Travel Calumet Original Podcast episode 22 - a discussion on the agritourism movement is now available, along with all previous, here, on the Travel Calumet website. Sheila Everhart, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association (WATA); Clara Hedrich, Vice President of the WATA board of directors; and Jean Bahn, Chair of WATA's Advocacy Committee are the guests.

A Mile Down The Road arrives at Calumet County's Crystal Ballroom

By Rick Sense, Calumet County

Congratulations to the Mile of Music Festival organizers and Calumet County’s own Crystal Ballroom on the successful first-ever “A Mile Down The Road” music experience that took place Saturday, June 15 as a 2pm matinee performance at the amazing Crystal Ballroom AKA “The Crystal” in St. John.

Flagship Romance headlined this special event, making their way from Louisville, Kentucky. Also on the card was Girl & The Gunn. The event was an all-seated, all-listening experience that ran from 2-4pm.

Eric Krueger, co-owner of The Crystal Ballroom along with his wife Dana, stated, "It was an absolute pleasure to work with the fantastic Mile of Music Presents Team to bring a taste of "The Mile" to the historic Crystal Ballroom in St. John. The event filled the room with passionate music enthusiasts from our surrounding communities, also providing them a glimpse of the beauty of Calumet County. As strong advocates for the arts, hosting 2 incredibly talented, original music acts in this unique venue was truly memorable to say the least!" 

The event was held at Calumet County’s Crystal Ballroom in St. John (near Sherwood) located at W3307 Co Rd B, in Hilbert. The Crystal Ballroom is an iconic and historical dance hall that hosts music and dance events as well as weddings and other specialty occasions.

Dave Willems, of the Mile of Music Presents Team, shared, “Our very first A Mile Down The Road experience was, as we suspected, a really good one. Eric and Dana are a delight to work with and the 100 or so Mile fans who attended couldn’t believe what a cool space it was. Many had not been aware of The Crystal so it was really neat to see their faces light up when they walked into the room. It’s a lively room acoustically, so we were particularly pleased when the sound through our portable system was able to be dialed in so that it was a good show for the artists and the attendees. Our goal is to bring the unique vibe of original music to special spaces and rooms around the region, so this was a great way to kick things off. We look forward to being back at The Crystal later this year!”



To learn more about The Crystal Ballroom, listen to the Travel Calumet Original Podcast episode featuring the owners of The Crystal Ballroom, Eric and Dana Krueger by visiting the Travel Calumet website and selecting episode #14 on the Travel Calumet Original Podcast page.

U.S. Biathlon Midwest Regionals Summer Biathlon, inaugural roller ski races come to Ariens Nordic Center July 19-21, 2024

From Ariens Nordic Center

Enjoy individual and mass start formats over two race days. Fun shooting competitions and an outdoor social event at the Nordic center. Great trails, great people and great food prepared by our executive Chef await you in Brillion, WI!

OVERVIEW

Friday, July 19

Training, Course Preview, Coaches Meeting

Saturday, July 20

Two races – individual start race, Shootout Challenge, & Social Event

Sunday, July 21

Two races – mass start race with wave starts, Sunday evening optional Biathlon Masters Clinic for additional fee

Biathlon Rollerski 1.6k Orange Course

Biathlon Rollerski 2.1k Orange Course

Biathlon Rollerski 1.2k Orange Course

DETAILS

(SUBJECT TO CHANGE)

Friday, July 19

• 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM Official training with course preview
• 5:00 PM – 5:30 PM Coaches Meeting

Saturday, July 20

• 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Bib pickup
• 9:00 AM – 9:45 AM RACE ONE, Zero – Biathlon IBU Yh/Jr/Sr, Masters
• 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM RACE ONE, Individual Start – Biathlon IBU Yh/Jr/Sr, Masters, awards to immediately follow
• 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM RACE TWO, Zero – Biathlon IPC/U13/U15/U17
• 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM RACE TWO, Individual Start – Biathlon IPC/U13/U15/U17, awards to immediately follow
• 3:00 PM – 3:30 PM Re-Zero for all
• 3:45 PM – 4:15 PM Shootout Challenge for all
• 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM Social Event for all at Ariens Nordic Center

Sunday, July 21

• 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM Bib pickup
• 9:00 AM – 9:45 AM RACE ONE, Zero – Biathlon IBU Yh/Jr/Sr, Masters
• 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM RACE ONE, Mass Start – Biathlon IBU Yh/Jr/Sr, Masters, awards to immediately follow
• 12:00 PM – 12:45 PM RACE TWO, Zero – Biathlon IPC/U13/U15/U17
• 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM RACE TWO, Mass Start – Biathlon IPC/U13/U15/U17, awards to immediately follow
• 2:30 PM – 7:00 PM Biathlon Masters Clinic, led by Gregg Pattison, ages 30+, high performance shooting, detailed stage 1-2-3-4 analysis, speed work, trigger, high performance ski coaching, individual analysis, tips, etc.

