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Gary Knowles’ - Getaway Sampler A selection of events loaded with Real Wisconsin Fun! http://www.wpr.org/shows/tell-joy-where-go-july-edition

November 2015 by Gary Knowles ©

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

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

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

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WISCONSIN – Spooked Out! Oct 29 & 30 –Superior Fairlawn Museum Turn on Your Flashlight – PLEASE! Fairlawn Museum – Superior If you want to meet real spooks and get your arm hair to stand on end, they say you can do so most any night at Superior, Wisconsin’s Fairlawn Mansion. Sure, it’s a fine old house museum and always a good tour anytime. And it’s probably haunted. So grab a flashlight and drop in on Oct 29 or 30 when the lights go out. This eerie tour pokes around the corners, closets and history in the house and the Victorian era. It includes pretty spooky anecdotes about celebrating Halloween. Some stories are about Fairlawn and what happened there. It’s not for the faint of heart, so maybe a strong friend, two flashlights, and practice your best scream because …you know…just in case. 906 East 2nd Street, Superior, PH 715-394-5712; www.superiorpublicmuseums.org Oct 29 & 30 – Manitowoc - Get Haunted on a Sub? Sure! Haunted Submarine Tour - Manitowoc Dive! Dive! Into the spooky world of a haunted real World War II submarine! Step aboard the WW II submarine USS Cobia in Manitowoc Oct 29-30 for some chilling takes and a look inside this “boat” built to swim with the fishes! Climb into the cramped quarters to discover what lurks beneath the surface at night! It’s $5 per person. And If you survive, hang out in the Sub Pub cash bar to share the terror and Halloween-themed refreshments! (Note: this may not be suitable for children under 10.) Wisconsin Maritime Museum, 75 Maritime Dr. Manitowoc, WI 54220 PH 920-684-0218 http://www.wisconsinmaritime.org/index.php Oct 30 & 31 Dark La Crosse Radio Show 7:30 pm. Learn about the seedier side of La Crosse's past in this new stage production in the format of an old time radio show. From the Red Light District, Prohibition era gangsters to the day the duck hunters died and a lynching, La Crosse has a dark, interesting history that deserves to be told! Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King Street, La Crosse, La Crosse County. Call 608-785-1434.

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Oct 30-31 Washburn – Zombie Days Washburn is going to be officially taken over by Zombies! There is the Give It Up To Dracula Blood Drive. Friday is a pumpkin carving contest at Washburn Hardware & Sport. Get your pumpkins there before the 5pm judging deadline. There will be a city-wide Zombie walk that everyone can do. Saturday brings a day full of activities. Art & craft vendors will be selling all day. Get there at the bewitching hour and you may catch that Zombie Dance! There is the Boogie Up the Hill, a 1 mile bike race up steep Washington Avenue. The "Lion's Club Kid's Carnival" will be at Washburn High School gym following the race. 2pm is the Halloween Parade. Participants from businesses and families alike join in! Finish the day with the Zombie 5K. This weekend of events is for individuals and family fun. PH: 715-373-5017 http://washburnchamber.com/?110970 Oct 30 - Gothic History Tour - Cedarburg 7-8:30pm. Prepare for true tales of murder, mystery and the macabre! You'd never know if from the outside but in the dark recesses of Cedarburg's past, there are tales so dark that it's taken months of research to pull them out for you! Prepare for a 90 minute walking tour (rain or snow) of Cedarburg's National Historic District including stops at some of our most notorious crime scenes. Tickets: $13 Adv/$15 Day of(if available). Sold out every year...buy tickets early - Cedarburg Cultural Center, W62 N546 Washington Ave, Cedarburg, Ozaukee County. Call 262-375-3676. Oct 31 – Madison – Freakfest Come celebrate Halloween in Madison at Freakfest 2015! Live music. Visit us online for ticket information. Don't forget to wear your best costume! Music by “Time Flies,” “Chase Rice,” “Mister Wives,” “The Cadillac Three,” “GGOOLLDD,” ”The OhMys,” “Chris LaBella,” “CrashPrez,” “Me En You.”

“Modern Mod,” Downtown Madison, State St., Madison, WI 53703 PH: 800-373-6376 http://host.madison.com/freakfest/ Oct 31-Nov 1 The “Grandest” Halloween Ever? Grand Hotel – Mackinac Island, MICH ! One of the most longed-for summer getaway destinations in the country, The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, is staging a gloriously spirited Halloween weekend, Oct. 30-Nov 1. You’ll see Grand Hotel as it has never been seen before! Things begin with a Welcome Cocktail Reception and a five-course dinner. Next there’s a Haunted Trail that visits the Pool House and the Gate House for a screening of the classic family movie, Hocus Pocus. Saturday continues with breakfast, Bloody Mary bar, pumpkin carving, a Haunted Theatre, Haunted Afternoon Tea and then – yes – a five-course dinner where costumes are appropriate. The Grand Halloween Ball and Costume Contest with Delilah DeWylde and the Lost Boys, Tarot card and Palm readings wraps it up. Reservations are required: PH: (800) 334-7263 http://tinyurl.com/plzjupv

WISCONSIN –Still Enjoying the Harvest! Eat! Feast!

