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Gary Knowles’ - Getaway Sampler A selection of events loaded with Real Wisconsin Fun!

February 2016 (and a few End of January events too!) by Gary Knowles ©

Gary Knowles is a freelance travel writer who is the author of the “Gary’s Getaways” feature for the Journal & Topics Newspapers serving 16 Chicago suburbs, a consultant to travel businesses, and the author of The Great Wisconsin Touring Book- 30 Spectacular Auto Tours. FOLLOW GARY’S TIPS ON TWITTER: @TravelWisconsin

BEFORE YOU GO: Avoid disappointment. Always check for schedule changes before heading to events. For more events-

good sources: www.Wisconline.com, www.TravelWisconsin.com or http://hwy23events.wordpress.com

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WISCONSIN & NEARBY! Snap Up a Valentine Bargain! Madison Hotel Week February 12-21 Chicago Magazine noted that visiting Madison, Wisconsin, will "make you glad it's winter." The season brings forth the city's character through cultural events, dining experiences and outdoor activities. Act now and score a great (reduced rate!) Valentine Getaway during Madison Hotel Week at 22 Greater Madison Area hotels, Feb.12-21, 2016. All Hotel Week guests receive a welcome VIP gift card for 10 percent off at “Food Fight” restaurants. Details at Greater Madison CVB - PH: 608.255.2537 -http://www.visitmadison.com/accommodations/madison-hotel-week

WISCONSIN –Feast!

JAN 29-31 Wisconsin Food Fest – Kohler Destination Kohler celebrates the favorite foods of Wisconsin - not just brats, beer and cheese. Well, yes those things but also the farm fresh products, wine and more. Enjoy specialty dinner and brunch, cooking demonstrations and a tasting event at the Kohler Design Center. The American Club Resort,419 Highland Dr. Kohler, WI 53044 PH: 844-289-1566 http://www.americanclubresort.com/calendar/january-2016 JAN 31 – Chocolate Fantasy – Fond du Lac Get swept up by a choc-nado of deliciousness at the 20th Annual Chocolate Fantasy. Dozens of vendors will provide chocolate samples, and the world-famous Soroptimist gift basket silent auction will amaze. Hosted by Soroptimist International of Fond du Lac - Knights of Columbus Hall, 79 Fond du Lac Avenue, Fond du Lac, WI 54935 –PH:920-929-8541 5 -6 Red Wine Weekend – Bayfield Get ready to celebrate the marriage of fine red wine and gourmet cuisine at Red Wine Weekend. The schedule includes a Friday evening wine tasting at the lovely Chateau Boutin home, a Saturday afternoon tasting, and a Saturday evening 6-course dinner at the famous Rittenhouse Inn's Landmark Restaurant, with wines selected to match each dish. Reservations required. Rittenhouse Inn, 301 Rittenhouse Ave., Bayfield, WI 54814 PH: 715-779-5111 http://www.rittenhouseinn.com/

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FEB 6 - Celebrate National Cherry Month - Winter Wine and Cherry Fest – Fish Creek Nothing says “Door County” better than cherries, and in winter they say it with cherry wine! Kick off National Cherry Month on Feb 6 by sampling the classics at Winter Wine and Cherry Fest at Orchard Country Winery & Market 9197 Hwy 42, Fish Creek. Catch a horse-drawn sleigh ride, get inspired, paint a wine glass and pucker-up for the Cherry Pit Spit Competition! The farm market offers hundreds of regional Montmorency Cherry specialties, bakery, cheeses, jams, and wine! Everyone goes home with a cherry induced smile! PH: 920-868-3479; www.orchardcountry.com

FEB 14 - Death by Chocolate – Appleton If there was ever a perfect excuse to dedicate a day to eating chocolate, it is Valentine’s Day. The Death by Chocolate event is held annually in downtown Appleton, and chocolate-loving guests can sample 15-20 different decadent treats throughout the afternoon, created by some of the best chefs in the area. Whether you try one or 15, stop by and treat yourself to some chocolate indulgence. PH:920-954-9112; www.appletondowntown.org FEB 19-21 In Celebration of Chocolate! – Kohler Come as friends or bring your sweetie and fall deeper in love with chocolate during the 4th Annual In Celebration of Chocolate. A winter getaway has never tasted so good with a weekend full of celebrity and guest chefs, food pairings, demonstrations, evening dinners and events. From savory to sweet and everything in between, don’t miss this cocoa-themed celebration of the world’s favorite dessert. Topping things off is the opportunity for guests to taste the signature and newest creations from Kohler Original Recipe Chocolates. The American Club Resort, 419 Highland Dr, Kohler, WI 53044 PH: 844-289-1566 http://www.americanclubresort.com/calendar/2016/02/in-celebration-of-chocolate 27 Frozen Tundra Wine Fest – Kewaunee Outdoor wine fest to celebrate our Wisconsin grapes that can survive our harsh winters, yet produce award winning wines! Admission $12 includes: Frozen Tundra wine glass, 5 wine samples, tours, gourmet food samples, live music, horse carriage rides, food available for purchase, and more. Visit us online for details. Experience A Taste of the Tundra! This is a must do for any hardy Wisconsinite! Noon-6pm Parallel 44 Vineyard & Winery, N2185 Sleepy Hollow Road, Kewaunee, WI 54216 PH:920-388-4400 http://www.parallel44.com/event-calendar

WISCONSIN – What the Heck? What’s Going on Out There?!

