Up North Action - June 2024

Explore More in the Great Northwoods

Enjoy some fun in the sun this summer! The Northwoods of Wisconsin and the UP of Michigan offers great experiences for everyone, whether an art aficionado, foodie, water skier, fisherman, thrill-seeker or someone who likes time away from the stresses of modern-day living.

To the latter, get out and enjoy some quiet time and fresh air by hiking or biking the many trails that thread their way through the Northwoods. The options range from nice, easy walking trails, to those that will get your heart pumping with inclined terrain.

Maybe your preference is to sit back with a hot dog and a drink and watch the “other guys and gals” do the heavy lifting – like riding a raging bull or guiding a galloping horse in tight turns around the barrels. We’re talking pro ro-

deo time in the Northwoods and you can find all the action at Phillips, Merrill, Rice Lake, Turtle Lake, Superior and Spooner, all in Wisconsin, and also at Iron River, MI. They all offer family entertainment at a reasonable cost.

Of course, there’s also stock car racing, lumberjack shows, boat races, and more excitement to take in this summer. Enjoy browsing the craft and art fairs and attending community sponsored outdoor concerts.

No matter the calling, find your spirit in the land they call Up North.

Dean S. Acheson, editor

Inside This Issue

Map & Index

NORTHEAST REGION - page 10

NORTHWEST REGION - page 34

Covering the following counties:

Florence • Forest • Marinette

Oconto • Menominee • Shawano

NORTHCENTRAL REGION - page 13

Covering the following counties:

Iron • Vilas • Price • Oneida • Lincoln

Langlade • Taylor • Marathon

Covering the following counties: Ashland • Bayfield • Douglas • Burnett

Washburn • Sawyer • Rusk • Barron

Polk • St. Croix • Dunn • Chippewa

U.P. MICHIGAN REGION - page 42

Covering the following counties: Baraga • Gogebic • Ontonagon

Houghton • Iron • Dickinson • Menominee

PLAY IN THE NORTHWOODS

These Northwoods Attractions Will Wow the Family

Add a dash of adventure and thrills to your next Northwoods trip this summer. Step outside, breathe in the fresh air, and take the family or companion on a bucket list tour of fun activities. They’re all the more remarkable with a backdrop of the thousands of sparkling lakes, vast forests and quaint towns. Listed is a sample of the many attractions that will get the adrenaline flowing.

COPPER PEAK

Capture the magnificent landscapes that only the Upper Peninsula of Michigan can provide with a trip to the International Copper Peak Ski Flying Hill and Recreation Complex, northeast of Ironwood. The mammoth structure rises some 241 feet above the crest of Chippewa Hill. Thousands of visitors each year enjoy riding the chairlift 819 feet to the crest of the hill. They then take the 18-story elevator ride to the observation deck. Then climb the final 60 feet of stairs to the top for impressive views overlooking Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, and the Porcupine Mountain Wilderness State Park.

MINOCQUA PONTOON

Historic boathouses, magnificent bald eagles, loons and beautiful sunsets are among the treasured sightings when you take a pontoon ride on the Minocqua Chain of Lakes. Minocqua Pontoon Cruises & Rentals in Minocqua offers families and others a choice of taking a guided tour or renting a pontoon. The chain of lakes comprises 6 lakes, with the guided tours taking place on three of the largest ones.

ADVENTURE MINING COMPANY

Thousands each year visit Adventure Mining Company located off Highway M-38 in Greenland in the UP. Experience an underground copper mine as the miners would have over 160 years ago with a single light on your hard hat. Their three different tours (one with no age limit) provide guests with experiences that are anything but average. Tours operate 7 days a week during the summer. Walk-in tours are allowed, but availability can be limited. They recommend making reservations. You can shop for copper nuggets at the mine store or their online store.

SCHEER’S LUMBERJACK SHOWS

The Northwoods have towering pine trees and that’s where the sport of lumberjack competition was born. Today’s lumberjacks at Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows in Woodruff and Hayward would give those early lumberjacks a run for their money. The shows are highly entertaining for the entire family and last about 90 minutes. They are offered five times during the week. At the Hayward site, they also have a miniature golf course, ice cream shop, a boutique and a restaurant.

WORLD LUMBERJACK CHAMPIONSHIPS

Once a year the very best lumberjacks in the world converge on the resort town of Hayward where they do battle with axes and nail-studded shoes in head-to-head competition in the categories of sawing, chopping, speed climbing, log rolling, boom-running & more. Thousands of dollars are on the line for the winners. The 2024 dates are Aug. 1-3. In the evening after competition ends, stay and enjoy the live music by bands.

PIRATES HIDEAWAY

Pirates Hideaway is a unique lakeside establishment in Eagle River featuring pirate ship rides, an ice cream shop, tiki bar, live music, gift shop, homemade woodfired pizzas, and

more. Experience the beauty of the Northwoods in true pirate fashion aboard the “William Charles” with family and friends. Make a reservation for one of the public tours of the 6 lakes on the Eagle River Chain – the largest inland chain of freshwater lakes in the world. Throughout the ride you will learn about the area’s history, enjoy complimentary snacks and lemonade, and the kiddos will get special attention from the captain. Adults can enjoy their favorite beer, wine or cocktail. On land, Pirates Hideaway offers family fun nights, weekly live music, open mic nights, and more.

HOLIDAY ACRES RECREATIONAL PARK

Go-karting is one sport in which kids can outrace their parents. And they don’t need a driver’s license. Fire up their engines with a trip to Holiday Acres Recreational Park in Minocqua. Holiday Acres boasts three excellent tracks, including the original Super Track. Each track has different features where the Mario Andretti set – young and older -- can zip around hairpin curves, carve a path up the hills and rip across bridges as they race friends and family. The attraction also has a beautiful 18-hole miniature golf course, and offers trail and pony rides through the nearby woods.

SETTLERS MILL

Offering family fun since 1987, Settlers Mill in Minocqua is a premier 18-hole adventure golf. Settlers Mill continues to top the list of “Up North” family traditions. After golfing, treat yourself to a scoop of velvety smooth frozen custard or test your skills in their modern video game room.

