Departments

Experience an invigorating mix of heritage, creative expression and small-town charm with a short drive to Beaver Dam! Located an hour from the Fox Cities, Beaver Dam is the largest city in Dodge County with a population of only 16,708 at the 2020 census. As the area continues to flourish, new visitors are now discovering its exciting historical roots, community-focused events and spacious areas to explore.

As the name implies, the area was named after an old beaver dam that was once located in a stream that connected to the river. Native Americans, including the Sioux, Chippewa and Ho-Chunk tribes, once called the area home. For centuries, they hunted and fished amongst the river and lake and now, are forever tied to the land through ancestral stories and final resting places. Interestingly, a documented effigy mound still remains at the current site of the Chapel of the Archangels on Madison Street.

In 1841, Thomas Mackie and Joseph Gostschius became the first settlers to make Beaver Dam their permanent home. By the 19th century, European immigrants, including the English, Irish, Germans and Dutch, arrived. The town began to grow and welcomed the Milwaukee Railroad in 1856 and the Dodge County Fair in 1886. Known as the “World’s Greatest County Fair,” it offered diverse entertainment including horse races and a ferris wheel.

Now, modern day Beaver Dam welcomes visitors with its eclectic mix of local restaurants, art and specialty shops. Nature also paves the way to solitude with two scenic waterways, Beaver Dam Lake and Beaver Dam River and an impressive list of parks.

“The lake is so large, visitors feel like they have it all to themselves,” Tracy Propst, Executive Director of the Beaver Dam Chamber of Commerce, says. “We also have the most gorgeous sunsets.”

Many of the area’s twenty-one parks are located near bodies of water, giving nod to the city’s fascinating background, including what is now known as Swan Park. “In the later nineteenth century, this park was a draw for wealthy Americans who would come to Beaver Dam to take in the healing waters of the springs,” Propst says. Formerly Vita Springs, it was once run by homeopath George Swan, who believed it could heal a myriad of ailments.

Along with physical reminders of the past, the Dodge County Historical Society works to preserve Beaver Dam’s rich legacy. “It is such a treasure in our community and enjoyable for young and old,” Propst says. “It gives a comprehensive look at the area, and the Dodge County Region, and highlights notable events, businesses and people in the history of Beaver Dam.”

Ultimately, there is a strong sense of community in Beaver Dam and small businesses are celebrated. The Chamber is dedicated to helping them thrive and make these businesses the heart of all their events.

With the help of an affiliate, the Downtown Beaver Dam Inclusive (DBDI), future growth is encouraged. “We have a great momentum in revitalizing our downtown,” Propst says.

From a plethora of art-centric establishments to opportunities for fun through recreation, live entertainment or shopping, a visit to Beaver Dam is worth the drive!

THINGS TO DO

Whether you plan a day trip or spend the weekend, there’s so much to do in Beaver Dam!

Art on the Town Wisconsin

Step into the downtown studio for a creative experience! Art on the Town Wisconsin offers exciting classes, paint your own pottery, and drop-in artmaking for all skill and age levels. There are also projects geared toward couples, which makes for a fun little date night. The studio is simply a welcoming space for all to gather, connect and create. Throughout the year, the studio hosts classes and crafting events. Enjoy projects like Peony Papermaking, Board Painting,  Crystal Jewelry Making, Pressed Flowers in Clay and more. An on-site exhibition space is filled with artist’s endeavors and is perfect for the art lover at heart.

Beaver Dam Area Community Theater (BDACT)

Get tickets for local theatrical entertainment at the Beaver Dam Area Community Theater (BDACT). The theater puts on multiple productions each year which grace its spacious 1,200 sq.ft. stage. The main area, the Kamps Auditorium, has 310 state-of-the-art fixed seats and an orchestra pit while Encore Hall offers a more intimate show setting. The facilities also include a scene shop and green room for performers. Through many performances and class offerings, BDACT, a non-profit, emphasizes the importance of community and strives to connect it through inspirational and enriching performance art opportunities. Serving thousands of patrons and participants each year, the fully-accessible fine arts center is conveniently located downtown. The three-story center provides space for educational programming and shows, including musicals, comedies, cabarets, dramas, Tell-A-Tale Children’s Theatre and youth choir.