NOW through Spring 2016 - Intergalactic: Visit “The Force” Star Wars Toys Exhibit - Sparta The Monroe County Museum in Sparta, Wisconsin has always offered interesting looks back at history. Early phonographs, farm tools, military artifacts and kitchen gadgets keep visitors amused. And now, amidst the excitement over the latest Star Wars film release, the museum has scored an inter-galactic coup, of sorts, by arranging one of the largest exhibits of popular and collectible “Kenner” Star Wars toys from 1978-1985. When the Star Wars series hit the movie theaters in 1977, it instantly became a box office smash. Kenner manufactured hundreds of action figures, vehicles, and playsets based on the films. These toys today are as iconic as the movies themselves. More than 200, the treasured personal collection of Museum Director, Jarrod Roll, are on view now at the museum’s Local History Room in Sparta. Weekdays 9-4:30 and Saturdays 10-4:30 through spring 2016, at 200 West Main St., Sparta, Wisconsin. Contact 608-269-8680 or www.Facebook.com/MCLHR. And if you climb up a few stairs you can get even closer to outer space: don’t miss the historic NASA astronaut Deke Slayton museum (small admission charged.)

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NOW to Dec.31, 2016 The Rhinestone Cowboy Home – Sheboygan At the John Michael Kohler Art Center Aiming to style himself as a singing “rhinestone cowboy” modeled after Glen Campbell’s song, Loy Bowlin of McComb, Mississippi, became the maker of a remarkable art environment. He embellished his small home with glitter, cut paper, magazine pictures, ornaments, and spangles, and people came from miles around to visit the “Holy Jewel Home,” and the Rhinestone Cowboy who lived there. Today, the art environment and his fancy suits, hats, and furniture, stands as the only comprehensively relocated environment in the JMK Arts Center's Permanent Collection. In 2016, the Arts Center will provide unprecedented access to our visitors as staff, preservation professionals, and historians put the house back together again in our galleries. Mon, Wed, Fri 10am-5pm; Tues, Thurs 10am-8pm; Sat, Sun 10am-4pm John Michael Kohler Arts Center, 608 New York Ave, Sheboygan, WI 53081 PH:920-458-6144 http://www.jmkac.org/ JAN 30 - Call in the Dogs! Great Lakes Pet Expo – West Allis Barking, purring, oinking and even slithering will be music to the ears of pet lovers who attend the Great Lakes Pet Expo, January 30. This extravaganza features all kinds of pets and all proceeds go to aid non-profit rescues and humane societies. The Great Lakes Pet Expo even has Ollie, a pot belly pig available for adoption. If you’re looking to adopt a unique pet-friend, come to this event for a speed date. There will be pet training and health care presentations along with entertainment and a pet marketplace. Admission is $6 adults, free under 12 and Vets with ID. At the Exposition Center at Wisconsin State Fair Park, 640 South 84th St., West Allis, WI 53214 – PH:414-840-8691 http://www.petexpomilwaukee.com/ 2 Groundhog Day Prognostication – Sun Prairie A chance to see Jimmy the Groundhog in person! Join us for the Prognostication ceremony. Will he see his shadow or not? PH: 608-512-9743 Cannery Plaza Downtown, Sun Prairie, WI 53590 Approximately: 7AM 6 – 20th Annual Souper Bowl – Madison Eat the soup, take home the bowl, help Habitat for Humanity! It's that time of year again! Habitat for Humanity, UW-Madison Campus Chapter is proud to announce their 20th annual Souper Bowl Fundraiser, the oldest and most successful fundraiser for the chapter. Join us for a soup dinner, courtesy of generous local restaurants, get a beautiful hand-made ceramic bowl, and enjoy entertainment by local artists throughout the evening. Raffle tickets will be available for the dozens of wonderful, donated prizes. Just $15 for a bowl and meal of soup, bread, salad and dessert, or $35 for two bowls and four meals. All proceeds go toward supporting Habitat-UW's 16th student-built house February 6th - 2-8PM at Madison West High School, 30 Ash St. on Saturday, Feb. 6, 2-8 p.m.for a souper time, take home a piece of art, and help give someome a home!! http://habitatuw.org/ 12-14 Sky Circus on Ice - Delevan Delavan welcomes some of the greatest kite performers in the world for a spectacular show you will not want to miss! In addition, expert ice and snow carvers will be converging in Downtown Delavan and along the shores of Lake Lawn Resort to share their talents. Lake Lawn Resort & Calladora Spa, 2400 E Geneva St., Delavan, WI 53115 P:262-728-7950 http://delavanwi.org/wp/

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12 - Watch Airplanes Ski Into Oshkosh! - SkiPlane Fly-In Fans of things that fly know that you can see most every kind of aircraft at the summer AirVenture in Oshkosh. But there’s one kind of airplane that prefers winter: the “skiplane.” It has its big day “on stage” each winter in the height of snow season. February 6, the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) welcomes these exciting “winter birds” to the annual Skiplane Fly-In at the AirVenture Museum’s Pioneer Airport in Oshkosh. Typically, more than 25 skiplanes have participated in the event. Most skiplanes arrive (weather and runway conditions permitting) mid-morning and stay until mid-afternoon. The event is free and complimentary chili and cake will be served at 10:30 a.m. A slideshow highlights previous skiplane fly-ins. (Regular admission rates apply for those visiting the museum itself.) In case weather conditions do not permit aircraft arrivals, other activities will continue. Signs at the museum direct visitors to the skiplane area. EAA AirVenture, 3000 Poberezny Rd., Oshkosh, just off Highway 41 at the Highway 44 exit. The Museum is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. PH: 920-426-6108 or www.airventuremuseum.org.

