Up North Action - Aug/Sept 2025 by 5 Star Marketing & Distribution

Inside This Issue

Lake Chippewa Flowage Resort Association .. Inside Front Cover

Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad Body Front

Dan’s Minocqua Fudge .................................................................. Page 6

Western U.P. Back Cover

NORTHEAST REGION - page 8

Covering the following counties:

Florence • Forest • Marinette

Oconto • Menominee • Shawano

NORTHCENTRAL REGION - page 10

Covering the following counties:

Iron • Vilas • Price • Oneida • Lincoln

Langlade • Taylor • Marathon

NORTHWEST REGION - page 28

Covering the following counties:

Ashland • Bayfield • Douglas • Burnett

Washburn • Sawyer • Rusk • Barron

Polk • St. Croix • Dunn • Chippewa

U.P. MICHIGAN REGION - page 36

Covering the following counties:

Baraga • Gogebic • Ontonagon

Houghton • Iron • Dickinson • Menominee

*All events & businesses subject to change. Please contact individual locations to confirm events and/or hours of operation.

Dan’s Minocqua Fudge Doubles Its Delight with Second Location Near Hazelhurst

For 57 years, Dan’s Minocqua Fudge has been a cherished staple in downtown Minocqua, Wisconsin—known for its handcrafted fudge, old‑fashioned ice cream, and chocolate candies. Located at 521 Oneida St, the flagship store draws in families and tourists with its live fudge making, retro ambiance, and nostalgic appeal.

A Sweet Genesis and Downtown Charm

The original shop on Main Street is a vibrant attraction throughout summer, with lines often stretching outside. Visitors frequently share stories of grandparents bringing them here, and now they’re sharing the same tradition with their children. The downtown store maintains its vintage look and live fudge demonstrations— keeping the classic Dan’s experience alive.

Expanding Toward the Future

In early 2025, Dan’s Minocqua Fudge launched a second, year round location at 7499 US‑51 South, just south of town (essen tially Hazelhurst area). Open daily from 9 am to 5:30 pm, this new spot was created to manage growing demand, offer more pro duction space and storage, and enhance customer comfort with additional outdoor seating.

Bigger, Better, Still Beloved

Despite the expansion, the store is “keeping everything the same,” according to Manager Michael Johnson—live fudge making re mains at both sites, preserving the beloved atmosphere . The new location also hosts chocolate and ice cream production, allowing them to expand those offerings. Though larger, it pays homage to the classic aesthetic rather than duplicating the Main Street vibe.

Local Legend Status

Featured in Oneida County shopping guides as “largest selection of handmade chocolates in the Northwoods” with over 100 candy and taffy varieties, the flagship store also operates as an old-fash ioned ice cream parlor.. Tripadvisor reviewers rate Dan’s a stellar 4.9 out of 5, calling it one of Minocqua’s top spots.

Why the Second Spot Matters

• Year round operation – unlike the summer centric Main St. location.

• More space – alleviates crowding and speeds service during peak seasons.

• Production boost – houses chocolate and ice cream crafting.

• Outdoor seating – a fresh option for enjoying fudge in the Northwoods air.

Visitor Tips

Downtown store: Ideal for the full old school fudge experience— live demonstrations and retro vibes.

Highway 51 South store: Great for quicker visits, expanded offer ings, and a scenic outdoor seating area.

Dan’s Minocqua Fudge continues to honor its deep rooted tradi tions while embracing growth—providing two cozy, deliciously rich destinations to enjoy fudge, candy, ice cream, and homemade chocolates. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-time visitor, stop by either location to savor a true taste of Wisconsin’s North woods legacy.

Northeast Region

CALENDAR

Aug. 1 Bonduel – Lions Club Corn Roast

Aug. 1-2 Bowler – Bowler Bash

Aug. 2 Lakewood – Lakes Country Arts & Crafts Show

Aug. 2 Laona – Community Souper Run

Aug. 8-10 Shawano – Folk Music Festival

Aug. 16 Shawano – Airport Fly-In and Car Show

Aug. 16 Mountain – ATV/UTV Fun Day

Aug. 21-24 Gillett – Oconto Co. Youth Fair

Aug. 27-Sept. 1 Shawano – Shawano Co. Fair

Aug. 28-31 Crandon – Off Road Races World Championships

Aug. 30 Townsend – Corn Roast ATV/UTV Parade

Aug. 30 Riverview Fire Dept. – Corn Roast

Aug. 30 Bonduel – Amish Consignment & Quilt Auction

Sept. 13 Lakewood – Festi-Fall

Sept. 20 Oconto – Elks Fly-In

Sept. 20 Crandon – Art in the Square

Sept. 27 Oconto – Harvest Fest

Sept. 27-28 Wabeno – Big Woods 200 Dual Sport

Discover Small-Town Magic: August & September Events in Florence County, WI

Nestled in Wisconsin’s Northwoods, Florence County shines brightest when the sum mer sun lingers and crisp fall air begins to whisper through the pines. If you’re looking to soak up the last of summer and ease into autumn with small town charm, outdoor fun, and community spirit, this corner of the state has just the ticket.

Whether you’re a thrill seeker, a history buff, or simply someone who loves fair food and a good tractor pull, Florence County delivers plenty of family-friendly events to fill your late summer calendar.

Florence County Fair – A Classic Summer Tradition

August 22–24 | Florence County Fairgrounds

The Florence County Fair is everything you hope a small town fair will be—and more. Returning this August with its trade mark blend of rural charm and action packed fun, the fair of fers everything from livestock shows and craft competitions to truck pulls, a mud bog, and a draft horse pull.

Browse local exhibits, enjoy live music under the stars, and don’t forget to grab a funnel cake or two. With low admission fees and free parking, it’s an easygoing weekend for families, visitors, and fair lovers of all ages.

Eight Second Ride at Northern Lites

August 1 | 8 PM–Midnight | Northern Lites

Get ready for a night of adrenaline and cowboy grit as North ern Lites hosts “Eight Second Ride,” a high energy event that brings the spirit of the rodeo to Florence. Whether you’re there for the action, the music, or the ice cold drinks, this one night only event promises a wild ride.

Walk Through Time – Florence County Museum & Historic Tours

Thurs–Sat through September 13 | 10 AM–Noon

Looking for something slower paced? Step back in time with a visit to the Florence County Museum, open through early September. Curated by the local historical society, the museum captures the stories of the area’s logging, mining, and frontier roots. Pair it with a historic walking tour of downtown Florence and get to know the people and places that helped shape this hidden gem of a community.

