Well, it’s February and cabin fever has overtaken the household. Our dog Fargo stares out the window hoping for a squirrel to appear just to break the boredom. I stare at the weather radar to see how much snow we’re expecting. Too much, but at least our snow shoes will be put to good use. Until then, the fever is raging and we may need to seek a homespun remedy.
Driftless Wisconsin to the rescue. I have used this space to tell you about the wonderful outdoor adventures available in Driftless Wisconsin. Like parks, which have incredible views of the rivers that seem even more expansive during the winter. Like winter sports such as cross-country skiing and ice fishing that turn winter into a vacation. And yes, snowshoeing. They’re calling for six inches of snow and those snowshoes will come in handy breaking new trails through virgin snow.
But if you’re the indoor type – and you can count me among ‘em when the temperature drops below wind-chill-advisory levels – we have plenty of ways to beat the fever. Arts and culture for instance.
You can begin at the VIVA Gallery in Viroqua and take in the marvelous artwork on display. VIVA is an artist cooperative featuring some very talented regional artists; including painters, potters, weavers, sculptors, jewelers, and much more. Some of those wonderful Driftless warm-weather landscapes are on display. You can pick up a painting and bring spring home early. Or find a piece of jewelry for your Valentine’s Day mate.
If it’s performance art you’re after, the Temple Theatre in Viroqua has two events coming in March. Cloud Cult, a local band from Viroqua that takes the performing arts to a new level, will take the stage on March 5th. The band will perform two sets – one acoustic and one electric – from their new album and film entitled, “The Seeker.” And on March 12, “Ole and Lena’s 50th Wedding Anniversary and Vow Renewal” will bring laughter to the stage. “Find out in this comedy about love, marriage, and growing old together.” All of this in a theater restored to its original 1920’s ‘Classical Revival’ splendor.
If you are more interested in participation than observation, then the Driftless Folk School has a class for you. Also located in Viroqua, the school is “a regional center for the preservation, promotion and training of traditional crafts.” Checkout their website for classes in Blacksmithing, craft, cuisine, farming & gardening, homesteading, and nature building.
And if sitting around the pool reading a good book is in your sights – and if the Gulf of Mexico is not in your budget – then come to Prairie du Chien. An indoor water park, great restaurants, and fabulous shopping will keep you entertained without having to put on snowshoes.
Whether it’s snow or the cold that has you homebound with the fever, Driftless Wisconsin has the cure. Be sure to make a reservation, plan for a great meal, and get some ideas for shopping. Then come on over to Driftless Wisconsin and beat the fever.