6-15 Be Seated – and Eat! Dine Around the Lakes – Delavan- Lake Geneva Area Dine Around the Lakes is the official restaurant week – Nov. 6-15 - for Walworth County in the Lake Geneva area. More than fifteen restaurants offer a unique three-course menu for lunch or dinner - available only during Dine Around The Lakes week. Three-course lunches are $10-$15 per person and three-course dinners are $20 or $25. Highly regarded eateries range from Pier 290 on the water at Williams Bay, and The Hunt Club Steak House in Lake Geneva, to Frontier Restaurant at Lake Lawn Resort on Delavan Lake, and The Geneva Inn Restaurant overlooking Geneva Lake. Reservations are strongly encouraged. www.DineAroundtheLakes.com PH: 262-728-6000

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7 Harvest Fair - Racine Everyone is invited to browse through the many booths of handmade crafts and holiday decorations, jewelry, antiques & collectibles, toys, gift items, household helpers, bakery, homemade candy and treats, books, dolls, fresh fruit & vegetables, homemade jams & jellies, hand knit items, antique linens, and our popular "All in the Bag" booth. Have lunch at the newly expanded Harvest Fair Snack Bar, with delicious homemade soups, salads, sandwiches and desserts. Throughout the day, Inkapirka will perform hauntingly beautiful melodies that will carry you away to the mountains of Ecuador and lift your spirits. There will be several outside vendors and independent sales consultants selling their products too 9am-3pm. Racine Lutheran High School 251 Luedtke Ave Racine, WI 5340 262-637-6538

14-15 Holiday Harvest Wine and Food Festival – Prescott, Stockholm, Pepin Kick off the holiday season with great food, wine and cider. Visit six wineries along the Great River Road during this self-guided weekend. Sample seasonal food paired with delicious locally made wine and cider as you enjoy breathtaking views of the bluffs. Reduced price tickets for designated drivers are available. 715-448-3502; www.greatriverroadwinetrail.org 14 – Lutefisk Dinner in DeForest 9 am - 5pm. The area's best-tasting lutefisk, homemade meatballs, and the best potato lefse around, as well as rutabagas, mashed potatoes and gravy, cole slaw, dinner rolls, and delicious pies! Serving starts at 11am with seating every hour until 5pm. Call for reservations. Walk-in are also welcome. The Bazaar begins at 9am till close. Carry outs also available. $16. Christ Lutheran Church, 220 South Main Street, DeForest, Dane County. Call 608-846-4718.

14 – Osceola Lutefisk Diner 11 am to 7 pm. A traditional Scandinavian lutefisk dinner hosted by West Immanuel Lutheran Church. Dinner includes: Lutefisk, meatballs, potatoes, rutabagas, coleslaw, cranberries, lefse and pie. An added bonus is the church bazaar including baked and canned goods, crafts, and homemade lefse. Cost is $18.00 Adults, $6.00 children 12 and under. West Immanuel Lutheran Church, 447 180th St, Osceola, Polk County. Call 715 294 2936. 19 Ruby Nouveau Release Day –Prairie du Sac Join Wollersheim Winery Winemaker Philippe for a special toast at 11am as he taps the Ruby Nouveau barrel. This special toast will be celebrated with Wisconsin sausage and cheese. Ruby Nouveau is Wisconsin’s version of a Beaujolais Nouveau, traditionally released the third Thursday in November. Our Ruby Nouveau is from our estate-grown Foch grapes and Winemaker Philippe follows the traditional methods of whole berry fermentation. (No admission fee. Open to the public.) 1-800-847-9463 www.wollersheim.com 20 Fiftieth Annual Venison Feed - Tomahawk - 50th Annual Venison feed. For 50 years Tomahawk has welcomed hunters to the area with free venison burgers with chips and soda served from 11:30am until gone. Downtown Tomahawk PH 715-453-5334 http://www.gototomahawk.com/

WISCONSIN – What the Heck? What is this Stuff?!