“Eve of Destruction”–High-Octane Thrills to End Summer September 5 | Wisconsin International Raceway

Wrap up the season with a bang at the iconic “Eve of Destruc tion.” Though it takes place just outside Florence County, it’s a local favorite worth the short drive. Featuring school bus races, stunt car shows, trailer races, and plenty of chaos on the track, this wild night of motorsports is a crowd pleasing spectacle of controlled mayhem.

Trail Time – Explore the Nicolet State Trail Open Year-Round | Peak Use: August–October

Don’t forget to explore the Nicolet State Trail, stretching 89 miles through Florence County and beyond. August and September are prime months to enjoy it on an ATV, mountain bike, or hiking boots as the forests slowly shift from lush green to fiery gold.

Don’t Miss Out

Florence County may be off the beaten path, but it’s overflow ing with authentic experiences and heartwarming communi ty spirit. Whether you’re traveling up north for a weekend or lucky enough to call this place home, make time this August and September to explore the festivals, history, and hidden trea sures that make Florence unforgettable.

Northcentral Region

CALENDAR

Aug. 6 Mercer – Loon Day Art & Craft Fair

Aug. 6-9 Deerbrook – MC Fest

Aug. 6-10 Merrill – Lincoln Co. Fair

Aug. 7-10 Eagle River – Vilas Co. Fair

Aug. 8-10 Boulder Junction – Musky Jamboree Weekend

Aug. 9 Antigo – Tater Trot

Aug. 9 Hurley – Paavo Nurmi Marathon

Aug. 9 Mercer – TFFA Pig & Corn Roast

Aug. 13 Rhinelander – Redikulus Dae

Aug. 14-17 Eagle River – Nat’l Championship Musky Open

Aug. 16 Minocqua – Dragon Boat Festival

Aug. 16 Presque Isle – Corn Roast, Music

Aug. 16 Merrill – Underdown Trail Races

Aug. 16 Phillips – Charity Classic Musky Tournament

Aug. 16 Antigo – Badgerland Classics & Customs Car Show

Aug. 21-23 Phillips – Price Co. Fair

Aug. 23 Rhinelander – W.I.L.D. Hodag Mini Triathlon

Aug. 23 Eagle River – Car and Truck Show

Aug. 23 Merrill – Auto Show

Aug. 23 Phelps – DC (Musky) Fishing Classic

Aug. 24 St Germain – Bo-Boen Snowmobile Club Golf Outing

Aug. 29-Sept. 1 Prentice – Prentice Progress Days

Aug. 30 Park Falls – Tour de Flambeau Bike Race

Aug. 30 Hurley – Festival Italiano

Aug. 30 Minocqua – Pig Roast

Aug. 31 Star Lake – Stillwaters Star Lake Mayor’s Race

Aug. 31 Minocqua – Marathon, Half Marathon

Aug. 31 Eagle River – Arts and Crafts Show

Aug. 31 Eagle River – Sausage Fest

Sept. 1 Merrill – Car Show, Parade

Sept. 5-6 Lac du Flambeau – Wild Rice Festival

Sept. 6 White Lake – Wolfman Triathlon

Sept. 6 Minocqua – Gravel Grind Bike Race

Sept. 11-14 Tomahawk – Fall Ride (motorcycles)

Sept. 13 Rhinelander – Chalkfest

Sept. 13 Land O’ Lakes – Oktoberfest

Sept. 13 Boulder Junction – Colorama Arts & Crafts Fair

Sept. 13 Boulder Junction -- Fall Fest

Sept. 13 Phelps – Scarecrow Fest

Sept. 13 Land O’ Lakes – Radar Run Drag Races

Sept. 13 Land O’ Lakes -- Oktoberfest

Sept. 13 Eagle River – SepTimber Ride

Sept. 20 Gile – Opie’s Corn Fest

Sept. 20-21 Manitowish Waters – Onewheel WinMan Enduro

Sept. 20 Land O’ Lakes – LOLA Art Harvest

Sept. 20 Three Lakes – Oktoberfest

Sept. 20 St. Germain – Colorama & Pints in the Park

Sept. 20-21 Eagle River – Paul’s Pro Am Musky Tournament

Sept. 26-28 Sayner – Colorama Weekend

Sept. 26-28 Rhinelander – Hodag Musky Challenge

Sept. 27 Ogema – Christmas Tree Festival

Sept. 27 Minocqua – Beef-A-Rama

Sept. 27 St. Germain – ATV Club Fall Fest

Paddles Up!

It’s Dragon Boat Festival Time

MINOCQUA – When the paddlers have fire in their bellies and are smoking the competition, you know it’s Dragon Boat Festival time in Minocqua. The annual event will again be held at Torpy Park in downtown Minocqua on Saturday, Aug. 16.

Spectator admission is free. A shuttle bus will run continuously from 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. from the Professional Plaza at the intersection of Hwy. 51/Hwy. 70W (by Home Medical) to and from Torpy Park. The bus ride is also free.

The 8:30 a.m. opening ceremony, called Awakening of the Dragon, is con ducted “to cleanse the area of competition, to bless the competitors and their boats, and to charge the boats and their crews with the Spirit of the Dragon and the Goddess of the Sea.”

Starting at 9 a.m. teams (3 each) will race in subsequent heats on Lake Mi nocqua. Guided by a steersperson and to the beat of a drum, teams paddle 300 meters from east to west, finishing in front of Torpy Park’s swimming beach in an intense display of strength and teamwork. The race finale comes at 3 p.m. when the top six teams race 2,000 meters in non stop, hard core paddling.

This is a family event so bring the young ones. The cultural themed interac tive activities in the children’s tent will delight the “dragonlings. Visitors can enjoy food and soft drinks (beer and wine are also available) while taking in a performance on the main stage or watching paddlers race.

Awards will be presented for race winners and spirit, including best dressed drummer, most spirited team, wisest dragon, and fundraising champion. This year the festival is supporting the Aspirus Tick Borne Illness Center Com passionate Care Appeal. The Compassionate Care Appeal is dedicated to en suring that every patient receives the care they require, irrespective of their ability to pay.

Loon Day and Duck Race to Keynote the Fun in Mercer

MERCER – More than 250 arts and crafts exhibitor booths will cover the grounds in Mercer during the 45th annual Loon Day on Wednesday, Aug. 6. Hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Preceding Loon Day will be a street dance on Aug. 5 from 7 10 p.m. at Around the Corner Pub on Railroad Street. L & E Jamboree will be playing.

Wednesday brings sidewalk and bake sales, raffles, food and refresh ments in downtown Mercer. One of the highlights will be the loon calling contest at 1:30 p.m. in front of the town hall. There will be divisions for both youngsters and adults.

Birds of a different feather will be strutting their stuff at the 15th an nual Turtle River Duck Race on Saturday, Aug. 9 at Ruggers Land ing, 5643 U.S. 51. The event is sponsored by the Mercer Lions Club.

