easily get to downtown Kenosha via Highway 32 along the lake, or using Highways 50 or 158 from I-41/94 or Highway 31. Downtown is about seven miles east of the Interstate (or from the Brat Stop or Mars Cheese Castle, if we’re measuring from State Trunk Tour favorites!)
Kenosha Streetcar Day Address:
Streetcar Day is presented by Kenosha Streetcar Society, Kenosha Area Transit, and more. Activities center around the Joseph McCarthy Transit Center
724 54th Street
Kenosha, WI 53140
(262) 653-4287 Website
Start:
September 9, 2017 10:00 am
End:
September 9, 2017 4:00 pm
Venue:
Joseph McCarthy Transit Center
Phone:
262-653-4287
Address:
724 54th Street, Kenosha, WI, 53140, United States
Calendar of Events
Calendar of Events
December 31, 2017 – January 1, 2018
Skyrockers New Year’s Eve Fireworks at the Bluff, La Crosse
La Crosse welcomes 2018 with a bang, literally. Check out amazing 6pm and Midnight fireworks on Grandad Bluff from the Skyrockers, lighting up the Mississippi Valley over La Crosse on New Years’ Eve!
The Skyrockers shoot these fireworks from on the top of Grandad Bluff. Some of the best places to vwatch include areas from near the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse campus to the parking lot of K-mart at the intersection of Losey Boulevard and State Road. Feel free to share your favorite spot to watch! Folks also watch from the bluff, downtown, while ice fishing on the river, cross-country skiing or sledding, or just drinking hot chocolate (or whatever else) around town.
La Crosse is easily accessed via I-90, U.S. 14/61, U.S. 53, and Highways 16, 33, and 35.
Skyrockers Fireworks on New Year’s Eve Address:
Grandad Bluff Park
3020 Grandad Bluff Road
La Crosse, WI 54601
Website
December 28, 2017 – January 1, 2018
Festival of Christmas & Midwinter Traditions, Dodgeville
Folklore Village is a nationally recognized folk arts and culture center dedicated to enriching lives through time-honored traditions. Thousands of people of all ages come to Folklore Village to gather with friends, meet new people, to eat, dance, sing and play. Come study with a master fiddler… sing with a gospel choir… dance until midnight… learn to spin wool… feast on jambalaya… join a back porch jam session… plant prairie flowers… or picture yourself as a student in a real 1890 schoolhouse… or come and enjoy the annual Festival of Christmas & Midwinter Traditions during the final week of December!
International dance instructors Liv and Bill Vanaver will lead fun and engaging international dances for all skill levels to include Balkan, Green and more! American country/folk singer Val Mindel will also be on staff from Vermont leading singing and harmony workshops. Bob and Julie Young will also be leading American social dance workshops. Other folk artists and crafts include blacksmithing, fiber arts, theater games, Ostfriesland Tea, Sankta Lucia Celebration, a Christmas Festival Auction and international meals throughout the festival – heck, even yoga daily. There is a also a wonderful Children’s Program. You are welcomed no matter what your skill level! Full and Part time registration is available and required.
Folklore Village is six miles east of Dodgeville, just south of U.S. 18/151. Highway 23 is nearby to the west. Their website has full details on all the events and updates!
Address for the Festival of Christmas & Midwinter Traditions at Folklore Village:
3210 County Road BB
Dodgeville, WI 53533
(608) 924-4000
Website
December 9, 2017
Wonewoc Lighted Christmas Parade
Wonewoc has an amazing parade consisting of typically over 50 entries all glowing in lights. Kick off the Holiday season by joining in for a fun-filled evening!
The parade starts at 6pm leaving from Bakers Field traveling along Highway 33 and Center Street to the Fire Department. Other festivities start around 5pm. Local businesses are open with extended hours for you to do some Christmas Shopping. Bring out the entire family and enjoy the food and music.