Beaver Dam Raceway

Listen to roaring engines and watch on as cars speed around the one-third mile banked clay oval track! The Beaver Dam Raceway entertains spectators of all ages with intense, outdoor fender to fender racing. Competition is steep within the five divisions, which include: Grand Nationals, INEX Sanctioned Legends, Modified, Sport Modified and Street Stock. Visitors can catch sight of classics like Thunderbirds, Monte Carlos and LeMans along with Legend Cars powered by Yamaha 1250cc motorcycle engines. Built for speed with an ultra-competitive drive are the modified sports class of racecars. Races. are held weekly, weather permitting and the track hosts an annual World of Outlaws sprint car races. Between laps, grab a snack from the concessions stand. The raceway offers summer staples like hot dogs, burgers, pizza, nachos and more. Be sure to beat the heat with an ice-cold beverage, including assorted sodas, Miller and Coors beers and Mike’s Hard Lemonade.

Country Barn Ceramics

Pick up a paintbrush and let your imagination be the limit at Country Barn Ceramics! The art-filled barn, which opened in 2006, specializes in make-and-take ceramics, chalk couture, and holiday decor. Shelves with hundreds of paintable projects await, including garden gnomes, adorable animals, sports designs and more. Select from dozens of stencils to create chalk-painted signs for home decor or gifts or prepare for holidays with an impressive selection of pieces. The shop has an on-site kiln and offers a generous variety of projects that are for all painting skill levels. An on-sight instructor is also always happily available to help. Stop by the shop and create something unique in an open and relaxing environment. Supplies are provided for projects and include acrylics, ceramic and crackle paint and glaze. The shop also hosts Ceramic and Wine Painting Parties as well as events for children.

Dodge County Center for the Arts (DCCA)

Visit the Dodge County Center for the Arts, an inviting and airy space full of colorful, artistic splendor. The art gallery nurtures a vibrant creative community and brings people of all ages together through various genres of art. Enjoy relaxing music, a cup of coffee and browse collections from local artists, including paintings and photography. In addition to exhibits and shows, the DCCA offers classes and a year-round gift shop. Visitors can also purchase paintings, prints, photography, books and cards from local artists. A generous collection of used books are also for sale. The gallery hosts weekly Community Art Nights every Thursday from 4PM-7PM, which are free and open to the public. Projects change each week, but have included activities such as collagraph printing, flower pots, string art, faux stained glass and tye dye totes.

Dodge County Historical Society

Housed in the former Williams Free Library building, the Dodge County Historical Society invites visitors to explore their permanent and special exhibits. Spanning three floors, the museum is filled with artifacts, memorabilia and informative displays. Exhibits include an 1800s-era one-room school house, Victorian furnishings and dress, an extensive military collection and farming section. Amongst their collections is a vintage 1902 Rambler automobile – the first to be delivered in Beaver Dam. Equipped with kerosene lanterns, the classic also has an interesting story behind them. The basement level highlights “Old Beaver Dam” with momentos celebrating industry and business. Outside, resting on an original section of railroad track that once ran through the city is a yellow 1950s caboose. It sits adjacent to the nearby buildings that once served as a local passenger depot for the Milwaukee Railroad.

Old Hickory Golf Club

Spend time on the green at Old Hickory Golf Club, one of the most historic and respected golf courses in the state! Established in 1920, the 18-hole course boasts a challenging layout, practice range, a full-service restaurant and a sweeping view of the rolling landscape. The course features more than 30 fairway and green side bunkers across its 200-acres. The course has hosted the Wisconsin State Amateur Championship twice as well as the USGA United States Amateur Championship Local Qualifying. The club also offers leagues for various skill levels, lessons and junior golf. Guests can conveniently book tee time online and the whole facility is open to the public.