Hundreds of little yellow ducks will be dumped at 11 a.m. in the Turtle River two miles north of Mercer. Cash prizes will be given for the top finishers and the last four at River’s Edge Adventure Co. “Buy” a duck for $5 or a flock for $20.

Rock Falls

Northwoods Fun at Rock Falls Riding Stables

Looking for classic fun in the Northwoods? Rock Falls Riding Sta bles in Arbor Vitae offers a winning trio: scenic horseback trail rides, a charming mini golf course, and a go kart track that’s per fect for families and thrill seekers alike.

Open daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day, guests can start with a peaceful 45 minute ride through forested trails, then play a round of mini-golf by waterfalls, and finish with high-speed fun on the go kart track. Kids aged 5+ are welcome for rides, and their “Tri ple Play” package bundles all three activities into one memorable outing.

It’s a local favorite for a reason—easygoing, family friendly, and full of Northwoods charm.

Location: 10829 Hwy 70 E, Arbor Vitae, WI

Still Rowdy, Underdown Trail Races Return in 2025

MERRILL – The Underdown trails in Lincoln County will be rocking with mountain bikers and runners on Saturday, Aug. 16. Under the title of Underdown Trail Races, the event’s offerings are no easy walk in the park.

The Underdown Trail Run comprises three events: 60K, mara thon, and half marathon. While the “Thunderdown in the Under down” mountain bike component offers bikers three options: 111 miles, 37 miles, and 16 miles. The Thunderdown in the Under down is affiliated with the Wisconsin Endurance Mountain Bik ing Series (WEMS) races.

The first mountain bike race starts at 8 a.m. with the first runners taking off at 9:30 a.m. Spectators are welcomed; no admission fee. There will be live music; food and beer available for racers and spectators beginning at 2:30 p.m.

The event offers runners and bikers a wilderness experience on chal lenging trails formed from glaciers that swept the area thousands of years ago. The course is primarily singletrack climbing hills (up to 75!) that pass by isolated lakes and across dozens of boardwalks.

The trail system is located 6 miles off Highway 51. The start/ finish line is at the Prairie Dells trailhead. For more information call 715 848 5949 or visit ironbull.org or wemseries.com.

Colorama & Pints in the Park: St. Germain’s Ultimate Fall Celebration

As the trees begin their annual transformation into blazing shades of crimson, gold, and fiery orange, there’s one Northwoods destination that knows how to celebrate fall in full color — St. Germain. And nothing kicks off the autumn season quite like the town’s beloved Colorama & Pints in the Park celebration.

A Fall Tradition with Flair

Expect a charming blend of artisan booths, hearty local food, live music that makes you want to dance in your boots, and that unmistakable small town en ergy that St. Germain does so well. Music by Lady and the Tramp and Flying Blind. And for the kids there will be pumpkin painting.

The Fall Cruisin’ Car, Truck and Bike Show will return for the fourth year. Don’t forget to buy your mums at the “Mums the Word” sale.

A Toast to Autumn: Pints in the Park

Pints in the Park — a craft beer celebration nestled right in the heart of the North woods. Pairing perfectly with Colorama, this part of the day turns the event up a notch. Sip your way through a curated lineup of regional craft breweries.

Set in the scenic St. Germain Community Park, Pints in the Park offers a relaxed, social vibe. Picnic tables, fire pits, and laughter fill the air, while beer lovers sample their way from one tent to the next, soaking up the sights and sounds of the season.

If you’re not a beer aficionado, there will also be a wine walk.

Mecikalski Stovewood Building is Unique in Nation

PELICAN LAKE – Located in the small crossroads community of Jennings, in the southeastern corner of Oneida County, the Me cikalski Stovewood Building is the only known commercial exam ple using the stovewood building method remaining in the U.S., according to local officials.

Stovewood construction involves placement of short logs laid perpendicular to the wall plane, like an ordinary wood pile, and mortared in place, according to the Wisconsin Historical Society. In 1899, Russian immigrant John Mecikalski used cedar logs 18 inches in diameter and set in lime mortar to craft the self support walls. Its vast size helps make it unique among stovewood struc tures in the U.S.

Over the decades the building housed a succession of businesses: General store, saloon, farmer’s co op cheese factory, blacksmith shop and even sleeping quarters for local lumberjacks. All of those uses are reflected in the displays and artifacts housed in the muse um portion of the complex.

Because of the unusual method of folk architecture, the building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s open Saturday-Sunday, 1-4 p.m., from first weekend in June to Labor Day. Or by appointment. The building is located 5 miles east of Pelican Lake at the corner of Hwys. B & Z. Call 715 487 5222 for more information.

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AUGUST LAKESIDE LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE

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the FUN!

Cultural Heartbeat of the Northwoods: Waaswaaganing Indian Bowl

Nestled on the shores of Long Interlaken Lake in Lac du Flambeau, the Waaswaaganing Indian Bowl has served as a vibrant cultural hub since 1951. This summer, visitors are invited to experience the living traditions of the Ojibwe through weekly pow‑wows, drum group performances, and traditional dance ceremonies

A beloved Northwoods tradition, the Indian Bowl reunites Tribal members and guests alike for evenings infused with colorful regalia, storytelling, and song. Highlights this sea son include Tuesday night pow‑wows through mid‑August, with gates opening at 5:00 PM and grand entry at 6:30 PM

Rebuilt in 2017 as part of the Living Arts & Culture Center, the modern facility replaced the aging 1950s structure—en suring that Ojibwe culture continues to thrive and inspire future generations

Whether you’re an art lover, a history enthusiast, or a curi ous visitor, the Indian Bowl offers an unforgettable window into Indigenous heritage—bringing Northwoods charm and living culture together under one sunset sky.

A Healing Pioneer Remembered: Dr. Kate Museum & Historical Marker

Nestled in charming Woodruff, Wisconsin, the Dr. Kate Muse um honors the remarkable legacy of Dr. Kate Pelham Newcomb, affectionately known as the “Angel on Snowshoes.” Active in the 1930s–50s, Dr. Kate traveled across 300+ square miles—by canoe, skis, or her Model T with skis—to deliver nearly 3,000 babies without a single loss of life

Get Ready for the Tour De Flambeau Bike Race

PARK FALLS – The 2025 Tour de Flambeau Bike Race (previ ously known as the Flambeau 40) is set for Saturday & Sunday, Aug. 30 31 in Park Falls. The starting line will be at the intersec tion of 5th Ave. S and 4th Street. Spectators are encouraged to cheer on the racers.