Wonewoc is a beautiful little town along the Baraboo River along Highway 33. It’s also along the beautiful “400” Trail and a series of other nearby recreational trails. Check out the natural beauty surrounding the area, the holiday spirit, and some local shops. Makes for a great road trip, as you can follow 33 to Reedsburg, Portage, Baraboo, and more to enjoy their holiday events all weekend, too!
Wonewoc Lighted Christmas Parade Address:
Highway 33
Wonewoc, WI 53968
(608) 464-3114
Website
December 8, 2017 – December 10, 2017
Ice Fishing and Winter Sports Show
The Ice Fishing and Winter Sports Show hits Wisconsin State Fair Park the weekend of December 8-10, 2017, where you can shop row upon row of exhibits with products and services dedicated to the die-hard ice fishing and winter sports enthusiast!
View all new ice fishing products, including fish houses, augers, underwater cameras, digital fish finders, rods and reels, tackle, accessories, apparel and much more. The show will feature new merchandise at a variety of price points to fit any budget. Whether you are an avid fisherman looking for a few new accessories, an experienced angler in need of an upgrade, or totally new to the ice fishing scene, you will find what you are looking for at this show.
Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there Saturday from noon to 3pm for photos – and perhaps accepting your Christmas wish list!
Show Hours
Friday: 12:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Sunday: 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
Ticket Prices
Adults: $9.00
Children 6-12: $4.00
Children 5 & Under: Free
Ice Fishing & Winter Sports Show Address:
Wisconsin State Fair Park Expo Center
640 S. 84th Street (Highways 59 & 181)
West Allis, WI 53214
(800) 848-6247
Website
December 2, 2017
Chippewa Falls Bridge to Wonderland Parade
Bridge Street is where the annual “Bridge to Wonderland Parade” begins in beautiful downtown Chippewa Falls. This parade features a huge variety of illuminated floats, with Santa on the last float! As you enjoy the parade, savor complimentary hot drinks at businesses with red carpets and all the shops downtown have to offer.
The 2017 theme is “Christmas in Toyland”, with over 50 illuminated and musical floats, walking units, horse-drawn wagons, and more filling the streets with vibrancy and fun. The parade runs along Bridge Street from Spruce Street to Spring Street.
And don’t forget the thousands of holiday lights and decorations just up Highway 124 in Irvine Park & the Irvine Park Zoo to really keep that holiday spirit flowing!
U.S. 53, Highway 29, and Highway 124 (the historic U.S. 53 route) all bring you to Chippewa Falls. While you’re there, check out the Leinenkugels Brewery right by Irvine Park and Zoo, the historic Cook-Rutledge Mansion, the Riverbend Winery, the Heyde Center for the Performing Arts, Brewster Brothers Brewing and the Chippewa River Distillery, terrific downtown shopping, great trails, and more. There’s a lot to enjoy in Chippewa Falls, why not enjoy the parade first to kick it all off?
Bridge to Wonderland Parade Address:
Downtown Chippewa Falls
514 N. Bridge Street
Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
(715) 723-7858
Website
Kenosha Winter HarborMarket – Special HarborHoliday
Kenosha HarborMarket is great any time of year – but this is a special edition of Kenosha Winter HarborMarket! Located on on the west lawn of the Kenosha Public Museum and Civil War Museum, the market will take place outdoors in two large, heated tents. Approximately 60 vendors will be on-site offering food, beverages, giftable items, fresh produce, and more. There will also be a variety of indoor and outdoor family activities throughout the day.
This collaborative event combines the Civil War Museum’s Victorian Christmas, Kenosha Public Museum’s International Holiday, Winter HarborMarket, and more. A combination of indoor and outdoor events offering fun and food for the entire family, plus holiday shopping!
Homemade Glog and festive centerpieces, greens and holiday decorations by Jerry Smith Produce and Pumpkin Farm.