To learn more about Ariens Nordic Center, make sure to check out episodes #1 and #17 of the Travel Calumet Original Podcast. To access, visit the Travel Calumet website and select episode #1 and episode #17 on the Travel Calumet Original Podcast page.

Calumet County in Top 5 Wisconsin counties in tourism economic impact growth in 2023

From the print edition of The Brillion News, June 20, 2024

The Wisconsin Department of Tourism released 2023 economic impact data, showing Calumet County ranking fifth for growth in tourism economic impact statewide, and helping to contribute to Wisconsin tourism’s record $25 billion economic impact last year. The statewide results mark back-to-back record years for the Wisconsin tourism industry.

The 2023 economic impact surpassed the previous statewide record of $23.7 billion set in 2022. Statewide, tourism’s historic year was fueled by economic impact growth in all 72 counties, a record number of overnight visitors for a second consecutive year and investments tourism businesses made in goods and services.

“The Calumet County Board recognized tourism as a very important piece of Economic Development, so much so that a new position was created in 2022, with Rick Sense being hired as Economic Development and Tourism Specialist in June of 2023,” said Jason Pausma, Calumet County Economic Development Director. “We recognize the impact and role tourism has not only in bringing visitor dollars to county establishments, but sales tax dollars to the county, increasing the quality of life for residents, and helping local businesses with workforce attraction and retention. All these things are connected, they all play off each other.”

Additionally, last year, Calumet County tourism supported 617 part- and full-time jobs across various sectors of the industry, part of the more than 178,000 jobs sustained by tourism across the state. Tourism in Calumet County also generated $4.1Million in local and state tax revenue. Statewide, tourism generated $1.6 billion in local and state tax revenue in 2023. Without this revenue, each Wisconsin household would pay an additional $660 to maintain the current level of government services.

“Wisconsin tourism powers the economy and strengthens the fabric of communities of all sizes,” said Wisconsin Department of Tourism Secretary Anne Sayers. “The historic impact of tourism reached every corner of Wisconsin and, in doing so, sustained livelihoods for thousands of our friends and neighbors.”

In 2023, Wisconsin welcomed 113 million visits, nearly 2 million more than the previous year. Additionally, Calumet County registered $39.7Million in direct visitor spending, a 9.2% increase from 2022. View the 2023 economic impact data, including a county-by-county breakdown, here.



The recent addition of the world-class Ariens Nordic Center to Calumet County’s recreational landscape, provides guests even more options beyond the many other wonderful attractions like High Cliff State Park, Lake Winnebago, and the Caves of Calumet County at Ledge View Nature Center. With a wide variety of ag-venture destinations, and the many supper clubs that are located within Calumet County visitors have the opportunity to experience a simpler pace, an exceptional quality of life, all close by. Calumet County...Closer Than You Think.

Wolf and Fox Winery celebrates successful opening

By Rick Sense, Calumet County

Congratulations to Jon Woelfel and Kerri Futch on the successful opening celebration of the Wolf and Fox Winery on June 1, 2024, at Woelfel Homestead. Appearing at the event were Wisconsin's own The Wicksnippers. The bluegrass favorite was the first concert in a regular series to take place at the Wolf and Fox Winery. Next on stage is The Erin Krebs Trio, appearing on Saturday, June 29. Doors open at 1pm and tickets are $10 per person.

Wolf and Fox Winery is located at W1139 Lime Kiln Road, New Holstein.

Make sure to check out the venue or listen to episode #16 of the Travel Calumet Original Podcast. To access, visit the Travel Calumet website and select episode #16 on the Travel Calumet Original Podcast page to learn more about the winery, a truly beautiful Calumet County destination!

Click here to learn more.

A slithery summer at Ledge View Nature Center!

By Louise Marum, Calumet County

Do you like snakes? Who doesn’t!?