Saturday’s full road race is a 35 mile loop consisting of picturesque rolling hills. The junior race will be a 6 mile loop on mostly level roads. Juniors can elect to do the full road race or the junior course. The 35 miler starts at 10 a.m. The junior race begins at 8:30 a.m. Both the road race and junior race will have special awards going to the top overall male and female finishers.

Sunday’s 13-mile time trial will see the first racers being released at 9 a.m. and then at 1 minute intervals. The majority of the terrain is flat and straight. Special awards will go to the top overall male and female finishers; certificates to the top three finishers in each WISport age class.

They will have water and fruit before the race; lunch available afterwards. For more information about the races, call Park Falls Chamber of Commerce at 715 762 2703 or visit parkfalls.com.

The museum, housed in her former prac tice, offers an intimate, well curated display of her life’s work, including the famed World’s Largest Penny—a 15 foot, 17,452 pound monument created after a massive Million Penny Parade fundraiser in 1953, which helped build Woodruff’s first hospital debt-free.

Adjacent, the Wisconsin Historical Society marker, installed in 2016, pro vides context about her tireless ser vice—delivering babies, improving public health, and championing rural care where few doctors ventured

Open mid June to Labor Day, week days from 11 AM–3 PM, the museum is a hidden gem praised on TripAdvisor for its heartfelt storytelling and historic artifacts—and sits steps away from that giant penny you just have to see Step inside to witness firsthand how one determined doctor—and a town’s collec tive penny power—changed history.

Dr. Kate Museum & State Historical Marker

Learn the inspiring story of Dr. Kate, Angel on Snowshoes

923 Second Avenue, Woodru , WI

715-356-6896 • Visit us on the web: drkatemuseum.org

Monetary donations appreciated

Mid-June through Labor Day: Open Monday – Friday 11am-3pm

September Hours: Open Tuesday & ursday 11am-2pm

Group Tours by Appointment

liated with the State Historical Society of Wisconsin

Lumberjacks Welcome Visitors to Woodruff

WOODRUFF - Weeks before the official start of summer, Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows begins preparing for the upcoming season. 2025 will mark the 41st year that Fred Scheer’s Lum berjack Shows have been entertaining area visitors on Woodland Lake in downtown Woodruff.

A spin off of the famous Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows that began in Hayward, the Woodruff show features the same world class athletes in a performance that is identical in entertaining value to the Hayward venue. Preparing the site for the summer perfor mances involves maintenance to guarantee the safety of perform ers, as well as guests. The climbing poles that rise 60 to 90 feet into the air are inspected and the pads are secured in place.

“When you are climbing that pole at record speed, the last thing you want on your mind is its stability,” says Cassidy Scheer, world champion pole climber.

The log dogs on which the lumberjacks stand and swing razor sharp axes in the event called the underhand chop are checked for structural safety. The specially turned cedar logs used for the logrolling and boom run events are pulled out of storage and re placed if necessary.

The gear and equipment used by the lumberjacks are also checked for safety. Steel toed boots, leather leg chaps, climbing belts and gaffs (the spikes on the side of a climber’s shoes) must be in tip

No matter how good a log roller is, he or she will end up in the water eventually. It’s a cold swim before those first few shows of the season.

top shape to protect the performers. They inspect and repair the special leather guards that are placed over a portion of saw blades to protect children as they cross cut saw with the lumberjacks during the kids matinees.

In addition to the lumberjack gear, the show site is prepared for the throng of summer guests who arrive with the warm weather. Bleachers, walkways and the handicap ramp are checked and the landscaping is refreshed.

How about all the logs the lumberjacks saw and chop? Over 20 tons of aspen logs are hauled to the site throughout the summer. Logs need to be uniform in diameter and stripped of bark – the same guidelines adhered to in the Lumberjack World Championships.

The season starts Memorial Day weekend and runs through La bor Day weekend. The Lumberjacks are eager to entertain and display the athleticism they’ve worked hard to keep tuned during the winter months.

With everything checked out, cleaned up, and the staff eager to get another season underway, there is one element of the shows that cannot be controlled. That is the temperature of the water in Woodland Lake or Lake Hayward. Plan your trip to Sheer’s Lumberjack Show! For more information about Sheer’s Lumber jack shows go to sheerslumberjackshow.com.

There’s so much to experience at Wildwood Wildlife Park Zoo & Safari. Our lush 259 acres are home to over 2,000 animals from around the world. Take your zoo visit to the next level with animal feedings, tram ride, animal programs and other incredible experiences. There’s something for everyone! Wildwood Wildlife Park is all about providing special experiences that last a lifetime with every visit no matter your age!

OFFERING EXTRAORDINARY ANIMAL EXPERIENCES

Hand Feeding: Goat, aoudad, and sheep - an experience for all ages. Stroll leisurely throughout the park, where the deer roam among you and have them eat right out of your hand. Experience magical moments with our goats and watch them frolic all over and even feed them their special treats!

Parakeet Encounter: Surround yourself in the beauty of our Budgie Buddies aviary, and experience the excitement where you can handfeed budgies.

Tiger: Stop by and watch these magniﬁcent cats as they folic around!

Penguin Cove- This immersive exhibit is home to a cozy colony of endangered African BlackFooted Penguins.

White-Handed Gibbon: Guests will watch these most agile animals on the planet, as they easily move hand over hand with their body suspended below, a movement called brachiation.

Giraﬀe Encounter: Get eye to eye with the tallest and most fascinating animals in the world during the giraﬀe feeding.

Flamingo:

Our guests will often ﬁnd our ﬂamingos marching in their exhibit during the Flamingo Mingle! A memorable experience that will tickle you pink!

Siamang: A performance and sound that guests will never forget! You will have the opportunity to hear these silly monkeys as they ﬁll up their air sack to call out- which can be heard over 2 miles away!

Pumpkins, Play, and Wildlife: Fall Fun at Wildwood Wildlife Park

Fall in the Northwoods is something special—and Wildwood Wildlife Park in Minocqua adds to the magic with its 4th An nual Pumpkin Patch Event, happening October 4–5, 2025.

Families can hop on a tram ride through the park’s animal habitats before arriving at a cozy pumpkin patch tucked near the education center. There, guests can pick their perfect pumpkin, take festive fall photos, and enjoy light refresh ments and games—all included with regular zoo admission.

With over 1,700 animals across 229 species, the zoo itself is a destination worth exploring. Guests can feed giraffes, watch lemurs play, and enjoy educational exhibits while soaking in the crisp autumn air.

The event runs 10 AM to 4 PM, or until the pumpkins are gone—so plan to come early, dress for the weather, and bring a bag for your pumpkin.

Whether you’re a returning visitor or new to the tradition, Wildwood’s Pumpkin Patch offers a heartwarming mix of wildlife, fall fun, and small town charm that’s perfect for a Northwoods weekend.

