2022: A Year in Review
It’s hard to believe that the sun is setting on the end of 2022! This year certainly seems to have passed us by (more so than others). This is likely in large part because of all the amazing events and activities that took place. The businesses and passionate people within this vibrant community regularly strive to make everyone feel welcome and to enjoy their time here. This final blog post of 2022 serves to highlight some of the events that took place throughout the year and to get us all excited for what we have in store for 2023.
Fair on the Square
This year, we received some of the most gorgeous weather for both the spring and fall season Fair on the Square. Each featured over 180 artisans and crafters, selling and showcasing their beautifully handcrafted pieces. Let’s not forget all the tasty food in our food court, the non-profit organizations and talented musicians playing to thousands who regularly attend! These cherished events take place every year in May and October.
Mark your calendars for the 2023 Spring Fair on the Square set for Saturday, May 13. Fall Fair on the Square is set for Saturday, October 7, 2023. More information can be found on our website: https://www.downtownbaraboo.com/fair-on-the-square/
Sunday Markets
If you missed out on the Fair on the Squares, not to worry! On the last Sunday of each month from May until October, we hosted Sunday Markets that was located on the downtown square. Regularly hosting between 20 to 30 vendors that sold handmade goods, crafts, art, vintage antiques and more, there was something for everyone. The markets also were topped with some live music by local artists.
Farmer’s Markets
Each Wednesday and Saturday morning through the summer and fall season, the farmer’s market was another great staple to the Baraboo community. There was no better way to grab some locally grown produce, a few sweet treats, and even some beautiful floral bouquets. It also established a good way to start the day off to meet up with some friends and explore what was for sale and brainstorm some new meals from our community farmers. Follow them on their Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/BarabooFarmersMarket
Baraboo Mystery Weekend
A relatively new event that has gained more excitement and engagement, this past year’s Baraboo Mystery Weekend was quite lively (regardless of trying to solve a murder). It’s a weekend where you, or a group, are a detective trying to find clues and question suspects throughout the downtown area. Afterward, you submit who you believe is the culprit and attend the grand reveal at the historic Al. Ringling Theatre. There’s nothing more riveting than an interactive crime game! The 2023 Baraboo Mystery Weekend is “A Recipe for Murder” and will take place the weekend of April 1. For more information, check out their website: https://www.baraboomysteryweekend.com
ArtJune by Spirit Lake Arts
A day to celebrate the visual arts, the 59th annual ArtJune brings together an array of artists and crafters to exhibit and sell some of their creativity. From photography, paintings, wares, jewelry, and much more, it’s a day of celebrating some innovative people. Let’s also not forget another opportunity to listen to some live music from great musical artists, as well. Mark your calendars for the 60th ArtJune, set for Saturday, June 17, 2023. Their website can be found here: https://spiritlakearts.square.site/art-june-2023
Other Events in 2022
There was so much activity throughout 2022. If you missed our social media feed this past week, we highlighted our two Brew Ha Ha events, reminisced on Concerts on the Square, and, of course, the Fair on the Square.
What else kept us busy and our calendars full? The grand return of the Big Top Parade in June was a sheer delight to all. The Baraboo Young Professionals hosted a fun night market in September that got to enjoy the final warm days of summer. We held one of the coldest wine walks on record in November. With over 600 in attendance and adorning their flashiest 1980’s wardrobe, all participants enjoyed a beautiful, brisk evening while touring our stores. The following night was the kickoff to the holiday magic in Downtown Baraboo: The Christmas Light Parade. With nearly 60 floats and the entire Baraboo community serving as the honorary grand marshal, it was one that nobody will ever forget. We also introduced a new event: Gnome for the Holiday scavenger hunt. With 21 businesses participating, several families, children, and even adults participating in finding the holiday gnomes hiding throughout the city. The Very Merry Holiday Craft Fair was another exciting opportunity to showcase crafters both locally and non-locally and get some amazing gifts for people on your Christmas list (or buy a few items for yourself).
What’s New in 2023?
While we are ecstatic to keep the traditional events alive and well for all to enjoy, we are exciting to welcome back “Old Fashioned Days.” Set for August 11 and 12, 2023, this two-day celebration will be about celebrating the history of our city while showcasing how great it is today. It will also serve as a weekend to explore some of the biggest sales by many businesses in the downtown area. August 12 will be the “Made in Baraboo Market” where local residents will have the opportunity to sell their crafts and goods on the courthouse lawn.
We are proud of what was a tremendous 2022 and are beyond excited as move onward into 2023. Downtown Baraboo is nothing without the people and the businesses and services who make the magic, and we are forever grateful to all who live and visit here. Thank you for being a part of this beautiful town, and we look forward to enjoying the fun with you soon!