Good morning!

When I think of Wisconsin, I think of my home in the Fox Valley. I grew up in Neenah, and local events in the small Wisconsin city have always had a special place in my heart. Here are a couple worth checking out this weekend with family and friends!

Future Neenah Farmers Market (Saturday, 8 a.m.–noon)

If you make the trip to Neenah, start your weekend off right at Shattuck Park, where dozens of local vendors offer seasonal produce, artisanal breads, flowers, fresh eggs, and handmade goods. Enjoy live music from 10 a.m. to noon, and check out all that Future Neenah has done to preserve and promote our historic downtown!

Brennand Airport Fly-In (Saturday, 9 a.m.–3 p.m.)

The annual gathering for Chapter 41 of the Experimental Aircraft Association is a less busy, local aircraft event compared to EAA AirVenture, but it still has a lot to offer. Expect aircraft displays, flight simulators, helicopter demos, drone shows, raffles, and plenty of food stands. Admission is free for all!

Glass Arts Festival (Saturday, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.)

Held along the shores of Lake Winnebago at the Bergstrom-Mahler Museum of Glass, this one-of-a-kind outdoor festival features glassblowing demos, fine glass art from more than 40 artists, live music, food trucks, and activities for the whole family. And, once again, admission is free!

I have plenty of nostalgia for my hometown and events like these, which bring together the best parts of small-town Wisconsin—community, creativity, and connection. Whether you’re from the area or just looking for a fun day trip, it’s a great weekend to experience what the heart of the Fox Valley has to offer!

Henry Teckam

Intern, UpNorthNews

Wisconsin State Fair ranked among the best in the US

(Wisconsin State Fair)

By Cherita Booker

According to USA TODAY’s 10Best readers’ choice awards, Wisconsin’s beloved State Fair has snagged the No. 3 spot among all state fairs in the US!

“Well into its second century,” USA TODAY writes, “the Wisconsin State Fair features thousands of animals, educational exhibits, attractions, plants and flowers, and various competitions, from wine to meat to textiles to cheese. The fair also brings together hundreds of vendors each summer for shopping, more than two dozen games, and several thrilling rides.”

Minnesota took first, Iowa came in second—but we’ve got cream puffs, cheese curds, and a whole lot of heart.

Do you think Wisconsin should’ve ranked higher? Reply back and let us know your favorite fair tradition!

See the full list

One mile or 10: The perfect Wisconsin trail for every hiker

(Photo via iStock)

By Fiona Hatch

Call us biased, but we think Wisconsin has some of the most underrated hiking trails in the country. And there are certainly a lot to choose from! According to Travel Wisconsin, there are nearly 3,000 miles of trails weaving through our state parks alone. So tie up your laces, grab your loved ones, and get outside. We found the perfect Wisconsin trail for hikers at every fitness level.

Parfrey’s Glen Trail – 1 Mile (Merrimac)
Located in Wisconsin’s first State Natural Area just outside Merrimac, Parfrey’s Glen is a picturesque trail filled with beautiful trees, mossy cobblestone, and even a waterfall to keep you entertained. This 1.7-mile trail is labeled a “moderate hike” and is estimated to take 42 minutes to complete. If you’re looking for a short, but mildly challenging trail, this is the one for you! Just remember to leave your dogs at home: no pets allowed on this one.

See the full list 🥾

Rural Wisconsinites are facing a dangerous choice: housing or health

By The Daily Yonder

A recent study out of Wisconsin found that housing financial stress, defined as spending more than 30% of income on housing, is affecting both renters and homeowners. In Wisconsin, 44.1% of renters and 22.9% of owner-occupied households with a mortgage are financially burdened by housing costs. Even among homeowners without a mortgage, nearly 14% still experience housing-related financial stress.

Research reveals that some rural residents are delaying medical care due to housing costs. Older adults reported skipping doctor visits and medications, while younger individuals and families reported untreated mental health issues, indicating that the health impacts of housing financial stress span across different age groups.

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