Learn more at wildwoodwildlifepark.com

Art in the Autumn Air: North Woods Fall Art Tour

As the Northwoods don their golden autumn hues, the North Woods Art Tour offers a curated self guided journey through rural studio doors and hidden creative enclaves. Happening October 10–12, 2025 (10 am–5 pm each day), this free event invites art lovers to explore 34 artist studios across Vilas, Oneida, Iron, and Lincoln Counties—spanning charming towns like Minocqua, Eagle River, Boulder Junction, and Lac du Flambeau

Throughout the weekend, discover a spectrum of media—oil paint ings, pottery, glassworks, photography, sculpture, fiber art, carv ing—and watch artists’ techniques unfold with live demos at many stops

Whether you’re after a unique keepsake, meet the maker stories, or a peaceful fall drive, this tour perfectly blends creative connection with autumn scenery.

Key Details:

• Dates: Friday–Sunday, Oct 10–12, 2025

• Time: 10 AM–5 PM daily

• Region: Studios in Vilas, Oneida, Iron & Lincoln Counties

• Cost: Free admission—donations appreciated

Plan your own path via the online brochure or pick one up locally— and follow winding northwoods roads from gallery to gallery. It’s more than art—it’s a scenic weekend adventure steeped in creativity and fall charm

Top Runners Can Bag Awards at the 45th Annual Antigo Tater Trot

ANTIGO — The 45th Annual Antigo Tater Trot will take place on Saturday, August 9, 2025, welcoming runners and walkers of all levels to this fun and competitive event. Held at Antigo City Park, just east of Highway 45 on Aurora Street, the Tater Trot features three race distances: a 10K run (starting at 9 a.m., USA Track & Field certified), a 6K run/walk (9:05 a.m.), and a family-friendly 2K fun run (8:30 a.m.). Virtual participation is available for all races.

Registration includes a commemorative t-shirt and a unique “goodie bag” — a 5-pound bag of locally grown potatoes — for participants in the 6K and 10K races. Awards will be presented to

the top three finishers in each race, with first-place winners in the 10K division receiving a custom potato trophy.

Proceeds from the event support Antigo’s high school track and cross-country teams, along with local organizations promoting running and wellness. Participants can register online at antigotatertrot.com or in person the day before or the morning of the race.

This beloved local tradition combines fitness, community spirit, and a tasty nod to Antigo’s potato-growing heritage—making it a must-run event this August.

Northwest Region

CALENDAR

Aug. 2 Bayfield – Point to La Pointe Open Water Swim

Aug. 2 Cable – Cheq Challenge

Aug. 9 Cornucopia – Corny Day

Aug. 7-10 Iron River – Bayfield Co. Fair

Aug. 8 Chetek – Wine Walk

Aug. 8-10 Hayward-Cable Areas -- Art Crawl

Aug. 8-10 Webster – Gandy Dancer Days

Aug. 9 Winter -- Ojibwa Canoe & Kayak Race

Aug. 9 Luck -- Fireman’s Corn Feed

Aug. 9 Cameron – Past Reflection Car Show

Aug. 9-10 Chetek – Water Mania/Power Boat Races

Aug. 9-10 Lewis – Charles E. Lewis Days

Aug. 9-10 Radisson -- Harvest Fest

Aug. 10 Turtle Lake – Cars and Crafts in the Park

Aug. 14-17 Hayward – Sawyer Co. Fair

Aug. 14-17 Marengo – Ashland Co. Fair

Aug. 16 Brule – Brule Family Fun Day

Aug. 16 Barnes – Car Show & Chicken BBQ

Aug. 16 Hayward – Northwoods Music and Art Festival

Aug. 16-17 Clayton – Moon Lake Threshing Bee

Aug. 17 Cameron -- Vintage Baseball

Aug. 23 Seeley – Lions Pre-Fat Bike Race

Aug. 23 Cushing – Cushing Fun Days

Aug. 23 Webster – Augtoberfest

Aug. 30-Sept. 1 Shell Lake – Town & Country Days

Aug. 29-31 Exeland – Trout Festival

Aug. 30-31 Balsam Lake – Corn-on-the-Curb Days

Aug. 31 Iron River – Pig Out

Sept. 3-6 Hayward – Lake Chippewa Flowage Musky Hunt

Sept. 5-7 Osceola – Community Fair & Parade

Sept. 5-7 Cameron -- Bluegrass Festival

Sept. 6 Ashland – Mural Fest & Classic Car Show

Sept. 6 Osceola – Wheels & Wings Show

Sept. 6-7 Bayfield – Festival of Arts

Sept. 6-7 Cornucopia – Art Crawl

Sept. 11-14 Amery – Amery Fall Festival

Sept. 12-13 Amery – Apple River Quilt Guild Show

Sept. 13 Hayward – Lions Oktoberfest

Sept. 13 Chetek – Harvest Fest

A Fall Fest is Your Getaway Ticket

September begins our count down to Colorama time in northwest Wisconsin. You will have to bide your time to see nature’s spectacular array of tree colors, which traditionally arrives in late September and early October. But don’t fret, as there are festivals to attend in the meantime, including those below:

ASHLAND The Ashland Chamber of Commerce will welcome visitors to the annual MuralFest, Car Show & Cornhole Tournament on Saturday, Sept. 6. Activi ties run from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. along the Courthouse block on Historic Main Street. They will be celebrating with sidewalk sales, music, dozens of vintage vehicles, a cornhole tournament and various crafters and food vendors. Ashland is known as the “Historic Mural Capital of Wisconsin,” reflecting the 21+ vibrant murals on its downtown buildings.

MELLEN – Then on Saturday, Sept. 20, it’s the Copper Falls State Park’s turn to celebrate with its annual Fall Festival. Hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. They plan to have a brat fry and pumpkin painting. Events are co sponsored by the Friends of Copper Falls State Park and the Wisconsin DNR. All programs will be held rain or shine and are open to the public. For more information, call 715 274 5123.

HAYWARD – The upcoming Hayward Fall Festival on Saturday, Sept. 20 is an annual tradition that celebrates the changing of the seasons with fine art & craft booths, sidewalk sales, food vendors, a brat and brew tent, kids activities, and live music in downtown Hayward. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Scheduled also are farmers market, scarecrow contest, Apple Alley activities, and mini pumpkin decorating. For more information, visit haywardareachamber.com or call 715-634-8662.