We are celebrating the summer with snakes here at Ledge View! Summer is the perfect time to see our slithery friends when you are out and about in nature. It is also a great time to learn about how these reptiles survive in the Wisconsin environment year-round, and their ecological roles. If you are a snake lover, you will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with these reptiles, along with other amphibians, in two different programs. Fun for the whole family… well maybe not mom!

Reptiles and Amphibians, Live!

July 6^th, 1:30pm

Explore the wonders of the scaled and shelled world in this live reptile and amphibian program! Naturalist Randy Hetzel will bring in collection of native reptiles and amphibians for a hands-on educational program. The focus will be key features of their biology and life habits, with expert insight on key conservation efforts to keep these animals safe out in the wild.

By donation, please pre-register.

Steve and Carl’s Traveling Snake Show!

August 3^rd, 1:30pm

With decades of experience working with a variety of ages Steve Keller and Carl Hogue know how to engage all ages with this interesting and educational traveling snake show. This hands-on learning opportunity will help you and your family gain confidence in your ability to interact with wildlife while adventuring through the natural world. By donation, please pre-register.

Register for programs here.

ICYMI-Calumet County's Mulberry Lane Farms receives accolades from the City of Kaukauna

From 1000 Islands Environmental Center, June 5, 2024

Kaukauna Mayor Tony Penterman issued a proclamation, officially marking June 2024, as Kaukauna Invasive Species Control Month. Huge thanks to Farmer Pat, Bonnie, the Goat Team, and the goats from Mulberry Lane Farm, Inc. for helping us manage invasive species without herbicides! Your commitment to educating our community has made Kaukauna a greener, more sustainable place.

To learn more about Mulberry Lane Farm, make sure to check out episode #11 of the Travel Calumet Original Podcast. To access, visit the Travel Calumet website and select episode #11 on the Travel Calumet Original Podcast page.

Ariens Nordic Center opens for swimming and pickleball in addition to trails

From Ariens Nordic center, June 5, 2024

Our Swimming Pond and Pickleball (2 courts) are officially open today! Check out the hours of operations under "Hours". Prior to accessing the Swimming Pond or Pickleball Courts, please check-in at the Trailhead Building.

Lifeguards may be present at the Swimming Pond. When lifeguards are not present, swim at your own risk. Concessions will be sold daily at the pond, in addition to chair and umbrella rentals.

Trails continue to be open for roller skiing, inline & quad skating and running/walking. We look forward to seeing you this summer!

Go to Ariens Nordic Center for more information.

Brillion Nature Center recognized by DNR with Wildlife Area Friends Group of the Year award

By Jon Fuller, Spectrum News Wisconsin, May 29, 2024

With birds chirping and cattails blowing in the breeze, the marsh platform at the Brillion Nature Center offers visitors a chance to get close to wildlife.

A boardwalk was reconstructed with help from assistant naturalist Jeff Mix and others to connect the wet woodland area to the marsh.

“We did some fundraising. We raised over $200,000, and we replaced the boardwalk,” said Mix. “It’s a composite decking boardwalk, so it should last my lifetime.”

They designed the walkway with high water in mind.

“If it does happen to flood out a little bit, the platforms are independent. They can shift and roll,” said Mix.

Once out of the woods and to the platform, visitors can expect a wide-open view of the area.

“A huge panoramic view of the Brillion Wildlife Area,” said Mix.

Volunteer contributions help the center with tasks, including rebuilding the platform and boardwalk.

Click here for complete story.

These are the top 10 most visited state parks in Wisconsin

By Lou Saldivar, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, June 14, 2024

Here are Wisconsin's ten most popular state parks in 2023 according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and ranked by attendance. These tamaracks along Butler Lake in the Kettle Moraine State Forest-Northern Unit are part of Wisconsin's largest Kettle Moraine parks.

Number 5: High Cliff State Park attracts more than 686,000 visitors annually. The busiest month is July, when more than 102,000 people visit.

For complete story, click here.

Coming soon-new rental cabins at Calumet County Park

From Calumet County Parks, June 7, 2024

We are finishing the final touches on the two rental cabins at Calumet County Park and wanted to share the progress with you! We are still waiting on some furniture, plumbing fixtures, and the inspection. Opening date to come! Thank you for all of the interest and enthusiasm we've had during the building process. We can't wait for you to enjoy them!