Oct 31 – Belleville – UFO Day A day to celebrate Unidentified Flying Objects that were once seen around the Belleville area. Pancake Breakfast, craft show, a “saucer” bean toss and huge “Alien Parade” at 1PM. Music and a costume ball. www.belleville-wi.com PH: (608) 438-4472

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Oct 31 & Nov 1, 7,8 – Chilton - Cave Tour 1 pm. Take a naturalist-guided tour of Carolyn's Caverns. Includes biology and geology of caves and opportunities for exploring. Caves are accessed by ladders. Temperatures are cool. Bring flashlight, plan on getting dirty. Recommended minimum age 5 years old with parent. All minors must be accompanied by supervising adult. Tour size limited, reservations recommended. $6 per person. Ledge View Nature Center, 1 m. south of Chilton between Hwys. G and 57 (via Irish Road), W2348 Short Rd, Chilton, Calumet County. Call 920-849-7094 7 Fall Bird Migration Day - Ferryville Enjoy watching swans, white pelicans, varieties of ducks and many other migrating birds as they head to warmer climates for the winter. Spotting scopes available. A member of the Audubon Society will be present to help identify birds. A family friendly event with refreshments at Ferryville River View Park on Hwy 35 in the middle of the Village - Nov 7, 2015. 9-11am. http://www.visitferryville.com/

14 Horicon National Wildlife Refuge - Open House Horicon Marsh Winter Open House - Stop in and visit with the Friends of Horicon National Wildlife Refuge and enjoy musical performances by popular children's artists Ken Lonnquist and Dave Adler at 11am and 1pm, nature crafts, and holiday discounts at the Coot's Corner Bookstore. All activities free. W4279 Headquarters Rd Mayville, WI53050 ph 920-387-2658. http://www.fws.gov/refuge/horicon/

14-15 Here Come the Trains! Trainfest – West Allis Full steam ahead! America’s largest operating model railroad show is November 14-15 in West Allis, Wisconsin. It covers almost five football fields with exhibits featuring 70 unique and intricate railroads. Families love to play with trains! More than 25,000 people and model hobbyists participate in this celebration of model railroading. Whether you’re a beginner just interested in checking out a new hobby, or a bib-overall-wearing train fanatic looking to trade tips, Trainfest will punch your ticket! Kids get in free. PH: 262-782-4637; www.trainfest.com 5 It's in the Details: Architecture Tour & Trip to Tower Thursday, November 5, 2015. 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm. See the Old Washington County Courthouse in a new way! Discover architectural details, learn the meanings behind the symbolism, and trace the construction of this local and national landmark. Climb to the balcony level of the tower and see features rarely seen by the public. Patrons must wear sensible shoes and be able to climb steep stairs (109 steps from 1st to 6th floor). $8/WCHS members, $15/non-member. Reservations and prepayment required. Washington County Historical Society, 320 S 5th Ave, West Bend, Washington County. Call 262-335-4678. 5 Pechakucha Night – Madison Thursday, November 5, 2015. 7pm. What is PechaKucha? The concept is simple: Each presenter shows 20 images for 20 seconds apiece. It's an event that is never the same twice, so leave your expectations at the door. Monona Terrace is proud to serve as the official Madison site for PechaKucha International. Cash bar on site. Free. Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center, One John Nolen Drive, Madison, Dane County. Call 608-261-4000.

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10 - Meet the Author: Terese Allen Tuesday - 1pm. Meet the author of Flavors. Allen shares the stories behind such varied foods as cream puffs, Hmong egg rolls and the Friday night fish fry. From Ojibwe wild rice to arugula pesto pasta, she tracks the amazing cornucopia of what Wisconsinites have gathered, grown, produced, cooked, and eaten. Allen has written hundreds of articles and books about the pleasures and benefits of regional foods, sustainable cooking and culinary folklore. Free. Madison Senior Center, 330 W Mifflin, Madison, Dane County. Call 608-266-6581.

WISCONSIN – GOT ART? Music? Ethnic?& Junque. Sure! Now – December 27 – Fort Atkinson - It’s a Wonderful Life - The Musical Frank Capra's story of George Bailey and his life in Bedford Falls has brought hope and inspiration to millions. The Fireside continues its long tradition of bringing you the finest in Christmas entertainment with a stunning, live stage version of this beloved film. Written by Pulitzer and Tony Award winning lyricist Sheldon Harnick and Grammy and Emmy Award winner Joe Raposo, A Wonderful Life captures all the magic of the film with the true spirit of Christmas. Seven shows weekly Wed - Sun. Dinner Theatre Packages $79.07 including tax. Youth packages $52.70 for ages 14 and under. Fireside Dinner Theatre, 1131 Janesville Ave, Fort Atkinson, Jefferson County. Call 800-477-9505 31 – Stoughton – Rosemaling Holiday Show and A Taste of Norway The annual rosemaling holiday show has a wonderful array of beautifully rosemaled painted items. Hosted by the Wisconsin State Rosemaling Association. The town of Stoughton has many Norwegian themed events happening in conjunction with this annual sale - 9 am to 2 pm at the Stoughton Fire Department Training Room, 401 East Main Street, Stoughton, WI. Norwegian Dancers on Division Street at 3:00PM. Sons of Norway Bake Sale and “A Taste of Norway” from 8:30-2:00 PM. Cookbook sales, Sons of Norway items, and a variety of Norwegian and American baked goods including lefse, donuts will be sold. Breakfast/luncheon items will include varme pølse (wieners in lefse), barbeque, Norsk heart shaped waffles, rømmegrøt, and other items.PH: 608-873-7912 http://www.stoughtonwi.com/october_norwegian_destination/default.asp 1 – Monroe - Get a Bit Swiss! Swissfest If you’re in Monroe, Wisconsin on November 1, listen…you may hear the Alphorns calling! Follow the sound to the Old World Ratskeller Restaurant at Turner Hall. Enjoy some of the finest Swiss music, dance and culinary traditions at Swissfest. Turner Hall is a center of Swiss heritage established in 1868 and is likely the only Turner Hall of Swiss origin left in the United States. The building is a Swiss Emmenthal-style chalet listed on the National and State Register of Historic Places . The Ratskeller Restaurant will be open following the program. 1217 17th Ave, Monroe, WI 53566 PH: 608-325-3461 http://www.turnerhallofmonroe.org/ 4 – Johnny Cash Tribute –The Liam Ford Band – Madison 5:30-7pm. At Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center – Free – The award-winning Liam Ford Band with a tribute to Johnny Cash. A cash bar and light fare are available for purchase at 5pm. Ample seating available. A wooden dance floor will be available at all in door concerts. PH:608-261-4000 http://www.mononaterrace.com/