Kenosha Winter HarborMarket Address:
5500 1st Avenue
Kenosha, WI 53140
(262) 653-4140
Website
November 3, 2017
First Fridays in Cedarburg
First Fridays in Cedarburg provides opportunity for families to come together to partake in an artistic experience, including unique educational elements for youth ranging from artist-led crafts to hands-on musical experiences. Guests are greeted with an opening band featuring local musicians at 6:00 pm. Dinner will be available for purchase from food trucks, as well as indoors from “After Party” Sponsor, The Stilthouse Restaurant. Other activities include a local handmade art show, kid’s crafts, dancing, cash bar and good times. At 7:00pm, the lights go down and the party turns up as the main act, Consult the Briefcase, takes the stage for two hours. The Center’s full cash bar and dance floor will multiply the fun. This exciting series is free of charge to members of the Cultural Center and children under 5. Non-member general admission is $5 at the door. Full details are on the Cedarburg Cultural Center website.
Historic downtown Cedarburg can be reached via Washington Avenue, which is Historic Highway 57. Today’s Highway 57, as well as Highways 60, 167, and 181, come close. I-43/Highway 32 is also a few miles to the east and you can access Cedarburg via County C (Exit 89).
October 27, 2017 – October 28, 2017
Port Washington Ghost Walks
Port Washington Ghost Walks are a fun way to celebrate the spooky Halloween season. October 27th and 28th, you can spend an evening hearing the spirited experiences of the residents of Port Washington.
Every walk explores ghost stories and sightings in the historic downtown and haunted Union Cemetery in paranormal Port Washington. Tours take about 2 hours total.
This year… if you want an extra special experience… Join them for an actual GHOST HUNT! The 10:15 tour each night will be an extended version and exploration of the
final destination! Over the years, a number of ghost walkers have reported activity in our final stop of the night. This year, we’re going to spend a bit more time there. Break out your equipment or borrow some of ours and see what you catch.
The 7:30, 8:00 and 9:45 ghost walks focus on the downtown and cemetery.
Port Washington is easily accessed from I-43 via Highway 32 or 33; Highway 57 is just to the west.
Port Washington Ghost Walks Address:
106 N. Lake Street
Port Washington, WI 53074
(262) 498-5777
Website
More details below!
Where: Tours for Port Washington Ghost Walks all meet at the Niagara Monument and the Wisconsin Chair Company monument adjacent to Dockside Deli and the marina in Port Washington.
Cost: $15.00 per person for the regular tour. $30.00 per person for the tour plus ghost hunt.
Walk-ins: If you can’t buy tickets online, we’re full. We limit the number to 20 people per tour and 8 for the tour plus ghost hunt. We cannot take credit cards for walk-in’s. Cash only.
Ages: 13 and over – primarily to accommodate youngster’s attention spans. If you have a young person who would like to go, please consider whether or not they would be happy walking around hearing ghost stories that don’t involve anyone jumping out at them.
NOTE: Ages 18 and over for the ghost hunt tours beginning at 10:15. No exceptions.
Scare Factor: Mild to Moderate. These are people’s actual stories. Some are mild, a few a bit more disturbing. No one will be jumping out at you wearing a mask.
NOTE: The scare factor on the ghost hunt could be more intense.
Tickets: No tickets will be mailed. Your name will be on a checklist with your tour leader.
Weather: It will be chilly. Wear layers and a jacket. If there’s a light rain, we will still go out.
Visibility: The downtown portion is well lit. You will not need a flashlight. The cemetery portion is dark. You may bring a flashlight but we ask that you only use when instructed.
Walking: We will be doing lots of walking including some stairs. Wear comfortable shoes.
October 27, 2017 – October 28, 2017
Haunted Sub & Pub
What’s better than a Haunted House? A Haunted Sub! On the final weekend of October, you can board the WW II submarine USS Cobia in Manitowoc for a wild, haunted submarine experience. Are you brave enough to discover what lurks beneath the surface at night?
Cost is $8 per person.If you survive the tour, hang out in our Sub Pub and enjoy some Halloween-themed refreshments at the cash bar! May not be suitable for children under 10 (we’re talking specifically about the tour, not the cash bar.)
