Check out historic Villa Louis, right along the Mississippi River in Wisconsin’s second oldest city, from top to bottom. “Behind the Scenes” at Villa Louis offer 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:
June 24, 2016 10:30 am
End:
June 25, 2016 5:00 pm
Venue:
Villa Louis
Phone:
608-326-2721
Address:
521 N. Villa Louis Road, Prairie du Chien, WI, 53821, United States
The Verizon IndyCar Series Road America Grand Prix takes center stage as an international lineup of drivers will have their chance to battle it out for glory on one of the world’s most majestic road courses. They will be joined by the Pirelli World Challenge featuring many of the world’s top sports cars and drivers in an all out wheel-to-wheel battle consisting of six classes headlined by separate GT and GTS races. The Porsche GT Cup class will run alongside the GT and GT-A class cars over the course of the weekend. The Pirelli World Challenge consists of seven classes offering a competitive slot for nearly every sports car and sports sedan available. Races are run in a timed, sprint format from start to finish and begin with the series’ trademark standing start. With door-to-door racing, no scheduled pit stops, driver changes and classes running together, it’s like watching the intensity of the final lap, every lap.
You’ll find Road America along Highway 67, just north of Highway 23 and Plymouth and just west of Highway 57 in Sheboygan County.
Start:
June 23, 2016
End:
June 26, 2016
Venue:
Road America
Phone:
920-892-4576
Address:
N7390 State Highway 67, Plymouth, WI, 53073, United States
Check out historic Villa Louis, right along the Mississippi River in Wisconsin’s second oldest city, from top to bottom. “Behind the Scenes” at Villa Louis offer 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:
May 20, 2016 10:30 am
End:
May 21, 2016 5:00 pm
Venue:
Villa Louis
Phone:
608-326-2721
Address:
521 N. Villa Louis Road, Prairie du Chien, WI, 53821, United States
The Ridge in Lake Geneva combines two greats: craft beer and Chicago Blues! This event will feature unlimited sampling of craft beer from around the US, live blues music and concessions from 1-5pm Saturday, April 23rd at the Ridge Hotel along Highway 50 in Lake Geneva – U.S. 12 and Highway 67 are nearby, too. There will also be a silent auction to benefit the Lakeland Animal Shelter. Check out the details at their website here!
Start:
April 23, 2016 1:00 pm
End:
April 23, 2016 5:00 pm
Venue:
Geneva Ridge Resort
Phone:
262-245-1000
Address:
W4240 State Highway 50, Lake Geneva, WI, 53147, United States
Head to Dodgeville and enjoy authentic Cajun music from visiting LA artists along with music and dance workshops. Cajun food and nightly dances with live bands. This event takes place at Folklore Village, a nationally recognized folk arts and culture center dedicated to enriching lives through time-honored traditions.
Since 1968, thousands of people of all ages have 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… pass it on.,
Get the full schedule for this Cajun music and dance weekend at their website here. U.S. 18 & 151 and Highway 23 bring you to Dodgeville, the seat of Iowa County.
Start:
April 22, 2016
End:
April 24, 2016
Venue:
Folklore Village
Phone:
608-924-4000
Address:
3210 County Road BB, Dodgeville, WI, 53533, United States
“First Fridays” will provide an 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, Comfort Shag, 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 can be found 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:
April 1, 2016 4:00 pm
End:
April 1, 2016 11:00 pm
Venue:
Cedarburg Cultural Center
Phone:
262-375-3676
Address:
W62 N546 Washington Avenue, Cedarburg, WI, 53012, United States
This is a great time to check out the Bull Falls Brewery just southeast of central Wausau!
The Bull Falls Bock Fest will kick off at 1pm on Saturday, March 19th immediately following the 8th Annual Bull Falls Brewery Never Forgotten Honor Flight 5K Run/Walk. It will begin with the ceremonial tapping of the 2015 Bull Falls Bock Lager, their traditional full-bodied dark bock lager beer. Beginning at 1pm there will be music in the Biergarten by Led West and great food provided by local American Legion Post 10.
Their crack Karmel Kaiser staff will be assisting customers who want their beer caramelized with a red hot poker by the fire! It’s an outdoor event, so dress for the weather! This will be a well-attended event, snow or shine. All proceeds for this event will be donated to the Never Forgotten Honor Flight.