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5 – Michael Perry and the Long Beds – Stoughton Join famous Wisconsin author (& musician!) Michael Perry and his band the Long Beds for a night of music punctuated by stories (some new and some “classic”). He hosts the nationally-syndicated Big Top Chautauqua’s “Tent Show Radio,” performs widely as a humorist, and tours with the Long Beds, a roughneck folk group that honors the spirit of folks like John Prine, Waylon Jennings, and James McMurtry. 608-877-4400 http://www.stoughtonoperahouse.com

5-9 Sixth Annual. Driftless Film Festival - Mineral Point The Driftless Film Festival is a celebration of independent cinema in the beautifully restored Mineral Point Opera House. This annual film festival features both award-winning independent films and Wisconsin-based productions while enriching the community with face-to-face interaction with the filmmakers. Mineral Point Opera House 608-260-8725 http://driftlessfilmfest.org/

6 GALLERY NIGHT - Oconomowoc Artists set up in local shops downtown to exhibit their talents. The downtown shopping district stays open late to host the artists and in-store specials. Free horse and buggy rides are offered through downtown and you will catch a strolling barbershop quartet along with other fun activities....East Wisconsin Ave., 262-567-5755 http://www.downtownoconomowoc.org/ 6-8 Discover Picker’s Paradise! Lake Country Arts & Antiques Show - Waukesha Who knows what treasure you’ll find? Maybe a signed Elvis photo, a chair once sat in by Orson Wells, or maybe a rare Coke bottle to complete your collection! On Nov. 6-8 scour the displays of more than seventy antique dealers from all corners of the country who’ll display American and English furniture, accessories, folk art, jewelry, art, oriental rugs, lighting, clocks and all kinds of memorabilia. It’s all at the Waukesha County Fair Grounds, 1000 Northview Road in Waukesha, WI 53188. PH: 262-968-4913 www.antiquescenteratwales.com 6-8 Roll Em! The Big Water Film Festival – Ashland Featuring some three dozen films “as fresh as Lake Superior,” Big Water Film Festival Nov. 6-8 is the cinematic jewel of Ashland, Wisconsin. The primary screening venue is the classic Bay Theater, 420 Main Street West. The festival includes features, shorts, documentaries, and animation work by regional and local filmmakers, as well as national and international films. A Friday night gala reception at The Office Bar across the street from the Bay Theater, kicks off the weekend, showcasing area cuisine. Saturday morning Vaughn Public Library hosts “Cinema and Cinnamon Rolls.” Among featured films are: Angel Azul, exploring the artistic journey of Jason deCaires Taylor, who creates artificial coral reefs from statues of live models; Counting Wolves looks at the wolf population on Isle Royal in Lake Superior; and Old Fashioned: The Story of the Wisconsin Supper Club is by Holly L. De Ruyter. A full festival pass is $35 and partial day passes are $8. PH: 715-682-6442; www.bigwaterfilmfestival.org

7 Sweet Dreams and Honky Tonks - the music of Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn and Johnny Cash. Chippewa Falls It may be impossible to crown any one performer as country music’s biggest star, but few would argue that Hank Williams, Loretta Lynn, Patsy Cline, and Johnny Cash would all be near the top of any list. Each broke barriers and changed country and popular music forever. Sweet Dreams & Honky Tonks is a new revue that presents the best-loved hits of these classic artists along with stories of their colorful lives and amazing careers. Sweet Dreams & Honky Tonks stars two Wisconsin music veterans: Tom Waselchuk and Jami Lampkins. 7:30pm. Heyde Center for the Arts. 3 S. High Street. Chippewa Falls, WI 54729. PH 715-726-9000. http://www.cvca.net/