There’s plenty to do and see in Manitowoc and at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum, which is chock full of great exhibits about the maritime history of the area and the Great Lakes.
Manitowoc is just off I-43 via U.S. 10, U.S. 151, or Highway 42.
Haunted Sub & Pub Address:
Wisconsin Maritime Museum
75 Maritime Drive
Manitowoc, WI 54220
(920) 684-0218
Website
October 14, 2017 – October 15, 2017
Cedarburg Oktoberfest
A fun weekend can be enjoyed – in lederhosen among other outfits – with Cedarburg Oktoberfest. Bursting with gemuetlichkeit, it runs Saturday, October 14, 11 a.m.–8 p.m. and Sunday, October 15, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free admission and parking!
A huge tent in the Community Center parking lot covers the bands, the dance floor and tables, lending a true Oktoberfest feel. Cedarburg Oktoberfest means authentic German music and the entertainment features Pommersche Tanzdeel Dancers, Tuba Dan, the Alte Kameraden Band, D’Lustig’n Wendlstoana Dancers and the Cedarburg Civic Band plus a wooden dance floor for Polka fans. And, if you’ve never seen a live Glockenspiel Show (Cuckoo Clock), this delightful, goofy event will make you laugh as it reappears every two hours.
There will be plenty of German foods and beers, wines and German desserts. Festivals of Cedarburg will dish up authentic German dinners, classics like Sauerbraten, Wiener Schnitzel, German Sausage Platter, and other delights. Cedarburg Lion’s will serve Currywurst, Bratwurst and Hotdogs. You’ll also find specialty beers such as Hofbrau, Hacker Pschorr, Leinenkugel Oktoberfest and Bluemoon. They will also have award-winning wines from Cedar Creek Winery and specialty beer from The Fermentorium.
Silly contests with prize awards include Saturday’s Best Lederhosen/Dirndl Judging Contest, and Sauerkraut Eating Contest and Sunday’s German Spelling Bee from Ault to Zither (A-Z).
There will be a merchant’s marketplace on the Cedarburg Oktoberfest grounds. Around town, arts will be highlighted all weekend long with the Cedarburg Artists Guild Covered Bridge Studio Tour. While in Cedarburg, tour the Cedarburg Cultural Center’s art exhibits, Cedarburg History Museum and Visitor Center, the historic Kuhefuss House (1849), Paul J. Yank Cedarburg Brewery (1843), Cedar Creek Winery in the Wittenberg Woolen Mill or better known as the Cedar Creek Settlement (1864), the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts and the Cedarburg Art Museum. Most are within walking distance from the Festival.
For the automobile aficionados – and what State Trunk Tourer isn’t – members of the Milwaukee Area Volkswagen Club will be displaying their cars during Cedarburg Oktoberfest on Saturday, October 14 from Noon to 3:00 p.m. Come back on Sunday, October 15 from when approximately 20 members of the Milwaukee Region Porsche Club of America will be showing their cars from noon to 3:00 p.m. A variety of Porsches is expected at this event, including some of the earliest models.
Stroll along Washington Avenue absorbing the charm and historic ambiance of thriving downtown Cedarburg, chock-full of unique retail shops and restaurants. Founded in the 1840’s, Cedarburg was declared a National Historic District listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The city is home to more than 100 restored and intact buildings of historic significance.
Cedarburg Oktoberfest Address:
Cedarburg Community Center
W63N641 Washington Avenue (Historic Highway 57)
Cedarburg, WI 53012
(262) 377-9620
Website
Check out some great fall fun in historic Cedarburg, along Historic Highway 57 (Washington Avenue) just north of Highway 167 and south of Highway 60. Highway 181 is just to the west. It’s only about 10-12 minutes off I-43/Highway 32, and it’s a great little town!