Updated details are available on the Bull Falls Brewery website. You’ll find the brewery southeast of downtown Wausau, just east of Business U.S. 51. I-39, U.S. 51, and Highways 29 and 52 all bring you to Wausau.
Start:
March 19, 2016 1:00 pm
End:
March 19, 2016 6:00 pm
Venue:
Bull Falls Brewery
Phone:
715-842-2337
Address:
901 E. Thomas Street, Wausau, WI, 54403, United States
In conjunction with the Southport Quilters Guild Annual Members Quilt Show, the Guild will sponsor activities at the Kenosha Public Museum in downtown Kenosha’s HarborPark District.
The Kenosha Public Museum is a natural sciences and fine and decorative arts museum with over 80,000 collections, including 1,200 works in fine arts. Exhibit programming includes mammoths, world cultures, Native Americans, zoology, geology, fossils, and fine and decorative arts.
For National Quilting Day, here’s the schedule:
9am-Noon – Quilting Workshop with Kathy Tracy of Country Lane Quilts. Please contact the Museum at 262-653-4140 to find out if space is still available.
10am-5pm – “Scrappy Days are Here Again!” and “Pieces of Poetry” quilt challenge by Southport Quilters Guild members on display in DaimlerChrysler Hall
10:30am-1:30pm – Quilting demonstrations by members of the Guild and family activities
2pm – “A Little History of Quilting” presentation by Kathy Tracy . The presentation takes you through different periods in American history showing examples of quilts with different styles and techniques. It includes a PowerPoint presentation, a trunk show of quilts from her books, and time for questions. Free tickets will be available the day of the presentation beginning at 10am. Seating is limited – first come, first served.
The Kenosha Public Museum can be accessed by taking Highways 32, 50, or 158 into the city’s HarborPark District, which sits right along Lake Michigan on the east side of downtown. Make a day of it and check out everything else down there!
Start:
March 19, 2016 9:00 am
End:
March 19, 2016 5:00 pm
Venue:
Kenosha Public Museum
Phone:
262-653-4140
Address:
5500 First Avenue, Kenosha, WI, 53140, United States
Organizers of the Lakewoods’ Hot Air for Hearts Balloon Rally are holding another fun-filled weekend with hot air balloonists from Wisconsin and Minnesota who come to participate in the Hot Air Balloon Rally for Charity.
People from all over the Midwest attend this event, which raises money for the Cable Area Lions Heart Benefit. Weather permitting, crew members help the balloonists set up and take down balloons and may ride along with the pilots during the flights. Flights are scheduled mornings and afternoons on Friday, Saturday and Sunday (morning only) and will fly as often as the weather permits.
“The balloons can’t always go up daily due to weather,” said Jill H. volunteer crew member, “but when you get to fly the views are incredible.” In addition to the balloon flights, a “glow” is scheduled in front of Lakewoods Resort after dark. On Saturday night, guests in the dining room and spectators alike are treated to a fantastic view of Lake Namakagon and the 7 story high balloons lit up from the inside like giant luminary candles.
This charity event is great for the family and is a fantastic way to get out and enjoy the new snow this winter. All the colors of the balloons and racers make for a fun and festive atmosphere and both are very exciting to watch. Registration starts at 8am. Full details are available on the Lakewoods Resort website!
U.S. 63 is the main way to Cable, northeast of Hayward and southwest of Ashland.
Start:
March 18, 2016
End:
March 20, 2016
Venue:
Lakewoods Resort
Phone:
715-794-2561
Address:
21540 County Road M, Cable, WI, 54821, United States
The RV and Boat Show Main Event in Oshkosh, right at the EAA AirVenture Museum, offers nearly 100,000 square feet of RV’s, Boats, Golf Carts, Campgrounds, and more in heated buildings.
Whether you are shopping for a new travel trailer, fifth wheel, motor home, speed boat, fishing boat, pontoon boat, or just want to see what’s out there and collect information about RV rentals, campgrounds, golf carts, boating or docks, this show will surprise you with a wide variety to choose from!
The RV and Boat Show runs Friday, March 4th from noon-9pm, Saturday, March 5th from 10am-8pm, and Sunday, March 6th from 11am-4pm. There’s also the Hops ‘N Props event there Friday night!