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8 International Folk Fair - Eau Claire For over 30 years international folk fair has been one of the largest celebrations of culture and heritage. This celebration includes cultural and educational exhibits, traditional music, dance, clothing, and food from over 40 countries. International students along with community groups participate in the fair. Admission is free. Many groups sell food or cultural items to raise money for their organization. 715-836-3727 http://www.uwec.edu/CIE/divisions/services/students/cultural/folkfair.htm

13 Second Annual Gatsby Jazz Fest Eau Claire Jazz, Inc and UW-Eau Claire Jazz Studies are creating a Jazz Age party scene like the ones in the 2013 film “The Great Gatsby” starring Leonardo DiCaprio. This is a show, play, and dance all rolled into one. It is more than a concert. From the moment party-goers approach the W. R. Davies University Student Center, they will be immersed in a 1920s-era Long Island scene of bootleggers, flappers, jazz bands, dancers, champagne, fancy cars, stills, crooked politicians, gangsters in flashy suits, cops on the take… and characters from the movie: Daisy & Tom, Nick, Jordan, and Mr. Jay Gatsby himself. PH:715-836-4092 http://www.eauclairejazz.com/events/gatsbys-gala/

14-15 November Art Fair Off The Square - Madison. The 26th annual Winter Art Fair Off the Square will feature 140 Wisconsin artists and craftspeople as well as thousands of their works. Visitors will see paintings, sculptures, jewelry, handbags, mosaics, ceramics, clothing, musical instruments, photography, mixed media, woodwork, graphics, fiber arts, and glasswork –all for sale. Every work has been created by the juried artists and craftspeople who will be present in their booths. The Fair is produced by the Wisconsin Alliance of Artists and Craftspeople, Inc., a group of artists dedicated to producing art fairs to benefit fellow artists. The Winter Fair Off the Square also offers live music, a silent auction, a young collectors corner, a booth which benefits Badger Childhood Cancer, and good food. Sat9-5 sun 10-4pm Monona Terrace Community Convention Center - 608-204-9121. http://www.artcraftwis.org/WinterAF.html

14-15 Wausau Antique Show & Sale Sat. 9 to 5pm; Sun. 10 to 4pm. This Sale is in Central Wis. at Marathon Park, in East Gate Hall, Wausau, WI. There are 35 Quality booths of Antiques & Vintage Finds from 1880 to 1965. Plus a Clock Repairer to assist you. See Toys, furniture, tools, Jewelry, Am. Indian, art, postcards, Architectural accessories, stoneware, Holiday items & MORE! Free Parking. $4.50 over 15, good for both days. Marathon Park, East Gate Hall, 1201 Stewart, Wausau, Marathon County. Call 715-355-5144, www.antiqueshowsinwis.com 20 November Art Walk - Fond du Lac Stroll historic downtown Fond du Lac. All manners of artists - from painters, to jewelry makers, to mixed media artists, to cheese artisans, and every medium in between - grace our downtown's venues with their wares for purchase. This event is always free! PH 920-921-1144. http://www.tourthetownfdl.com/ 25 – 50s & 60s Rock n Roll Concert – Little Vito & The Torpedos - Madison 5:30-7pm. At Monona Terrace Community & Convention Center – Free - A cash bar and light fare are available for purchase at 5pm. Ample seating available. A wooden dance floor will be available at all in door concerts. PH:608-261-4000 http://www.mononaterrace.com/

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WISCONSIN – That’s The Spirit! 7 Raise a Glass for Big Foot! – Lake Geneva Craft Beer and Spirits lovers already have this one marked on their calendars: The Grand Geneva Resort and Spa brings in a wagon load of beer and high-fashion spirits from more than thirty-five Midwest craft breweries and distilleries for the Beer and Spirits Fest 1-5PM on Nov. 7. Craft brewers range from Abita from Louisiana, Three Sheeps from Sheboygan, and Potosi Brewing Company to Bell Brewing from Michigan. Don’t miss the unlimited food sampling, live music and unbeatable late autumn scenery at this legendary Wisconsin resort. A silent auction benefits the Friends of Big Foot State Park. Tickets are $45. PH: 262-245-1000; www.lakegenevabeerandspirits.com 7 - JCI Wisconsin's Brew Bash 5 pm - 8 pm. Tickets are available at Festival Foods locations in Appleton, Darboy, Neenah, and Oshkosh. This event gives you the opportunity to sample microbrews from around Wisconsin. New this year, local wineries, meaderies, and distilleries. Great prizes to be given away, wonderful silent auction items to bid on including Packers memorabila, and fun games and activities to participate in. $35 in advance, $40 Online, $50 at the door (If available). Darboy Club, N9695 County Road N, Appleton, Outagamie County. Call 920-731-7681 14-15 Cheers to the Great River Road! Holiday Harvest Wine and Food Fest – IA-MN-WI Kick off the holiday season Nov. 14-15, 10AM to 5PM with great food, wine and cider – and spectacular scenic drives in Great River Road Country! The eleven wineries along the Great River Road Wine Trail range from Marquette Iowa in the south to Cannon Falls, MN and Prescott Wisconsin in the north. Sample local seasonal food paired with delicious regional wines and cider on this exciting self-guided tour. Advance tickets are $25 per person. Sunday only tickets are $20. Each ticket holder receives a wine trail glass and a six-bottle wine tote at the first winery. Your ticket and wine glass entitle you to free wine and food at each winery. Plan your excursion and order tickets on-line at www.greatriverroadwinetrail.org. PH: 715-448-3502 Raise your glass and toast the breathtaking views of the bluffs and unsurpassed beauty of the mighty Mississippi River!

