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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 11.  To donate: Bring new, unwrapped toys to any drop-off site 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 11th. 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 17 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
  • Big Top Chautauqua Open Mic Night Year Round Wednesdays 6-9pm at The Backstage.
  • Every Wednesday Karaoke with JD Bass at The Alley 8pm-12am & every 3rd Thursday at Morty’s Bar in Bayfield 7-11pm.

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2024 Events

  • 12/01/2024
    Ashland Youth Hockey: Battle By the Bay Tournament Series. 3 game guarantee – Trophies for first, second and consolation. Bay Area Civic Center. Mite/Mini Mite Jamboree. 320 Depot Dr.
  • 12/01/2024
    102nd Annual Community Christmas Concert, at 4pm at the Presbyterian Congregational Church, 214 Vaughn Ave, Ashland. Featuring music to usher in the Advent season by area churches, community choirs and area high school and college musicians. Free and open to the public.
  • 12/01-11/2024
    Annual Ashland Firefighters’ Toy Drive.   Sign up: November 15- December 11.  To donate: Bring new, unwrapped toys to any drop-off site 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 11th. 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 17 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.
  • 12/03/2024
    Please join The Deepwater Grille for Giving Tuesday. Giving Tuesday is a global generosity movement and is always the Tuesday after Thanksgiving. On that day, we will donate 10% of sales made from 5-9 p.m. to the local Toys for Tots program. 808 Main St. W.
  • 12/03/2024
    Cable Natural History Museum. Science at the Sawmill: Air, Land, Water, and Fire. Mike Wiggins, Jr., former chairman of the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Ojibwe Tribe and interim site director of the Madeline Island Museum will speak about Anishinaabe heritage in the Chequamegon Bay and Penokee region. Join us at 6:30pm at the Sawmill Saloon. Arrive early to enjoy dinner and drinks! Pre-registration appreciated; drop-ins welcome. Register by calling the Cable Natural History Museum at 715-798-3890 or go to cablemuseum.org. $10 member/$15 non-member. 13505 US-63, Hayward.
  • 12/04/2024
    Holy Rosary Catholic Church in Mellen is hosting a Harvest Festival Meal 11am-1pm. Everyone is welcome! Meatballs & Ham & all the trimmings. Takeout available. $12 a person. 203 North Main Street Mellen.
  • 12/04/2024
    Northwood Tech Alumni Association’s 34th 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. Completed forms should be submitted by Friday Nov. 22nd. For more information call 715-682-4591.
  • 12/06/2024
    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.
  • 12/06/2024
    Ashland High School Jazz Band Big Band Ball. 6:30-9pm at the AmericInn Convention Center, 3009 Lake Shore Dr E, Ashland. Join us for dinner and a show, dancing, plus a silent raffle. Featuring: The AHS Jazz Ensemble & Northland College “Communi-versity Jazz Band”. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at AHS or by contacting Jared Schrang at jschrang@sdak12.net. Funds raised go to AHS Band Department. For more info contact Jared Schrang at jschrang@sdak12.net
  • 12/06/2024
    There’s plenty of fun happening at The Backstage. Trio Fantastico(Ed Willet, Scott Kirby, Yazmin) 7pm. $26 Bar open and food available. 84810 State Hwy 13, Bayfield. Click here for more inforamtion. 
  • 12/06/2024
    Chequamegon Area Choir presents the 52nd Annual Christmas Concerts, “Never Been a Night Like This”. Good Shepherd Lutheran Church. Concert starts 7:30pm. 311 13th Street W. For more information visit www.cacvoices.com
  • 12/07/2024
    Ashland retail merchants host “Customer Appreciation Day.” Shop local and get bargains all day!  Double points for Shop Small Win Big. 9am-5pm.
  • 12/07/2024
    Don’t miss this years Holiday Bazaar at the Presbyterian Church, 214 Vaughn Ave, 9am-12 noon. Cookies, candy, crafts and much more!
  • 12/07/2024
    Butternut’s Christmas in the Village. 9am-4pm. Other festivities at the Park after.  The American Leagion Auxiliary Meat and Basket Raffle and music with Twisted Wisker 4-7pm.
  • 12/07/2024
    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.