Admission is $5; seniors (62 and over) $4; children 17 & under free. Admission is valid all weekend. Also, proof of paid admission to this show gets you half off admission to the EAA AirVenture Museum! Full details are available at their website.
To get to Oshkosh and experience the RV and Boat Show, take I-41, U.S. 45, or Highways 21, 26, 44, 76, or 91. The event is right along I-41 between the exits for Highway 26 and for Highways 44/91.
Start:
March 4, 2016 12:00 pm
End:
March 6, 2016 4:00 pm
Venue:
EAA AirVenture Museum
Phone:
920-676-7903
Address:
3000 Poberezny Road, Oshkosh, WI, 54902, United States
Beer has a long, illustrious history as the centerpiece of many parties and events, especially here in Milwaukee. With this in mind, the Milwaukee Public Museum on Wells Street in downtown Milwaukee will open its doors after hours and add another chapter to that story. The Milwaukee Public Museum’s 18th Annual Food & Froth Fest will be held on Saturday, Feb. 20, 2016 from 7 – 10 p.m.
Food & Froth will feature over 200 different beers from more than 70 breweries, including Midwest treasures such as Summit Brewing Co., which is making its Food & Froth debut, and international favorites like Germany’s Krombacher Brauerei. Nibble on tasty bites from Screamin’ Sicilian frozen pizza, sampling a fully loaded pizza perfect for pairing with beer, as well as many other treats from local restaurants and caterers. Additionally there will be live music on all three exhibit floors, including a performance by The Whiskey Belles.
Food & Froth tickets are $75 for members and $125 for VIP tickets. VIP tickets include 5:30 p.m. entrance into the special VIP room filled with exclusive craft beers, a smorgasbord of unlimited savories and sweets, and 6:00 p.m. early entry into the event.
Tickets are available by calling (414) 278-2728 or (888) 700-9069 during museum hours. Admission fee covers all food, beer and live entertainment. You must be at least 21 years of age to attend, and a valid identification and ticket are required for entrance into the event.
The Milwaukee Public Museum is right along U.S. 18 (Wells Street) in downtown Milwaukee, within blocks of I-43, I-94, the south end of Highway 145, and also close to Highway 32 (Broadway/Milwaukee Street), Highway 38 (5th/6th Street south of downtown), Highway 59 (National Avenue), and I-794.
Start:
February 20, 2016 7:00 pm
End:
February 20, 2016 10:00 pm
Venue:
Milwaukee Public Museum
Phone:
414-278-2728
Address:
800 W. Wells Street, Milwaukee, WI, 53233, United States
The second smallest county in Wisconsin hosts one of the last FREE county fairs in the Midwest. The 157th edition of the Ozaukee County Fair takes place August 3-6, 2016 at Fireman’s Park in Cedarburg.
Plenty of animals, exhibits, rides, and more punctuate this fair. They have some great musical acts too, including the Charlie Daniels Band for Friday night, August 5th!
The Ozaukee County Fair can be found along Washington Avenue in Cedarburg, just south of Highway 60, just east of Highway 181, and a few miles west of I-43 and Highways 32 & 57.
Last minute shopping deals, entertainment, horse-drawn wagon rides, food and even Santa! Join the fun throughout downtown Hartford, where the deals get better as the night goes on… and it does last until midnight!
In addition to the specials offered by the merchants, there are crafters and vendors to help you with those last-minute holiday gifts. And at the main corner of Highways 60 and 83, you’ll find a State Trunk Tour favorite, The Mineshaft – Wisconsin’s largest restaurant.
To celebrate the coming “holidaze”, Eau Claire’s Holidaze Arts Festival – which has been around for 26 years – will feature over 100 quality fine art and crafts exhibitors each fairing hand made goods that make for good shopping for yourself or someone on your list. It takes place in downtown Eau Claire, where there’s plenty else to do, Friday afternoon November 20th into the evening and all day Saturday, November 21st.
Get the full lineup of artists and activities at their website, Holidazearts.com.
I-94, U.S. 12 & 53, and Highways 37 and 93 bring you to Eau Claire!