WISCONSIN – Competition Capital!

19-20 Wisconsin High School Football Championship. -Madison Cheer on high school teams from around Wisconsin as they compete for the State Championship. PH: 715-344-8580 http://www.visitmadison.com/wiaa/ 21Wisconsin Cream Cheese Competition - Beaver Dam Wisconsin is home to one of the premiere Kraft Philadelphia Brand Cream Cheese processing plants in the nation. Our dairy pride takes center stage as Beaver Dam annually plays host to the Midwest Cream Cheese Competition with Kraft products as preferred ingredients in any cream cheese recipe. - This year's event features Miss Wisconsin and Tourism Secretary Stephanie Klett. Beaver Dam Country Club - W8884 Sunset Dr PH: 920-887-8879 http://www.creamcheesecompetition.com/

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WISCONSIN – Holiday Time!

30-NOV 1 Jack O’ Lantern Days – Fish Creek This hometown Halloween celebration is family-oriented with fun events like The Great Pumpkin Carving, Door County Trolley Ghost Tours and costume parties. Bring your four-legged friends and dress them up for the spook-tacular pet-friendly events. Don’t miss the Halloween parade and mask making events on Saturday. It’s scary how much fun you’ll have! 920-868-2316; www.visitfishcreek.com

12 Holiday Parade - Oshkosh. 6:30 PM. Annual Christmas parade featuring floats, marching bands, animals, walking units, giant balloons and Santa Claus. Tree lighting downtown 6pm. PH: 920-303-2266 http://www.visitoshkosh.com/

14 Holiday Craft Bonanza - Mount Horeb A unique holiday craft fair. Experience Norwegian culture, visit with Julenisse (Norwegian Santa) and Jorgen the Troll, quality crafters, wagon rides, door prizes, raffles, quilts, bake sales and refreshments. $2 admission (held at and proceeds go to the Mount Horeb Middle School). 9am -4pm PH: 888-765-5914 http://trollway.com/event/holiday-craft-bonanza-2/2015-11-14/

20 Holiday Light Parade and Tree Lighting. A Christmas tradition with both homemade and professionally built floats adorned with lights and holiday cheer. Parade begins at 6pm. Tree lighting, choir, dancers and fireworks on the river to follow at 7:30pm in Sauk City Historic Park. 608-643-4168. http://saukprairieriverway.com/ 20-22 Christmas by the Bay - Sturgeon Bay - Usher in the spirit of the holiday season all weekend long during Sturgeon Bay's Christmas by the Bay celebration. The weekend kicks off with a tree lighting ceremony on Friday at 7pm. There will be live holiday music by Josh Gregory, Hervy Hodges, and Nick Hoover 6-8pm at the Clock Tower along with free wagon rides. Saturday the celebration continues with the annual Sturgeon Bay Holiday Parade at 10am. After the parade, attendees are welcome to meet Santa and his reindeer at the Door County Historical Museum from 11am-3pm. There will be live music noon-2pm as well as free wagon and trolley rides 11am-3pm. Sunday morning the event comes to a close during breakfast with Santa at Stone Harbor Resort from 9:30-11am. The weekend promises to be an enjoyable time with activities destined to awaken the holiday spirit in everyone! Come one, come all - the more the merrier! PH: 920-743-6246 www.sturgeonbay.net 20-22 Madison Holiday Art Fair The annual Holiday Art Fair is an excellent showcase of contemporary fine art and craft during the gift-giving season. This juried show includes more than 90 artists exhibiting ceramics, fiber art, glass, jewelry, paintings, prints, photographs, and more. The festive event will also feature performances by local arts organizations throughout the weekend, holiday refreshments, Rediscovered Arts & Treasures Sale, silent auction, and the popular Gourmet Gallery filled with treats for every taste. Madison Museum of Contemporary Art - State Street - PH: 608-257-0158 http://www.mmoca.org/programs-events/events/holiday-art-fair 20-22 International Holiday Folk Fair - West Allis - America's Premier Cultural Festival -Explore the customs and traditions of the world's diverse cultures as you sample regional cuisine, enjoy lively music and dance and purchase beautifully handcrafted goods. Experience the sights sounds and tastes of the world right here in Wisconsin! PH:414-225-6225. http://www.folkfair.org/