13 – Bar Stool Races and Chili Feed - Drummond Participants decorate their bar stool-on-skis with some of the zaniest things you'll ever see, and then they set off in head-to-head competition down the man-made ski hill for thrills, chills and lots of spills! There'll be great food, including hot, homemade chili, cold beer and fun! If you haven't been to this event, you don't know what you're missing! Funds raised from this event go towards snowmobile grooming in the Drummond area. PH: 715-739-6262 http://www.drummondwi.com/Bar-Stool-Racing.aspx 13-14 US National – Miss Wisconsin Pageant – Green Bay Join us for USA National Miss Wisconsin; a natural and community based pageant for young ladies ages 4-25 and the official state preliminary to USA National Miss Scholarship Organization. With fashion forward competitions; both optional and required, open to the public for free on Saturday, and the final show on Sunday with live entertainment starting at 4pm; everyone is sure to have a weekend of a lifetime! Contestants will compete in three required and equally scored areas of competition: Interview, Runway, and Evening Gown. All contestants will be sharing their passion for charitable organizations from around the state all weekend long and winners will spend their year continuing to work with these as well as advance to compete at Nationals 2016 in Boca Raton, Florida, in July! A prize package worth over $100,000.00 including TWO FULL Ride College Scholarships and 12 invitations to Nationals will be awarded during the final show! Tickets are available via EventBrite. Sat Casual Wear Modeling - open to the public; 4pm Runway Competition - open to the public. Sun 9am evening gown competition - open to the public; 4pm final show and crowning of six delegates - open to the public. Hyatt/KI Convention Center, 333 Main St., Green Bay, WI 54301 PH:844-787-6648 http://usanationalmiss.com/state-pageants/wisconsin/ 20-21 49th Mad City Model Railroad Show – Madison All aboard the Mad City Model Railroad Show for one of the Midwest’s best model railroad events, featuring beautiful train layouts, classic toy trains and historical exhibits. Young conductors can build a giant wooden train layout and run or ride a model train. Show attendees will also have the chance to win hourly door prizes and kids can register to win a train set. 608-835-9577; www.nmra-scwd.org

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26-27 World’s Longest Weenie Roast – Cable Known throughout Bayfield County as the most fun event on ice, weenie enthusiasts from all over flock to Lake Namakagon for the World’s Longest Weenie Roast – more specifically, the longest line of hot dog cookers over one fire. Events such as snowmobile speed runs, ice bowling and outlaw drags on the lake take place throughout the weekend, and the funds go towards the Namakagon Volunteer Fire Department, the Great Divide Ambulance Service and other area charities and not-for-profits. 715-794-2561; www.lakewoodsresort.com 26-28 Wisconsin Fishing Expo – Madison “Spawned” from the Madison Fishing Expo, the Wisconsin Fishing Expo is one of the largest consumer fishing shows in the Midwest, reeling in 20,000 attendees each year. This year’s show will feature seminars from fishing celebrities in addition to a series of vendors to explore. Young anglers can also look forward to minnow races, trout fishing, casting contests and more. 262-644-7940; www.wifishingexpo.com

WISCONSIN –Art? Music? Sales? Sure! NOW – FEB 21 Legends in Concert – Fort Atkinson Imagine seeing not one, not two, but six of the biggest acts in show business in one great performance!! These are LEGENDS! Carrie Underwood, Neil Diamond, Elton John, Buddy Holly, Whitney Houston, Elvis Presley. See these great stars re-created live on The Fireside stage! LEGENDS IN CONCERT! Direct from Las Vegas. presents dynamic and talented performers re-creating the unforgettable concert appearances of these show biz immortals. Using only their natural voice and talent they create a performance so real that you would swear that these legends are right there in front of you. Surrounded by a dazzling array of singers, dancers, glittering costumes, and sensational lighting, this show is as big and as spectacular as any you’ll find on the Las Vegas strip. Matinees Wed, Thur, Sat & Sun; Evenings Thur & Sat; Midday Sun. -- Every: Sun,Wed,Thu,Sat - Fireside Dinner Theatre, 1131 Janesville Ave.,Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 PH:920-563-9505 http://www.firesidetheatre.com/ NOW – 2016 “The Nose has it!” at special WWII Warbird Art Exhibit – Oshkosh With the smoke barely cleared at Pearl Harbor, brave, young US servicemen took to the air to take the war to the enemy. Many of the aircraft carried artist painted images and messages on their noses. Now one of the finest collections of authentic, preserved, WWII “nose art” is on display for the first time outside their Commemorative Air Force home museum in Dallas, Texas. The collection honors the people and aircraft of World War II. The artifacts have been designated by the National Trust for Historical Preservation as an official project of Save America’s Treasures, which seeks to preserve historic structures, art and published works throughout the nation. It will be on display at EAA throughout 2016. “This collection is simply incredible; there’s no other way to put it,” said Bob Campbell, director of the EAA AirVenture Museum. “It tells a unique story of the common soldier and airman during World War II, how this artwork was created, what it meant to these young men mostly between 18 and 25 years old, and the individual tales of these aircraft that returned along with those that didn’t.” As was the custom during World War II, some of the nose art depicts slogans or places, but many of them included drawings of young women in poses from chaste to extremely provocative. The EAA AirVenture Museum is located just off Interstate 41 at the Highway 44 exit in Oshkosh. It is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call the EAA AirVenture Museum at (920) 426-6108 or visit www.eaa.org/museum.