Sept. 13 Cable/Hayward -Chequamegon Mountain Bike Festival

Sept. 20 Hayward – Hayward Fall Festival

Sept. 20 Mellen – Copper Falls Fall Festival

Sept. 20 Clam Lake – Elk Fest

Sept. 25-27 Hayward -- Musky Flyfishing Championship

Sept. 26-27 Cable – Cable Area Fall Fest

Sept. 26-27 Rice Lake – Truck Show

Sept. 27 Seely -- Birkie Trail Run

CABLE -- The 23rd annual Cable Area Fall Fest will be a two-day affair, Friday and Saturday, Sept. 26 & 27. For this event, they close the downtown streets to traffic so that visitors can browse the booths at their leisure. Cornstalks, hay bales, and pumpkins will line the roads throughout the Cable community. On Saturday enjoy the live music, a car/motorcycle/truck show, arts & crafts vendors, and food vendors. There will be seasonal produce at the farmer’s market. For more information and updates, go to cable4fun.com.

Big Top Chautauqua Wraps Up Summer with Stellar Lineup

Located at the base of Mt. Ashwabay near Bayfield, Big Top Chau tauqua is Northern Wisconsin’s most iconic outdoor music venue—an intimate, 900 seat all canvas tent that brings big talent to the North woods.

This August and September, the Big Top stage hosts a wide range of performances, including bluegrass legends Dailey & Vincent (Aug. 2), Gaelic Storm (Aug. 7), blues powerhouse Robert Cray (Aug. 14), and fan favorites Los Lobos (Aug. 23). September closes strong with The Pack Drumline (Sept. 10) and Bonnie Raitt with Jimmie Vaughan (Sept. 19).

In addition to ticketed shows, Big Top also offers a Free Family Series and scenic views of Lake Superior. It’s the perfect place to experience music, nature, and local culture before summer slips away.

Tickets & Info: bigtop.org

Logging Lore Comes Alive at Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows

HAYWARD Logging has been a vital part of Wisconsin’s history dating back into the late 1800s, and the life of the lumberjack remains a vivid element of Wisconsin folklore.

Before the days of rail roads and highways, loggers would often float their harvested logs down the rivers to the nearest sawmills. Lumber jacks would often have to go out on the floating mass of logs to clear jams that often occurred when floating wood down streams. Little did they know that their dangerous occupation would later become a de manding athletic pursuit.

Many of the Scheer kids’ family spent numerous summers balancing and rolling on the logs on Lake Hayward in the bay of Lumberjack Bowl…the home of the Lumberjack World Championships Competi tion. Their summer fun trained them to become fierce competitors in the logrolling event (birling) of the Lumberjack World Championships (LWC) held in Hayward every July. Eventually they expanded their ac tivities and became skillful at the boom run and pole climbing, as well as other events that were part of the LWC.

In 1981, Fred and Robert Scheer established the original Scheer’s Lum berjack Show and used their lumberjack skills to entertain area tourists. More than a demonstration, the show features a competition between two lumberjack teams as they do 10 different events, including log rolling, pole climbing and crosscut saw. Cheering the teams on gets the crowd involved in the show and down home humor has everybody chuckling.

The original venue for the show in 1981 was a small dock on the shore of Lake Hayward, behind what was then Windmill Square. The show’s lumberjacks delighted small crowds and it soon became apparent the production needed more space. In 1985 the Scheer brothers opened a second Show in Woodruff, WI and in 1988 they moved their Hayward Show to Lumberjack Village. The Hayward Show is now in its 44th year of operation

Fred is now the sole owner of Fred Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows and the Lumberjack Village. Training young athletes to be lumberjacks is still a fulfilling role for Fred. Through the years many lumberjacks have come, performed and moved on to other careers. Numerous world champion logrollers, pole climbers and boom runners had their start as apprentic es in Fred Scheer’s Lumberjack Show and the cast has always included world champion lumberjacks. A world champion log roller himself, Fred occasionally delights audiences by personally participating in a show.

“If you’re doing what you love, then nothing else matters....until you fall into either of the lakes during the pre season. Then being good at water sports matters,” jokes Deven Blair, show manager.

For all the years Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows has been in Hayward and Woodruff, it continues to draw crowds. One might say that a visit to north ern Wisconsin isn’t complete without seeing a Scheer’s Lumberjack Show.

Big Chip to Host Musky Hunt

HAYWARD – The Lake Chippewa Flowage – fondly known as “The Big Chip” – is a year round destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s been preserved in its pristine wilderness state for future generations to enjoy. Several fishing tournaments are held on the Big Chip each year, including for musky.

The Lake Chippewa Flowage Resort Association has announced its 2025 Musky Hunt will be Sept. 3 6. It’s the 25th anniversary of this catch and release tournament. Lots of door prizes, raffles and a $5,000 cash grand prize drawing are on tap. The largest fish released alive will net that angler a $2,000 gift certificate. Find details at chippewaflowage.com.

Lake Chippewa Flowage is Wisconsin’s third largest lake (and largest wilderness lake) with over 17,000 acres of water. Chippewa Flowage fishing is some of the finest in the Midwest. It is home to the world record muskellunge: a 69 pound, 11 ounce monster taken by Louis Spray in 1949. Walleye, black crappie, musky and bluegill are the most popular species among Flowage anglers today. Other species drawing anglers’ interest are yellow perch, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass and northern pike.

With its massive size, over 200 miles of undeveloped shoreline and 140 islands, a lake map is highly suggested for navigation. A map of the flowage showing all resort locations, associate memberships, fish cribs, camping islands and original lakebeds is also available. Go to chippewaflowage.com for more information. You might also consider hiring a professional fishing guide who can put you on fish in short order. If you’re a golfer, don’t forget your clubs. There are 10 golf courses within a half hour drive of the flowage’s many resorts. And your checkbook and credit cards – lots of prime shopping is available ranging from unique shops of the Northwoods to name brand retailers. Various attractions and museums will keep other family mem bers busy and happy throughout their stay, too.

www.madferry.com

Polk County’s ATV/UTV Trails

COUNTYWIDE – ATV/UTV enthusiasts can find 31 miles of ATV/UTV trails in Polk County that will provide hours of riding enjoyment through scenic routes. Some cities, such as Amery, al lows ATV travel on city streets, with certain exceptions. Trails are also multi use, welcoming bikers, hikers and horseback riding. For more information about the trails, call the Polk County Parks Department at 715 485 9278 or visit discover polkcountywi.com.

The popular Cattail State Trail runs from Amery to Almena for a total of 18 miles of which 12 miles are in Polk County. The Amery trailhead is at the intersection of Cen ter St. E and Riverside Blvd., where restrooms and picnic areas can be found. A changing landscape and various wildlife habitats sur round the gravel trail, which passes through the Village of Turtle Lake. The multi use trail is open to off road motorcycles spring/ summer/fall.

els for 28 miles through the communities of Centuria, Milltown, Luck, Frederic, Siren and Webster, ending in the town of Danbury in Burnett County. Side trails are not open to ATV/UTV use.

The Sawmill County Trail runs 14 miles between Clear Lake and Turtle Lake. It’s open year round for ATV/UTV use. Off road motorcycles are allowed spring/summer/fall.

Sterling/Jack Pine Loop ATV Trail & Campground is located 7 miles west of Cushing at the trailhead.

The ATV trails consist of two gravel closed loop trails open year round. The Sterling Loop ATV Tail is 5.2 miles and the Jack Pine Loop ATV Trail that links into the Sterling Loop Trail is 13.7 miles. Both trails start at the trailhead lo cated on Evergreen Av enue. From Saint Croix Falls go 15 miles north on US 87, take a left onto Evergreen Avenue for 9 miles. Off road motorcycles are not permitted.

The southern segment of the Gandy Dancer Trail begins at the Polk County Information Center in Saint Croix Falls and trav

The campground includes picnic areas and four primitive camp ing sites. Each site includes enough room to park a camping unit and hauling trailer. The sites are available on a first come, first serve basis through Oct. 31.

Mt. Ashwabay Welcomes Music Lovers, Hikers and Mountain Bikers

BAYFIELD – Mt. Ashwabay located just a few miles south of Bayfield is well-known by skiers in the winter and music lovers who enjoy the performances at Lake Superior Big Top Chautau qua each summer and early fall. But mountain bikers and hikers also sing the praises of the mountain’s exceptional trail system.

Big Top Chautauqua (sha-ta-qwa) is a non-profit performing arts organization with a rich history. They operate an intimate 900 seat tent theater, producing and presenting a season of 50 plus concerts, comedy and variety shows, plays, lectures and a highly acclaimed professional local troupe, the Blue Canvas Orchestra, which performs original multi media musicals in the tent and on tour.

The schedule includes performances by renowned national, re gional and touring musicians and runs from June through Sep tember.

On warm summer nights the tent sidewalls are lifted and people may sit outside and even up on the hillside. The sound is superb and on clear nights you can see the Milky Way and sometimes the Northern Lights. Starting two hours before show time, delicious (and many locally sourced) food and beverages are for sale on site at the “Ashwabay Grille” and the “T Bar.”

The Big Top is located at the base of Mt. Ashwabay. The address is 32525 Ski Hill Rd., Bayfield. For more information and sched ule call 888 244 8368 or visit bigtop.org.

For mountain biking and hiking enthusiasts, Mt. Ashwabay trail system weaves through a beautiful forest with scenic views from the top (Mt. Ashwabay is a popular downhill ski destination also.)

Chequamegon Area Mountain Bike Association (CAMBA) said this of the trail: “Ashwabay terrain is nothing like our other trail clusters and the trails are in a class of their own as well eleva tion with views of Lake Superior and twisty character make this a must see cluster.”

The main mountain bike trailhead is on the south side of the road before the main gate, directly across from Sugarbush Road. The secondary trailhead is located off Whiting Road, near the power line with access to the Hot Saw Trail.

Biking is permitted only on trails designated with a blue CAMBA singletrack trail marker. State law prohibits biking in the Nourse Sugarbush State Natural Area, adjacent to the Mt. Ashwabay property.

Hiking trails surround the main building at the top of Ski Hill Road. There is a mixture of county forest, State Natural Area and state forest. These trails include a mixture of the CAMBA moun tain bike trails, Mt. Ashwabay Nordic ski trails and Mt. Ashwa bay fat bike trails.

U.P. Michigan Region

CALENDAR

Aug. 1-3 Pelkie -- Baraga County Fair

Aug. 1-2 Crystal Falls -- Humongous Fungus Festival

Aug. 1-23

Ironwood -- Emberlight Art in the Miner’s Park

Aug. 2 Iron Mountain -- Tour de Dickinson Bike Ride

Aug. 2-3

Aug. 7-10

Ironwood Area -- Range Art Studio Tour

Iron River -- Iron County Fair

Ironwood -- Gogebic County Fair

Aug. 9 Iron Mountain -- Italian Fest

Aug. 10 Lake Gogebic -- Firemen’s Picnic

Aug. 15-22 Ironwood -- Emberlight Arts International Film Festival

Aug. 16 Bessemer -- Marty’s Goldenaires Town Picnic

Aug. 17 Rockland -- Old Victoria Craft Fair

Aug. 21-23 Ironwood -- Range Art Show

Aug. 22-23 Silver City -- Porcupine Mountain Music Festival

Aug. 29-Sept. 1 Bergland – Labor Day Celebration

Aug. 29-Sept. 1 Ontonagon -- Labor Day Celebration

Sept. 6 Bessemer -- Copper Peak Biking Trails Fest

Sept. 12-13 Marenisco -- Lake Gogebic Fall Walleye Tournament

Sept. 20 Iron Mountain -- Run Iron Mountain

Sept. 26-27 Ewen -- Log Jamboree

Sept. 26-28 Bessemer -- Bessemer Pumpkin Fest

Sept. 27 Iron Mountain -- Oktoberfest

Sept. 27 Beechwood -- Apple Festival & Craft Market

Sept. 27 Iron River -- Harvest & Haunt

Oct. 4 Baraga -- ATV/UTV Wilderness Waterfall Adventure

A Favorite Fall Festival Returns to Bessemer

BESSEMER – The Bessemer Pumpkin Fest each year celebrates the beginning of fall. Mark your calendar for this pumpkin themed extended weekend going from Friday Sunday, Sept. 26 28.

Visitors can enjoy the beautiful Northwood colors, visit craft fairs, take in a classic car show, the antique tractor pull, and the live en tertainment. Most events are free and will be situated along Main Street. The carnival will be humming with favorite rides such as the Ferris Wheel and merry go rounds.

Pumpkin Fest offers an abundance of traditional fall food favorites like caramel apples and hot cider to savory delights such as pump kin spiced treats and hearty soups.

The various vendors will showcase a wide range of crafts and products. Whether you’re looking for handmade jewelry, home decor, or one-of-a-kind gifts, you’re sure to find something special to take home. One of the highlights of Pumpkin Fest is the cos tume parade. From adorable little superheroes to majestic mythical creatures, the streets of Bessemer will come alive with a vibrant display of costumes and characters.

The tractor pull features powerful machines competing in various categories, showcasing each machine’s strength and the driver’s skill.

Throughout the weekend, Pumpkin Fest will feature live music performances from talented local artists. Groove to the rhythm of fall themed melodies and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you ex plore the festival grounds. From folk to rock, there’s something for every musical taste.

ATV Wilderness Adventure Awaits Riders

SKANEE – Time is running out if you want to expe rience Baraga County like few other ATV/UTV riders have. The sixth annual Baraga County ATV Wilderness Adventure is accepting applications until the maximum 75 machines is reached. The event will take place on Saturday, Oct. 4.

The guided ATV/UTV tour will take participants on trails not usually available to the general public. As they travel the back country of Baraga County, riders will be treated to Arvon Township waterfalls, Mount Arvon the state’s highest natural point, and the his toric Rock Cut. This year the route will change to in clude some new sights.

The route will be on two tracks, railroad grades and unimproved trails. There will be three groups, with a maximum of 25 machines per group. One group will be for less experienced drivers or those wanting a slow er paced ride.

Ample parking will be accessible. Portable toilets will be provided at the parking lot and halfway location. Lunch will be available to purchase at the halfway loca tion. Contact the Baraga County Chamber at 906 353 8808 or baragacountychamber@gmail.com for more information, including entry fees and departure times. The chamber office also has lodging information.

2025 Gogebic County Fair

IRONWOOD – The Gogebic County Fair will return to the histor ic fairgrounds this year. The fair dates are Thursday through Sunday, Aug. 7 10

Inside the expo building will be exhibits featuring fruits, vegetables, arts, crafts, models, sewing, knitting, etc. With the exception of horses, there will be various animals on exhibit.

Among the many events planned will be live music, wood carving demonstrations, a pie auction, market auction, food and beer booths, vendor booths, a youth challenge, tractor pedal pull, drill team demon stration, rodeo, mud racers mud run, and more. For updates, go to go gebiccountyfair.com.

The lineup of live music includes, Friday – Flashback, 2 5 p.m. & Superior Horns, 6 8 p.m. and Saturday James Peace and Family, 2 4 p.m.

On the Hunt for the Humongous Fungus Festival

CRYSTAL FALLS – Join the people of Crystal Falls as they celebrate their very own Humongous Fungus, a Armillaria gallica fungus colony that stretches across 37 subterranean acres, weighs in at 21,000 pounds, and is around 1,500 years old.

The community’s 2025 Humongous Fungus Festival, spon sored by the Crystal Falls Business Association, will offer “morel” of fun, food and entertainment Aug. 2. Actually, the celebration starts the prior day with the start of the two day city wide rummage sale. But Saturday is when all things mushroom take center stage.

The town party begins with a 10 a.m. parade down Superi or Avenue. Two guided mushroom forage tours will be of fered. The Vendor Village will be set up on 4th Street and also behind the Crystal Theatre and Harbour House. Visitors are encouraged to create sidewalk artwork using free chalk on Superior Avenue.

Chow down on the mushroom pizza slices at Crystal Steel House and the mushroom burgers and hot dogs at Harbour House.

Wrapping up the full day of activities, the Crystal Theater will host “American Gold/That 70’s Music 2025” at 7 p.m. For updates on other activities, go to crystalfalls.mi.com.

Outdoor Action Awaits Bikers, Anglers

BESSEMER Calling all outdoor enthusiasts. A pair of Besse mer and Bergland events in the coming weeks will surely get your adrenaline flowing.

For mountain bikers and trail runners, the annual Copper Peak Trails Fest on Saturday, Sept. 6 will take place on the beautiful trails at Copper Peak, North America’s largest ski jump, near Bes semer.

The course navigates down to the Black River then climbs nearly 500 ver tical feet to the historic Cop per Peak ski flying jump. The downhills are fast and flowy with jumps, rollers, berms, rock gardens and

bridges. Also scheduled are a sport bike race (8 miles), an expert bike race (17 miles), a kid’s bike race and a trail run (5 miles), followed by a 2 stage beginner and 4 stage sport enduro race. The organizers say they will have live music, food trucks and other entertainment during the day. For more information and up dates, visit sisudirtcrew.org.

BERGLAND Over in Bergland, the 47th annual Lake Goge bic Fall Fishing Tournament will take place Sept. 12 13. The ac tion will be on the famed Lake Gogebic, according to the event sponsor, the Lake Gogebic Area Chamber of Commerce. At over 13,000 surface acres, it’s the largest inland lake in the UP.

A full range of cash priz es await successful an glers, with the top one being $2,000 for the larg est walleye.

For more information and to register, contact the chamber of com merce at 1 888 GOGE BIC or info@lakego gebicarea.com or visit lakegogebicarea.com.

Scythian and Buckwheat Zydeco, Jr. & the Ils Sont Partis Band are Announced Headliners of 2025

Porcupine Mtn. Music

Festival

ONTONAGON – The much anticipated Porcupine Mountains Music Festival returns to Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park on Friday and Saturday, Aug. 22 & 23. Attendees will be treated to a diverse selection of musical styles: Americana, blues, country, blue grass, rock, folk and more, performed by musicians from throughout the U.S.A. and even from abroad.

The festival organizers, Friends of the Porkies, announce that this year’s main stage lineup includes Friday’s headlin er, Scythian, and Saturday’s headliner, Buckwheat Zydeco, Jr. & the Ils Sont Partis Band, as well as The Bootstrap Boys, Ivy Ford, Erik Koskinen, Jef frey Foucault, The Slambovian Circus of Dreams, Gizzae, Charlie Parr, Caleb Caudle, Miss Tess, and Damn Tall Build ings.

The indoor chalet stage will feature 30 minute performances while the stage turnover is taking place on the outdoor stage. There will be 10 performers on the lineup for the two festival days.

The all acoustic “Busking Barn” stage will host approximately 30 additional performers, including daily jam sessions for anyone to join in the fun. The colorful “Kid’s Tent” is always bustling with crafts and activities for the young audience members.

A Michigan Recreation Passport is required to enter the state park, including the festival. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. Concessions are located inside the ski chalet, which will be open throughout the event. For more information about the festival, including ticket ordering, visit porkiesfestival.org.

Iron Mountain’s Oktoberfest Celebration of Food, Fun and Entertainment

IRON MOUNTAIN – Enjoy a traditional Oktoberfest celebra tion in downtown Iron Mountain on Saturday, Sept. 27 from noon to 10 p.m. There is an admission fee with children 12 years and younger admitted free.

With two food trucks serving mouthwater ing fare and Oktober fest brews, there’s no better way to raise a stein and celebrate more than a decade of Oktoberfest fun. The children’s area is where the kiddos can enjoy the bounce hous es and outdoor games from noon to 5 p.m.

From competitive stein holding to outdoor yard games and live ly music, the 11th annual festival will bring together locals and visitors alike for a day filled with fun, food and entertainment. Dress the part: Leder hosen and dirndls are encouraged for the full Bavarian vibe.

New this year, Ok toberfest will feature the 15 piece Bavar ian band Dorf Ka pelle. Also new is D’s Creative Faces (face painting).

Prost to 11 years of laughter, camarade rie, and cheers!