Start:
November 20, 2015 3:00 pm
End:
November 21, 2015 4:00 pm
Venue:
The Linsmore Hotel
Phone:
715-832-6942
Address:
333 Gibson Street, Eau Claire, WI, 54701, United States
The annual Holiday Art Fair in Madison is an excellent showcase of contemporary fine art and craft during the gift-giving season. This juried show includes over 85 artists exhibiting ceramics, fiber art, glass, jewelry, paintings, prints, photographs, and more. The festive event will also feature performances by local arts organizations throughout the weekend, holiday refreshments, Rediscovered Arts & Treasures Sale, silent auction, and the popular Gourmet Gallery filled with treats for every taste.
The Holiday Art Fair is held at the MMoCA, the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. It’s right on State Street downtown, close to U.S. 151/Washington Avenue. Of course, I-39, 90, and 94, U.S. 12, 14, 18, 51, and Highways 30 and 113 all bring you into Madison!
Admission to the Holiday Art Fair is $6, with children under 12 admitted free. Their website has all the details and the full lineup!
Start:
November 20, 2015 2:30 pm
End:
November 22, 2015 3:00 pm
Venue:
Madison Museum of Contemporary Art
Phone:
608-257-0158
Address:
227 State Street, Madison, WI, 53703, United States
The River Falls area comes alive when you take part in the Fall Finds and Barn Tour! Enjoy a leisurely tour of the beautiful Wisconsin countryside while you experience a diverse mix of shopping in rustic barns and downtown shops in and around River Falls. Find eclectic & handmade items, fine art, unique gifts, antiques, functional wares, local harvest and preserves, furniture, festive holiday, garden art & so much more, including:
– 125 on Main
– Over 30 artists and eclectic mix of holiday, harvest, repurposed, vintage and more.
– Holidays at Blue Ridge – over 20 artists’ original artwork, jewelry, edibles and more.
– Our Neighbor’s Old Barn – eclectic mix of gifts, vintage, furniture and fun.
– Garden Divas – unique gifts, harvest, holiday, garden, fair trade, vintage, local and more.
– Holidays on the Kinni – artists group and antiques, restored, harvest, holiday gifts and more.
– Riverwalk Art and Antiques – antiques, vintage, home, local gifts, edibles and more.
River Falls is in Pierce County, where Highways 29, 35, and 65 meet.
For over 30 years Eau Claire’s International Folk Fair has been one of the largest celebrations of culture and heritage. This celebration includes cultural and educational exhibits, traditional music, dance, clothing, and food from over 40 countries. International students along with community groups participate in the fair. Admission is free. Many groups sell food or cultural items to raise money for their organization.
Tied in with UW-Eau Claire’s Center for International Education, this event will be held Sunday, November 8th from noon-4pm in the Davies Center on Roosevelt. I-94, U.S. 12, U.S. 53, and Highways 37 and 93 all bring you to Eau Claire – and check out the new renovations downtown while you’re at it!
Start:
November 8, 2015 12:00 pm
End:
November 8, 2015 4:00 pm
Venue:
Davies Center, UW-Eau Claire
Phone:
715-836-3727
Address:
100 Roosevelt Avenue, Eau Claire, WI, 54701, United States
Downtown Oshkosh comes alive the first Saturday of each month when art galleries and businesses open their doors to feature artwork of all varieties and genres. Hundreds of art lovers descend downtown to enjoy, mingling with quite a few college students to make it interesting!
Next Gallery Walk is November 7th; after that, December 5th. Officially, it runs 6-9pm but the fun doesn’t stop at 9.
Oshkosh hugs the western shore of Lake Winnebago and is directly reached by U.S. 45 and Highways 21, 44, and 76. Highway 91 gets you close (via 44) and several exits off I-41 bring you downtown, including 9th Street and Highway 44.
Start:
November 7, 2015 6:00 pm
End:
November 7, 2015 9:00 pm
Venue:
Downtown Oshkosh
Phone:
920-303-9200
Address:
445 N. Main Street, Oshkosh, WI, 54901, United States
Harley-Davidson Museum® salutes our veterans and will offer free Museum entry for all active Military, Veterans and their families*. Harley-Davidson has always been on the front line – right next to the troops. The first American to enter Germany after World War I did so on a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle. Learn more about H-D’s military involvement during the Military Gallery Talks at 11am and 2:30pm. MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant offers a 10% discount for service members every day.