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JAN 30 A John Denver Tribute with Ted Vigil. – Oconomowoc Singer, songwriter and tribute artist, Ted Vigis uncanny resemblance to iconic singer, songwriter, John Denver will take the audience on a nostalgic ride with popular songs like Thank God I'm a Country Boy, Rocky Mountain High, Sunshine on My Shoulder and many more. 641 East Forest Street. For more information call (262) 560-2130 JAN 31 – MOVIE PREMIER – “Cheeseheads – The Documentary” - Sheboygan Free showing. “Cheeseheads: The Documentary” is the story of a manʼs journey to rediscover his Wisconsin roots after twenty years away. It also looks into the deeper meaning of being a Cheesehead, well beyond the clichéd notion represented in the media, and discovers that Wisconsin is a place like none other, filled with some of the most hard-working, passionate, and generous people on earth, who are obsessed with beer, cheese, and football, especially when all three involve the Green Bay Packers.” Walk the red carpet - dress glam, show your Wisconsin spirit or come as you are. After-party: meet filmmaker and producer John Mitchell. Sample foods and beverages with a Wisconsin flair. Free. 2pm at Stefanie Weill Center; 826 N 8th St., Sheboygan, WI 53081 - after party 4:30-7:30pm at the Library. PH: 920-459-3400 http://www.weillcenter.com/events-and-tickets/calendar-of-events/cheeseheads-the-documentary-by-john-mitchell/ 5-6 Wisconsin Antique Dealers Show & Sale – Waukesha The oldest state antiques organization in America produces this well-established antiques show with over 50 quality dealers selling furniture, collectibles, home décor, toys and more; authenticity guaranteed. Fri: 10am-8pm. Sat: 10am-5pm. PH: 414-510-4441 http://www.wisconsinantiquedealers.com/ 6 – "Celebration of the Sled Dog in the Northwoods" – Bayfield In conjunction with the Apostle Island Sled Dog Races Feb 6 & 7 catch the photo presentation by ace photographer Hannah Stonehouse Hudson at 7pm. One of Hannah's photos is featured on the 2016 race poster. The will be at the blue Terminal Building for the Madeline Island Ferry Line, located at the base of Washington Ave. Her calendar, "Sled Dogs 2016," will be available for purchase, along with official Apostle Islands Sled Dog merchandise. Details: at www.bayfield.org/aisdr or call the Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau at 715-779-3335. 13-14 Wausau Antique Show & Sale The sale features 50 booths with 1000's of antiques & vintage finds from 1870 through the mid century. A Crystal/China repair booth is on site & a clock repairer to assist you. Good food at the "D.C. Everest's" concession stand. Have old fashioned fun finding a great bookcase to a treasured Valentine & everything in between. Admission $4.50, under 16 is free. $50 Door Prize! Sat 9am-5pm, Sun 10am-4pm. DC Everest High School/ Greenheck Field House, 6400 Alderson St., Schofield, WI 54476 PH:715-355-5144 http://www.antiqueshowsinwis.com/Wausau.html 19-28 Beloit International Film Festival – Beloit This 10-day film festival is perfect for film buffs of all genres. With more than 180 films and artists from 30 different countries, BIFF showcases feature films, documentaries and shorts within an impressive global spectrum. Many of the filmmakers are also onsite throughout the festival, giving viewers an opportunity to meet the artists behind the films. Viewers of all ages are welcome to come experience the magic of filmmaking from around the world. 608-313-1200; www.beloitfilmfest.com

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WISCONSIN – That’s The Spirit! JAN 30 - Head for Port! Wollersheim Winery Port Release Day Wine lovers in Wisconsin mark the final week of January for Wollersheim Winery’s “Port Release Day” at Prairie du Sac. Winemaker, Philippe Coquard makes port as it is done in Portugal, the birthplace of “Porto.” Grape wine is fortified with brandy to stop fermentation, leaving the natural sweetness of grapes. Wollersheim’s original Red Port is aged in American oak barrels for 13 months, and special White Port is aged 6 months in French oak. Celebrate port Jan. 30 with sampling, winemaker talks, light food (for sale) and music. 10AM – 4PM. Free admission. PH: 608-643-6515 www.Wollersheim.com JAN 30 – Ice Cold Beer Fest – Minocqua Join over 30 Wisconsin breweries in Minocqua for the Ice Cold Beer Fest! A beer event like no other where the beer is cold and you’re nice and toasty warm inside a heated tent. Your ticket includes 4 hours of tasting winter warmer beers, a gourmet buffet of food, and live music. Let your favorite Wisconsin craft brewers warm you up with an Ice Cold Beer! $45 4-8PM Downtown Minocqua, 238 Lakeshore Dr., Minocqua, WI 54548 PH:608-441-1992 https://wibrewersguild.com/ice-cold-beer/ FEB 20 – Mayville – Rock River Bierfest Join the Mayville Rotary Club and brewers from around the Midwest and enjoy brews from breweries such as 3 Sheeps, Keweenaw, 8th Street Alehaus, and many more. Food from area restaurants, artisan cheesemakers, chocolatiers, and local butchers will be included with ticket purchase. Live music, commemorative beer glass, the Badgers game on big screen TV and the Great Rotary Silent Auction will make this more than just a beer fest- Downtown Mayville. Tickets: early bird $25 and VIP $35. At the door $30 and $40. VIP entry 2pm with VIP ticket, General admission 3-6pm - Mayville Park Pavilion, Park St. Mayville, WI PH:920-296-9279 http://www.rockriverbierfest.com/

