What’s happening in Wisconsin: Badger State Buzz (Oct. 5-11)

Welcome to this week’s Wisconsin View and Badger State Buzz—two staples of the UpNorthNews newsletter.

October 5, 2026

"Iron River area, Basswood Lake. Blue Moon in the AM." (Courtesy of Kim N.)

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 Kim N., capturing these fall colors, just reply to any newsletter with your submission.

Now, onto your Badger State Buzz:

Enchanted Forest & Hollywood Hayride, Janesville (Oct. 7-10)

Take a candle-lit walk through a magical forest with scenes from children’s books, fairytales, and nursery rhymes, or hop on a Hollywood-themed hayride with live skits from iconic family-friendly movies and TV shows.

Cliff Street Asylum, Wisconsin Rapids (Oct. 9-10)

This haunted house is sure to send a chill down your spine. Step into this terrifying experience full of dark hallways, twisted experiments, live actors, and eerie special effects. Think you’re brave enough?

Jack-o-Lantern Festival, Spooner (Oct. 9-10)

Celebrate fall with a weekend of spooky fun, including an adult beverage crawl, live music, pumpkin painting, a pumpkin roll, scarecrow decorating, and wrap up the weekend with a zombie run.

42nd Annual Applefest, Two Rivers (Oct. 10)

Apple fans, this one’s for you. Enjoy fresh apples, homemade baked goods, live music, an arts and crafts fair, and activities for all ages.

Autumn Harvest Celebration, Neillsville (Oct. 10)

Browse local vendors along Hewett Street with handmade goods, baked treats, and plenty of shopping. Kids can also enjoy bounce houses, and downtown businesses will offer food, drinks, and live entertainment.

Lake Geneva Oktoberfest (Oct. 10-11)

Enjoy traditional German festivities with a beer garden, craft beer, delicious bites, local vendors, and live entertainment. Families can also participate in kids activities, dog races, and other fun events.

That’s your Buzz for the week. If you make it to any of these events—or capture a scene worth sharing—reply to any of our daily newsletters with a photo. We always look forward to seeing what Wisconsin looks like through your eyes.

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