By Shannon Hoyt —
Traditions are frequent during the holidays, especially for the Menomonie community. The WinterDaze parade is an annual celebration that brings local residents together.
“This is a very significant event for the community,” said Executive Director for the Main Street of Menomonie, Darrek Orwig. “It is a free opportunity for the public to come together with their co-workers, neighbors, family and classmates to experience the heart of the community: downtown. WinterDaze is our largest event, with past attendance numbers being over 2,000. When people come down for the parade, they are in Menomonie’s only historic district and are in the cultural center of the community.”
With Menomonie’s rich history, the WinterDaze parade has brought people together for 12 years.
“Downtown Menomonie has been the core of the community for over 150 years,” said Orwig. “Events like the WinterDaze parade create an opportunity for residents throughout Menomonie and the surrounding area to visit downtown and provides a tangible reminder of the irreplaceable historic architecture, the locally owned and independent businesses and the creative atmosphere.”
Not only do locals come together to celebrate the holidays, but there are also opportunities for University of Wisconsin–Stout students.
“Students of Stout are a part of the Menomonie community. It may be for only a few years, but the memories they make here will be with them for the rest of their lives.”
Events aren’t just limited to the parade itself; there are many activities to take part in before and after.
“This will be my first WinterDaze parade and there are so many great elements that go into making this a fantastic event,” said Orwig. “One aspect that I look forward to is the winter fireworks show over Lake Menomin. The photos I have seen from past events look amazing!”
The parade will be Thursday Dec. 10 and will begin at 6:30 p.m. on Menomonie’s very own Main Street. The fireworks show will follow. This year’s theme is Silver Bells, in honor of the Main Street of Menomonie’s 25th anniversary.