WISCONSIN – Competition Capital! JAN 28-31 Badger State Winter Games – Wausau Four weekends packed with epic winter events are sure to get any winter sport lover’s heart racing. A schedule of classic competitions like curling, fat tire bike racing and figure skating round out this month-long lineup. This year make sure to check out the new Ski Jumping competition, and curling, which is held at one of the best facilities in the country. 715-355-8788; www.badgerstategames.org

JAN 30 Jump to it! World Rope Jumping Championships – Bloomer

Give high school kids enough rope and pretty soon they’ll have the Rope Jumping Championships! On January 30, 2016 thirty-five schools will bring 240 jumpers to Bloomer, Wisconsin, to try to break the rope jumping records. Bloomer became the Jump Rope Capital of the World in 1960 when a high school coach, Wally Mohrman, took over as physical education teacher in the schools. Knowing the value of exercise, he decided to stir some interest with a contest with emphasis on speed jumping. Mohrman also formed a group called "Swinging Safari". This girls group does “precision rope jumping” and their performance is a highlight of the event. 12:30pm to 7pm at Bloomer High School, 1310 17th Ave., PH:715-568-3339 http://www.bloomerchamber.com/annual-rope-jump-contest

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FEB 5-7 See How they Run! Apostle Islands Sled Dog Race – Bayfield There may be no event in the Midwest that surpasses the pure excitement of the Apostle Islands Sled Dog Races. Teams are barking, jumping, howling and begging to hit the trail. The 21st annual event is Feb. 5-7 with Bayfield serving as the hub of race activities. A “Mushers’ Banquet” on Friday evening is a good place to meet the folks who handle the teams. Competition begins Saturday and Sunday at 10AM and admission is free. Races include a 10-dog, 80-mile race, a 6-dog, 60-mile race and shorter runs for family and youth teams. Awards are presented Sunday. Programs and maps are available at Bayfield Chamber of Commerce and on race grounds. For real fun, join the “Voluntourism Team” and wrangle teams or help along the race course. Details at 715-779-3335; www.bayfield.org 12-13 Silver Mine Ski Jump - Eau Claire, The Eau Claire Ski Club will host the North American Ski Jumping & Nordic Combined Championships! Enjoy two days of spectacular ski jumping competitions and much more at this 130th Anniversary event. Admission: $10 In advance; $15 at the gate; 12 & under Free – Silvermine Ski Hill, 2900 Silvermine Dr.,Eau Claire, WI 54703 PH: 715-831-2345 http://www.ec-skiclub.com/ 18-21 The American Birkebeiner – Cable/Hayward The largest cross-country ski marathon in North America, the American Birkebeiner, is an event you must see – or ski! More than 10,000 athletes compete each year, and nearly 45,000 spectators gather for the Nordic sports festivities. Stretching 51 km or 31.7miles from Cable to Hayward, the event challenges the best of the best. A variety of other competitions are held in the days leading up to the event, including short distance races, the Barkie Birkie Skijor (for pets), a giant ski, a family fun ski and much more. From its signature ski race, the legendary American Birkebeiner--Title Sponsor, Slumberland Furniture--the Birkie has grown into an exciting array of fitness and recreational opportunities. The 107-kilometer Birkie Trail system attracts skiers, runners, bikers, trekkers, and hikers, from casual day-trippers to elite superstars. Located near Hayward and Cable, Wisconsin, the Birkie is now an outdoor sports mecca, a series of great races, a fitness destination, and a Lifestyle. PH 715-634-5025; www.birkie.com 28 – Winter Park Skijor Races – Minocqua Dogs pulling skiers! Experienced and novice participants will compete with their dogs on our skijor loop, making one or two 5 Km laps. The race will have solo starts at 30-second intervals, and awards will be given to top overall finishers in each distance and dog class. Pups will be awarded with treats! Starts at Noon. Minocqua Winter Park & Nordic Center, 7543 Squirrel Hill Road, Minocqua, WI 54548 PH:715-356-3309 http://minocquawinterpark.org/

WISCONSIN – Love the Winter Weather !

NOW – Feb 21 Greenbush – Sleigh Rides at the Wade House Outdoor winter fun will be featured at Wade House this winter. The excitement will begin with Wade House's sleigh ride weekends, which are scheduled for the weekends in January and February, excluding February 27-28. On Wade House sleigh ride weekends, guests will be invited to climb aboard a horse-drawn sleigh for a ride through Kettle Moraine. These rides will be FREE with regular admission to the museum. Guests will also be able to see Wesley W. Jung's wonderful collection of sleighs, bob sleds, cutters and coasting bobs in the carriage museum. 11-3:30PM PH: 920-526-3271 http://wadehouse.wisconsinhistory.org/