There’s FREE entry with valid Military or Veterans ID for 1 additional adult and up to 4 children 18 years old or younger.
The Harley-Davidson Museum is right in the Menomonee Valley, just south of downtown Milwaukee. I-43/94 hovers above nearby; U.S. 18 is just to the north, Highway 32/Milwaukee & 1st Street is just to the east, and Highway 59/Greenfield Avenue is just to the south. Follow Highway 38 north past its terminus or Highway 145 south past its, and you’ll get right there!
Start:
November 7, 2015 10:00 am
End:
November 8, 2015 6:00 pm
Venue:
Harley Davidson Museum
Phone:
877-436-8738
Address:
400 W. Canal Street, Milwaukee, WI, 53201, United States
Calendar of Events
Calendar of Events
June 24, 2016 – June 25, 2016
Villa Louis Behind the Scenes – June
Check out historic Villa Louis, right along the Mississippi River in Wisconsin’s second oldest city, from top to bottom. “Behind the Scenes” at Villa Louis offer 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!
June 23, 2016 – June 26, 2016
Verizon IndyCar Series Road America Grand Prix / Pirelli World Challenge
The Verizon IndyCar Series Road America Grand Prix takes center stage as an international lineup of drivers will have their chance to battle it out for glory on one of the world’s most majestic road courses. They will be joined by the Pirelli World Challenge featuring many of the world’s top sports cars and drivers in an all out wheel-to-wheel battle consisting of six classes headlined by separate GT and GTS races. The Porsche GT Cup class will run alongside the GT and GT-A class cars over the course of the weekend. The Pirelli World Challenge consists of seven classes offering a competitive slot for nearly every sports car and sports sedan available. Races are run in a timed, sprint format from start to finish and begin with the series’ trademark standing start. With door-to-door racing, no scheduled pit stops, driver changes and classes running together, it’s like watching the intensity of the final lap, every lap.
You’ll find Road America along Highway 67, just north of Highway 23 and Plymouth and just west of Highway 57 in Sheboygan County.
May 20, 2016 – May 21, 2016
Villa Louis Behind the Scenes – May
Check out historic Villa Louis, right along the Mississippi River in Wisconsin’s second oldest city, from top to bottom. “Behind the Scenes” at Villa Louis offer 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!
April 23, 2016
Craft Brews & Chicago Blues Festival at The Ridge in Lake Geneva
The Ridge in Lake Geneva combines two greats: craft beer and Chicago Blues! This event will feature unlimited sampling of craft beer from around the US, live blues music and concessions from 1-5pm Saturday, April 23rd at the Ridge Hotel along Highway 50 in Lake Geneva – U.S. 12 and Highway 67 are nearby, too. There will also be a silent auction to benefit the Lakeland Animal Shelter. Check out the details at their website here!
April 22, 2016 – April 24, 2016
Cajun Music & Dance Weekend
Head to Dodgeville and enjoy authentic Cajun music from visiting LA artists along with music and dance workshops. Cajun food and nightly dances with live bands. This event takes place at Folklore Village, a nationally recognized folk arts and culture center dedicated to enriching lives through time-honored traditions.
Since 1968, thousands of people of all ages have 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… pass it on.,
Get the full schedule for this Cajun music and dance weekend at their website here. U.S. 18 & 151 and Highway 23 bring you to Dodgeville, the seat of Iowa County.
April 1, 2016
“First Fridays” at the Cedarburg Cultural Center featuring Comfort Shag
“First Fridays” will provide an 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, Comfort Shag, 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 can be found 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).
March 19, 2016
Bull Falls Brewery Bock Fest
This is a great time to check out the Bull Falls Brewery just southeast of central Wausau!
The Bull Falls Bock Fest will kick off at 1pm on Saturday, March 19th immediately following the 8th Annual Bull Falls Brewery Never Forgotten Honor Flight 5K Run/Walk. It will begin with the ceremonial tapping of the 2015 Bull Falls Bock Lager, their traditional full-bodied dark bock lager beer. Beginning at 1pm there will be music in the Biergarten by Led West and great food provided by local American Legion Post 10.
