OutWiGo Events

Experience unique events at Wisconsin state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas! Events at state park properties are ongoing throughout the year. Here are a few recurring annual events and programs we're excited to offer.

First Day Hikes (Jan. 1)

Wisconsinites looking for a healthy, refreshing start to the new year can make plans to join a First Day Hike at Wisconsin's state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas each Jan. 1.

Winter Candlelight Events (January-March)

Enjoy your favorite state parks, forests, trails and recreation areas by candlelight! Each winter, visit your nearest state park property for a spectacular evening event exploring trails by candle or torchlight. Activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, sledding, hiking and more. Events often include hot beverages and a fire for participants to enjoy. These are our most popular events of the year! Don't miss out.

Candlelit trail in the Flambeau River State Forest. Photo credit: Wisconsin DNR

Run For The Trees: Happy Little 5K (April 18-26, 2026)

The annual Run for the Trees event is inspired by Bob Ross, the American painter, art instructor and television host of the PBS show "The Joy of Painting" and his love of the outdoors.

Runners, walkers, hikers and rollers can complete their 5K anywhere outdoors anytime from April 18 to 26. Wisconsin state parks and forests are a great place to finish your 5K! Registration is available now at Run For The Trees: Happy Little 5K (RunSignup.com).

This event is an excellent opportunity to get some exercise and protect our natural resources at the same time. Race proceeds support tree planting and forest protection efforts in state parks, such as invasive plant and forest pest management and early detection surveys.

The registration fee includes a keepsake Happy Little T-shirt, commemorative bib number and finisher's medal.

Suggested Happy Little 5K Routes And Map For Wisconsin State Parks.

Work Play Earth Day (April-May)

Wisconsinites have several opportunities to celebrate Earth Day (April 22) through acts of service and outdoor recreation at state parks. Earth Day was founded in 1970 by Wisconsin native Gov. Gaylord Nelson to raise awareness about air and water pollution. Today, Earth Day is observed around the globe and is commemorated as a whole month of recognition, stewardship and celebration of the natural environment. The public can participate in family-friendly activities that help enhance public lands. These events lead to lasting enhancements, increased awareness and continued support for Wisconsin State Parks. Watch for Work Play Earth Day events held across the state during April and May.

Free Fun Weekend (June 6-7, 2026)

Wisconsin is home to 50 state parks, 15 state forests, 44 state trails, 84,000 miles of rivers and streams, roughly 15,000 lakes, and so much more. For the first weekend every June, you can explore it all with state park admission fees, fishing licenses and trail passes waived. Watch for free admission events held during this period on the DNR events calendar.

Shakespeare In The State Parks (June-August)

Experience drama in state parks! The Summit Players are a traveling Shakespeare troupe offering a workshop and play across Wisconsin state parks, forests and recreation areas each summer. A different play is selected each year. A 45-minute educational workshop precedes the 75-minute show for kids and adults. Both the performance and workshop are FREE! Vehicle admission into the state park property is required.

Universe In The Park (June-August)

Universe in the Park is a popular outreach program of the University of Wisconsin – Madison Department of Astronomy. A typical Universe in the Park session begins just after sunset with a 30-40-minute talk and slide show about astronomy. The talks are presented to audiences of all ages. After the discussion, weather permitting, Universe in the Park sets up a moderate aperture (8-10 inches) telescope and provides park visitors the opportunity to view available astronomical objects.

Ride Across Wisconsin (July 11, 2026)

On Saturday, July 11, 2026, the Wisconsin Bicycle Fed is once again hosting the Ride Across Wisconsin. This year, all routes (12-mile, 60-mile, 100-mile and 175-mile loop options) will begin and end at Phoenix Park in downtown Eau Claire.

The annual Ride Across Wisconsin was established to promote excellent riding opportunities throughout the state while raising funds for the Wisconsin Bicycle Federation. For more information or to register for this event, please visit the Ride Across Wisconsin website.

Volunteers are also needed to assist riders at rest stops along the route, load bikes for transportation, check in riders and more.