Tower Lanes

Go for the strike at Tower Lanes, a 16-lane bowling center that offers leagues, food specials and live entertainment. The family-friendly atmosphere promotes fun for all! Along with MAD Interactive bowling games, patrons can play pool and darts, video games and utilize two volleyball courts. There are also volleyball and bean bag toss leagues available. Between games, relax on the enclosed outdoor deck or at their full-service bar. The alley hosts live entertainment on Fridays and Saturdays, including karaoke and a DJ. Their on-site grill offers pub-style eats, available for dine in or carry out. Select from offerings like battered or garlic cheese curds, a triple decker grilled turkey club or go for a pie and build your own flatbread pizza. While grabbing food, catch a Packers or Badger game or check out the specials. The alley offers an Open Bowler Club for $20, which provides a discounted rate of $5/person each visit that includes two hours of bowling plus shoe rental.

RETAIL THERAPY

Visit the area’s many specialty shops for a wide selection of gifts, home goods and gourmet foods.

Beaver Dam Antique Mall

Spanning three levels, the Beaver Dam Antique Mall has a large variety of collectibles and antiques. Those looking for vintage finds and baubles can ‘treasure hunt’ as they browse an impressive array of books, jewelry, lamps, toys, furniture, coins and pottery pieces. Inventory changes frequently; you’ll never know what marvels you’ll find amongst their shelves!

Chippy’s Popcorn Creations

Walking through the doors, visitors are met with delicious aromas of fresh popcorn, both buttery and sweet! Chippy’s Popcorn Creations specializes in small batch gourmet popcorn, which is popped daily. Flavors include milk chocolate caramel pecan, peanut butter cream cheese, Beaver Dam blend, hot buffalo wing and so much more. Other treats, like German-style cinnamon roasted pecans, churro puffs, candy and ice cream are also available.

EarthShine Candles

Lined with beautiful displays and shelves organized by scents, EarthShine Candles offers handmade candle products and home decor for every occasion. The candles come in many sizes, including three-layer jars, melts and votives. The scents and colors compliment any home and make wonderful gifts. The shop also carries sustainably sourced soy wax candles in jars and melts with recyclable and compostable packing.

Schultz’s Cheese Haus

Nestled on two acres, the Schultz’s Cheese Haus is a Switzerland-inspired shop in the woods. Built as an exact replica of a true Swiss chalet, it offers 125 varieties of Wisconsin cheese, sausage, fudge and other local goods. Sports fans can find a collection of Packer and Badger gear and those looking for a foodie gift can select from preserves, mustards, honeys, maple syrups, chocolates and fine wines.

Firefly Fibers

Focused on the beauty of natural fibers, Firefly Fibers is full-service yarn shop offering skein upon skein of beautiful fine yarns, accessories and kits. The shop also offers knitalongs, open knitting sessions and classes. Stop in and relax in a contemporary atmosphere and experience creativity at your fingertips.

Twisted Sisters

For the best mix of all things new, repurposed and vintage, stop in Twisted Sisters. The shop is filled with gifts and decor, cards and timeless finds. From chalk paints to furniture to printed tees, it highlights one-of-a-kind re-creations for both the home, office and for gifts.

Signs by Rob and More

For personalized creations, Signs by Rob and More is a one-stop shop! Whether you are looking for a gift or elements for the home, customize laser engraved wood signs, wood signage, vinyl lettering or decals. There are also many other gift ideas in stock including purses, totes, plush toys, goat milk soaps, wallets and beyond.

Gene’s Beaver Floral

For over 50 years, skilled floral artisans at Gene’s Beaver Floral have offered beautiful arrangements, bouquets and plants. From blooming azalea plants, an abundance of peach versilia roses to exotic dendrobium orchids in galvanized steel vases, there is an exquisite selection of florals available for every occasion. The shop also offers mylar and latex balloons along with fruit and chocolate baskets and candy boxes.

Mill House Quilts

Known for their high quality products, Mill House Quilts, stocks beautiful bolts of fabric and other crafting supplies. Plus, shop an assortment of handcrafted quilts, kitchen and tea towels and unique handmade gifts. Along with pre-cut fabrics and notions, the shop offers a variety of classes for the public. Classes range from skill building and quilting techniques to project classes. Experience educators guide participants of all skill levels as they create one-of-a-kind pieces.

DINING

From casual lunches to dining out for special occasions, there are impeccable eats for every palate.

