April 17–19in & around the Wisconsin Northwoods
Friday starts warm -- low 70s, partly sunny -- but don't get comfortable. Rain rolls in Friday afternoon, and by Saturday you're looking at highs in the upper 30s with a chance of snow. Sunday clears out but stays cold. Layer up, plan accordingly, and know that the indoor stuff this weekend -- live theater in Ironwood, art classes in Eagle River, bluegrass in Tomahawk -- is worth showing up for regardless.
Friday
An educational deep-dig into the overlooked world of mosses, led by naturalist Alex Graeff at the Discovery Center in Manitowish Waters. Pre-registration required -- space is limited.
The museum in Hurley is open for visitors Friday and Saturday this week. Free admission, donations appreciated. Worth a stop if you haven't been -- the mining and logging history in there is the real deal.
Rotating exhibitions at ArtStart in Rhinelander. The gallery's mission is community through arts education, and the current displays are worth a walk-through.
Bob and Rocco's Gun Shows brings the three-day gun show to Antigo, running Friday through Sunday. All federal and local firearm laws apply.
Theatre North in Ironwood opens their run of the classic musical this week. Directed by Maggie Hill, this community production runs through April 26 with Thursday/Friday evening shows and Saturday/Sunday matinees. A full orchestra, a dedicated local cast, and one of the great American musicals.
Saturday
Pre-registration required for this hands-on composting class at Trees for Tomorrow in Eagle River. Add $60 for a composting bin to take home. Runs 9-11 AM.
A craft workshop on creating felted landscapes with artist Mary Burns at the Discovery Center in Manitowish Waters. Space is limited -- registration was due by April 15, but check with the center if you missed it.
Weekly lakeside yoga at the Discovery Center. All levels welcome, held in the Main Lodge or amphitheater depending on weather.
A 5K trail run/walk through Nicolet National Forest starting at Boulder Lake Campground near Antigo. Proceeds benefit the Nicolet Roche Trails. Register at lambatrails.com.
Faster-paced oil painting class in Rhinelander covering color mixing and brushstroke technique. Some experience recommended. All supplies provided.
This is the Saturday headliner. Live bluegrass from The MilBillies, a live taping of Mad Dog & Merrill Midwest Grill'n for TV, BBQ brisket, local bourbon from Northern Waters Distillery, and brews from Rhinelander Brewing Company -- all at the Graham Center at Rondele Ranch. Doors at 11:30 AM, show at noon. Reserved tables of four and eight available.
A family-friendly trail program where kids follow along with Kevin Henkes' "When Spring Comes" at the Discovery Center. Register the child's name only -- space is limited and registration was due by April 17.
Casino night at a supper club to raise funds for childhood cancer treatment in Wisconsin. Doors at 6 PM, games at 7 PM. Your ticket includes food and $100 in fun money. That's a Northwoods fundraiser done right.
Seth Rogen and James Franco on the big screen at the Historic Ironwood Theatre. A movie ticket, popcorn, and soda for $10 -- toss in another $5 for the upgrade with free refills.
Sunday
Spring Fling in Antigo featuring raffles, bingo, and food with a Taste of Wisconsin theme. Located in the lower level of the church with elevator access. Great food, low prices, and the kind of community gathering that small towns do better than anywhere.
The 37th annual Lions Club spaghetti dinner at Northstar Lanes. Meat raffle, gun raffle, cash raffle, and all the spaghetti you can handle. Raffle tickets available at the door.
Beginner-friendly hand-building clay class in Rhinelander. Learn to roll slabs, add textures, and form vases, cups, or bowls. All supplies provided.
That's the weekend.
See everything on in the Wisconsin Northwoods — all weekend, all week.
See all eventsUpdated April 16, 2026 · Times verified the week of publication; we surface what's really on — how The Lineup chooses.