  • 12/07/2024
    Flourish’s Create a Christmas Porch Pot beginning at 10am. This class will be a $25 deposit to hold your space. The charge will depend on what you choose. I will have several porch pots to choose from. Large tins, plastic, metal buckets, ceramic. Or you can bring your own! Big selection of greens, twigs, decorative branches, pine cones, bows and glitz! You will have a time slot to choose from when you register. 1314 Lake Shore Drive, Suite 2.
  • 12/07/2024
    Christmas with the Consort.  An Afternoon of Harpsichord Quartets. The Club, 3 W. Bayfield St. Washburn. 3pm.
  • 12/07/2024
    The Landing 4th Annual Dinner with Santa! 3-9pm. Pictures with Santa &  kids crafts while you dine. Call 715-682-6727 for reservations. 101 Lake Shore Dr. W.
  • 12/07/2024
    Mt. Ashwabay 3rd Annual Big Chill. 4-8pm. Join us for the third annual BIG CHILL Chili Cook-off! Bring your favorite chili and your family and stay for the fun! We may not have snow yet, but we just simply cannot wait to see our amazing community! Family Activities include Groomer Rides (weather permitting), Sugar Cookie decorating, Christmas Tree Lighting (bring your old ski passes!), S’mores around the fire + Mac n Cheese for the kids! Check us out on facebook.
  • 12/07/2024
    Garland City of the North Christmas Parade at 4:30pm on Historic Main Street.  Click here for a registration form. Questions call 715-682-2500.
  • 12/07/2024
    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!
  • 12/07/2024
    Holiday Tree Lighting. Mayor MacKenzie will light the Community Tree in Pearson Plaza at 5:45pm following the Ashland Chamber of Commerce Parade. Lots of other festivities will be happening as well! The Holiday Village  Event will take place between 3-7pm near City Hall at Pearson Plaza & Otis Park. Also, the Ashland Parks & Recreation team will be on hand with tree ornament making so you can create your own and place it on the Community Tree. Free hot chocolate and cookies will be available for everyone in attendance. New this year will be an Artison Vendors Holiday Night Market in Otis Park. Also, new this year will be local food trucks parked at City Hall. Santa will be at Pearson Plaza for pictures after the Parade at approximately 5pm. Music, lights, beer & hard cider along with lots of Community Cheer will all be there as well! Please bring unwrapped toy for the Ashland Fire Department Toy Drive.
  • 12/07/2024
    White Winter Winery presents A Dickens of a Christmas! Dinner from 6-10 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.
  • 12/07/2024
    Camp Benesi Christmas. Come join us as we bring in jouous Christmas season. Enjoy dinner, live music, tons of raffles and door prizes. Doors open at 5pm. Dinner at 6pm. Cash bar. Celebrating until 11pm. $30 a person. $50 a couple. Bohemian Hall 319 11th Ave. E. All proceeds benefit Camp Benesi a local non-profit that aids Veterans and Gold Star Families.
  • 12/07/2024
    Chequamegon Symphony Orchestra Concert, “Holiday Haromonies”. Northland College Alvord Theatre at 7:30pm. For more information go to www.chequamegonsymphony.org 
  • 12/08/2024
    Kick off your holiday season with some nature fun at Copper Falls State Park. Join park naturalist Diane Daulton and friends group members as they make outdoor pinecone holiday decorations “for the birds”. Meet at the park’s new pavilion adjacent to the Naturalist Cabin rain or shine at 1:30 p.m. to join the fun crafting pinecone birdseed treats. Materials will be provided (as supplies last) and participants are encouraged to collect their own pinecones (the more, the merrier). After the craft activity, around 2:30 p.m. the park offers a guided family-friendly conifer I.D. hike, weather permitting, along the Doughboy’s Trail. Hikers can learn how to use a dichotomous key to identify different species of conifer trees and enjoy the park’s spectacular waterfalls along the way.
  • 12/08/2024
    Chequamegon Area Choir presents the 52nd Annual Christmas Concerts, “Never Been a Night Like This”. St Louis Catholic Church, Washburn. Concert starts 4pm. 707 Washington Ave, Washburn. For more information visit www.cacvoices.com
  • 12/09/2024
    Winter Open House at Northwood Tech – Ashland Campus, 1-6pm.  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, explore careers with VR goggles, 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. 2100 Beaser Ave.  https://www.northwoodtech.edu/admissions/visit-a-campus/campus-events-calendar/winter-open-house-ashland 
  • 12/11/2024
    Culvers will be hosting Santa in our store! 4-6pm. Come take pictures, share your wish list, and visit with your neighbors. 2101 Lake Shore Dr E.
