What's happening in the River Valley? Coming up next in our comprehensive, curated community calendar:
Saturday Magic Casual Commander at Moerke at Moerke Cards
Spring Green Letter Writing Society at Spring Green Community Library
Healing Through ArtFest at Spring Green General Store
River Valley Players Auditions: “Rumors” at Spring Green Community Library
Opening Night: Dontrell, Who Kissed the Sea at American Players Theatre
Scroll down to see the full list of hidden-gem activities, live music, family events and more across Spring Green, Plain, Arena, Lone Rock and the surrounding areas.
Spring Green Community Library
230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green
Before the Farmer’s Market, come to the yard at the side of the Library for a free hour of yoga led by Emily Benz of Rural Remedy! Beginners and all ages welcome. Mats are available as well.
Tower Hill State Park
5808 County Rd C, Spring Green
Snapshot Day is a statewide, one-day event that connects volunteers, water lovers, and local conservation groups in a search for aquatic invasive species (AIS). Participants can help protect Wisconsin's rivers, lakes, and wetlands from invasive plants and animals that may negatively impact habitat, wildlife, recreation, and health.
Spring Green Community Library
230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green
The Spring Green Farmers Market operates year-round, rain or shine, offering the best in local produce and handcrafted goods. The market's mission is to support local farmers, food producers, and artists while providing a forum for a healthy community. Shoppers are invited to enjoy coffee, baked goods, and live music while browsing fresh items like flowers and vegetables. During the Summer Market (mid-May to mid-October), vendors gather every Saturday morning outside the Spring Green Community Library from 9am - 12pm.
Adamah Art Studios (Bethel Horizons)
4681 County Road ZZ, Dodgeville
Raku firing is a fast, dramatic process that produces unique textures, crackles, and colors you can’t achieve in traditional kilns. Participants will learn the fundamentals of Raku firing, including glazing techniques, firing, and post-firing reduction, in a one-day workshop. This workshop is perfect for beginners curious about Raku as well as experienced makers looking to explore a fast, experimental firing method
White Oak Savanna Events Farm & Sanctuary
4352 State Road 23, Dodgeville
The 7th Annual White Oak Festival is a weekend of live music, outdoor activities, and community gatherings at the White Oak Savanna. It includes various musical performances, workshops, and a guided nature walk by one of the Driftless Area Land Conservancy's staff members.
Spring Green Community Library
230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green
The Spring Green Letter Writing Society is bringing back the art of letter writing. Join them at the library to write a letter to a loved one, a penpal, or even a total stranger. All necessary supplies will be provided—including a typewriter—along with snacks and information for individuals who would love to receive mail. It is a wonderful way to spend a Saturday for anyone who enjoys stationery, the anticipation of getting mail, or simply spreading joy.
Magic the Gathering players are invited to Moerke Cards for casual commander and trading all day. This weekly gathering welcomes players of all experience levels each Saturday.
Spring Green General Store
137 S. Albany Street, Spring Green
Gather for the third festival of the summer at the general store, "Healing Through ArtFest," an afternoon dedicated to coming together in joy, art, and conversation. The event features four hours of live performances centered around the theme of healing in community rather than in isolation, a concept inspired by Sophie Strand's essay, "Make My Healing a Party Everyone is Invited To".
American Players Theatre
5950 Golf Course Rd, Spring Green
Join American Players Theatre for the opening night of Dontrell, Who Kissed the Sea. This "Modern Odyssey" is written by Nathan Alan Davis, directed by Tyrone Phillips, and features choreography by Victor Musoni. Set sail for a theatrical voyage where poetry and history flow together like boats on a silken sea. The story follows Dontrell, a teenager with a bright future whose ancestry is haunted by water. As he prepares for college, a riddle from an ancestor delivered by a dream pulls him toward his family's mysterious history and an ancestor lost at sea long ago. Searching for a connection to his past while his family attempts to anchor him in the present, Dontrell embarks on a lyrical, funny, and theatrical exploration of love, legacy, and self-discovery.