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20-22 Kohler Annual Holiday Market - 33rd annual Holiday Market at The American Club featuring 100+ vendors of handcrafted, one-of-a-kind and holiday-themed goods. Lunch is available in the Horse & Plow and a buffet is offered in the Wisconsin Room. Beverages available from the Foyer Bar on the Conference Level PH: 844-289-1566 http://www.americanclubresort.com/calendar/november-2015

21 Milwaukee Holiday Parade - this Holiday Tradition will feature approximately 100 units and take about one hour to pass . Since 1927, the Downtown Milwaukee Holiday Parade has been a cherished Milwaukee Holiday tradition. Downtown, starts at 9:30am PH: 262-377-5935 http://www.milwaukeeparade.com/

21Holiday Art Fair of Washington County - West Bend - Featuring all handmade wares, this Craft Fair is the perfect place for Holiday shopping. More than 80 unique vendors along with food and beverages. PH: 262-677-5060 http://www.wcfairpark.com/holiday-craft-fair-of-washington-county-2/ 21 Celtic Christmas Boutique - Milwaukee 9 am-3:30 pm. Shop at the 15th annual Celtic Christmas Boutique at the Milwaukee Irish Fest Center. This unique event showcases gifts from the Emerald Isle and beyond, including Irish and other wares from 30 vendors and artists. Shop Celtic jewelry, clothing, pottery, photography, decor, and beauty products. Shoppers are also invited to enjoy Irish fare at Cafe Celtique. Menu items include scones, potato soup and McBob's famous corned-beef sandwiches. FREE. Milwaukee Irish Fest Center, 1532 Wauwatosa Ave, Milwaukee 24 Downtown Appleton Nighttime Christmas Parade - The 45th annual staging of Wisconsin's largest night time Christmas parade with more than 100 floats, bands and marching units. Santa Scamper 1-mile run at 6pm. Parade starts at 7:00PM PH: 920-954-9112 http://www.appletondowntown.org/events/calendar 25 Lakeshore Holiday Parade - Manitowoc Kick off the holiday season and the illumination of the downtown holiday decorations with floats, marching bands and a visit with Santa Claus at the Rahr West Art Museum. 6:30 PM PH: 920-686-3580 http://manitowoc.org/index.aspx?NID=292 26 Thanksgiving Day Parade - Jacksonport - Door County This casual, fun parade is an annual event on Hwy 57. See it twice, coming and going! PH: 920-421-0719. 10:30 AM http://www.jacksonport.net/event/19th-annual-thanksgiving-day-parade/ 27 - Holiday Firetruck Parade - Sun Prairie - A start to the Holiday Season! Join our Volunteer Fire Dept. and other surrounding Fire Departments for our annual Holiday Lighted Firetruck Parade down Main Street. 608-512-9743 http://www.cityofsunprairie.com/Calendar.aspx?EID=524 27-29 Door 44 and Parallel 44 Winery Annual Holiday Open Houses 10 am - 5 pm each day. Sturgeon Bay and Kewaunee -The wineries are decked out for the holidays! Enjoy complementary wine flights and special discounts. Build your own gift boxes and stock up on wine for your holiday celebrations! Door 44 Winery, 4020 Hwy 42/57, Sturgeon Bay, Door County. Call 888-932-0044. Parallel 44 Vineyard & Winery, N2185 Sleepy Hollow Road, Kewaunee, Kewaunee County. Call 888-932-0044

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27-29 German Christmas Market - Oconomowoc Get the family out of the house on Thanksgiving weekend and celebrate Wisconsin's German heritage at this family festival that features heated tents, German beer, music, live bands, authentic German cuisine, vendors, Santa and more. PH: 262-569-2185 http://www.germanchristmasmarket.org/home.html 27 -Dec 14 Bayfield Holiday Hop Shop - Visit local businesses, win prizes! There are 22 local businesses participating in the Shop Hop. Pick up your Shop Hop Passport and take it to participating businesses and get it stamped at as many possible. There will be no purchase required, you just have to stop in and get a stamp. Return your stamped Passport to the Bayfield Chamber and Visitor Bureau by Monday, December 14. We will be drawing winners from the Passports turned in. PH: 715-779-3335 http://business.bayfield.org/events/details/bayfield-holiday-shop-hop-16181 28 A Vintage Christmas - Prairie du Sac - Wollersheim Winery - Experience old-world charm as you prepare for Christmas! A Vintage Christmas is held Saturday, November 28 from 10am to 4pm, and will get you into the holiday spirit. - Holiday Wine Tour | A complimentary self-guided wine tour is offered with a sprinkling of tastings and holiday entertaining tips. This special tour is in lieu of the regular guided tour. Also: Wine Tasting & Holiday Food | Christmas Carolers Holiday Gift Ideas | An offering of Wisconsin gift ideas for the wine enthusiast will be showcased PH: 1-800-847-9463 www.wollersheim.com 28 Madeline Island Holiday Boutique -La Pointe This holiday event at the Madeline Island Museum features local and regional arts and crafts and a soup lunch to benefit the island school parent/teacher association. PH: 715-747-2057 http://madelineisland.chambermaster.com/events/details/madeline-island-holiday-boutique-1054

