What’s Happening in Wisconsin: Your View and the Badger State Buzz (Jan. 12–18)

"Think Prince visited Madison for last night's sunset." (Courtesy of Michael S.)

By Ellie Bourdo

January 12, 2026

Welcome to this week’s Wisconsin View and Badger State Buzz—two staples of the UpNorthNews newsletter. If you want to see the Badger State Buzz as soon as it drops each week, make sure you’re subscribed. And if you’d like your photo featured, like reader Michael S. in Madison, capturing a beautiful sunset, just reply to any newsletter with your submission.

Now, onto your Badger State Buzz:

Stayin’ Alive, Appleton (Jan. 16)

The Fox Cities Performing Arts Center presents a Bee Gees tribute, featuring amazing visuals and big-screen imagery. Enjoy a night of classic hits like “Stayin’ Alive,” and “Night Fever,” from the Bee Gees’ legendary catalog.

Cross Country Cruisers Snofest, Arbor Vitae (Jan. 16-17)

This event kicks off Friday night with a fish fry and lasagna dinner, followed by Saturday’s Vintage Snowmobile Show, Shine & Ride event with awards, food, music, and more. The event supports the Cruisers in maintaining 90 miles of groomed snowmobile trails.

Beer and Cheese Fest 2026, Madison (Jan. 17)

For the 16th year, the Alliant Energy Center will host one of the most Wisconsin-style festivals you can imagine. Sample craft brews from over 80 beverage vendors and enjoy more than 2,000 pounds of cheese from cheesemakers across the state.

NABA Ice Fishing Event, Hayward (Jan. 17)

Celebrate free fishing weekend at this annual ice fishing event on Nelson Lake, featuring cash prizes, raffles, and family-friendly fun. Enjoy food and drinks while supporting a non-profit event that benefits the Nelson Lake Association Fish Sticks and other local organizations.

“Winter Escape” at Cave of the Mounds, Blue Mounds (Jan. 17)

Escape the cold at this tropical, 21+ event featuring live music and stunning lighting inside the cave. Your ticket includes cave entry, a drink, appetizers, and a souvenir photo for a one-of-a-kind underground getaway.

World Championship Snowmobile Derby, Eagle River (Jan. 15-18)

Known as the Indianapolis 500 of snowmobile racing, this event is the largest and most prestigious snowmobile race in the world, attracting over 40,000 spectators and 500 international drivers each year.

That’s all for this week’s Buzz. Heading to one of these events or catch an amazing winter scene? Share it with us by replying to any of our daily newsletters. There’s nothing we enjoy more than seeing Wisconsin from your perspective.

Author

Ellie Bourdo

Ellie Bourdo is UpNorthNews’ newsletter editor. A Wisconsin native, she was born and raised in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin and graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with degrees in journalism and Spanish. In her free time, Ellie enjoys spending time with family and friends on the lake or at the ski hill. Have a story tip? Reach Ellie at [email protected]. For local reporting in Wisconsin that connects the dots, from policy to people, sign up for UpNorthNews’ "news of the day” email newsletter.

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