Wisconsin Riverside Resort
S13220 Shifflet Rd, Spring Green
Enjoy a relaxing summer afternoon with live outdoor music on the River Stage. Sit back with a drink, enjoy something delicious, and take in the river view.
Hillside Theater - Taliesin
6604 Hwy 23, Spring Green
Part of the Frank Lloyd Wright and the American Landscape Lecture Series, this presentation features guest speaker Professor Ayad Rahmani of Washington State University. By the middle of the 19th century, America was losing ground socially and politically, leading many to question its continued claim on freedom. This lecture examines how Frank Lloyd Wright looked to the writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson to restore Americans' capacity for insight and innovation.
Catch an evening of storytelling and fantastic live music featuring Sauk Prairie local Sam Ness. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a table and enjoy some delicious food, before he lights up the stage.
Slowpoke Lounge & Cabaret
137 W Jefferson Street, Spring Green
Join the Slowpoke Lounge & Cabaret for a performance by the Troubadours of Rhythm! Debuting in 2023, the Troubadours are a captivating journey through time, skillfully led by Milwaukee legend Jon Mroz. Drawing inspiration from the electrifying ambiance of the late 1920s and early 1930s South Side Chicago and North Side Milwaukee, this ensemble acts as a musical time machine, transporting listeners and dancers to an era of exuberance and innovation.
American Players Theatre
5950 Golf Course Rd, Spring Green
Join American Players Theatre for the opening night of The Two "Gentlemen" of Verona. Award-winning playwright Aaron Posner breathes new life into one of Shakespeare’s earliest comedies, and features music by composer and co-lyricist Greg Kotis. Dubbed "The Almost-Musical Hit of the Summer," this fresh adaptation walks up to the line of a musical and straps on a banjo, giving the production a heart-filling, Americana kick. The story follows childhood friends Proteus and Valentine as their relationships are tested and promises are broken when they both fall in love with Silvia in Milan. Complete with a live jug band, a couple of clowns, a group of outlaws, and one uncanny dog, it is a poetic, feel-good event where Shakespearean verse still rings from every stanza.
Spring Green Community Library
230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green
Before the Farmer’s Market, come to the yard at the side of the Library for a free hour of yoga led by Emily Benz of Rural Remedy! Beginners and all ages welcome. Mats are available as well.
Tower Hill State Park
5808 County Rd C, Spring Green
Snapshot Day is a statewide, one-day event that connects volunteers, water lovers, and local conservation groups in a search for aquatic invasive species (AIS). Participants can help protect Wisconsin's rivers, lakes, and wetlands from invasive plants and animals that may negatively impact habitat, wildlife, recreation, and health.
Spring Green Community Library
230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green
The Spring Green Farmers Market operates year-round, rain or shine, offering the best in local produce and handcrafted goods. The market's mission is to support local farmers, food producers, and artists while providing a forum for a healthy community. Shoppers are invited to enjoy coffee, baked goods, and live music while browsing fresh items like flowers and vegetables. During the Summer Market (mid-May to mid-October), vendors gather every Saturday morning outside the Spring Green Community Library from 9am - 12pm.
Adamah Art Studios (Bethel Horizons)
4681 County Road ZZ, Dodgeville
Raku firing is a fast, dramatic process that produces unique textures, crackles, and colors you can’t achieve in traditional kilns. Participants will learn the fundamentals of Raku firing, including glazing techniques, firing, and post-firing reduction, in a one-day workshop. This workshop is perfect for beginners curious about Raku as well as experienced makers looking to explore a fast, experimental firing method
White Oak Savanna Events Farm & Sanctuary
4352 State Road 23, Dodgeville
The 7th Annual White Oak Festival is a weekend of live music, outdoor activities, and community gatherings at the White Oak Savanna. It includes various musical performances, workshops, and a guided nature walk by one of the Driftless Area Land Conservancy's staff members.