28-29, Dec. 5-6, 12-13 East Troy Electric Train - Christmas Express Train The East Troy Electric Railroad’s 2015 Christmas Train will take you on a magical ride from our East Troy depot to Santa's Workshop, located at The Elegant Farmer in Mukwonago. Children can visit Santa, enjoy cookies and hot chocolate, plus take home a creative craft project. The railroad cars are heated and bathrooms are available at the East Troy depot. Advance Reservations Are Required. Tickets can be purchased online or in our depot at 2002 Church St, East Troy, on Saturdays and Sundays. PH: 262-642-3263 http://www.easttroyrr.org/ 28-29 Mid-continent Railroad Santa Express Train - North Freedom - Celebrate the holiday season in a uniquely festive way aboard the 20th Annual Santa Express. Santa will visit as you take in the spirit of Christmas past on our early 1900’s adventure. All cars are kept comfortably warm using the over century-old tradition of steam heating or coal-fired stoves, just like at the North Pole. Santa will be on board bringing good cheer! Coach Fares: Adults (18+): $21, Seniors (62+): $20, Students (13-17): $17, Children (3-12): $12, 2 and under free. No caboose or cab rides available, no discounts, coupons, or group rates. PH: 608-522-4261. http://www.midcontinent.org/ 28-29 Spring Green Country Christmas - There’s something for everyone at the annual Country Christmas including Breakfast with Santa, holiday crafts to make and to buy, horse-drawn wagon rides, Holiday Tour of Homes, Holiday Luncheon and Fashion Show, Spring Green Library book and bake sale, free movies for kids, music, tree lighting ceremony, progressive dinner, fireworks, Christmas shopping and tasty things to eat. PH:608-588-2042 http://www.springgreen.com/

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

OTHERS IN WISCONSIN: (all free) Calumet County Guide – 920-849-1442 www.travelcalumet.com Chippewa County Travel Guide – 866-723-0331 www.ChippewaCounty.com Door County Visitors Guide – 800-527-3529 http://www.doorcounty.com/web/contact.asp Fox Cities Area Guide – 800-223-6667 www.foxcities.org Grant County Travel Guide – 608-348-8888 www.Platteville.com Green Bay Visitor’s Guide – 888-867-3342 www.GreenBay.com Green County Travel Guide – 888-222-9111 www.GreenCounty.com Kenosha Area Visitors Guide – 800-654-7309 www.KenoshaCVB.com Kewaunee County Guide – 800-290-4299 www.VisitKewauneeCounty.com Madison Area Visitor Guide – 800-373-6376 http://www.visitmadison.com Mineral Point Travel Guide – 888-764-6894 www.MineralPoint.com Minocqua Area Destination Guide – 800-44-NORTH www.minocqua.org Racine – Real Racine Guide - 800-272-2463 www.realracine.com Sauk Prairie Visitors Packet – 800- 683-2453 http://www.saukprairie.com/visitorspacket.html St. Croix Valley & Polk County Guides (ask Sue for both) 800-222-7655 www.VisitrSCF.com Superior & Douglas Country Travel Guide - 800-942-5313 www.VisitSuperior.com

OTHERS – NEIGHBORING STATES, REGIONAL, ETC Chicago Office of Tourism: Free Guide & App - http://www.choosechicago.com Illinois Travel – http://www.enjoyillinois.com/brochures/ Iowa Tourism – http://www.traveliowa.com/ 888.472.6035 or 515.725.3084 Lake Michigan Circle Tour and Lighthouse Map – 1-800-442-2084 or at www.WMTA.org Lanesboro, Minnesota Visitor Guide 800-657-4972 Michigan – http://www.michigan.org/ Minnesota Tourism Travel Counselors at explore@state.mn.us, or 1-888-TOURISM (1-888-868-7476).

Minnesota – Mississippi Valley Bluff Country (on-line) http://www.ExploreMississippiBluffs.com Mississippi Valley Partners (WI-MN) www.mississippi-river.org 1-888-999-2619 Red Wing, Minnesota www.redwing.org 1-651-385-5934 800-498-3444 Wabasha-Kellogg, Minnesota – www.wabashamn.org 1-800-565-4158 West Michigan Travel Guide - 616-245-2217 www.wmta.org/publications-24/ Winona, Minnesota Visitor Guide – (800) 657-4972 www.VisitWinona.com

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

more events- four good sources: www.WisTravel.com, www.Wisconline .com, www.TravelWisconsin.com or http://hwy23events.wordpress.com XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX