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DECEMBER 2024

  • Ashland High School Sports Schedule 
  • Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 9am-5pm
  • Northland College Sports Schedule
  • Vaughn Public Library – It’s not just books anymore. Check out their website for a complete schedule of events and happenings for the whole family.
  • Find the perfect holiday tree in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. A fresh-cut, personally selected holiday tree from your National Forest adds to the holiday season. A cutting permit costs $5 per tree and can be purchased at any U.S. Forest Service District Ranger Station. Up to five permits can be sold per person. For more information, call 715-362-1354, email hilarymarkin@fs.fed.us, or visit www.fs.usfa.gov/CNNF
  • Annual Ashland Firefighters’ Toy Drive.   Sign up: November 15- December 8.  To donate: Bring new, unwrapped toys to any drop-off site (Wal-Mart) or to the Fire Station. Cash donations are accepted at the Fire Station, 215 East 6th St. To sign up children: Please call RSVP at 715-292-6400 Ex 1 or 2. They must be age newborn to 12 years and signed up by December 8th. The Ashland Firefighters Toy Drive is now a 501c3 organization and all donations are tax deductible. Cash or check accepted. Please make checks payable to Ashland Firefighters Toy Drive. Donations accepted year-round. Toys will be distributed on December 14 from 10am-6pm at the Bretting Community Center, 400 W. 4th Ave. For more information or a list of drop-off sites, call 715-682-7052.
  • Christmas Cash Raffle presented by the Ashland Area Chamber. Drawings every day during the month of December, with special bonus drawings on Christmas Parade Day (Dec. 4), Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve Day! Call the Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce for details at  715-682-2500. Or you may purchase tickets at the Chamber office located at 1716 W. Lake Shore Drive, Ashland.
  • Open Skate at the Bay Area Civic Center Wednesdays  7:30-9pm.  $5 per skater.
  • Copper Falls: Wednesday Night Ski from 5-7 pm, TBD.  Join Friends at the trailhead near the park office for a casual ski of the Meadow Trail loop with local ski enthusiasts. Check ahead for weather and trail conditions. Remember to bring your headlamp because the trails are lit only by the stars and moonlight. Friends will provide treats and hot cocoa. For more information about the trail and conditions, go to https://sites.google.com/friendsofcopperfallssp.org/focfsp/maps/winter-trails

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2023 Events

  • 12/1-30/2023
    Rabbit Bird & Bear and the Washburn Cultural Center, 1 E Bayfield St, Washburn, are excited to copresent an exhibition featuring original works by both Red Cliff artist Rabbett Before Horses Strickland and Metis heritage artist Leah Yellowbird, the first this pair has done together.
  • 12/01-08/2023
    Annual Ashland Firefighters’ Toy Drive.   Sign up: November 15- December 8.  To donate: Bring new, unwrapped toys to any drop-off site (Wal-Mart) or to the Fire Station. Cash donations are accepted at the Fire Station, 215 East 6th St. To sign up children: Please call RSVP at 715-292-6400 Ex 1 or 2. They must be age newborn to 12 years and signed up by December 8th. The Ashland Firefighters Toy Drive is now a 501c3 organization and all donations are tax deductible. Cash or check accepted. Please make checks payable to Ashland Firefighters Toy Drive. Donations accepted year-round. Toys will be distributed on December 14 from 10am-6pm at the Bretting Community Center, 400 W. 4th Ave. For more information or a list of drop-off sites, call 715-682-7052.
  • 12/01/2023
    Applications will be available for the Arts Initiative Grant Program. CBAC’s application is found on the website at cbayarts.org. The AI grant is intended to support the creation of projects that may include public exhibitions, performances, publications, commissioned art, and educational activities in a variety of disciplines. Applicants who received grants in 2022 & 2023 are not eligible until 2025. CBAC serves as a re-granting agency for the Wisconsin arts board. Through this collaboration, CBAC offers grant opportunities to artists and organizations in Bayfield and Ashland counties. Contact Kathy Broadwell at kathleenbroadwell@gmail.com for more information.