Spring Green Community Library
230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green
The Spring Green Letter Writing Society is bringing back the art of letter writing. Join them at the library to write a letter to a loved one, a penpal, or even a total stranger. All necessary supplies will be provided—including a typewriter—along with snacks and information for individuals who would love to receive mail. It is a wonderful way to spend a Saturday for anyone who enjoys stationery, the anticipation of getting mail, or simply spreading joy.
Magic the Gathering players are invited to Moerke Cards for casual commander and trading all day. This weekly gathering welcomes players of all experience levels each Saturday.
Spring Green General Store
137 S. Albany Street, Spring Green
Gather for the third festival of the summer at the general store, "Healing Through ArtFest," an afternoon dedicated to coming together in joy, art, and conversation. The event features four hours of live performances centered around the theme of healing in community rather than in isolation, a concept inspired by Sophie Strand's essay, "Make My Healing a Party Everyone is Invited To".
American Players Theatre
5950 Golf Course Rd, Spring Green
Join American Players Theatre for the opening night of Dontrell, Who Kissed the Sea. This "Modern Odyssey" is written by Nathan Alan Davis, directed by Tyrone Phillips, and features choreography by Victor Musoni. Set sail for a theatrical voyage where poetry and history flow together like boats on a silken sea. The story follows Dontrell, a teenager with a bright future whose ancestry is haunted by water. As he prepares for college, a riddle from an ancestor delivered by a dream pulls him toward his family's mysterious history and an ancestor lost at sea long ago. Searching for a connection to his past while his family attempts to anchor him in the present, Dontrell embarks on a lyrical, funny, and theatrical exploration of love, legacy, and self-discovery.
Wisconsin Riverside Resort
S13220 Shifflet Rd, Spring Green
Enjoy a relaxing summer afternoon with live outdoor music on the River Stage. Sit back with a drink, enjoy something delicious, and take in the river view.
Hillside Theater - Taliesin
6604 Hwy 23, Spring Green
Part of the Frank Lloyd Wright and the American Landscape Lecture Series, this presentation features guest speaker Professor Ayad Rahmani of Washington State University. By the middle of the 19th century, America was losing ground socially and politically, leading many to question its continued claim on freedom. This lecture examines how Frank Lloyd Wright looked to the writings of Ralph Waldo Emerson to restore Americans' capacity for insight and innovation.
Catch an evening of storytelling and fantastic live music featuring Sauk Prairie local Sam Ness. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to secure a table and enjoy some delicious food, before he lights up the stage.
Slowpoke Lounge & Cabaret
137 W Jefferson Street, Spring Green
Join the Slowpoke Lounge & Cabaret for a performance by the Troubadours of Rhythm! Debuting in 2023, the Troubadours are a captivating journey through time, skillfully led by Milwaukee legend Jon Mroz. Drawing inspiration from the electrifying ambiance of the late 1920s and early 1930s South Side Chicago and North Side Milwaukee, this ensemble acts as a musical time machine, transporting listeners and dancers to an era of exuberance and innovation.
American Players Theatre
5950 Golf Course Rd, Spring Green
Join American Players Theatre for the opening night of The Two "Gentlemen" of Verona. Award-winning playwright Aaron Posner breathes new life into one of Shakespeare’s earliest comedies, and features music by composer and co-lyricist Greg Kotis. Dubbed "The Almost-Musical Hit of the Summer," this fresh adaptation walks up to the line of a musical and straps on a banjo, giving the production a heart-filling, Americana kick. The story follows childhood friends Proteus and Valentine as their relationships are tested and promises are broken when they both fall in love with Silvia in Milan. Complete with a live jug band, a couple of clowns, a group of outlaws, and one uncanny dog, it is a poetic, feel-good event where Shakespearean verse still rings from every stanza.
Civics & Services
(Government meetings, service and community organization meetings, nonprofit board meetings, services and resource events)
Wildlife Forever ATV Club
514 Willow St, Arena, WI, United States
The Wildlife Forever ATV Club is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving nature while promoting safe and responsible ATV and UTV riding. Join the club's monthly meeting to connect with a vibrant community of outdoor enthusiasts who are passionate about adventure, conservation, and environmental care.
Attendees are invited to Tree Talk Tuesdays, a virtual open office hours event hosted by the Savanna Institute and Canopy Farm Management. The 30 minute sessions are designed for individuals interested in farming with trees or those who have a tree project underway and need answers.
Arena Village Hall
345 West Street, Arena, Wisconsin, United States
The Arena Food Pantry is open to the community on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month. The pantry is located behind the Arena Village Hall, just west of the Manor Apartments.
Lone Rock Community Library
234 N Broadway St, Lone Rock, Wisconsin, United States
The River Valley area public libraries and the River Valley Broadband Initiative host a tech help drop-in session. Community members can visit the Lone Rock Library on the second Thursday of the month for assistance with their technology. If you need additional help with your technology, the River Valley Tech Help Line is available via phone or email to set up an in-person appointment at your local library or community center.
Spring Green Community Library
230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green
Paul Joseph Ryan exhibits "The Little Strange Forest in the Library" at the Glass Case Gallery in August. An artist and poet, Ryan expresses his love for libraries as a sanctuary for imagination. The exhibit explores perception beyond sight, emphasizing dreams and boundless potential. It is open during regular library hours.
Spring Green Community Library
230 E. Monroe St., Spring Green
Deb Cavanaugh's quilts are on display in the Community Room Gallery throughout August, showcasing her 50-year journey in quilting inspired by her husband's grandmother. An additional presentation will occur on August 18 at 2 PM. The exhibit is open during library hours, and visitors can access it via the circulation desk.
Free
Donate to support independent, community journalism today.
Our comprehensive community calendar covers the Spring Green area, including: Arena, Lone Rock, Plain, Spring Green and the immediate surrounding areas.
We continue to build a print and online community calendar that is the go-to for both residents and visitors in planning out their trip, week, weekend or evening in our area.
Most publications don’t list paid events in their community calendar, we want to flip that script and create a community calendar that is comprehensive, including every event in one place.
All events, paid and otherwise, that meet our guidelines will be included. For more reach please consider featuring your event and/or consider an ad in print or online. Marketing is an important part of an event budget, we’d be happy to help you get the reach and engagement you’re looking for.
P.S. we’ve started a Civics & Services calendar as well!
For everyone asking “where have all the Bridge and Cribbage clubs gone?” (those go in our general community calendar, but nice try – although we’re more partial to euchre), “why won’t any young adults attend village board meetings?” and “how do I get more people at my service organization meetings?” — this is the calendar for you!
This calendar is a place listing (for free) the typical meeting dates for area governmental bodies, as well as typical/specific meeting dates for service and community organizations and participating non-profits that are seeking to get more of the community involved.
Please email us with these meetings, or use the form below and lets build community together: calendar@valleysentinelnews.com
Frequently Asked Questions: River Valley Events
What to do in Spring Green, WI this weekend?
Spring Green offers a vibrant mix of arts, outdoors, and culture. You can catch world-class theater at American Players Theatre, explore Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin, hike the trails at Tower Hill State Park, or enjoy live music and community events in the downtown district.
What are the best family friendly events in the River Valley area?
The River Valley area frequently hosts all-ages activities including youth programming at local libraries, summer farmers markets in the area, seasonal parades, and outdoor nature exploration events along the Lower Wisconsin Riverway.
Where can I find free things to do in Spring Green, WI?
Many community events on the Valley Sentinel calendar are completely free. Popular free activities include art events, live music, attending local open mic nights, visiting community parks, and participating in civics and service organization meetings.