Annabelle’s Ice Cream Parlor

Cones, dishes, sundaes and splits – Annabelle’s serves up 24 creamy flavors of Cedar Crest Ice Cream! Dig into flavors like banana cream pie, lemon cheesecake, Wisconsin campfire s’mores and more. Munch on lunch with Chicago style dogs, gyros, meatball grinders and the best cheese curds in the city. The parlor also offers soda varieties unique to the area, keto options and vegan corn dogs.

Chili John’s Cafe

Head to Chili John’s Cafe, a small town diner with lots of character. Offering affordable eats in a true diner atmosphere, every belly will leave happy. Started in 1920, the cafe is family owned and operated and cooks up breakfast classics and lunches like corned beef, house breaded white fish, bacon tuna melts, club sandwiches and their world famous chili.

Dam Chicken

Overlooking downtown, Dam Chicken is a modern space with wooden bench tables, an outdoor patio, a soda machine with customizing options and a menu showcasing comfort foods. Order up some fried, rotisserie or Nashville-style chicken, slaw, candied carrots, biscuits and four different cuts of fries: waffle, sweet potato, Cajun and house cut. Wings, bowls and salads are also available as well as unique mouthwatering selections such as the BBQ Brisket Mac & Cheese sandwich and funnel cake fries with chocolate drizzle!

Cantafio’s Buckhorn Steakhouse

Enjoy a hearty meal and dine with a purpose at Cantafio’s Buckhorn Steakhouse! The restaurant, which features natural wood paneling and overlooks picturesque farm fields, celebrates veterans by inviting them to dine for free. This generous offer is in honor of the owner’s son, Lance Corporal Ryan J. Cantafio, who was killed in action during Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2004. Walking in, is Ryan’s Room, an area with five booths dedicated to the marine. Service is friendly, prompt and absolutely top-notch. Once seated, dine on fresh bread, crunchy breadsticks and cheddar spread before diving into impeccable dishes like the Buckhorn Tradition, a deep fried onion with zesty chipotle sauce or steaks like Ryan’s Cut, a 12oz. char crusted strip steak with demi glaze and topped with breaded onion tanglers. The food here is worth the trip in itself!

Sake House

For those who enjoy oriental cuisine, order lunch at Sake House, a relaxed locale serving sushi rolls and Japanese and Chinese mains including hibachi, bento, sushi and sashimi options. Handcrafted dishes including Thai tempura fish rolls, mango salmon rolls, dancing lobster rolls, sesame chicken and crab rangoon leave the kitchen and head to the table. Compliment any entree with fried rice, udon, yum sauce or wasabi mayo, and sip on a variety of chilled beverages including Ramune’, a Japanese soda.

Palenque Mexican Bar & Grill

Plan a date night out with authentic recipes and creative drinks at Palenque Mexican Bar & Grill. The eatery is filled with natural light and boasts a full service bar and delicious dishes with flair. Select from spinach quesadillas, beef tostadas, chile rellenos, tamales, choriqueso, Mexican chili bowls, seafood enchiladas and more. There is also an indulging offering of vegetarian dishes, as well as sweet desserts such as flan, fried ice cream and warm churros.

Park Plaza Pizza

There’s more than just pizza on the menu at Park Plaza Pizza! While they’re known for the best pizza in Dodge County, diners will find a large variety of dishes including chicken, cod, perch, burgers, broccoli bacon cheese bites and cheese puffs. Unique pizzas are also their specialty, including their Pan-style special with sausage, mushroom, onion, green peppers and shrimp. All products, from pies to their creamy malts and milkshakes are made with fresh ingredients!

LODGING

Reserve a room at a historical bed and breakfast or make reservations at a traditional hotel with desirable amenities while experiencing the city.