September 29, 2017 – September 30, 2017
Central Bull Riders Association National Finals
Marshfield hosts the CBRA (Central Bull Riders Association) National Finals on Friday, September 29 and Saturday, September 30! Hit the Central Wisconsin State Fairgrounds – home to the World’s Largest Round Barn – and see the top 15 Bull Riders & Barrel Racers compete. Enjoy live music from Dirt Road Dixie, plus plenty of food and beverage vendors will be at the ready as you can cheer on some seriously fun action!
Tickets to Central Bull Riders Association National Finals are on sale now for $10 for ages 16 and up, $5 for ages 8 to 15, and children 7 and under get in free. Tickets are only good for one-day admission. You can purchase at the door for an additional $2 in both age groups. However, children 7 and under still get in free.
The host hotel for this is Hotel Marshfield, a boutique hotel on Central Avenue that’s a State Trunk Tour favorite.
U.S. 10 and Highways 13, 80, and 97 bring you to Marshfield. While there, check out the Wildwood Zoo, the Blue Heron Brewpub, the old Yellowstone Trail through town, and Central Avenue’s downtown strip with great shops, a theater, murals, and much more.
Central Bull Riders Association National Finals Event Address in Marshfield:
Central Wisconsin State Fairgrounds
517 E. 17th Street
Marshfield, WI 54449
(715) 384-4642
Website
September 29, 2017 – September 30, 2017
Villa Louis Behind the Scenes – September
Check out historic Villa Louis, right along the Mississippi River in Wisconsin’s second oldest city, from top to bottom. “Villa Louis Behind the Scenes” offers extended tours of the mansion, giving visitors a glimpse into the life of a historic house museum. Highlighting the care and upkeep of a unique object from the Dousman collection, tours include visits to the nooks and crannies of this historic and beautiful restored mansion.
Prairie du Chien lies just north of where the Wisconsin River flows into the Mississippi in one of the most beautiful areas of Wisconsin. U.S. 18 and Highways 27, 35, and 60 all bring you there.
For full Villa Louis information, check out their website!
September 29, 2017 – September 30, 2017
Chippewa Falls Antique Show Sale
The Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds brims with antiques and vendors at the 2nd annual Chippewa Falls Antique Show Sale. Nearly 40 vendors with a wide variety of antique and collectibles, food vendors, and more.
It all takes place in Exhibition Hall C on the Fairgrounds, right off Highway 124. Admission is $5, which is good for both days; parking is free. Get more details on their Facebook page!
The Leinenkugel Brewery and beautiful Irvine Park (with a fantastic free zoo, to boot) are right next door, so make it an awesomely fun weekend in Chippewa Falls! U.S. 53 and Highways 29 and 178 also bring you to town.
Chippewa Falls Antique Show Sale Address:
Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds
225 Edward Street (just off Highway 124)
Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
(715) 617-4310
Website
September 16, 2017
Cambridge Fall Festival
At Cambridge Fall Fest, you can take a tractor hayride, build a scarecrow, or bid on an award-winning homemade pie. There will be live music, chainsaw art, beekeeping demos, face painting, and the FFA farm animal petting zoo.
The Cambridge Community Activities Program will also be conducting its annual Fun Run and Family Wellness Fair in the morning at downtown West Side Park as well.
Cambridge Fall Fest Address:
Veterans Park
100 E. Main Street (U.S. 12)
Cambridge, WI 53523
(608) 423-3780
Website
EAA Warbirds Fly-In
The EAA Warbirds “Badger Squadron Six” 9th Annual Oconto Fly-in takes place at the Oconto’s J. Douglas Bake Municipal Airport. (KOCQ) on Saturday, September 16th.
Warbird aircraft that attended in 2016 are Yaks, WACO, L 19 Bird Dogs, a TBM Avenger and various others. In 2015 there were over 50 different types of aircraft that attended.