  • 12/02/2023
     Ashland retail merchants host “Customer Appreciation Day.” Shop local and get bargains all day!  Double points for Shop Small Win Big.
  • 12/02/2023
    Don’t miss this years Holiday Bazaar at the Presbyterian Church, 214 Vaughn Ave, 9am-12 noon.  Cookies, candy, crafts and much more including adorable homemade gnomes, delicious baked goods and vintage items for sale.
  • 12/02/2023
    Dribbling Dockers at the Ashland Elementary School Gymnasium, 9:00-10:00am. Dribbling Dockers registration is FREE for all K-2 students. this is an introductory basketball program.  The goal of this program is to teach fundamental skills of the game of basketball to youth in fun, organized and educational ways.  This class is taught by adult coaches and High School students-athletes from the Ashland High School boys’ and girls’ basketball programs under the direction of the Ashland Athletic Department.  Dates are November 25, December 2, 9 & 16.   Any questions email Ricky Bretting at rickybretting@gmail.com.  Looking forward to seeing all the kids in the gym!  Halftime performances are Friday January 5th when the Boys Varsity takes on Spooner (7pm start time) and Tuesday January 9th when the Girls Varsity takes on Barron (7pm start time).
  • 12/02/2023
    The Ashland Chamber Presents: Christmas Pop up Shop and Pictures with Santa at 408 Main Street West (old Shoe Shack) Vendors from 10am-3pm and Pictures with Santa 12-2pm.  Come on down for some HO  HO HO!
  • 12/02/2023
    Annual Butternut Christmas in the Village.   Downtown Business and Butternut Community Park will have vendors 10am-2pm. St. Paul’s Youth Group will be caroling in town all day.  Punch card for Raffle – Pick up at Butternut Village Hall and return when done shopping by 2pm for a chance to win a basket filled with prizes.  Live music at the Butternut Community Park 3-7pm  For more information, call 715-769-3113.
  • 12/02/2023
    The Northern Great Lakes Visitors Center invites you to a homemade holiday bazaar. 10am-2pm. You’ll find locally made gifts for everyone on your list. Artisan soaps, decorations for your home, holiday treats and so much more. Please note the vendor registration has filled. For questions, please contact Donna at 715-685-2659.
  • 12/02/2023
    Mt. Ashwabay’s second annual Big Chill Chili Cook-off! Chill out with us this Saturday 4-8pm at the chalet, bring your favorite chili and your family and stay for the fun! Join in on groomer rides, cookie decorating, smores, the tree lighting and more! This event is open to everyone and will be a great evening for reuniting with community.  Chili Drop Off, 3pm, Doors Open, Chili Tasting & Voting, 4pm, Groomer Rides, 4:30pm, Tree Lighting & Trophies Award, 6:30pm.  Tickets: $5 Kids (12 & Under) / $10 Adults / $30 Families.  Learn more at mtashwabay.org.
  • 12/02/2023
    The Monday Club will be selling Hot Chocolate and cookies at Otis Park, 4pm until the end of the parade. To help you enjoy the parade!
  • 12/02/2023
    Garland City of the North Christmas Parade at 4:30pm on Historic Main Street.  Click here for a registration form.   The United Chequamegon Veterans Color Guard will lead the parade. Questions call 715-682-2500.
  • 12/02/2023
    Ashland’s 6th Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Join us at Pearson Plaza starting at 5:30pm for snacks, cheer & more! This years tree will be lit at approximately 5:45pm. After lighting be sure to stick around to grab a photo with Santa, sip hot cocoa by the bonfire, listen to some classical Christmas carols and make a wooden tree ornament!
  • 12/2/2023
    Comfort & Joy Camp Benesi Fundraiser at Bay City Bohemian Hall at 6pm.  Help us bring joy and cheer to our Veterans & Gold Star families.  Tickets $35, includes dinner.  Big money raffle, live music, good food, cash bar, great cause!
  • 12/02/2023
    White Winter Winery presents A Dickens of a Christmas! Dinner from 6-9 pm. Jan Lee and Tom Mitchell, local actors, breathe life into their adaptation of Charles Dicken’s, A Christmas Carol. Guests enjoy a five course Victorian-style meal paired with White Winter Winery mead, ciders, and spirits. A Dickens of a Christmas is a fundraiser for the Iron River Library. Seating limited. Tickets on sale now.  For more information visit whitewinter.com/events or call 715-372-5656. 68323A Lea St., Iron River, Wisconsin.