ROCKING W STABLE AND KARTWAY

Rocking W Stable and Kartway theme park in Eagle River gives families the most fun together this summer. Kartway offers gokart racing, Naskart racing, slick track (they also have a zip line). Big Track is their most competitive track, a circle-8 with varying karts suited for both double and single riders. Ride the Slick Track and you’ll be a pro at drifting before you know it. Head over to the oval track if you’re a real speed demon or a NASCAR-wannabe. Mini-“Jeeps” suit those not quite ready for full size go-karts.

BARRON COUNTY PRO RODEO

Ready for some rodeo action? Then mark the calendar for the Barron County Pro Rodeo on June 14 & 15. The rodeo will be at the Barron County Fairgrounds in Rice Lake. Each rodeo starts at 6:30 p.m. with “mutton busting” for kids. Then the cowboys and cowgirls get in the action with all the favorite rodeo events starting at 7 p.m., including breakaway roping, steer wrestling, team roping, calf roping, barrel racing, saddle bronc, bareback, and the crowd’s favorite – bull riding. Live music is scheduled after the dust settles down, approximately 9:30 p.m.

ROCK FALLS

Take the family to Rock Falls Riding Stable, Mini Golf & GoKarts in Arbor Vitae for hours of fun and friendly competition on the go-kart track (single and double karts) and a challenging 18-hole miniature golf course. They also offer 45-minute horse rides on scenic trails. Whether with single or double scoop, treat everyone to an ice cream cone too!

WILDWOOD WILDLIFE PARK

Wildwood Wildlife Park Zoo & Safari in Minocqua is home to over 2,000 animals and 229 species from around the world. There are animal feedings, tram rides, animal programs and other nature-focused experiences. Covering some 259 acres, it’s the second largest zoo in Wisconsin. Among the amazing experiences is the “parakeet encounter,” where you can hand feed the budgies. Jump on the safari tram for a narrated journey through the woods. Among the animals you’ll see are zebras, Elands, Scimitar Horned Oryx and wildebeest. All ages will enjoy feeding the trout and koi, as well the deer and the giraffe.

HAWKS NEST OUTFITTERS

Hawks Nest Outfitters a few miles west of Eagle River will rent you a tube, kayak or raft for your much-anticipated river trip. They also have life jackets and paddles. They offer delivery service, making it easy to customize the perfect outdoor adventure at your favorite lake or waterway. Float a casual 2-mile stretch from the Otter Rapids Dam back to their location on the Wisconsin River. Or book a guide for a kayak fishing trip or guided paddle tour.

DAN’S MINOCQUA FUDGE

Dan’s Minocqua Fudge is an old-fashioned candy store in the sweet heart-ofdowntown Minocqua. They offer the largest selection of handmade chocolates in the Northwoods along with 100 varieties of hard candy and taffy. If you love chocolate, head straight for the fudge. It’s sold by the pound, and all the classics are available, including chocolate, chocolate walnut, vanilla, and maple. An old-fashioned ice cream parlor rounds out this amazing store.

WAASWAAGANING INDIAN BOWL SUMMER POW WOWS

The Waaswaaganing Indian Bowl Living Arts & Culture Center in downtown Lac du Flambeau is the new venue for traditional dance, pow wows and drum-group singing by members of the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. The public is invited to attend the pow wows held at the Indian Bowl. Participants dance to the rhythm of the drum in traditional regalia. The pow wows are held every Tuesday from mid-June to late

August. Rain date is Thursday. In the Cultural Center, visitors can watch craft demonstrations and to participate in workshops, such as birchbark basketry and dance regalia making. In the retail shop, visitors can purchase authentic Ojibwe arts and crafts, and books on Ojibwe history and culture.

NORTHWOODS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

The Northwoods Children’s Museum in Eagle River offers hands-on exhibits and play for children ages 1-11. At this museum, children will develop dozens of skills and families will create life-long memories. Over the years, they’ve added several additional exhibits and now have 26 interactive exhibits including the Reading Tree, Cozy Cottage, Snowmobile, WPS Energy Expedition, Art Center, Fire Safety, and an ATM.

WISCONSIN GREAT NORTHERN RAILROAD

What better way to experience the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin than by taking a scenic train ride with the Wisconsin Great Northern Railroad headquartered near Spooner. The train runs Tuesday-Saturday year around along the Namekagon River, part of the St. Croix National Park System. With a variety of train rides offered, there is sure to be something to accommodate you and your guests. Spend the night on the historic Bed & Breakfast car (America’s only moving B&B train), or enjoy an afternoon on the Family Pizza Train. The train depot is located four miles north of Spooner along U.S. 53-63.

BIG TOP CHAUTAUQUA

Plan a trip to Mount Ashwabay in Bayfield County to take in the more than 60 concerts, shows and events scheduled this season under the Big Blue Top – known officially as Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua (sha-ta-qwa). The non-profit performing arts organization operates an intimate 900-seat, modern tent theater, producing and presenting international headliners, regional talent and original productions from June through September. The Big Top is located at the base of Mt. Ashwabay, a few miles south of Bayfield. The address is 32525 Ski Hill Rd., Bayfield.

DELAWARE MINE

The Delaware Mine, near Delaware, Michigan, is an authentic mine that operated from 1847-87 during the country’s first major mining boom. It now serves as the perfect example of what the mines in this area were like in the 1800s. The self-guided tour will take you down Shaft No. 1 to the first level (at a depth of 110 feet) where you’ll see pure veins of copper exposed in the mine walls, along with other geologic interests. Above ground are walking trails taking visitors past the ruins of two original mine buildings, equipment displays, antique engines, trains and zoo animals. Picnic facilities are available. A gift shop featuring locally made mementos and rock and mineral specimens is also available.

