Winter Fun Spring Up Along the Fox River

Thanks to the Focus on the Fox for this article about our downtown riverfront.

Some winters can seem to drag on forever in Wisconsin, but experts agree that the best way to get through the colder months is to embrace it!  Fortunately,  more and more winter activities are springing up along the Fox River than ever before.

Even if you are not a fan of winter sports, there are plenty of other outdoor and indoor activities and events that you can enjoy.  If you missed some of these events this year, be sure to put it on your calendar for next year!  There are still some you can take advantage of before winter melts away.

• Candlelight Walk by Light up the Fox – A candlelight walk and lighting ceremony launched a new Riverfront LED Light Display on Dec. 21, 2013.  The non-profit group led a procession from the historic Atlas Mill across the Olde Oneida bridge and back, visiting reflective stops along the way.
• Light up the Fox Display – The LED light displays on W. Water Street were designed and built by students from Little Chute and Tesla – Appleton East high schools, in conjunction with Fox Valley Technical College.  This riverfront attraction was on display from Dec. 21 to Feb. 11, 2014.
• Eagle Days on the Fox River – The second annual Eagle Days event was held Jan. 25 at 1000 Islands in Kaukauna.  People came from throughout Wisconsin to take part in activities, presentations and eagle viewing opportunities at the center.
• Illuminated Skate Show –  On Feb. 8, Light up the Fox hosted an illuminated Skate Show at Jones Park to celebrate Thomas Edison’s birthday and mark the end of the riverfront light display.  The event featured open skating, ending with a performance by the Valley Figure Skating Club.
• Waterfowl and Eagle Viewing along the River –  There are many great indoor venues with close-up views of bald eagles and other waterfowl fishing in the river.  Try Fratellos, Pullmans, Atlas Coffee Mill and Paper Discovery Center for the best views in a cozy, warm setting.
• Riverview Gardens – This self-sustaining urban farm is able to provide a winter CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) shares of produce because of their unique hoop houses.  There are many opportunities to volunteer at this innovative organization that is helping to fight poverty.  Hiking, snow shoeing and cross country skiing are also open to the public at Riverview Gardens.
• Jones Park – Located at 301 W. Lawrence Street, Appleton, this 5.8 acre park offers a full-size hockey rink, recreational skating rink, warming shelter, picnic pavilion, restrooms and a lighted walkway through the park.  This is one of the first parks to be developed for winter sports.
• Appleton Yacht Club – Recently renovated, the Appleton Yacht Club offers scenic views of the Fox River from the clubhouse.  The club offers social memberships for those that do not own a boat. It has also become a popular gathering place for business networking, Friday Fish Fry and private parties.
• Hearthstone Historic House –  Tour Hearthstone and learn about Appleton’s early electrical history.  Hearthstone is the world’s first home lit by hydroelectricity.