As July winds down, the local event calendar is bringing a perfect mix of rural celebration, regional creativity, and a head start on our favorite local season. Whether you want to experience a classic small-town festival down the road, browse beautiful handmade creations on a historic campus, or sing along to some pre-Oktoberfest polka, the area has excellent options to close out the month.
Here are three great ways to spend your weekend from Friday, July 24th through Sunday, July 26th:
1. Give a Yeehaw at Houston Hoedown Days
- When: Friday, July 24th – Sunday, July 26th
- Where: Houston, MN
- More Info: Houston Hoedown Days
Take a short drive west into Minnesota for Houston Hoedown Days. This community celebration brings a massive dose of country charm. The schedule features live musical performances, a grand parade, family-friendly activities, and plenty of traditional festival food all weekend long.
2. Celebrate the Countdown at the Free Oktoberfest Pre-Show
- When: Friday, July 24th, 6:30-8:30PM
- Where: La Crosse Bierhaus (128 3rd St S, La Crosse)
- More Info: Mollie B & Friends Oktoberfest Pre-Show
Can’t wait for the best weekend of the autumn? The countdown is officially on! Kick off your weekend on Friday night with a free pre-Oktoberfest party. Enjoy the lively, energetic tunes of Mollie B & Friends as they celebrate exactly two months until Fest. Grab a stein, dust off your dirndl early, and enjoy the ultimate local countdown with absolutely free admission.
3. Shop Handmade Treasures at the AAUW Art Fair on the Green
- When: Saturday, July 25th
- Where: Viterbo University Assisi Courtyard, La Crosse
- More Info: AAUW Art Fair
Spend your Saturday wandering through a beautiful showcase of regional talent at the 68th Annual AAUW Art Fair on the Green. Moved to the scenic outdoor grounds of Viterbo University, this juried fair lets you browse and purchase unique works directly from local and Midwest artists, with proceeds directly supporting local student scholarships.