Their crack Karmel Kaiser staff will be assisting customers who want their beer caramelized with a red hot poker by the fire! It’s an outdoor event, so dress for the weather! This will be a well-attended event, snow or shine. All proceeds for this event will be donated to the Never Forgotten Honor Flight.
Updated details are available on the Bull Falls Brewery website. You’ll find the brewery southeast of downtown Wausau, just east of Business U.S. 51. I-39, U.S. 51, and Highways 29 and 52 all bring you to Wausau.
National Quilt Day in Kenosha
In conjunction with the Southport Quilters Guild Annual Members Quilt Show, the Guild will sponsor activities at the Kenosha Public Museum in downtown Kenosha’s HarborPark District.
The Kenosha Public Museum is a natural sciences and fine and decorative arts museum with over 80,000 collections, including 1,200 works in fine arts. Exhibit programming includes mammoths, world cultures, Native Americans, zoology, geology, fossils, and fine and decorative arts.
For National Quilting Day, here’s the schedule:
9am-Noon – Quilting Workshop with Kathy Tracy of Country Lane Quilts. Please contact the Museum at 262-653-4140 to find out if space is still available.
10am-5pm – “Scrappy Days are Here Again!” and “Pieces of Poetry” quilt challenge by Southport Quilters Guild members on display in DaimlerChrysler Hall
10:30am-1:30pm – Quilting demonstrations by members of the Guild and family activities
2pm – “A Little History of Quilting” presentation by Kathy Tracy . The presentation takes you through different periods in American history showing examples of quilts with different styles and techniques. It includes a PowerPoint presentation, a trunk show of quilts from her books, and time for questions. Free tickets will be available the day of the presentation beginning at 10am. Seating is limited – first come, first served.
The Kenosha Public Museum can be accessed by taking Highways 32, 50, or 158 into the city’s HarborPark District, which sits right along Lake Michigan on the east side of downtown. Make a day of it and check out everything else down there!
March 18, 2016 – March 20, 2016
Hot Air for Hearts Balloon Rally
Organizers of the Lakewoods’ Hot Air for Hearts Balloon Rally are holding another fun-filled weekend with hot air balloonists from Wisconsin and Minnesota who come to participate in the Hot Air Balloon Rally for Charity.
People from all over the Midwest attend this event, which raises money for the Cable Area Lions Heart Benefit. Weather permitting, crew members help the balloonists set up and take down balloons and may ride along with the pilots during the flights. Flights are scheduled mornings and afternoons on Friday, Saturday and Sunday (morning only) and will fly as often as the weather permits.
“The balloons can’t always go up daily due to weather,” said Jill H. volunteer crew member, “but when you get to fly the views are incredible.” In addition to the balloon flights, a “glow” is scheduled in front of Lakewoods Resort after dark. On Saturday night, guests in the dining room and spectators alike are treated to a fantastic view of Lake Namakagon and the 7 story high balloons lit up from the inside like giant luminary candles.
This charity event is great for the family and is a fantastic way to get out and enjoy the new snow this winter. All the colors of the balloons and racers make for a fun and festive atmosphere and both are very exciting to watch. Registration starts at 8am. Full details are available on the Lakewoods Resort website!
U.S. 63 is the main way to Cable, northeast of Hayward and southwest of Ashland.
March 4, 2016 – March 6, 2016
RV & Boat Show, Oshkosh
The RV and Boat Show Main Event in Oshkosh, right at the EAA AirVenture Museum, offers nearly 100,000 square feet of RV’s, Boats, Golf Carts, Campgrounds, and more in heated buildings.
Whether you are shopping for a new travel trailer, fifth wheel, motor home, speed boat, fishing boat, pontoon boat, or just want to see what’s out there and collect information about RV rentals, campgrounds, golf carts, boating or docks, this show will surprise you with a wide variety to choose from!
The RV and Boat Show runs Friday, March 4th from noon-9pm, Saturday, March 5th from 10am-8pm, and Sunday, March 6th from 11am-4pm. There’s also the Hops ‘N Props event there Friday night!
Admission is $5; seniors (62 and over) $4; children 17 & under free. Admission is valid all weekend. Also, proof of paid admission to this show gets you half off admission to the EAA AirVenture Museum! Full details are available at their website.