Northeast Region

CALENDAR

June 1 Florence – Charity ATV Poker Run

June 1 Crivitz – Run to Remember

June 2 Shawano – WISCO Bass Tournament

June 6-8 Wabeno – Duo Sports Ride

June 7-9 Wittenberg – Community Days

June 7-9 Oconto – Copperfest

June 8 Athelstane – Strong Falls Mtn. Bike & Brew

June 9 Lena – Breakfast on the Farm

June 14 Shawano – Sip, Swirl & Stroll

June 14-16 Birnamwood – Polka Days

June 15 Shawano – Rhubarb Fest

June 16-17 Gillett – Truck Show

June 23 Shawano -- Brunch on the Farm

June 28 Crivitz – Near North Makers Market

‘Oxbow’ Will

Take You Tubing

and Back Again

FLORENCE – Florence County’s many outdoor recreation offerings include the popular inner-tubing on the Pine River oxbow, as well as on the Brule River.

The popularity of the “The Oxbow” is due to its near circular nature in which the river literally brings you almost back to your point of origin, thus enabling the group to forgo a vehicle at the exit point. The take-out is only a quarter mile (10- to 15-minute walk) from the put-in point so no shuttle is needed. The 3.5-mile float takes 2-3 hours, depending on the water level.

The landing at the put-in point (Hwy. N bridge 6 miles south of Florence) has ample parking for vehicles, porta-potties and a landscaped, scalloped staircase leading to the water under the bridge.

The scenic Pine River is designated a “wild river” with very little development along its banks. In fact, none along the “Oxbow” section. There are no real rapids on this float, in essence a couple of intermittent riffles and one brief Class I rapids.

When tubing the Brule River, you can put in at the Brule Dam Road and take out at Woods Road. For a shorter trip, put in or take out on Camels Clearing Road. Remember both are “wild rivers.” Be sure to take all trash back to your vehicle so that they remain forever pristine.

Nature’s Water Park offers tube rentals at the Oxbow, shuttle service and guided paddle trips. Call 941-536-8090 for reservations. Maps are available at the Wild Rivers Interpretive Center in Florence.

COUNTY OCONTO

Head to Oconto County and experience premier walleye fishing on the Bay of Green Bay! You can rent a boat or fishing kayak or go on a guided excursion and land some of the finest walleyes in the area. Let experienced outfitters and guides show you the best spots. Request a visitor guide today at

Treat Yourself to Shawano’s Rhubarb Fest

SHAWANO – The Shawano County Historical Society welcomes families and others to their 16th annual Rhubarb Fest on Saturday, June 15 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Shawano Heritage Park, 524 N Franklin Street. Admission to this event is free.

This is a summer treat where you can enjoy the rhubarb bake sale (pies, tortes, cakes, muffins, cookies, breads). Other rhubarb items include rhubarb lemonade, sangria, rhu-berry, SunDrop slushies and rhubarb beer. Brats and hamburgers are even served with a rhubarb sauce.

There will be other food, children’s games, live music, craft vendors offering everything from soaps and baskets to original artwork for sale, basket raffle, pie contest, plant sale and tours of seven historic buildings where you can learn about the life of a fur trader, how to spin wool, make corn bread, carve wood and more.

Stop by at the Historical Society’s gift shop where you’ll find unique items, including rhubarb cookbooks, rhubarb jam, fresh rhubarb, many other books, handmade cards using museum photos and polo shirts.

Can Pigs Fly? Nope, But They Sure Can Run During Copperfest

OCONTO – Racing pigs and ducks will entertain all ages during the annual Copperfest celebration in Oconto, running three days: Friday, June 7 through Sunday, June 9. All events will take place at the Copperfest/American Legion Post 74 Park, corner of Arbutus and Madison.

In addition, featured events will include the UTL pro wrestlers putting on an action-packed show. Maddog & Merrill will showcase their cooking skills. Adults can show off their own skills in the horseshoe and cornhole tournaments. The younger set will enjoy Casaday’s Critters, kid’s games, trout pond and pony rides. Glen Girard magician will wow the crowd with his magic tricks. Brad Weston entertainer is also scheduled.

Lots of fond memories will come back at the car show. Find a treasure when you stroll the vendor village. Well over 100 artists and crafters are expected to exhibit. And don’t miss the pie and ice cream social. There will be loads of other food and refreshments during Copperfest. Music will fill the air starting Friday night and continuing Saturday and Sunday.

The big Copperfest parade – the 2024 theme is “The 80s” -will be Saturday, June 8, starting at 10 a.m. The parade route is from the corner of Chicago and Farnsworth to Main Street, down to Park Avenue and ending at Monroe. For more information and advance wristbands sales call 920-604-3636.

Northcentral Region

CALENDAR

Wooden Boats of a Bygone Era to Visit Minocqua

MINOCQUA – Dozens of beautiful wooden boats will cruise the Minocqua Chain of Lakes and be moored at the piers in Torpy Park during the annual Minocqua Antique & Classic Boat Show, Friday & Saturday, June 14 & 15.

The in-water and on-land boats include nostalgic wooden boats and canoes dating from the 1930s, along with vintage tri-hull fiberglass runabouts and the newer wooden boats. All total, they are expecting about 90 craft, 40 of which will be wooden ones. The stars of the show are the glorious mahogany runabouts, such as Chris Craft, Gar Wood, Century, and Hutchinson.

Spectator admission is free. Bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the boats, live music and fun. Food and beverages will be available both days in cooperation with the Minocqua Lions Club. A favorite is Friday’s traditional shore lunch fish fry, starting at 3 p.m.

The downtown Minocqua-based show gets underway on Friday around noon and goes until 8 p.m. Listen to the music of Melissa Childers from 3-6 p.m. The popular boat parade will be Friday evening during the intermission of the Min-Aqua-Bats waterski show.

Saturday, the boat show resumes at 10 a.m. and goes until 5:30 p.m. Food and merchandise will again be available in the Lions beer garden until 7 p.m. or so. Sit back and enjoy the music of Tuck Pence from noon to 3 p.m. and then from Double Barrel from 3-7 p.m. For more information, visit MinocquaBoatShow.com.