Remote Controlled (RC’s) will fly during the day with a one hour show scheduled at 2pm. The car and tractor show in 2015 had 250 Model A’s & T’s, muscle cars, tractors and everything in between. The army encampment expands every year.Vendors, crafters and artisans were in attendance and the visitors enjoyed the variety available. An opening ceremony honoring our Veterans is scheduled at 10:30am.
There is always a wide variety of food, beverages and desserts. Airplane and helicopter rides will be available for a fee. Ages 12 and under admission is FREE & Parking is Free!
Oconto is right along U.S. 41 at the east end of Highway 22 near the waters of Green Bay. Check out the town, Copper Culture State Park, and more while you’re there!
EAA Warbirds Fly-In Address:
2983 Airport Road
Oconto, WI 54153
(920) 246-5620
Website
The Color Run – Racine
“The Happiest 5K on Earth” is the slogan for The Color Run, a unique paint race that celebrates healthiness, happiness, and individuality. Now the largest running series in the world, The Color Run has been experienced by over 6 million runners worldwide in 35+ countries. On Saturday, September 16th, The Color Run comes to Racine!
This year’s race is called The Color Run 2017 Dream Tour and it features giant unicorns, the all-new Cloud Foam Zone, the whimsical Dream Wall and much more!
Runners/walkers will go through a 5k course on the streets of Racine where they’ll be doused with colored powder. Stick around for the high-energy post-run party. Entry fee ($39.99 for team members, $44.99 for individuals) includes official TCR soft tee, color runner headband, color packet and Unicorn finisher medal.
The Color Run starts 9 a.m. on Pershing Drive behind Gateway Technical College, 1001 S. Main St.
Save $5 per entry with code REALRACINE17
How The Color Run Works
It’s designed to be less about your 10-minute-mile and more about having the time of your life. The Color Run is a five-kilometer (3.1-mile), un-timed event in which thousands of participants, or “Color Runners”, are doused from head to toe in different colors at each kilometer. With only two rules, the idea is easy to follow:
1. Wear white at the starting line!
2. Finish plastered in color!
After Color Runners complete the race, the fun continues with an unforgettable Finish Festival. This larger than life party is equipped with music, dancing and massive color throws, which create millions of vivid color combinations.
Team members run for $39.99 each, individuals for $44.99. That includes entry, a white tee (that will end up in color), a headband, a Unicorn Finishers’ Medal, and a color packet.
Check out in Racine’s Pershing Park, right along Lake Michigan! Highways 11, 20, 32, and 38 bring you there!
September 15, 2017 – September 16, 2017
Wet Whistle Wine Fest
Algoma’s Von Stiehl Winery hosts its annual Wet Whistle Wine Fest the weekend of September 15-16, 2017 this year. Wet Whistle Wine Fest offers award-winning wines, a grape stomp, heritage foods, & live music!
It isn’t the 2,000 visitors smiling all the time that’s weird. Nor is it the trombonist standing in a grape-filled barrel while playing an amazing riff. Nor the people with sticky purple feet dancing onstage. This is normal at a wine fest and to be expected. What’s odd at Wet Whistle Wine Fest are all the costumes. They don’t ask anyone to show up dressed as wine bottles, or nuns who smoke cigarettes while downing Naughty Girl wine. And these are just a couple examples of Wet Whistle Wine Fest goings-on that weren’t made up. Don’t take their word for it… come to the wine fest and see it for yourself!
This Wet Whistle Wine Fest is a fundraiser for the Community Improvement of Algoma, Algoma Fire and Rescue.
Wet Whistle Wine Fest Schedule
Friday
Free admission, but canned food donations for Kewaunee County Food Pantry are welcome! All weekend, children under 12 FREE. Under 21 must be accompanied by an adult.
Band: Cat Five • 4–8pm
Specialty Foods • 4–8pm
Saturday
$10 Admission. All weekend, children under 12 FREE. Under 21 must be accompanied by an adult.