To get to Oshkosh and experience the RV and Boat Show, take I-41, U.S. 45, or Highways 21, 26, 44, 76, or 91. The event is right along I-41 between the exits for Highway 26 and for Highways 44/91.
February 20, 2016
Food & Froth at the Milwaukee Public Museum
Beer has a long, illustrious history as the centerpiece of many parties and events, especially here in Milwaukee. With this in mind, the Milwaukee Public Museum on Wells Street in downtown Milwaukee will open its doors after hours and add another chapter to that story. The Milwaukee Public Museum’s 18th Annual Food & Froth Fest will be held on Saturday, Feb. 20, 2016 from 7 – 10 p.m.
Food & Froth will feature over 200 different beers from more than 70 breweries, including Midwest treasures such as Summit Brewing Co., which is making its Food & Froth debut, and international favorites like Germany’s Krombacher Brauerei. Nibble on tasty bites from Screamin’ Sicilian frozen pizza, sampling a fully loaded pizza perfect for pairing with beer, as well as many other treats from local restaurants and caterers. Additionally there will be live music on all three exhibit floors, including a performance by The Whiskey Belles.
Food & Froth tickets are $75 for members and $125 for VIP tickets. VIP tickets include 5:30 p.m. entrance into the special VIP room filled with exclusive craft beers, a smorgasbord of unlimited savories and sweets, and 6:00 p.m. early entry into the event.
Tickets are available by calling (414) 278-2728 or (888) 700-9069 during museum hours. Admission fee covers all food, beer and live entertainment. You must be at least 21 years of age to attend, and a valid identification and ticket are required for entrance into the event.
Proceeds benefit the Museum’s exhibits and educational programs. Get all the details here!
The Milwaukee Public Museum is right along U.S. 18 (Wells Street) in downtown Milwaukee, within blocks of I-43, I-94, the south end of Highway 145, and also close to Highway 32 (Broadway/Milwaukee Street), Highway 38 (5th/6th Street south of downtown), Highway 59 (National Avenue), and I-794.
January 16, 2016
Ozaukee County Fair
The second smallest county in Wisconsin hosts one of the last FREE county fairs in the Midwest. The 157th edition of the Ozaukee County Fair takes place August 3-6, 2016 at Fireman’s Park in Cedarburg.
Plenty of animals, exhibits, rides, and more punctuate this fair. They have some great musical acts too, including the Charlie Daniels Band for Friday night, August 5th!
The Ozaukee County Fair can be found along Washington Avenue in Cedarburg, just south of Highway 60, just east of Highway 181, and a few miles west of I-43 and Highways 32 & 57.
Check their website for all the latest updates.
January 1, 2016
Polar Bear Swim – Sheboygan
1pm. New Year’s Day. The shores of Lake Michigan at Deland Park in Sheboygan. Your body. The water. Are you ready??
Highways 23, 28, and 42 all bring you into Sheboygan from I-43.
Get all the details from Visit Sheboygan!
December 18, 2015
Downtown Hartford Midnight Madness
Last minute shopping deals, entertainment, horse-drawn wagon rides, food and even Santa! Join the fun throughout downtown Hartford, where the deals get better as the night goes on… and it does last until midnight!
In addition to the specials offered by the merchants, there are crafters and vendors to help you with those last-minute holiday gifts. And at the main corner of Highways 60 and 83, you’ll find a State Trunk Tour favorite, The Mineshaft – Wisconsin’s largest restaurant.
Check the Downtown Hartford website for complete updates!
November 20, 2015 – November 21, 2015
Holidaze Arts Festival
To celebrate the coming “holidaze”, Eau Claire’s Holidaze Arts Festival – which has been around for 26 years – will feature over 100 quality fine art and crafts exhibitors each fairing hand made goods that make for good shopping for yourself or someone on your list. It takes place in downtown Eau Claire, where there’s plenty else to do, Friday afternoon November 20th into the evening and all day Saturday, November 21st.
Get the full lineup of artists and activities at their website, Holidazearts.com.
I-94, U.S. 12 & 53, and Highways 37 and 93 bring you to Eau Claire!