  • 12/03/2023
    Ashland Hockey- Mini Mite & Mite Jamboree. For more information, https://www.ashlandhockey.org/
  • 12/03/2023
    101st Annual Community Christmas Concert, at 4pm at the Presbyterian Congregational Church, 214 Vaughn Ave, Ashland.  Free and open to the public.
  • 12/05/2023
    Winter Open House at Northwood Tech – Ashland Campus, 12 Noon-6pm.  Join us for a Winter Open House and get Northwood Tech info on your time with VIP service. Come and go as you please to get admissions and financial aid info, apply to the College, register for classes, print your schedule, get a customized tour and more! Northwood Tech is here to help you every step of the way in your educational journey! Northwood Tech swag bags and holiday treats available to all who attend. Plus, register for a grand prize drawing.  https://www.northwoodtech.edu/admissions/visit-a-campus/campus-events-calendar/winter-open-house
  • 12/06/2023
    Northwood Tech Alumni Association’s 33rd annual Love Lights ceremony will be held IN PERSON at Northwood Technical College, on the Ashland campus at 6pm. Honor your loved ones—deceased, living, service members, and beloved pets—by sponsoring  a Love Light bulb that will adorn the evergreen tree near the main entrance of the Northwood Technical College – Ashland campus. This fundraiser and ceremony are sponsored by the Northwood Technical College – Ashland Alumni Association with all proceeds going to scholarships for Ashland students. Forms can be found here.  Completed forms should be submitted by Friday Nov. 24th. For more information call 715-682-4591
  • 12/07/2023
    Chequamegon Food Coop presents: Pasta from Scratch. 6-8pm. Join Axel Peterman to learn how to make pasta from scratch. Sound intimidating? With guided help, you’ll see how with a little patience, you too can whip up a batch of homemade pasta. Visit https://www.chequamegonfoodcoop.com/events/pasta-from-scratch-3/ for more information.
  • 12/07/2023
    Cookie Decorating at White Winter Winery, Iron River, 6pm -9pm. Get your cookies on! Expert instructions by Angie’s Bakery to help you decorate 12 Christmas Themed Cookies!  The evening includes 12 cookies, icing and instruction and a glass of Glogg, a festively warmed & spiced mead.  $50 per person. Limit 20 adults.  You can pre-order additional take home DIY cookies and icing for $20 per dozen.*Register at https://whitewinter.com/events/.
  • 12/08-09/2023
    The Local Bar & Grille 3rd Annual Dinner with Santa! 4-8pm. Free pictures with Santa & Free kids activities while you dine. Full menu available. Reservations highly recommended. 3000 Golf Course Rd., Ashland. Call 715-292-6181.
  • 12/08/2023
    Brenda Eder’s Toys for Tots 2023.  Office Bar, 6pm.  Bring an unwrapped toy and come join us for a few and wear your favorite Christmas “outfit”. Please spread the word.
  • 12/08/2023
    Chequamegon Area Choir presents the 51st Annual Christmas Concerts, “Please, Christmas, Don’t Be Late”. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Ashland. Concert starts 7:30pm. For more information visit www.cacvoices.com
  • 12/09/2023
    Dribbling Dockers at the Ashland Elementary School Gymnasium, 9:00-10:00am. Dribbling Dockers registration is FREE for all K-2 students. this is an introductory basketball program.  The goal of this program is to teach fundamental skills of the game of basketball to youth in fun, organized and educational ways.  This class is taught by adult coaches and High School students-athletes from the Ashland High School boys’ and girls’ basketball programs under the direction of the Ashland Athletic Department.  Dates are November 25, December 2, 9 & 16.   Any questions email Ricky Bretting at rickybretting@gmail.com.  Looking forward to seeing all the kids in the gym!  Halftime performances are Friday January 5th when the Boys Varsity takes on Spooner (7pm start time) and Tuesday January 9th when the Girls Varsity takes on Barron (7pm start time).
