Annual events in and around Menomonie feature everything from food and music to car racing, providing residents and visitors a chance to mingle, relax and enjoy each other's company.

On the last Friday in January, The Friends of the Red Cedar Trail and ConAgra Grocery Products host a candlelight ski at the beautiful Red Cedar State Trail, complete with a roaring campfire and free hot chocolate. The highlight of this trip is observing the beautiful "blue ice wall," a spectacular frozen waterfall alongside the trail. Walkers may also enjoy a lighted walk along the Red Cedar River on the popular Stokke Trail.

On the first weekend in February, Menomonie is host to the WSA Pro-Ice Snowmobile races. Spectators watch professional racers from all over the Upper Midwest and Canada race on an oval track on Lake Menomin. Food and beverages are provided.

In summer, music-lovers flock with blankets and lawn chairs to the Wilson Park Band Shell, one block off Main Street, for open-air concerts. The Ludington Guard Band, which has been in existence for over 100 years, performs as the aromas of homemade pie, coffee and popcorn sold by local non-profit groups, fill the air.

June has plenty to offer visitors and residents. On the second weekend, the Tinman Triathlon draws racers from around the Midwest to swim, bike and run. Colfax hosts their annual community fair on the third weekend, and on the last weekend in June, local artists host a two-day tour of their private studios scattered throughout the County.

On July 4th, Menomonie plays host to a July 4th extravaganza at Wakanda Park. Events include entertainment for all ages. The day ends with a spectacular fireworks display over Lake Menomin, complete with a patriotic music soundtrack. The Village of Knapp also has a day-long event featuring the ever-popular snowmobile water cross and fireworks at dusk.

On the second weekend in August, Menomonie is the site of the annual Dunn County 4-H Fair. Downsville shows off their history and artists with the Discover Downsville event on the third Saturday in August.

The 24/7 Telcom Mini Indy Grand Prix Race, started in 2000, honors native son Harry Miller's contributions to Indy-car racing. More than 30 go-karts streak down Menomonie's Main Street on the second Saturday in September, racing toward the checkered flag. Each year, a new Miss Menomonie and her court are selected during this event.

As fall turns into winter, everyone anxiously awaits the Victorian Holidays celebration. The month-long event is kicked off just before Thanksgiving with a Fine Arts & Craft Faire. Streets, shops and attractions are decorated for the holidays and shoppers are offered a variety of specials. The Mabel Tainter Theater and Wilson Place Mansion are dressed in their holiday finery, and have special tour hours from mid-November through early January.

This is just a sample of the variety of activities in the area. For a complete calendar of events and to verify dates, visit the Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce website at www.menomoniechamber.org.

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