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JAN 29-31 Schnee Days in Elkhart Lake Come to Elkhart Lake for the weekend and enjoy the Schnee (snow) Fest! A winter weekend that kicks off on Thursday evening with Rib Night and a Beer Dinner in celebration of Street Food. Friday night's talent show and disco will be fun for the entire family. Saturday includes the Annual SchneeLauf (5K Run), children's activities, Wine Tasting, Wait Staff Races, Pub Crawl and evening dance. Sunday's Chili-Cook off at Siebkens Resort is a long-running and much loved event and sure cure for Cabin Fever. PH: 920-876-2922 http://schneedays.com/ JAN 30-31 Cabin Fever Fest – Beaver Dam This year’s fest is a weekend full of fun activities including wagon rides, bonfire, s’mores and a snowball drop complete with cash prizes. Celebrate the season with a fundraising event that’s sure to knock your mittens off with the “Mayor’s Plunge.” 920-887-4639; www.beaverdamchamber.com FEB 3-13 US National Snow Sculpting Championships – Lake Geneva Lake Geneva’s Annual Winterfest weekend featuring the US National Snow Sculpting Competition featuring music, magic, refreshments, activities, helicopter rides, shopping and dining. The US National Snow Sculpting Competition Champion's Award, second, third place and the Peoples' Choice award are featured at this great event at the beautiful and famed Riviera on the lake front in downtown Lake Geneva. PH: 262-248-4416 http://www.visitlakegeneva.com/ 6 – Candlelight Ski, Snowshoe Night: Blue Mounds, Baraboo, Oconto, Belgium, Fish Creek –More BLUE MOUNDS: but many more around the state - Bonfire, free hot chocolate, cider and marshmallows. Brats, chili, hot dogs and baked goods will be for sale. The only cost is admission into the state park. Trail passes are waived for the evening. Sponsored by the Friends of Blue Mound State Park. 4350 Mounds Park Rd., Blue Mounds, WI 53517 PH: 608-437-5711 For a full list of parks & activities go to: http://www.travelwisconsin.com/events 5-7 Apostle Islands Sled Dog Race – Bayfield Mushers’ Banquet on Friday night in Bayfield get this started! When the sun rises on Feb. 6, 2016, more than 50 sled teams will kick off the largest annual dog sled race in the Midwest. There are two main races: a 10-dog, 80-mile race and a 6-dog, 60-mile race. Spectators line the racecourse to watch this exciting, high-energy event reminiscent of the famous Iditarod race – with festive Wisconsin flair! The race also offers popular volunteer opportunities, voted one of the best programs in the world by voluntourism.org. 715-779-3335; www.bayfield.org 5- 7 Fish Creek Winter Festival – Fish Creek Wisconsinites know how to have fun even in the middle of winter, and the Fish Creek Winter Festival is ultimate proof. Head up to Door County for the festival, and you’ll find a contagiously fun atmosphere complete with games, music, food, a chili cook-off, minnow racing, a bike toss and the Fruit Loop run. The winter blues don’t stand a chance at this festival. 920-868-2316; www.visitfishcreek.com 5-7 Hot Air Affair – Hudson This spectacular event will “Paint the Sky” with the art of hot air ballooning. Enjoy the mass ascension of more than 30 hot air balloons, paired with fireworks, smoosh boarding, a craft fair and a marketplace featuring live entertainment. 715-381-2050; www.hudsonhotairaffair.com

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5-7 Scandihoovian Winter Fest – Mount Horeb Cabin fever? Sick of winter? Then bring your family and friends; join the fun, and shake off the winter blues at the Mount Horeb Area Scandihoovian Winter Festival in and around Mount Horeb. Stroll, shop, eat, and play at one of Dane County’s most unique and charming villages. There will be a whole weekend full of indoor and outdoor events tailored for just about everyone’s tastes. Most events are free, while some have a modest charge. You won’t want to miss Friday night’s big events which include a community mixer and social at the Norsk Golf Bowl with music by the Pool Boys, bonfire, and nighttime XC skiing and snowshoeing. Saturday’s events include a vintage snowmobile show and ride, an old-fashioned spelling bee at the District #1 School House, sledding, ice skating, cross-country skiing demonstrations, a Candlelight Ski and Snowshoe at Blue Mounds State Park, readings by two area authors. The Festival concludes on Super Bowl Sunday with the Rotary Club’s Annual Pancake Brunch and Optimist Club Silent Auction, Kick Sledding at Liberty Park. Mount Horeb/Blue Mounds Area, Mount Horeb, WI 53572 PH:608-437-4376 http://trollway.com/ 6 - Winter Wine and Cherry Fest – Fish Creek Kick off National Cherry Month by indulging in some Door County classics: cherries and wine. Festival goers can sample several wines and specialty food items, paint a wine glass and enjoy a horse-drawn sleigh ride. For the more competitive attendees, the Cherry Pit Spit Competition is an annual tradition with prizes on the line 920-868-3479; www.orchardcountry.com 6-7 Iola Winter Festival - Iola Ice Sculpture will take place in front of the Iola Scandinavia High School, carving beginning at 8am Saturday - located at corner of State Street and Chet Krause Drive. Norwegian Lutefisk Dinner, 1pm–6:30pm. Serving Lutefisk and fresh cod with drawn butter, meatballs, potatoes, vegetable, lefse and Norwegian pastries. Indoor Craft Sale located at Iola-Scandinavia High School on south Jackson Street. Iola Twilight Snowshoe Race at the Iola Winter Sports Complex 6pm. Sunday, Nordic Combined cross-country race 9:30am, Central Ski Jumping and Nordic Combined ChampionshipFeb 6, 2016 - Feb 7, 2016 Activities start 8am Sat & 9:30am Sun.s begin at 12pm. Central Wisconsin’s Finest Ski Jumping Facility in the state, Iola Winter Sports Club, E398 County Road MM, Iola, WI 54945 PH:715-445-4005 http://www.iolawintersportsclub.org/ 6-7 Winter Fest at Kangaroo Lake – Bailys Harbor Join us to beat Cabin Fever by heading out onto Kangaroo Lake for our 3rd Annual Winter Carnival & Door County Pond Hockey Tournament! Test your skills in our time trials or radar runs on our snow or ice runs with anything you've got! $5/motor for all ATVs, UTVs, Snowmobiles, Vehicles and the infamous WTF Class. Check out the food & drink stands, catch the live music and don't forget to stop at the Sunday Farm Market at the Town Hall. Door County Pond Hockey Tournament (Sat, 8am-4pm), www.doorcountypondhockey.com. Post-tourney party at Door County Brewing Co., plus beer and food tent on the ice. PH: 920-839-2366 13 - Book Across the Bay Cross-Country Ski Race – 20th Annual – Ashland For the 20th year, skiers and snowshoers of all ages will embark on a 10K-long journey from Ashland to Washburn for the Book Across the Bay race. This unique nighttime race takes place on a candlelit course that concludes with a post-race celebration of chili, beer and soda, music and awards. 800-284-9484; www.batb.org

