Things to do in Dodgeville, Wisconsin During the Winter Holidays
The holiday season is celebrated from sea to shining sea, yet each little corner of America has traditions and pastimes that are uniquely its own. Dodgeville, Wisconsin—which Lands' End is proud to call home—is no exception. We'd like to share just a few of the festive Dodgeville attractions that make the holidays here so special.
'Tis the Season
Call us romantics, but we still have a soft spot for the fresh pine smell of a live Christmas tree, and we're willing to take it needles and all. There may be no better place to secure a Christmas tree in the Badger State than at Cooks' Woods off of Ebenezer Road in Fennimore. For a true Wisconsin experience, pick a promising specimen among their field of 7- to 10-year-old trees and cut it yourself. You can pick out the helpers – they're the ones in the red down vests. But if you know your way better around a keyboard than a log saw, don't be afraid to select one of the pre-cut trees from the barn.
For some added fun, bring some hot chocolate along, in a thermos, with some cute insulated travel mugs. You’ll be able to sip that without worrying about spilling during your Christmas tree outing.
Take a Winter Hike
A little over four miles from Dodgeville is Governor Dodge State Park. You won't come across many hikers or campers among its 5,270-acre expanse in mid-winter, but you will find a couple of hardy old-timers trying their luck ice fishing at Cox Valley Lake or Twin Valley Lake wearing nothing more than a men's flannel shirt over a long sleeve and a pair of jeans. They claim their toasty hat is the ticket to keeping them warm. Even if you don't pick up a rod yourself, you're bound to absorb some tall tales and old-fashioned grit.
Since you might not have a toasty hat of your own, make sure you’re prepared for the weather, since it’ll probably be quite chilly. Don’t forget to wear good hiking boots that can handle snow and ice–as well as a warm jacket, pants, hat, and whatever else you need to stay toasty warm.
Go Ice Skating
This holiday season, find time to enjoy one of the many winter physical activities Dodgeville has to offers. One option is to go ice skating at the Ley Pavilion at Harris Park. While the Ice Wolves Youth Hockey team is resting, the skating rink opens up to the public. For a small fee you can rent a pair of ice skates and show off your skills! If you are looking for something that requires less balance, try cross country skiing at one of the three parks in town! Either way, you will have an unforgettable experience!
Be a Patron of the Arts
Cheer is fine and dandy, but we shouldn't forget that goodwill ranks among the essential holiday virtues. Express a little bit of that yourself by making time to attend a holiday winter orchestra at any of the local schools. Chances are that you won't catch the most expertly played rendition of "O Come, O Come, Emmanuel," but the smiles as they're being noticed will be worth it. And any chance to wear your new velvet tunic or sleek velvet dress and leather boots is a good day.
Get Your Holiday Shopping Done
Gift-giving can sometimes feel like a chore, but even the most jaded holiday shopper's heart will be warmed by candlelight shopping at Mineral Point. From December 1st to December 7th, the historic town fills its streets with candles, carolers, and chestnut roasters. It's like receiving a little gift yourself. Just snuggle into your long down coat. If you're lucky, a soft snowfall will add to the magic.
Have a Little Blast from the Past
Since Dodgeville has been around since 1827, there are some great things to be learned and treasures to be found! Consider doing some of your Christmas shopping at one of the cute antique stores on Iowa Street. It’s a great way to find a unique gift and maybe learn a little bit about history. You’ll never know what you may stumble across!