Things to Do Around Monroe

It looks like the hot weather, sunny weather will hold throughout the weekend. Are you looking for something to do outside to enjoy the sunshine or inside to beat the heat?

~ Bring your lawn chair to Downtown Monroe to enjoy the second Concert on the Square. Red Hot Dixies take the stage at 6:30 pm. Order your boxed lunch in advance from Turner Hall, Garden Deli or http://www.turnerhallofmonroe.org/.

~ New Glarus hosts the Heidi Festival this weekend. Come watch the Heidi play, shake a leg in the Street Dance, sign the kids up for the children's tractor pull, browse the Art Fair, and enjoy a wagon ride. The festivities take place Friday through Sunday.

~ Don't forget about MTG's Odd Couple! This is the final weekend for the show, and I have heard it is great. Maybe we'll see you there.

~ Have you been to the Piazza yet? This is a large private party where crashers are welcome. Terry and Nancy host incredible music acts in an intimate, outdoor setting. Come for the potluck dinner after 6:30, music starts around dusk. Bring a dish to pass and your beverage of choice. Reusable tableware is provided. The cost is pass the hat. The musical act is Cajun Strangers, and the potluck theme is "From France to Nova Scotia and Down to New Orleans."

~ A new exhibit opens at the Stephenson County Visitor's Center by Freeport this week. "Cruisin' in Style" is an expo featuring automobiles, old and new. There is also information on Freeport's annual Cruise Night in August.

~ Stef at Goose Chaser Farm has a culinary workshop scheduled for Sunday, June 27 at her farm. The class this month focuses on Fresh Cheese. Make cheese, and then learn what to do with it. $30 per person, registration required.

~ Splish splash! Area pools are open for business, and they are very popular places in this heat. Monroe, New Glarus, Monticello, Brodhead, Lena, and Freeport all have community pools open to the public. Purchase a season pass or just come for the day, but remember the sunscreen! Don't forget about Yellowstone Lake or Lake Le-Aqua-Na if you prefer nature's swimming pools.

However you spend this weekend - at any of the above place, picking strawberries, biking the trails, watching the kids chase fireflies at dusk or hanging out in the hammock with a glass of lemonade - enjoy the fleeting days of summer.