Come On Down and Take Photos, Says President of WOZ

Downtown Wausau is on the cusp of a new era.

“Next year at this time, the backdrop of the city will look dramatically different than it does today,” said Dave Eckmann, president of Wausau Opportunity Zone, Inc. “Downtown Wausau will have new buildings and streets, and new opportunities.”

In June, Children’s Imaginarium and Foundry on 3rd will start taking shape as construction crews bring these buildings to life throughout the summer. Eckmann urges residents to be a little nostalgic this Memorial Day Weekend and head downtown to take photos before the city’s landscape changes forever.

The extended weekend is also perfect for watching a parade or visiting a park and reminiscing with family and friends. Call ahead to shops and restaurants to confirm holiday hours. Here is a look at some of the events happening this Memorial Day weekend:

Parades and Ceremonies

Wausau’s annual Memorial Day parade is on Saturday, May 27. It will start at 10:45 a.m. at Trinity Lutheran Church on Stewart Avenue and end at the old VFW building called Opportunity, Inc., near the farmers market site. The Wausau Area Veterans Committee hosts the annual parade.

Following the parade is a ceremony at Opportunity Inc. where Robert Weller, Commander of the Wausau American Legion Post 10, will be the emcee, along with guest speakers Mayor Katie Rosenberg and Army Captain Phil Southworth.

On Monday, May 29 at 11 a.m., a ceremony will be held at Restlawn Memorial Park for remembering service members, featuring American Legion Dudley Post 10, guest speaker Mike Thompson and patriotic bagpipe music.

Shopping

It’s officially farmers market season so head to River Drive in Wausau near Oak Island Park for fresh vegetables, fruit and more. Wausau Farmers Market is held on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 7 a.m. until the items sell out. For more information, visit Wausau Farmers Market.

History and Arts

Although Wausau translates to “a faraway place” according to historians, it’s not too far away to explore the city’s heritage and culture at any time of the year. Woodson History Center features “The History of Marathon County” and Yawkey House gives a glimpse into the life of a wealthy lumberman’s family in the early 1900s. Learn about Wausau’s architecture and earliest buildings through historical walking tours. The properties are open Saturday and Sunday 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. For other times, visit Marathon County Historical Society.

Check out Wausau’s creative and colorful side by locating the ten must-see murals throughout the city. For locations, visit Wausau Murals.

Parks and Trails

Riverlife Park on River Drive is a destination playground for all ages and it’s pet friendly. It features exercise stations, paved paths, seating along the Wisconsin River and Briq’s Soft Serve.

Follow the Wisconsin River from Oak Island Park along the River Edge Parkway and discover other parks, including Fern Island, Barker-Stewart Island, Wausau Whitewater and Big Bull Falls Park. Whether biking, running or walking this nature-filled route, it’s easy to forget that it’s in the middle of a city. For maps, visit Marathon County Parks.

Nightlife

Malarkey’s Pub, voted the best live music in Wausau, gets the good times rolling on Friday, May 26 at 8 p.m. with Caleb Delaney & The Lads.

“If you’re around this holiday weekend, spend a day taking in the scenery of downtown Wausau and don’t forget your camera,” said Eckmann.

Wausau Opportunity Zone, Inc. is leading the charge to inform Greater Wausau of progress made during the development phases of Downtown Wausau. WOZ collaborates with Greater Wausau Prosperity Partnership, local governments, businesses and organizations to involve and engage the community.

Refreshing changes are happening in Downtown Wausau. Make sure to sign up for regular emails at downtownrefresh.com, and for more information, email info@downtownrefresh.com.