The Rectory Bed and Breakfast

As the area’s only bed and breakfast, The Rectory features three, relaxing luxury suites for its guests. Built in 1906, the inn is home to an exquisite stained glass window, oak woodwork and crystal chandelier. While it holds a commendable history, it combines tranquility with the comforts of home. Overlooking Beaver Dam Lake, The Floyd and Dorothy suite spans one-third of the floor and has an en-suite bath with a walk-in shower, walk-in closet and a luxurious wrought-iron sleigh bed. The other two rooms, the Miss Katie Suite and Miss Paris Suite, are cozy options that come with a gorgeous view. Daily afternoon wine and hors d’oeuvres are hosted and guests are treated to a complimentary night-time snack. In the morning, a scrumptious homemade breakfast is waiting, served on fine china by candlelight.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites

Book a room at Holiday Inn Express & Suites, a well-known chain that joins superior comfort with bonus amenities. The 71-room, three-floor property offers free wifi, parking and has both standard rooms and suites options for visitors. Each room includes bedside outlets, plush duvets, a microwave, mini fridge, and Keurig. Guests are treated to a complimentary hot breakfast and the brand’s signature cinnamon rolls, made fresh each morning. Adults can utilize the hotel’s 24-hour fitness center and families can take a dip in the heated indoor pool. The cozy beds induce a restful night’s sleep – an absolute must before another eventful day of exploring.

AmericInn by Wyndham

Recharge by the beautiful lobby fireplace at AmericInn or sink into bed in one of their spacious 63 guestrooms, which have either a king bed or two queen beds. Travelers will have access to free parking and WiFi, along with a spa tub, on-site bar and lounge and gym. The indoor pool offers a refreshing way to unwind and has a frog themed slide for kids. The hotel is located near many dining options but BBQ grills are also available for guest use. Start the day off in the best way possible with their free breakfast, complete with eggs, waffles, biscuits and gravy and more.

IN NATURE

There are over two dozen parks in Beaver Dam, all of which have something to offer visitors. Between fishing, walking and picnicking, here are a few honorable mentions.

Swan Park

As the city’s most popular park, Swan Park spans 10.5 acres and has a spacious children’s play area, band shell, wading pool, basketball court, volleyball area and a lighted area for games of horseshoe. Two large shelters, two mini shelters and a concessions building make it a great spot for picnics and events. Its 1880s iconic Springhouse Shelter also provides a historical touch and character to this charming park.

Edgewater Park

With several piers and ramps, Edgewater Park is a great spot for fishing. Scan the horizon from the observation tower, picnic within it’s two shelters or bring your pup to play in the dog-friendly area. The 158-acre park also includes a nature’s pond and lighted parking lot and ramp.

Crystal Lake Park

Spend the day playing disc golf at Crystal Lake Park! The spacious park covers 43-acres and has two bodies of water, including a natural spring. With its beautiful trees and lush grass, there is room to sprawl out with a picnic, good book or to play outdoor games with the family.

Rotary Riverwalk Park

Take a stroll alongside the river at Rotary Riverwalk Park. The .712-acres spot features paved walking areas perfect for strollers and wheelchairs, maintenanced landscape, a bridge and a variety of musical play instruments. Enjoy the solitude or make some music as you enjoy time in the sunshine.

Waterworks Park

Families will soon find Waterworks Park is their favorite! Located along Beaver Dam Lake, the 4.6 acre site is home to the largest play unit amongst the parks, as well as multiple picnic areas, including one with electrical capabilities, and grills. Launch the boat and spend the day fishing or compete in a game of volleyball with the sandy on-site court.

NIGHTLIFE

Hit the town and sip on award-winning brews, catch comedic skits and test your luck at the slots.

Damsels

For an evening out, go casual with a visit to Damsels. The bar features upscale craft cocktails, a rotating wine cellar, signature bourbon collection and of course, trendy appetizers, entrees and desserts. Dip into the hummus trio, take on the mile high Reuben or Smashing Damsels specialty burgers or savor a slice of chocolate pecan bourbon pie. Finish the night off with a visit to their on-site game room with slot machines.

Ooga Brewing Company

Kick back and relax with a brew at Ooga Brewing Company! Built on a former vintage car lot, the name commemorates the sound “Ah-oo-gah” like an old car. Order a glass of Holla, a classic American cream ale infused with the aroma of fresh jalapeños – the 2022 World Beer Cup Gold Medal Winner, a refreshing Ooga Crush, a hazy NEIPA, packed with orange, tangerine and peach flavors, or select from a variety of guest or gluten-free options. Beer in one hand, snacks in the other, nibble on bites like Milwaukee soft pretzels, Great Harvest Pepperoni Rolls and LeRoy Meats Pizzas.