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13 - Dip for Dozer – Cambridge – Feb. 13, 2016 Join the Cambridge community for a chilly plunge into Lake Ripley for the annual Dip for Dozer event. To raise money for a local football scholarship fund in memory of Dustin "Dozer" Zuelsdorf, several hundred spectators head out to the lake and support the brave few who take the dip. All-day activities include turkey bowling, ice carving, kites on ice and costume contests.608-423-3780; www.cambridgewi.com 13-14 Madison Winter Festival – Madison Every year, Madison Winter Festival attracts more than 20,000 spectators, winter enthusiasts, and athletes. Over ninety truckloads of snow will transform the Capitol Square into a race and recreational venue for the weekend. The inside lanes of the Square will be closed off for the family oriented activities such as snow and ice sculpting, sled hill rides, snowshoeing, winter-themed museum tours, adaptive sit ski programming, skijoring and many other events to participate in. Other fan favorites scheduled throughout the weekend include the SuperTour Pro Cross Country Ski Races, Frosty 5K Run & Walk, Cyclo Frost Cyclocross Race, Frosty 1 Mile Dog Jog and other fun and festive outdoor activities. PH: 608-385-8864 http://www.winter-fest.com/ 13-14 40th Annual Winter Snow Train – North Freedom Wintertime railroading is a unique experience one will never forget. Travel through the Winter Wonderland of scenic Sauk County on our 40th annual Snow Train. All cars are kept comfortably warm using the over century-old tradition of steam heating or coal-fired stoves. Each train ride lasts approximately 55-minutes round-trip with the exception of the Saturday evening Dinner Train which lasts 2-1/2 to 3 hours. Coach seating is available on all departures except Dinner Train. Departure times 10am, 11:30am, 1pm, 2:30pm, 5:30pm. First Class tickets are available on the 11:30am & 1pm departures each day. Mid-Continent Railway Museum & Gift Shop - E8948 Museum Rd-North Freedom, WI 53951 PH:608-522-4261 http://www.midcontinent.org/ 13-28 Lake Winnebago Sturgeon Spearing Season A Lake Winnebago Tradition. A spearing permit must be obtained by October 31, 2015. If you aren't participating in the spearing, head out to the several registration stations along the lake to see these giant prehistoric fish. Hours: 7am-1pm http://dnr.wi.gov/topic/fishing/sturgeon/SturgeonLakeWinnebago.html 20 - Annual Frozen Tozen Winter Fest – Boulder Junction This year’s Frozen Tozen Winter Fest will be entirely focused on an ice fishing tournament hosted on Allequash Lake. Plaques will be awarded to victorious anglers at the award ceremony held at the end of the event, along with a raffle drawing. Proceeds from the raffle and tournament will go towards the Boulder Junction Boat Landing Improvement Fund. 715-385-2400; www.boulderjct.org 20 - Pig-in-the-Ice Festival – Elkhart Lake It’s not just a unique name, it’s a unique event! Try your hand at ice fishing at the three lakes ice fishery held during the day, supplemented with a warm and toasty brat fry. Check out motor cross cycles on the ice, vintage snowmobile races, an ice cube hunt for the kids and the iconic all-day pig roast. 920-876-2535; www.threeguysandagrill.com