Blast from the Past: Family Camping in Calumet County video

By Rick Sense, Calumet County

In this installment of Blast From The Past, we revisit a 2022 video production titled, Family Camping in Calumet County. Josh Casey is your host of this video that highlights a Calumet County Park camping stay by Josh and his sons. Experience camping, kayaking, biking, sampling ice cream at Scoops Ice Cream House, and watching movies at the Chilton Twilight Drive-In Theater. Come and experience Calumet County's unique quality of life and remember that Calumet County is Closer Than You Think!

Click on the image above, the photo below, or this link to view the video.

Family Camping in Calumet County, 2022, 4:43

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat to warm audiences at Chilton's Engler Center in July

Tickets are on sale now for Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, presented by Calumet County Community Theatre! To purchase tickets, click here.

The Kids of Wisconsin to perform at the Endries Performing Arts Center in Brillion July 9

Summer is here and so are the Kids from Wisconsin! The 56th Kids From Wisconsin troupe showcases "larger than life" performing artists in their highly energized and highly anticipated 2024 summer production.

Featured are historic bands and orchestras that have sold out world stadiums, kings and queens from rock to pop, legendary Broadway stars and classic entertainers that will live forever on the stage and screen.

Get your tickets to see the Kids today! Click here for tickets.

Timm House, Pioneer Corner Museum open for season

From iwantthenews.com, June 6, 2024

The New Holstein Historical Society’s Timm House and Pioneer Corner Museum (PCM) are both open for the 2024 season.

Featured at the PCM is a new exhibit focusing on the life of Hildegarde Loretta Sell, better and more simply known as the legendary chanteuse “Hildegarde.”

Hildegarde was born in 1906 and spent the majority of the first dozen years of her life in New Holstein. The eldest daughter of Charles and Ida Sell, she grew up in a musically inclined family. Her shopkeeper father played the drums and fiddle while her mother was a talented singer, choir leader and pianist. She was a guiding force in steering Hildegarde toward a career in music.

Click here for complete story.

To learn more about Timm House and the Pioneer Corner Museum, make sure to check out episode #15 of the Travel Calumet Original Podcast. To access, visit the Travel Calumet website and select episode #15 on the Travel Calumet Original Podcast page.

Celebration in Brillion - BrillionFest 2024, Optimist parade were successes!

Friends, family and neighbors came together on Saturday, June 8th to celebrate BrillionFest in Brillion. A fun filled day with live music, the Machines on Main engine show, a vendor/craft fair, kids' games, bouncy houses, a magic show, and food trucks greeted the many attendees.

Proceeds from BrillionFest are donated back into the community to local nonprofit organizations. The Brillion Fire Rescue Association, lead organizer of the event, is a 501c3 nonprofit organization. Committee members within the BFRA have been organizing BrillionFest for the past three years.

Thanks to the generous support of the sponsors, volunteers, supporters, and attendees, BrillionFest 2024 was a successful family friendly event that was lots fun and entertaining!

On Friday night June 7, downtown Brillion hosted the Brillion Optimist Club Electric Parade. People from all over Wisconsin flocked to see this year's parade, which happen to coincide with weather that was nearly perfect.

Many local organizations participated in the parade.

All funds raised will be directed to the Brillion Optimist Club's charitable initiatives in the area.

Congratulations to all involved in the successful event!

Top photo is from www.facebook.com/BrillionFest/ and bottom photo from www.facebook.com/brillionoptimists/

Additional upcoming Calumet County special events

The events listed below were taken from and are posted on the TravelCalumet.com website calendar. To visit, please click on the image above. If you are interested in attending an event, please click on the links and go to the event information on the calendar to find much more information than highlighted here.

Country Breeze Farm Event, Mulberry Lane Farm, June-August (Except Mondays)

June 18, 2024-following, 10:00 AM

Deck Jams at Carstens Mill, Brillion

June 27, July 4, 11, 18, 2024, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Chilton City Band Concert

June 27, July 4, 11, 18, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Chilton Farmers Market

June 28, July 5, 12, 19, 2024, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Timm House (1600 Wisconsin Ave.) & Pioneer Corner Museum (2103 Main St.), New Holstein

June 29-30, July 6-7, 13-14, 20-21, 2024, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Calumet County Historical Society Museum

June 30, July 7, 14, 21, 2024, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

Hilbert 4th of July Family Festival and Parade

July 4, 2024, 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

New Holstein Firefighters' Picnic

July 12, 2024 - July 14, 2024

Brillion Historical Society Museum Open House

July 13, 2024, 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Stockbridge Picnic & Parade

July 20, 2024 - July 21, 2024