  • 12/09/2023
    A Hometown Christmas Market at the Bohemian Hall, 319 11th Ave E.  9am-2pm. Lunch and treats by the AHS Boys Basketball Team.
  • 12/09/2023
    Ashland Middle School Holiday Craft Fair 8am-12pm at the Ashland Middle School,  203 11th Street E.  Sponsored by the AMS Home and School Association.  Handmade Crafts, Vendors and Baked Goods.  Contact amshomeandschool@sdak12.net
  • 12/09/2023
    Barrel Inn is hosting a Toys for Tots Pool Tournament this Saturday. Come shoot some pool and help support the Ashland Firefighters’ Toy Drive! https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1027725905328394&id=100042729837113&mibextid=9R9pXO
  • 12/09/2023
    Landmark Conservancy Winter Hike from Copper Falls to Tyler Forks Community Forest 1-4pm.  2-3 mile hike.  For more information about the event! https://landmarkwi.org/event/winter-hike-from-copper-falls-to-tyler-forks-community-forest/
  • 12/09/2023
    The Ashland Chamber Presents: Christmas Pop up Shop and Pictures with Santa at 408 Main Street West (old Shoe Shack) Vendors from 10am-3pm and Pictures with Santa 12-2pm.  Come on down for some HO  HO HO!
  • 12/9/2023
    Chequamegon Symphony Orchestra Concert, Holiday Festival. A mix of classical tunes plus some holiday favorites. Northland College Alvord Theatre at 7:30pm.  For more information go to www.chequamegonsymphony.org 
  • 12/10/2023
    Chequamegon Area Choir presents the 51st Annual Christmas Concerts, “Please, Christmas, Don’t Be Late”. St Louis Catholic Church, Washburn. Concert starts 4pm. For more information visit www.cacvoices.com
  • 12/12/2023
    Chequamegon Food Coop presents: Vegetable Korma. 5-7pm. Join Lars Dukowitz to make this super aromatic and delicious vegetable korma, made with potatoes, peas, carrots, french beans, onions, tomatoes, coconut or yogurt, nuts and spices! Visit https://www.chequamegonfoodcoop.com/events/vegetable-korma/
  • 12/13/2023
    The Sandbar presents: Winter Solstice Bingo Night. 4:30-5:30pm. Join us for our Winter Solstice Bingo Night. Come early for a seat and to grab bingo cards, food and beverages. Mystery wrapped prizes and a grand prize giveaway. Plus a dark round and drink specials.
  • 12/13/2023
    The Alley presents: 2nd & 4th Wednesday Karaoke hosted by DJ JD Bass, playing the hits all night. Sign up at 7pm, start at 8pm. Late night happy hour from 9-11pm with discounts on appetizers and drinks! 808 Main St W, Ashland
  • 12/15/2023
    Ashland Middle School Holiday Concert at 2-3:30pm in the Dodd Gymnasium,  1000 Ellis Ave., Ashland. For more information, 715-682-7087.
  • 12/15/2023
    Ashland Chamber Music Society presents: Handel’s Messiah. 7:30pm at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church. Celebrate the 21st anniversary of this annual event accompanied by a chamber orchestra, under the baton of conductor Christine Hulmer. ACMS is thrilled to bring back soprano Amanda Metzinger and baritone M. Hakes, and welcomes alto Katheryn Hamm and tenor Nick Kuka. This concert is a gift to the community with FREE admission. Free will donations are greatly appreciated. Visit ashlandchambermusic.org
  • 12/15-16/2023
    Lake Superior Big Top Chautauqua, The Backstage presents: Blue Canvas Christmas featuring the Blue Canvas Orchestra. Join the Blue Canvas Orchestra, led by Musical Director Ed Willett, for a heartfelt evening full of holiday cheer. Ed will be joined by Molly Otis, Danielle Diamond, Phil Anich, Nate Bean and Tom Mitchell for a festive compilation of holiday songs that will range from traditional tunes to new songs, stories, and comedy.  This year you’ll have the option to choose a dinner before the show— just order the dinner package and choose your Chef Kirk-created meal. Or, skip the meal and just order a cocktail to enjoy during the show. There is nothing like coming home to the comfort & joy of Big Top’s Backstage with the Blue Canvas Orchestra and all of your Big Top friends.  For more information and tickets visit https://www.ticketsbigtop.org THE BACKSTAGE | BOX OFFICE | GIFT SHOP: 84810 State Hwy 13 | Bayfield.