June 1 Minocqua – June Bloom Arts & Crafts Show

June 1 Wausau – Wausau Pride

June 7-8 Eagle River – Up North Beerfest

June 7-9 Merrill – Wisconsin River Pro Rodeo

June 8 Mercer – Lupine Junefest & Bike Tour & Bird Festival

June 8 St. Germain – Walk in the Woods Art Fair

June 8 Rhinelander – Art Fair on the Courthouse Lawn, Car Show

June 8 Sayner – Plum 8 Barefoot Tournament

June 8 Sayner – InSayner Adventure Mountain Bike Race

June 8 Lac du Flambeau – Amber Lake Open (disc golf)

June 8-9 Eagle River – Spring Classic Musky Tournament

June 8-9 Antigo -- Off-Road Races

June 9 Merrill – June Dairy Breakfast

June 13 Phillips – Girls Night Out

June 14-15 Phillips – Czech-Slovak Festival

June 14-15 Minocqua – Antique & Classic Boat Show

June 14-16 Manitowish Waters—Solstice Festival

June 15 Deerbrook – Mountain Bike Race, Trail Run

June 15 Merrill – ATV/UTV Ride & Poker Run

June 15 Rhinelander – Northwoods Pride Festival

June 15 Presque Isle -- Pork N Ride

June 15 Phelps – Musky Tournament

June 15 Lac du Flambeau – Lakes Fest

June 15 Wausau -- Ironbull Solstice Summit Challenge

June 15 Eagle River – Sip & Shop Wine Walk

June 15-16 Arbor Vitae – Model Train Show & Swap Meet

June 16 Gleason – Gleason Lions Heritage Days

June 21 Land O’ Lakes – Make Music Day

June 21 Manitowish Waters – MW Night Market

June 22 Phillips – MidSummer Celebration

June 22 Conover – Kayak Race, Pig Race, Auction

June 26 Phelps – Picnic in the Park

June 27-29 Gleason – Vintage Car (and more) Show

June 28-29 Kennan – Truck & Tractor Pull

June 28-30 Mercer – Open All-Species Fishing Tournament

June 29 Minocqua – Bear Cupboard Run

June 29 Hurley – Gile Flowage Bass Tournament

June 29 Eagle River – Summer Kickoff

June 30 Presque Isle – Presque Isle Days

Four Walking Trails to Enjoy This Summer

The chirping of birds may be the only sounds you hear when you go for a walk in the beautiful woods in Oneida County. (These are multi-use trails, so you may encounter bikers along the way.)

The trailheads are located in or near communities where you can grab an ice cream cone or refresh with drinks and a snack. Here’s a look at four of them:

BEARSKIN STATE RECREATION TRAIL

The former railroad line is now a compacted granite recreation trail popular for hiking and biking in summer. The northern trailhead is in downtown Minocqua. The 21.5-mile trail follows its namesake Bearskin Creek between Minocqua and Tomahawk. The easy grade makes it the premier Northwoods trail for all ages and abilities. The trail travels south over a number of scenic trestle bridges before connecting with the Hiawatha Trail, which winds up in Tomahawk. No permit is needed to walk, but a state DNR permit is needed for biking. The exception is a short section around Minocqua. Restroom facilities are located near the Minocqua trailhead.

THREE EAGLE TRAIL

The Three Eagle Trail is a 12.7-mile linear park connecting the two communities of Eagle River and Three Lakes. Both communities have rich histories of offering great recreation, nestled among the hardwood forests of Oneida and Vilas counties. The trail is currently in two sections of compacted crushed limestone, separated by a short section on a low-traffic paved road. In addition, the trail crosses several creeks and marshes, providing opportunities to see wildlife in their natural environment. Amenities such as bike repair stands, water fountains, pit toilets and shelters welcome visitors.

MADELINE LAKE TRAIL

The Madeline Lake Trail system is a popular network of four short loops located just a 5-minute drive from the towns of Minocqua and Woodruff. Madeline Trail offers a variety of beautiful scenery as it winds around three lakes. A shelter with a fire ring is provided. The trail system comprises four loops with beginner to intermediate difficulties. The complete system is about 10 miles in length. A $5 day use fee or a $25 annual state park fee is required for cyclists. Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash. There are no restroom facilities on site. Directions: two miles southeast of Woodruff on Hwy. 47, east on Hwy. J, then 2 miles north on Rudolph Road.

RHINELANDER RIVERWALK

This scenic trail skirts the Wisconsin River in the heart of downtown Rhinelander. It offers nice river views and is the perfect place for a stroll. Enjoy the short but scenic boardwalk near the Chamber of Commerce parking lot. The trail connects with sidewalks that will take you across the Davenport Street bridge to the downtown area. In the Trig’s parking lot, there is a bandshell next to the trail and on Wednesday evenings, Concerts on the Riverwalk entertain music lovers of all ages. Nearby trails and sidewalks offer ways to extend your adventure and to explore downtown businesses.

InSayner Gives Mountain Bikers a Taste of Backwoods Adventure

SAYNER – The annual InSayner Adventure Bike Race in Vilas County will take place Saturday, June 8. The Lakeland Area Mountain Bike Organization (LAMBO) is the event sponsor. The backwoods mountain bike race takes place in the depths of the Northern Highland American Legion State Forest. There are 3 route options available to racers. The first one covers a somewhat 20-mile route. The second one is for diehard gear grinders

as it goes, again, somewhat 50 miles. The third option is also a “50-miler,” but is for e-bikes rated as Class 1. Riders can carry an extra battery.

There’s also a 3-mile fun route for youngsters. No entry fee as a local business has already covered their entry. Parents are welcomed to ride with their children. They will start 5 minutes after the other racers start off at 10 a.m. from the Plum Lake Community Center in Sayner.

Spectators are welcomed. Proceeds will support building more mountain bike trails. For more information or to register, visit lamboriders.org/events/the-insayner.