Band: Beaker Street • 10am–1:30pm
Band: The Groove Hogs • 2–6pm
Tours & Wine Tasting • At Winery, 9am–6pm
Specialty Foods • 10am–6pm
Celebrity Stomp Off • 11am & 11:20 am
Grape Stomp Heats: 12:20pm, 1:30pm & 3 pm
Grand Grape Stomp Off • 4:30pm
Vintage Wine Tasting • 12:30-3:30pm in the production building
Wet Whistle Wine Fest Address:
115 Navarino Street
Algoma, WI 54201
(920) 487-5208
Website
You’ll find Von Stiehl Winery and Legion Memorial Park in downtown Algoma, just off Highway 42 blocks north of where Highway 54 ends at Lake Michigan. While downtown, check out the cool murals, increasing numbers of shops offering unique items, and the nice beach along the lakefront.
September 15, 2017 – September 17, 2017
Fall Harvest Days at the Racine County Fairgrounds
Turn back the clock with the 26th annual Fall Harvest Days at the Racine County Fairgrounds September 15-17!
The Southeastern Wisconsin Antique Power Collectibles Society presents displays of antique tractors, trucks, gasoline engines and farm equipment. In addition to static displays of antique tractors and equipment, there will be large display of antique engines, garden tractors, and vintage cars and trucks. This year they’re featuring 175 Years of Case Tractors and Equipment.
The entire family can enjoy demonstrations of corn shelling, hay baling, threshing, sawmills, plus shingle mill and homemaking demonstrations. There’s a daily tractor parade, children’s activities, horse-drawn wagon rides, crafts, flea market, farm toys and great, down-home food. There are also indoor and outdoor flea markets, crafts, and farm toy displays. Many food and drink vendors are on the grounds. There is a big tractor/equipment parade each day of the show. Each year the club raffles off a hand–made Amish quilt.
Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. $7 adults; kids 12 and under free. Free parking. You’ll find the Racine County Fairgrounds in Union Grove, along Highway 11 near the junction with U.S. 45.
Fall Harvest Days Address:
Racine County Fairgrounds
19805 Durand Avenue (Highway 11)
Union Grove, WI 53182
(414) 529-2413
Website
September 9, 2017
Taste of Lake Geneva
The 8th annual Taste of Lake Geneva features the best fare in and around Lake Geneva, from deep fried cheese curds to barbecued ribs, and from homemade soups to tantalizing desserts. Along with great food, local artists will entertain with their tunes as you enjoy the view of Geneva Lake from Flat Iron Park.
Participating Restaurants at Taste of Lake Geneva include Avant, Constant Cravings, Franks, Simple Bakery, Sprecher, Lake Geneva Country Meats, The Geneva Inn, Crafted, Heart & Soul, Mama Ciminos, Tuscan and Geneva Java.
It runs from 11am – 6pm on Saturday, September 9, 2017. Admission is $2, food samples range from $3 to $9.
Taste of Lake Geneva Address:
Flat Iron Park
201 Wrigley Drive
Lake Geneva, WI 53147
(262) 248-4416
Website
Kenosha Streetcar Day
Kenosha Streetcar Day features tours of the “streetcar barn” (Joseph McCarthy Transit Center), interactive displays, vendors, a streetcar trivia game, and more. The Streetcars will be in operation and of course they’ll be available for photo-ops. Spend the day riding as many of Kenosha’s streetcars as you want, explore the downtown area with its shops, museums, restaurants, and bars. Two cars will be running at a time, with others out for display.
You can easily get to downtown Kenosha via Highway 32 along the lake, or using Highways 50 or 158 from I-41/94 or Highway 31. Downtown is about seven miles east of the Interstate (or from the Brat Stop or Mars Cheese Castle, if we’re measuring from State Trunk Tour favorites!)
Kenosha Streetcar Day Address:
Streetcar Day is presented by Kenosha Streetcar Society, Kenosha Area Transit, and more. Activities center around the Joseph McCarthy Transit Center
724 54th Street
Kenosha, WI 53140
(262) 653-4287
Website