Riverfront Wine Bar

Swirl and savor a glass of wine at Riverfront Wine Bar or come in on Sundays for their famous, build-your-own Bloody Mary bar! The warm and friendly atmosphere is a cozy place to meet with friends and to explore the bar’s extensive wine and drink collection. They also routinely host live entertainment and special events and sell a variety of gifts, including flattened wine bottles, which double as chic cheese trays or decorative elements for the home.

TOURS

Wander through Beaver Dam and take in its history and art-inspired offerings with several tours.

Dodge County Historical Society Museum Tour

Available during scheduled business hours or by special arrangement, visitors can tour the museum alongside a guide and learn about the history of Beaver Dam. The museum features many informative exhibits that showcase the history, heritage and innovation of the area.

Walldogs Mural Tour

Explore the city and admire the impressive collection or murals by Walldogs, a group of skilled sign painters from all over the world. You’ll find many as you pass by buildings downtown. The murals are individually unique and hold great significance to the area. Check out some favorites, including the Dodge County Fair Replica Poster by Ming’s, the Gould’s Nursery layout by Fast Eddie’s and the gorgeous Swan City Park scene at the Watermark.

Chapel of the Archangels

With its 6-story bell tower being the highest point in the city, it’s not hard to spot this gorgeous chapel. The original church was constructed in 1875, and there is a magnificent history behind the site which includes an ancient Indian burial ground that dates back to 1840. Formerly known as St. Michael’s Polish Catholic Church, the building adjoins the Rectory and features a stained glass window, elements written in native polish, a pipe organ and a hand-detailed dome. Visitors can tour the grounds and the sanctuary, a true Gothic-style architectural masterpiece.

EVENTS

Celebrate a strong community and attend many exciting area events throughout the year!

Downtown Farmers Market

Wednesdays & Saturdays through October 2022

Rain or shine, visit the outdoor market in downtown Beaver Dam to purchase fresh produce and locally crafted products. From baked goods to cut floral bouquets, there’s something wonderful waiting at the market.

Jam by the Dam

Select Fridays through August

Sponsored by generous local businesses, one Friday a month over summer, visitors can head to Tahoe Park and enjoy a summer concert series. The series showcases a variety of musical genres and styles and is free to attend.

Best Dam Fest

July 8-10, 2022

Bring the family for fun, activities and entertainment for those of all ages. Enjoy fantastic food, all day carnival rides, pontoon wife’s, ski shows, live music and fireworks. View the complete list of happenings on the events website, www.bestdamfest.com.

Boozy Brunch Walk at Best Dam Fest

July 9, 2022

Explore downtown Beaver Dam with brunch and booze before Best Dam Fest! Attendees 21+ can stop at the Chamber of Commerce office (127 S. Spring Street) to pick up their event passport. The passport includes seven pre-arranged stops which will feature a different beverage. There are also plenty of places to try along the way for brunch between drink stops. Enter to win door prizes, and compete for double entries by completing the Boozy Brunch Walk Silly Scavenger Hunt.

Day in the Park Craft Fair

July 10, 2022

Enjoy a morning walk through the park while perusing tables of handmade crafts and foods! Over 250 crafters from across the county will gather to display their work. View artwork of multiple types and find exciting new gifts and treasures.

Pressed Flowers in Clay

July 17, 2022

Combine the beauty of nature with functional decorative art! A great activity for all ages, the craft involves pressing plants and flowers into clay. Use your masterpiece as a trivet, wall hanging, or decorative plate – the options are endless! The event fee includes a pound and a half of clay, instruction and the first firing. Painting or glazing can be arranged for an additional fee on a return visit.

BSTP Dodge County Fair Pull

August 17, 2022

Vehicles will navigate two tracks, pulling a sled weighing 40,000 pounds! The tractor pull will headline pro-stock tractors and diesel trucks, giving the opportunity for ten to twenty competitors from all over the Midwest to face off. Watch on as classes like pro stock, super farm, and super modified TWD trucks provide entertainment for the whole family.