November 20, 2015 – November 22, 2015
Holiday Art Fair, Madison
The annual Holiday Art Fair in Madison is an excellent showcase of contemporary fine art and craft during the gift-giving season. This juried show includes over 85 artists exhibiting ceramics, fiber art, glass, jewelry, paintings, prints, photographs, and more. The festive event will also feature performances by local arts organizations throughout the weekend, holiday refreshments, Rediscovered Arts & Treasures Sale, silent auction, and the popular Gourmet Gallery filled with treats for every taste.
The Holiday Art Fair is held at the MMoCA, the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. It’s right on State Street downtown, close to U.S. 151/Washington Avenue. Of course, I-39, 90, and 94, U.S. 12, 14, 18, 51, and Highways 30 and 113 all bring you into Madison!
Admission to the Holiday Art Fair is $6, with children under 12 admitted free. Their website has all the details and the full lineup!
November 20, 2015 – November 22, 2015
Falls Finds and Barn Tour
The River Falls area comes alive when you take part in the Fall Finds and Barn Tour! Enjoy a leisurely tour of the beautiful Wisconsin countryside while you experience a diverse mix of shopping in rustic barns and downtown shops in and around River Falls. Find eclectic & handmade items, fine art, unique gifts, antiques, functional wares, local harvest and preserves, furniture, festive holiday, garden art & so much more, including:
– 125 on Main
– Over 30 artists and eclectic mix of holiday, harvest, repurposed, vintage and more.
– Holidays at Blue Ridge – over 20 artists’ original artwork, jewelry, edibles and more.
– Our Neighbor’s Old Barn – eclectic mix of gifts, vintage, furniture and fun.
– Garden Divas – unique gifts, harvest, holiday, garden, fair trade, vintage, local and more.
– Holidays on the Kinni – artists group and antiques, restored, harvest, holiday gifts and more.
– Riverwalk Art and Antiques – antiques, vintage, home, local gifts, edibles and more.
River Falls is in Pierce County, where Highways 29, 35, and 65 meet.
Check their event website for more details!
November 8, 2015
International Folk Fair
For over 30 years Eau Claire’s International Folk Fair has been one of the largest celebrations of culture and heritage. This celebration includes cultural and educational exhibits, traditional music, dance, clothing, and food from over 40 countries. International students along with community groups participate in the fair. Admission is free. Many groups sell food or cultural items to raise money for their organization.
See their web page for all the details.
Tied in with UW-Eau Claire’s Center for International Education, this event will be held Sunday, November 8th from noon-4pm in the Davies Center on Roosevelt. I-94, U.S. 12, U.S. 53, and Highways 37 and 93 all bring you to Eau Claire – and check out the new renovations downtown while you’re at it!
November 7, 2015
Oshkosh Gallery Walk
Downtown Oshkosh comes alive the first Saturday of each month when art galleries and businesses open their doors to feature artwork of all varieties and genres. Hundreds of art lovers descend downtown to enjoy, mingling with quite a few college students to make it interesting!
Next Gallery Walk is November 7th; after that, December 5th. Officially, it runs 6-9pm but the fun doesn’t stop at 9.
Oshkosh hugs the western shore of Lake Winnebago and is directly reached by U.S. 45 and Highways 21, 44, and 76. Highway 91 gets you close (via 44) and several exits off I-41 bring you downtown, including 9th Street and Highway 44.
November 7, 2015 – November 8, 2015
Veterans Day Appreciation at the H-D Museum
Harley-Davidson Museum® salutes our veterans and will offer free Museum entry for all active Military, Veterans and their families*. Harley-Davidson has always been on the front line – right next to the troops. The first American to enter Germany after World War I did so on a Harley-Davidson® motorcycle. Learn more about H-D’s military involvement during the Military Gallery Talks at 11am and 2:30pm. MOTOR® Bar & Restaurant offers a 10% discount for service members every day.
There’s FREE entry with valid Military or Veterans ID for 1 additional adult and up to 4 children 18 years old or younger.
The Harley-Davidson Museum is right in the Menomonee Valley, just south of downtown Milwaukee. I-43/94 hovers above nearby; U.S. 18 is just to the north, Highway 32/Milwaukee & 1st Street is just to the east, and Highway 59/Greenfield Avenue is just to the south. Follow Highway 38 north past its terminus or Highway 145 south past its, and you’ll get right there!