  • 12/12-14/2024
    There’s plenty of fun happening at The Backstage. Blue Canvas Christmas 12&13 at 7pm; 14 at 2pm & 7pm. Join us for a magical holiday traditon. $26 . 84810 State Hwy 13, Bayfield. Click here for more inforamtion and tickets. 
  • 12/12/2024
    White Winter Winery: An Evening of Aromatherapy. 6:30-8:30pm. Before the holidays get in full swing, join us for a tranquil evening dedicated to the enchanting world of aromatherapy! In this hands-on workshop, you’ll discover the transformative power of essential oils and learn how to harness their benefits for your mind, body, and spirit. Together, we’ll explore the unique notes carried by various essential oils, from uplifting citrus to grounding woods, and how these aromas can influence our mood and well-being. You’ll gain insights into the art of blending, creating harmonious combinations that resonate with your personal intentions. Throughout the evening, you’ll create your own custom aroma spray and essential oil roll-ons, designed to enhance your daily rituals or provide a soothing escape whenever you need it. All materials will be provided, and you’ll leave with beautifully crafted products to share or keep for yourself. This informative and calming session is perfect for beginners and seasoned enthusiasts alike. Come unwind and let the power of scent elevate your spirit! Register. 68323 Lea Street Iron River.
  • 12/13/2024
    The Ashland Chamber Music Society has an exciting concert series for you to enjoy! The Messiah Concert at 7:30pm at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church. Free! 201 Lake Shore Dr E.
  • 12/14/2024
    Christmas Market at the Bohemian Hall, 319 11th Ave E.  9am-2pm. Handmade products and food. Lunch and baked goods by the Pine Creek 4-H Club.
  • 12/14/2024
    Northern Great Lakes Visitor’s Center. Casual Nature Journaling Walk. 1-2:30pm @ Multi Purpose Room. Any and all are welcome to join for a Nature Journaling Walk on the visitor center trails! This casual walk will be led by Master Naturalist Jennie Beck and US Forest service Ranger Amanda Koval, with time for individual exploration. Registration is not required. Participants should bring their own journal and supplies, though basic supplies can be provided upon request for those who don’t have their own. 29270 Co Hwy G.
  • 12/15/2024
    White Winter Winery: Christmas Charcuterie. Just in time for your Christmas gatherings! 1-3pm. Expert instructions by Yes, Cheese to help you build your own enticing Charcuterie Tray!
    The class includes cheeses, meats, and treats with instruction and a glass festively warmed & spiced Glogg. $45 Large Tray $35 Medium Tray. Register. 68323 Lea Street Iron River.
  • 12/16/2024
    Ashland High School Winter Concert 6:30pm in the Ashland High School Auditorium, For more information, 715-682-7089.
  • 12/17/2024
    Ashland Middle School Winter Concert 2-3:30pm in the Ashland Middle School Dodd Gym Stage.
  • 12/19/2024
    Marengo Valley School Winter Concert, 62408 St. Hwy. 112, at 9am & 1pm. For more information, call 715-278-3286!
  • 12/20-22/2024
    Ashland Youth Hockey: Battle By the Bay Tournament Series. 3 game guarantee – Trophies for first, second and consolation. Bay Area Civic Center. Bantam. 320 Depot Dr.
  • 12/21/2024
    Ashland’s Merry Ole’ Christmas. Come enjoy Ashland’s Main Street during the Christmas Season with a visit from Santa (11am-1pm), a wiener roast, and our traditional Sleigh or Wagon Rides during the day (11am-1pm), up and down Main Street. For more information call 715-682-2500.
  • 12/21/2024
    Experience the magic of the season with our Christmas Lights & Hayride Nights! Join us for a merry ride through town in our festively decorated haywagon! Bundle up, sip hot cocoa, and sing along to your favorite carols as we enjoy the twinkling lights! Rides at 4:30, 6:30, and 8:30—just $5 per person or $20 per family! Seats are limited, so register early! Individual tickets can be purchased online at https://shop.visitashland.net/15-chamber-store. Family tickets need to be purchased by calling the Ashland Chamber 715-682-2500. Don’t miss out—reserve your spot for a night of holiday cheer and warm memories!

2023 Events

    • 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).
    • 12/09/2023
      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
      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
  • 12/16/2023
    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).
  • 12/31/2023
    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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