Looking for fun this winter? You can eat, play and learn your way through Wisconsin! Attend a beer and cheese fest, learn about local wildlife, take in a film or listen to a band. These events are sure to heat up your winter calendar.
Photo: Manitowoc Noon Rotary, Manitowoc Winter Brew Fest
NEILLSVILLE WINTER CARNIVAL, NEILLSVILLE
FEBRUARY 20-22, 2026
A full weekend of fun events can be found at this unique winter carnival. Starting Friday evening with a variety show, visitors can participate in a polar plunge, a trophy trap shoot, a card tournament, a cornhole tournament, a free family swim and more. Finish off the weekend on Sunday starting with a delicious pancake breakfast.
MANITOWOC WINTER BREW FEST, MANITOWOC
FEBRUARY 21, 2026
An event that would make Manitowoc Minute’s Charlie Berens proud. Come try local beers, as well as domestic, while helping support the community! Hosted by the Manitowoc Noon Rotary, proceeds from this event will be used for community projects. Not a beer fan? This event also features mocktails and coffee samples, as well as pretzel necklaces and charcuterie.
WILD GAME FEED AND SPORTSMEN’S EXPO, OGEMA
FEBRUARY 28, 2026
Calling all avid sportsmen! This free event features 20 vendors, a keynote and guest speakers, as well as the chance to view various mounts. Participants can partake in various foods provided, as well as bring their own wild game entree to pass. All attendees age 12 and up will be entered for a raffle.
THE FRENCH FAMILY BAND, TOMAH
MARCH 7, 2026
Join The French Family Band for an evening of country music and past hits! The French family is Nashville based, by way of Australia. Finding fame during Covid, the Frenches are loved by thousands. Come listen to covers of songs by Waylon Jennings, Karen Carpenter, Eric Clapton and more.
BELOIT INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL, BELOIT
MARCH 20-29, 2026
Have you ever wanted to attend Tribeca or Sundance Film Festivals? You can attend a festival just as great, according to The New York Times, right here in Wisconsin! This 10 day event allows visitors from all over the world to watch independent films at a variety of locations. Directors, writers and others involved in making the films attend, allowing viewers to ask questions and discuss all things movies.
SPRING BASH & AUCTION, CUSHING
APRIL 11, 2026
Looking for fun for the whole family? Cushing’s Spring Bash and Auction is sure to delight! Starting off with a lasagna dinner, both adults and kids can participate in games of bingo to win prizes. After the games there will be a live auction for all to enjoy.
CHIPPEWA VALLEY BEE EXPO, CHIPPEWA FALLS
APRIL 17-18, 2026
It’s no secret that bees make the world go round. Come learn more about these small, but mighty pollinators at a bee expo! Whether you’re a beekeeper, looking to get into beekeeping or you just love bees, there is something for you. Attendees will learn about pollinators and sustainable living, along with the opportunity to engage with vendors.
THE EAU CLAIRE JAZZ FESTIVAL JAZZ CRAWL, EAU CLAIRE
APRIL 17-18, 2026
Jazz enthusiasts and all music lovers will be able to enjoy a night full of live music as downtown Eau Claire turns into an all-ages, New York jazz crawl. With 18 venues and over 50 different groups, there is sure to be something for everyone. Venues include all-ages and 21+.
WISCONSIN GRILLED CHEESE CHAMPIONSHIP, DODGEVILLE
APRIL 25, 2026
Sandwich makers across the state will compete to see who can make the best gourmet grilled cheese. Attendees will not only be able to see the chefs in action, but sample foods from a variety of vendors and food trucks, as well as indulge in treats such as Bloody Marys or hot cocoa!