Artful Experiences Await Visitors

RHINELANDER & ST. GERMAIN – A pair of popular art fairs will bring crowds to Rhinelander and St. Germain on Saturday, June 8. Both events (free admission) are being held outdoors, with one offering a great car show as a bonus. If they wish, visitors can spend the morning at one event and the afternoon at the other. It’s about a 35-minute scenic drive between the two communities.

ART FAIR ON THE COURTHOUSE LAWN

The 37th annual Art Fair on the Courthouse Lawn runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and includes more than 100 arts and crafts booths, kids activities, plenty of food and entertainment –all situated on the grounds and adjacent streets of the Historical Courthouse in downtown Rhinelander.

The Rhinelander “Second Saturday in June” Car Show will showcase more than 200 antique and classic showroom-worthy cars and trucks from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Brown Street, just a short distance from the Art Fair.

WALK IN THE WOODS

Then it’s time to stroll among the stately pines during St. Germain’s 17th annual Walk in the Woods Art Fair, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., held adjacent to the chamber office. On display and for sale will be a wide range of works from regional artists with an eclectic mix of pottery, paintings, photography, wood carvings, homemade candles and jewelry.

As an added treat, visitors can enjoy wine and cheese sampling and live music as they walk through the woods to find one-ofa-kind treasures. The St. Germain Lions Club will provide food and beverages.

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!

Koi and Trout Feeding: Buy trout pellets from the feed machines and toss into the pond and see the entire surface come alive with a frenzy of trout or koi. Guests can just sit and relax in this peaceful and tranquil area.

Primates & Reptile Center: Featuring North American, Desert and Rainforest habitats.

Learn about these creepy, crawly critters and come nose to nose to a lemur and hear them vocalize while the sloth’s siesta all day long.

Amphitheater: Learn about your favorite animals during our Zoo Chats and meet our animal ambassadors.

William E. Gardner Educational Center: The educational center is full of amazing things to see and do. You will peer into the world of honeybees and witness honeybees performing their specialized duties to produce honey. Other activities includeartifacts, microscopes, amphibians, snakes, lizards, arthropods, and insect displays.

Safari Tram Ride: Jump on the tram and enjoy a narrated journey winding through the sprawling woods. Spot Zebra grazing near a spring fed pond, watch Eland studding across an open field. Search for the camouflaged

COME SPEND THE

WE

Scimitar Horned Oryx concealed in the thickets or the Wildebeest sunning on the savannah.

Mammals, Birds, Reptiles & Primates

Giraffe Feeding

Parakeet Feeding

Whitetail Deer Feeding

Goat-Sheep-Camel Feeding

Petting Area

Trout Feeding

Koi Feeding

Explore & Learn Programs

Penguin Cove

Small Mammal Building

Safari TRAM Ride

Paddle Boat Ride

Safari Kiddie Train Ride

Dino Dig

Aviary-Flamingos

Educational Center

Living History Center

Hungry Bear Ice Cream & Sweet Shoppe

Jambo Food Stand

Wild Bananas Snack Stand

Lumberjacks Welcome Visitors to Woodruff

WOODRUFF - Weeks before the official start of summer, Scheer’s Lumberjack Shows begins preparing for the upcoming season. 2024 will mark the 40th year that Fred Scheer’s Lumberjack 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 performances involves maintenance to guarantee the safety of performers, 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 replaced 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 Labor 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 Lumberjack shows go to sheerslumberjackshow.com.

MAY/JUNE LAKESIDE LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE

May 24: Carolyn Jo & Friends

May 25th: Avian Aura

May 26th: Old Pine Road Duo

May 30th: Scott Kirby

May 31st: Reese Glover

June 1st: Gareth

June 2nd: Conner

June 6th: Scott

June 7th:

June 8th:

June 9th:

June 13th: Scott

Please

Come Join the FUN!

June 14th:

June 15th:

June 16th:

June 20th:

June 21st:

June 22nd:

June

June

June 28th:

www.eagleriverpirates.com

Take a Walk on the Wild Side

LAND O’ LAKES – The far northern Wisconsin community of Land O’ Lakes has a nifty catch phase – “Go Beyond.” That’s a perfect segue to promoting one of their area trails, Whitefish Lake Recreation Trail. It’s just across the state border into the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

The trail is near its namesake, Whitefish Lake, located in the vast and beautiful Ottawa National Forest’s Sylvania Wilderness Area. This million-acre forest stretches all the way to Lake Superior. Located on the park’s west side, the 1.5-mile recreation trail is just minutes away from downtown Land O’ Lakes.

This trail is as easy and accessible as it is wild. Steps from where you parked your car you’ll be walking down a soft dirt path, into a dense forest. Continue down this trail, about a mile, and you’ll find the shore of Whitefish Lake, one of the Sylvania’s beautiful wild lakes. From here, you can continue hiking on side trails or just enjoy the beauty of Whitefish Lake. You’ll come away awed by the enormous trees in this old-growth forest. Mosquito nets and spray highly recommended in midsummer. That and more can be found in Land O’ Lakes.

To get to the trail from Land O’ Lakes, head west on Highway B for 8.7 miles until you reach Thousand Island Lake Road. Turn right and head north for 3.2 miles. You’ll see a parking area on the right, and the trailhead, where your Sylvania backcountry adventure begins. A day use pass is available for purchase at the trailhead.

For more information, call 906-358-4551, stop at the Forest headquarters at E23979 U.S. Highway 2 East, Watersmeet, or visit fs. usda.gov/ottawa.

Trending Now: Presque Isle Days

PRESQUE ISLE –

Looking for a community event that the entire family will enjoy? You’re in luck as Presque Isle Days on Sunday, June 30 nicely fits the bill with exciting Timberworks Lumberjack shows, craft, food and beverage vendors and old-fashioned kids games, all located on Main Street.

Sponsored by the Presque Isle Chamber of Commerce, the events begin at 10 a.m. and go until 4 p.m. The talented lumberjacks will present their shows at 11 a.m. and again at 2 p.m. There will be speed carving, obstacle pole racing, axe throwing and logrolling, with comedy and cultural history to boot.

Selections from a micro-brewery will be available. Listen to the live music by Gregg Thomas under the tent, which has plenty of room for dancing. There will be face painting for the kids. That’s your cue to have a camera ready to take pictures!

Presque Isle is located in far northern Vilas County and bills itself as “Wisconsin’s Last Wilderness.” It shares a border with Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.

Savor the Moment at ‘Taste of Conover’

CONOVER – Set your taste buds aglow by sampling some of the greatest foods the Northwoods has to offer at the 17th annual “Taste of Conover” event on Sunday, June 30 at the Conover Town Park, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Conover Chamber of Commerce members will offer samples of some of their popular specialty items, including from breakfast, lunch, dinner and, of course, desserts. There will be music for your listening enjoyment and fun activities for the kids. General admission to the Taste of Conover is free. Tickets in $1 increments for food and beverages from area restaurants, taverns and other businesses are available at the recreation center’s entrance.

Community service groups and trail clubs will be on hand to provide information about their upcoming events, recreational opportunities, fundraisers and more. Visit them to help plan all your summer fun in Conover and the surrounding area.

The recreation center is located at 4697 Park Circle, east of Hwy. 45 on Hwy. K in Conover. A friendly reminder to leave pets at home as the town does not allow them in the park during events such as this. For more information contact the Conover Chamber at conover.org@gmail. com, or call 715-479-4928 or visit conover.org.

Northwest Region

CALENDAR

June 1 St. Croix Falls – Half and Full Marathon

June 1 Milltown – Kids “R” 1st Fishing

June 1 Amery – Amery Trails Day

June 1 Spooner – Family Festival

June 1 Rice Lake – Dairy Breakfast

June 1 Rice Lake – Chalk and Bubble Festival

June 1-9 Rice Lake -- Aquafest

June 2 Bayfield – Blessing of the Fleet

June 3 Chetek – Taste of Chetek

June 6 Hayward – Art Extravaganza Fundraiser

June 6 Washburn – Plein Air Painting Festival

June 7-9 Cable – Epic Bike Fest

June 8 St. Croix Falls – Polk Co. Dairy Breakfast

June 8 Spooner – Tri-County Dairy Breakfast

June 8 Catawba – Lumberman’s Day

June 8 Bayfield – Garden Tour

June 8 Cornucopia – Lupine Festival

June 8 Luck – FFA Alumni Tractor & Truck Pull

June 8 Osceola – Rhubarb Fest

June 8 Rice Lake – Coin Show

June 13 Chetek – Wine Walk

June 13 La Pointe – Chequamegon Chef’s Exhibition

June 13-16 Frederic – Family Days

June 14-16 Clayton – Clayton Cheese Days

June 14-16 Hayward – Youth Fishing Event

June 15 Amery – Arts & Crafts Fair

June 15 La Pointe – Apostle Island’s Inline Skate Marathon

June 15 Barnes – Taste of Barnes Festival

June 16 Amery – Women’s Club Art Fair

June 21 Turtle Lake – Summer Solstice Celebration

June 21-23 Hayward – Musky Festival

June 21-23 Hayward – Women’s Mountain Biking Weekend

June 22 Washburn – Superior Vistas Bike Tour

June 22 Cable – Chequamegon 100

June 22 Hayward – Sawyer Co. Dairy Breakfast

June 22-23 Milltown – Milltown Fisherman’s Party

Musky Festival is a Northwoods Favorite

HAYWARD – Four full days -- and evenings too -- of food and family-focused activities are on tap for visitors to Hayward’s largest summer celebration, the 74th annual Musky Festival. It’s scheduled to run from Thursday, June 20 through Sunday, June 23 in downtown Hayward.

The extended weekend activities include the crowning of the Musky Festival Queen, sidewalk sales, large multi-day arts & crafts show, live music, children’s games, food booths, car show, Musky Run, cornhole tournament, FHNB fishing contest, paddle race and a carnival. Everyone will enjoy regional bands during Friday and Saturday night street dances. The weekend concludes with a large parade on Sunday.

Some of the highlights:

Thursday’s events include the start of the fishing contest, sidewalk sales and the opening of the carnival.

Friday’s events include chalk art, Native American Dancers, arts & crafts show, watermelon eating contest, live music, car show.

Saturday’s events include the wood chop, Rod Lundberg games, Dilly Bar eating contest, Hula Hoop contest, live music, cornhole tournament,

Sunday’s major events include the 5K run/walk and 10K run, minnow run for kids, and the grand parade at 1 p.m. down Main Street.

www.madferry.com

Go on a Bike Ride with a View

WASHBURN – Road warriors are invited to the 2024 Superior Vistas Bike Tour. The 17th annual scenic ride through Bayfield County on mostly paved, low traffic roads will take place on Satur-

day, June 22. The event sponsors are the Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce and North Coast Cycling Association.

Riders will enjoy cruising gently rolling hills with views of Lake Superior and the surrounding countryside. Some routes will take you through parts of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. The roughly 8-mile long Ashwabay Loop will take you on CAMBA single-track trails up Mt. Ashwabay where you will get a panoramic view of the Chequamegon Bay and the Apostle Islands.

There are several loops to choose from, including a 13-mile, 19-mile, 34-mile, 40mile, 52-mile, and 70-mile ride. There is also a century ride (100-mile) and fat bike route and new this year, a mountain bike route.

This is a fully supported ride (rain or shine) with route maps, support vehicles and food stops enroute. Some routes overlap so you can decide to shorten or lengthen your ride as you wish. This is a family-style ride, not a race. All ages and skill levels are welcome, including e-bikes.

For more information contact the Washburn Area Chamber of Commerce at 715-373-5017 or e-mail at info@washburnchamber.com.

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. Lumberjacks 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 demanding 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 Competition. 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 activities 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 Lumberjack 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 apprentices 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 northern Wisconsin isn’t complete without seeing a Scheer’s Lumberjack Show.

Clear the Long Weekend for Heritage Days

CLEAR LAKE – June brings out the best community celebrations, and you can’t go wrong heading to Polk County to sample their family-focused events. Among them is Clear Lake’s Heritage Days, which runs for four days -- June 27-30. The traditional events are all centered on Main Street.

The organizers and their volunteers pack a lot of fun activities in those four days. Kids can compete in a pedal tractor pull, sing their hearts out in a karaoke contest (cash prizes!), get their face painted, take in the reptile show, and stop by the petting zoo before heading to the carnival featuring awesome rides.

Grown-ups will have plenty to do, including the charity dunk tank, their turn at the karaoke contest, horse pull, 5K run/walk, community garage sales, comedy show, royalty coronation and cornhole tournament. They can recall the good old days while touring all the Detroit Iron at the car, truck and tractor show. All will enjoy the grand parade, medallion hunt, craft fair, food stands, and the flower make and take. The nonstop weekend entertainment will include street dances with live music.

Don’t Overlook Quiet, Pretty Ojibwa Park

WINTER -- Clean, quiet and beautiful surroundings have made Ojibwa Park between Ojibwa and Winter a popular camping and picnic spot and as a welcomed rest stop for travelers since 1932. Hwy. 70 bisects a portion of the park.The town of Ojibwa owns and maintains the park.

The park comprises 366 acres of forestland bordered by the Chippewa River on the north and by the Tuscobia State Trail on the south.

The park is open for camping from May 1 to the last day of the regular gun deer hunting season. However, the park is a wildlife refuge and is off limits to hunting. The camping area has 16 paved camper sites (electric) and three tent sites. Coin operated hot showers are available. Several picnic areas near a small stream and pond provide a relaxing place to eat a meal. A playground area is also provided. An RV dump station, drinking water and pit toilets are available. A large stone pavilion can be reserved for a per day fee. If not reserved, the pavilion is open for public use. Firewood is available for a small charge.

A short trail connects the parking area with the Tuscobia State Trail, which is a popular ATV/UTV, snowmobile and mountain bike trail. Tuscobia runs 74 miles from Tuscobia near Rice Lake to the city of Park Falls via on an abandoned C & NW Railroad

corridor. ATVers can run the trail from April 15 to Nov. 15. A loading ramp is an added bonus.

Across the road, the Turkey Feathers Nature & Hiking Trail loops go one mile along the Chippewa River. Turkey Feathers Trail is easy walking and wheelchair accessible for a portion of its length. Adjacent to the nature trail is a hike/cross-country ski trail of about 1.5 miles in length. It too has a gentle slope and is easy walking. Excellent fishing and canoeing opportunities abound on the Chippewa River.

U.P. RegionMichigan

CALENDAR

June 7-9 Ironwood – Pride UP Picnic & Music

June 8 Iron Mountain – Brewfest

June 8-9 Michigan Free Fishing Weekend

June 16 Iron River – Father’s Day Car & Tractor Show

June 20 Ontonagon – Summer Solstice Celebration

June 21 Lake Gogebic – Summer Solstice Celebration

June 22-23 Wakefield – International Assc. Watercross Races

June 28-July 4 Bessemer – Bessemer Blast

June 28-30 Wakefield – Slow Pitch Softball Tournament

June 29 Lake Gogebic – Tour Da Lake Bicycle Race

June 29 Ironwood – Emberlight Art in the Park opens

June 29 Iron Mountain – Art for All

June 30 Rockford – Log Cabin Day at Old Victoria

Gearing Up for 2024 Millie Hill Enduro

IRON MOUN

TAIN – Gear

grinders are invited to the annual Millie Hill

Enduro Bike

Race on Saturday, June 8 in Iron Mountain, with a choice of either the Open

Class or Sport Class. The host Iron Hills Cycling Team welcomes all ages of mountain bikers, including newcomers and spectators, to this fun, grassroots enduro race.

Similar to last year’s event, this year’s event will see a few changes, including an upgraded trail experience, thanks to two new jumps and various trail improvements, as well as a chip timing

system. The Open Class will be on Millie Hill trails with 4-5 timed stages expected. The Sport Class will be on the new Pine Mountain trails with 2-3 timed stages expected. For fees, start times, etc., go to bikesignup.com or instagram.com/milliehillenduro/.

Enduro racers will enjoy perks such as discounted entry to Brewfest (must be 21+) from noon to 5 p.m., and free admission to the Sandstone Terrace. Jordan Blanchard will perform on the rooftop of the Sandstone Terrace starting at 6 p.m., with a $5 cover charge. Iron Mountain was a well-known mining town in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and Millie Hill was one of the hills that was packed full of mineable resources. After the mines started closing down, the hills and mine shafts became home to firework displays, bats and scenic views of the town below. But after many years, local volunteer efforts began making these hills home to new gravity style bike trails right in the middle of town. Proceeds from the race will help build new trails in Iron Mountain.

Ontonagon Lighthouse Now Guides Visitors to This National Historic Place

ONTONAGON -- The historic Ontonagon Lighthouse, built in 1866, is one of the oldest lighthouses in Michigan. The Ontonagon Lighthouse originally guided sailing vessels into the harbor as they came to pick up copper and lumber from the area and bring much needed supplies.

The Ontonagon Lighthouse, owned by the Ontonagon County Historical Society, is open for tours 7 days a week from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., from mid-May to mid-October, and during the off-season by appointment. Tickets are available at the lighthouse or at the Ontonagon County Historical Museum, downtown Ontonagon. It’s located on the west shore of the Ontonagon River, 422 River St. (Highway 45), Ontonagon.

You’ll learn a lot about lighthouses in general and more in detail about the Ontonagon Lighthouse from the tour guide. The first structure was built in 1851-52. By 1866, the original wood structure was replaced with the current building -- a one-and-a-half story cream brick building with a square light tower at the north end.

The light tower is three stories high and topped with a decagonal beacon house, which houses a fifth-order Fresnel lens and light. The lens was made in France in 1856 by French physicist and lens pioneer Augustin Fresnel and delivered to Ontonagon in 1857.

Use of the lighthouse was discontinued in April 1963 after an automatic foghorn and battery-powered light was installed at the Ontonagon pier. The building was placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975.

Cruise on Over to the Father’s Day Car & Tractor Show

IRON RIVER – Put the pedal to the metal and take your Dad, and other relatives and friends, to downtown Iron River, MI for the 46th annual Father’s Day Car & Tractor Show the weekend of June 15 & 16.

Make lodging reservations early for a total getaway weekend, because the event host, Classic Farm Machinery Club of Iron County, starts the weekend in fine fashion with a Saturday event schedule that runs from 5-8 p.m. The fun includes a nostalgic car cruise on Genesee Street followed by a blessing of the cars. A DJ will play all your favorite 50s and 60s music. When the music pauses, refuel with one of the food venders or try other eats, treats and drinks at one of the local businesses. Come dressed in your best 50s-60s outfits and you might win a prize for best dressed!

Sunday sees the Car & Tractor Show welcoming visitors from noon to 3 p.m. with free admission. There will again be 50s-60s music, food venders, Buttons the Clown, face painting and balloons for the kids. Bring a lawn chair and perhaps an umbrella because the show goes on rain or shine. In the past they have had 140 cars and 30 tractors show up, including vintage motorcycles and even a semi!

There are no show trophies awarded, but everyone who registers a vehicle will be entered into a drawing for prizes provided by local businesses. Fred Hauser, president of IC Classic Farm Machinery, said last year they gave out more than 30 prizes. Vehicle registration is $10 and starts at 10 a.m. For more information, call Fred at 262-914-2316.

Visit Log Cabin Day at Old Victoria Restoration Site

ROCKLAND – On Sunday, June 30 at the Old Victoria Restoration site near Rockland you can get an interesting perspective on the home life of miners when they worked for the Victoria Copper Mining Company at the turn of the 20th Century. Michigan is the only state that holds a yearly festival to honor its pioneer dwellings.

Log Cabin Day includes day-long tours of four restored log houses built in 1899. Small and lacking “modern” conveniences of that era, they did allow immigrants to make the American Dream their reality as the menfolk worked the Victoria Mine.

The event begins at 11 a.m. EDT. Visitors will enjoy homemade, baked-in-the-woodstove cinnamon rolls, old-fashioned kids games, storytelling, and guided tours of the ruins of the mine site. There is also a small gift shop. A scenic trail along nearby bluffs offers a view of the area’s only hydroelectric dam. Built on the Ontonagon River it holds back the Victoria Reservoir. Nearby are the sites where the “Copper Boulder,” now housed in the Smithsonian Institution, was found.

Take US-45 to Rockland, then the Victoria Dam Road to the site, 25401 Victoria Dam Rd., Rockland. See oldvictoria.net for more information.

Not Your Average Day at the Beach Snowmobile Watercross Races Coming to Wakefield

WAKEFIELD – The International Watercross Association (IWA) is bringing snowmobile watercross racing to Wakefield the weekend of June 22-23 with all the thrilling action on Sunday Lake. The sport is billed as the “fastest show on H2O.”

The races will get underway at 11 a.m. (CST) both Saturday and Sunday, and will last at least until 3 p.m. Bring the kids to the race site Friday night from 6-7 p.m. where they can meet the pro and amateur drivers, ask questions and look over the machines.

There will be live music Friday and Saturday nights. There will be food trucks throughout the weekend, including a beer tent. IWA merchandize and other local products will be available for purchase also.

Entry to the viewing area (beach/campground) is by wristband fee, with discounts for both days for adults and teens. Children

Fourth of July Takes Center Stage at Bessemer Blast

BESSEMER -- Bessemer Blast 2024 is a multi-day extravaganza in Bessemer certain to entertain and delight all members of the family. It’s considered the Upper Peninsula of Michigan’s biggest and best Fourth of July celebration with most events this year spanning June 28 through July 4.

The. celebration kicks off on Wednesday, June 26 at 7 p.m. with the annual Tree of Honor lighting ceremony to recognize past and present military members. The 50/50 raffle sales also begin that morning. The 2023 winner took home $48,259!

The fun continues with many of the favorite traditional events, such as the hometown run/walk, 3-on-3 basketball, closest to the pin golf, home run derby, geocache dash, poker run, and more. There will be food and drink available. New events this year include a beard contest, pickleball tournament, nightshirt

12 and under get in free. The event sponsor, Wakefield Fireworks Committee, has rustic campsites available for the weekend. For the rustic campsites, call 906-229-5131 ext. 1005 or check the Wakefield IWA Facebook or cityofwakefieldmi.gov. The event goes on rain or shine. Bring a lawn chair, but no carry-ins are allowed.

Wakefield is the second IWA stop in their 2024 World Series of Watercross. In this sport, snowmobile drivers compete against each other (and gravity) as they complete several laps around a buoyed course with speeds and agility rivaling that of a personal watercraft. Up to four drivers race at a time during heat races and six drivers in a final. Similar to on-land racing, there are several designated classes ranging from Sports Open to Pro Stock and Pro Open. Drivers compete for points leading to the series championship.

parade and line dancing. There will be karaoke June 29 and live music on July 1.

Wednesday, July 3 is designated Family Fun Day. Sophie Street will be busy with multiple regional music groups throughout the day to entertain all ages. Stunt Dudes will put on numerous BMX big-air trick shows and 7 Admirals gaming will be hosting an E-Sports competition with extra time for free play. The United States Army Ironwood Recruiting Office will bring its rock-climbing wall and physical fitness and event trailer for all to try.

The week culminates on Thursday, July 4 with family races, Memory Lane car cruise, children’s and main parades, Marty’s Goldenaires Senior Drum and Bugle Corps, and Thunder on the Mountain fireworks.

The event organizer, Bessemer 4th of July, Inc., is an all-volunteer group, which is providing nearly all events free for the public to attend and participate in, many with generous prizes. More information and the full schedule can be found at bessemer4th.com or at Bessemer 4th on Facebook or Instagram.

Photo by Michelle Lutke