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20-21 The 42nd Cedarburg Winter Fest People of all ages are invited to attend the ever-popular 42nd two-day Winter Festival in Cedarburg and enjoy a myriad of activities which include the Lions Club Ice-Burg Open golf tournament in Cedar Creek Park, wine tasting at Cedar Creek Winery, ice carving contest, chili contest, bed races featuring themed costumed racing followed by the barrel racing, pancake breakfast, Alaskan Malamute dog-pulling contest, parade, live music, open family skating on Mill Pond & Cedar Creek Park daily, brat cookout, kids make-and-take projects, and much more. Sat 8am-10pm, Sun 8am-4pm. PH: 262-377-9620 http://www.cedarburgfestival.org/ 20-28 Milwaukee Auto Show Get the first look at the newest model automobiles and admire the finest classics. The auto industry showcases the new cars of the 21st century at this annual family event. Wisconsin Center, 400 W Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53203 PH:414-908-6001 http://autoshowmilwaukee.com/ 26-27 Bald Eagle Appreciation Days – Prairie du Chien Wisconsin is home to several majestic birds of prey, and Bald Eagle Appreciation Days is a family-fun opportunity to experience them firsthand. Attendees can participate in educational programs on Wisconsin wildlife and environment throughout the event. On Saturday, there are programs with live raptors, including a bald eagle. Live Bald Eagle and raptor programs, educational exhibits and displays, birding experts on hand, outdoor viewing of Bald Eagles through spotting scopes, life-size Bald Eagle nest, craft activities for children and more. All programs and activities at Hoffman Hall on Saturday are free. Educational Birding programs will also be held Friday evening - at local hotels and are open to the public at no charge. The event is co-sponsored by Effigy Mounds National Monument and the Prairie du Chien Tourism Council. Effigy Mounds Winter Film Festival will also be going on that weekend and the Villa Louis will be open for tours. Fri evening - free birding programs at Country Inn & Suites and the AmericInn. Sat programs and exhibits at Hoffman Hall 9am-4pm.PH: 608-326-8555; www.prairieduchien.org 27 – Door County Sled Dogs at Wade House - Greenbush Enjoy a day of entertainment put on by teams of sled dogs and Door County Sled Dogs. They will present a program that will introduce the audience to the Door County Sled Dog rescue program, dog sledding and the equipment used in the exciting sport. Guests will learn about the care and handling of the dogs and be able to take a ride of their own on a sled pulled by these wonderful animals. 10am - 11am: Representatives of the Door County Sled Dogs will introduce the audience to the Door County Sled Dog rescue program, dog sledding and the equipment used in this exciting sport. 11am: The sled dog rides will begin. Wade House, W7965 State Highway 23, Greenbush, WI 53026 PH:920-526-3271 http://wadehouse.wisconsinhistory.org/ 27 - HoDrags on Ice – Rhinelander Get ready for HoDrags on Ice, where cars and trucks drag race across the ice at speeds up to 145 miles-per-hour. All kinds of vehicles will take on the ice at this fierce competition; from rubber tire divisions to modified and outlaw vehicles. With free general admission, this event is perfect for everyone from auto-enthusiasts to kids. But remember, don’t try this at home. 715-365-7464; www.ExploreRhinelander.com

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27 - Squirrel Hill Skiathlon, Tour & Beat the Bunny – Minocqua For a weekend full of winter excitement, family fun and friendly competition, Squirrel Hill Nordic Weekend is one to mark on the calendar. Skiers can take part in various competitions as individuals or teams of two. There are also youth divisions, so that athletes of all ages and abilities are invited to hit the slopes and join in on the friendly competition.715- 356-3309; www.minocquawinterpark.org XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

FREE TRAVEL GUIDES: WISCONSIN DEPT. OF TOURISM- Free: 800-432-8747 (TRIP) http://www.travelwisconsin.com FREE GUIDES: “Activity Guide” Campground Directory, Lodging Directory, Highway Map, Golf, Birding, Attractions

OTHERS IN WISCONSIN: (all free) Calumet County Guide – 920-849-1442 www.travelcalumet.com Chippewa County Travel Guide – 866-723-0331 www.ChippewaCounty.com Door County Visitors Guide – 800-527-3529 http://www.doorcounty.com/web/contact.asp Fox Cities Area Guide – 800-223-6667 www.foxcities.org Grant County Travel Guide – 608-348-8888 www.Platteville.com Green Bay Visitor’s Guide – 888-867-3342 www.GreenBay.com Green County Travel Guide – 888-222-9111 www.GreenCounty.com Kenosha Area Visitors Guide – 800-654-7309 www.KenoshaCVB.com Kewaunee County Guide – 800-290-4299 www.VisitKewauneeCounty.com Madison Area Visitor Guide – 800-373-6376 http://www.visitmadison.com Mineral Point Travel Guide – 888-764-6894 www.MineralPoint.com Minocqua Area Destination Guide – 800-44-NORTH www.minocqua.org Racine – Real Racine Guide - 800-272-2463 www.realracine.com Sauk Prairie Visitors Packet – 800- 683-2453 http://www.saukprairie.com/visitorspacket.html St. Croix Valley & Polk County Guides (ask Sue for both) 800-222-7655 www.VisitrSCF.com Superior & Douglas Country Travel Guide - 800-942-5313 www.VisitSuperior.com OTHERS – NEIGHBORING STATES, REGIONAL, ETC Chicago Office of Tourism: Free Guide & App - http://www.choosechicago.com Illinois Travel – http://www.enjoyillinois.com/brochures/ Iowa Tourism – http://www.traveliowa.com/ 888.472.6035 or 515.725.3084 Lake Michigan Circle Tour and Lighthouse Map – 1-800-442-2084 or at www.WMTA.org Lanesboro, Minnesota Visitor Guide 800-657-4972 Michigan – http://www.michigan.org/ Minnesota Tourism Travel Counselors at explore@state.mn.us, or 1-888-TOURISM (1-888-868-7476). Minnesota – Mississippi Valley Bluff Country (on-line) http://www.ExploreMississippiBluffs.com Mississippi Valley Partners (WI-MN) www.mississippi-river.org 1-888-999-2619 Red Wing, Minnesota www.redwing.org 1-651-385-5934 800-498-3444 Wabasha-Kellogg, Minnesota – www.wabashamn.org 1-800-565-4158 West Michigan Travel Guide - 616-245-2217 www.wmta.org/publications-24/ Winona, Minnesota Visitor Guide – (800) 657-4972 www.VisitWinona.com BEFORE YOU GO: Avoid disappointment. Always check for schedule changes before heading to events. For more events- good sources: www.Wisconline .com, www.TravelWisconsin.com XXXXX

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