2022 Dodge County Fair

August 17-21, 2022

As the largest outdoor event in the area, the annual music festival is iconic to Beaver Dam and entertains over 50,000 fans of all ages. The multi-day fair includes a tractor pull, concerts by national touring artists, demolition derbies, a horse pull, truck pull, irresistible carnival food, exhibits and adorable animals.

Annual Beaver Dam Corn Roast

August 24, 2022

Grab an ear and prepare for a day of fun! The roast includes all you can eat corn, brats, beer and soda. The whole family can enjoy the live music, the corn hole tournament and games of bowling and volleyball.

Beaver Dam Pepper Festival

September 10, 2022

As a long-standing tradition for the area, the festival celebrates heritage. The Beaver Dam pepper was brought to the city by Hungarian immigrants in 1912. The festival includes the longest Pepper Contest, a chili cook-off with samples, live music, the Apple Pepper Pie contest race, an all day pancake breakfast, fresh pies, vendor booths, a balloon show by Mr. Steve, and soda, water and beer from the Beaver Dam Chamber of Commerce.

Wine Tour

September 16, 2022

Taste a variety of wines from Wisconsin as you explore downtown Beaver Dam. The annual tour includes twelve sip stops and registration includes a commemorative wine glass, wine samples, wristband and raffle ticket at the stops. Alcoholic samples are limited to 1-2 ounces. A nap is given to participants which highlight the spots. Attendees choose their own path while visiting each marked sip spot. To begin the walk, ticket holders must check in at the Beaver Dam Chamber of Commerce the day of the event and pick up their glass.

Home for the Holidays Shopping

November 3-5, 2022

Support local area businesses and get a start on holiday shopping, creating and decorating. Shoppers can even win prizes! Pick up a punch card at participating locations over the shopping days. This city-wide tradition is not only fun for the holidays, but shines the light on shopping locally.

Get Caught Shopping Small

November 26, 2022

Will you be caught by the jolly Chamber elves? Celebrate small business Saturday in Beaver Dam, and just by shopping, you could be a winner! Chamber elves will visit participating locations and if patrons are “caught” shopping, they’ll be handed an immediate prize!

Santa’s Hometown Adventure

December 3, 2022

Bundle up and get ready for an adventure through Santa’s Hometown! The fun-filled day is full of activities for the whole family. Attendees can enjoy many adventures including the Holly Jolly Obstacle Course, a visit to Santa’s Magical workshop, and gliding around on the ice rink! There will also be special appearances by Disney Princesses, the Grinch and Santa.

Holiday Parade

December 3, 2022

Watch the annual Holiday parade, one of the most exciting aspects of the holidays! The parade can be seen from the 100 and 200 blocks of Front street, turning right on Spring and ending at Mill Street. Don’t miss out on all the holiday dazzle!

Holiday Open House

December 3, 2022

Take a moment to warm up after enjoying the festivities to stop by the Chamber of Commerce! Crafts will be available for kids, watch the Chamber tree lighting and make cards for local soldiers for the holiday season.

Cocoa Walk

December 3, 2022

Sip as you shop in downtown Beaver Dam! Enjoy delicious samples of chocolate treats and hot cocoa while exploring businesses downtown. The sampling event is free while supplies last.

For the Movie Buff:

Catch a matinee at the Beaver Dam Cinema on Front street or take a walk past The Rogers building, a former six story hotel built in the 1920s. The building was used as a filming location for the movie Public Enemies (2009) starring Johnny Depp, Christian Bale and Marion Cotillard.

For the Thrillist:

Watch a free Beaverland Mustskis Waterski Show at Tahoe Park on Sunday nights during the summer, or cheer from the stands as cars buzz around the track at Beaver Dam Raceway.

For the Nature Lover:

Bird watch or take a walk through the many local parks, or rent a paddleboard, canoe or kayak at Waterworks Park and glide across the scenic lake.

For the Thrifter:

Hunt for treasures and quirky finds at local antique and repurpose stores like Twisted Sisters, hit up garage sales or attend the Flea Market once a month at the Dodge County Center for the Arts.

For the Creative:

Tap to tunes at the Thirsty Beaver on weekends, watch theatrical performances at the Beaver Dam Area Community Theater and browse the Nancy Ziemen Sewing Studio to stock up on fabrics, quilting tools and crafting bundle boxes.