  • 12/15-17/2023
    Ashland Hockey- Bantam Battle of the Bay  Tournament. For more information, https://www.ashlandhockey.org/
  • 12/16/2023
    Docker League Basketball Tournament at the Ashland High School Gymnasium and Field House from 8am-3pm. Grades 3rd-6th boys and girls. Admissions at the door. Welcoming players and spectators from schools in Ashland,. Chequamegon, Drummond, Phillips, Hurley, Ironwood, Bessemer, Marinesco-Wakefield, South Shore and Washburn.
  • 12/16/2023
    Dribbling Dockers at the Ashland Elementary School Gymnasium, 9:00-10:00am. Dribbling Dockers registration is FREE for all K-2 students. this is an introductory basketball program.  The goal of this program is to teach fundamental skills of the game of basketball to youth in fun, organized and educational ways.  This class is taught by adult coaches and High School students-athletes from the Ashland High School boys’ and girls’ basketball programs under the direction of the Ashland Athletic Department.  Dates are November 25, December 2, 9 & 16.   Any questions email Ricky Bretting at rickybretting@gmail.com.  Looking forward to seeing all the kids in the gym!  Halftime performances are Friday January 5th when the Boys Varsity takes on Spooner (7pm start time) and Tuesday January 9th when the Girls Varsity takes on Barron (7pm start time).
  • 12/16/2023
    The Ashland Chamber Presents: Christmas Pop up Shop and Pictures with Santa at 408 Main Street West (old Shoe Shack) Vendors from 10am-3pm and Pictures with Santa 12-2pm.  Come on down for some HO  HO HO!
  • 12/18/2023
    The Alley invites you to a free Wine Tasting! 5-8pm. Help us create our new appetizer & wine menu. Free & open to the public featuring a variety of 15 wines, mix of reds and whites and appetizer sampling. 808 Main St W., Ashland.
  • 12/18/2023
    Ashland High School Winter Concert 6:30pm in the Ashland High School Auditorium, For more information, 715-682-7089.
  • 12/20/2023
    Winter Solstice Bingo Night at The Sandbar,  6:30-7:30pm.  Come early to grab $2 bingo cards, food and beverages. Mystery wrapped prizes and a GRAND PRIZE giveaway. Plus a dark round and drink specials! Bring a friend!
  • 12/20/2023
    Open Mic Night at the Alley! Calling all musicians!! Signups start at 8pm-Midnight, 3rd Wednesday of every month! Plug & play! Music by DJ JD Bass. Drink specials & prizes! Two vocal mics & two additional inputs will be available. Bring your own instrument. End of the nigh “Jam Session”. Late night happy hour from 9-11pm with discounts on appetizers and drinks! 808 W Main St., Ashland.
  • 12/21/2023
    The Chequamegon Food Co-op invites the public to Corned Beer Dinner and Ms Clause Solstice Mixer! Lets get together for a meal! We are bringing back community meals! Corned beed, potatoes, cabbage and dessert from our deli. Plus Ms. Claus and her elf will be in the store chatting with kids! $10, stay or to-go option meal! Visit https://www.chequamegonfoodcoop.com/news-events/events/
  • 12/22/2023
    Marengo Valley School Winter Concert, 62408 St. Hwy. 112, at 9am & 1pm. For more information, call 715-278-3286.
  • 12/23/2023
    Your United Chequamegon Veterans will be ringing the bell for the Salvation Army Red Kettle campaign at Super One from 9am-5pm. Please stop by and contribute generously to support the Bay Area.
  • 12/23/2023
    The Ashland Chamber Presents: Christmas Pop up Shop and Pictures with Santa at 408 Main Street West (old Shoe Shack) Vendors from 10am-3pm and Pictures with Santa 12-2pm.  Come on down for some HO  HO HO!
  • 12/27/2023
    The Alley presents: 2nd & 4th Wednesday Karaoke hosted by DJ JD Bass, playing the hits all night. Sign up at 7pm, start at 8pm. Late night happy hour from 9-11pm with discounts on appetizers and drinks! 808 Main St W, Ashland
  • 12/31/2023
    The Neighborly Bar’s Party Pooper Party.  The Whitecaps playing 4pm until kickoff for the Packer vs Viking Game! Contest, prizes, hats, horns, and fun.  Bring in the New Year early at the Neighborly Bar, 1301 Main Street West.
  • 12/31/2023
    Special New Years Menu at 2nd Street Bistro, 201 Main Street East.  5-8pm.  Enjoy your dinner to wonderful Harp music.  Reservations suggested.  715-682-6444.
  • 12/31/2023
    The Deep Water Grille New Years Menu  https://www.visitashland.com/wp-content/uploads/Deepwater-New-Year-Menu-2023.pdf
  • 12/31/2023
    Celebrate New Years Eve at Bad River Lodge & Casino! New Years Eve Buffet 5pm-Close, crab legs, prime rib, champagne chicken & more. Big Poppin Soul, no cover charge, doors open at 8pm, music begins at 9pm. For more information, call 715-682-7121 or visit www.badriver.com.
  • 12/31/2023
    The Alley presents: 2024 New Years Eve Dance Party – Back to the 80’s! Music by DJ JD Bass. 9:30pm-12:30am! Prizes for best dressed person & group. Judging after the ball drops. Champagne at Midnight! Lets bring in the new year in style!
  • 12/31 /2023
    Make your New Years Celebration Legendary! at Legendary Waters Resort & Casino.  “Free concert by Chase & Ovation celebrating the music of Prince! 10pm.  No Cover Charge, 21+ Event. Cash drawings all night totaling $15,000!  Surf ‘n’ Turf Buffet, Complimentary Champagne.  Located 3 miles north of Bayfield on Highway 13. For more information, call 800-226-8478.
  • 12/31/2023
    The Local is excited to announce that our New Year’s Eve specials are now available ALL DAY on New Year’s Eve, no tickets required!! In addition, we’ve added our Prime Rib & our All-You-Can-Eat Crab Legs to the NYE lineup, ALL available ALL day! We will also be welcoming all guests with a complimentary Champagne or N/A Sparkling Toast!  Take a look at the menu below!  Open 11am-8pm. 715-292-6181,  3000 Golf Course Road, Ashland.  Check it out on Facebook.  Reservations recommended!
  • 12/31/2023
    Cheers to 2023 from Good Thyme Restaurant!  Good Thyme is open Sunday, New Year’s Eve beginning at 4:30- 9pm.  Join us Sunday & ring in the New Year Rio De Janeiro style, with bright colors, a Brazilian style 20oz Bone in Ribeye, and a Caipirinha toast hosted by David of 211 Martini!  For reservations please call 715-373-5255 & join us 1 mile North of Washburn at: 77180 State Highway 13,Washburn.
  • 12/31/2023
    The Fat Radish New Year’s Eve menu for Sunday night. Reservations are recommended.  Click this link for their menu New Years Eve 2023 – THE FAT RADISH (weebly.com)
  • 12/31/2023
    Make Harbor Table your destination for your New Years celebrations! Sunday, December 31st * bar service 2pm-close * dining service 3pm-10pm * NYE specials and full menu available  reservations recommended 715-373-5492. Monday, January 1st * bar service 10:30am-4pm   + build your own Bloody Mary bar * brunch buffet only 11am-4pm * Badger game 11am  Check out our Facebook page for more details!  www.facebook.com/harbortablewashburn
  • 12/31/2023
    Come celebrate the New Year with us at New China Restaurant!🥡 Buffet only from 11am – 4pm. Adults: $21.99 Kids (10 and under): $13.99🥡 Dinner Specials from 4- 8pm.  Check out our menus on Facebook. Reservations are recommended so please make one today! 715-682-6601 300 Lake Shore Dr W. We look forward to having you!

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