January 3 - April 6: Winter Film Festival at Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA. Special display and movies (variety of local and national topics) shown Saturdays and Sundays on the hour, from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. and Mondays at 1 p.m., free admission, open to the public daily, 563-873-3491.

January 12: Annual Taste of Prairie du Chien, held at The Barn, County K Rd, Prairie du Chien, selection of sample sized beverages and food items from area businesses, 5-7:30 p.m., admission charged, 608-326-8555.

February 7-8: Annual Fisheree, ice fishing competition on waters near Prairie du Chien with headquarters at Lakeview Marina Bar & Restaurant, County K, Prairie du Chien, outing for the entire family, fishing prizes, and evening entertainment, (Fisheree WILL BE HELD - ice or no ice), 800-732-1673. CLICK HERE for fishing registration.

February 12-16: Lincoln's Birthday/President's Weekend National Holiday Film Series, Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA. Special display and movies (celebrate the bicentennial of Lincoln's birth) shown Saturdays and Sundays on the hour, from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. and Mondays at 1 p.m., free admission, open to the public daily, 563-873-3491.

February 14: Fisheree-Sny Magil Access, McGregor, 800-896-0910.

February 20-21: Winter Olympics Triathlon, McGregor, 800-896-0910.

February 21: Family Mardi Gras, 1-4 p.m., Hoffman Hall, 1600 S Wacouta Ave, fun family activities include mask making, games, face painting, food , admission charged, sponsored by Prairie du Chien Park & Recreation Department.

February 21: Bucks of Crawford County Deer Show, Display of deer head mounts and racks, 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., 608-326-2718, National Guard Armory, Hwy 35 N, Prairie du Chien.

February 28: Bald Eagle Appreciation Day, held on the grounds of the Prairie du Chien Regional Tourism Center/Prairie du Chien Chamber, 211 S Main, Prairie du Chien, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Bald Eagle programs and exhibits, birding experts on hand, outdoor viewing of Bald Eagles through spotting scopes, life-size Bald Eagle nest, activities for children, mini field trips to other viewing locations, sponsored by Effigy Mounds National Monument, Audubon Society, Wisconsin and Iowa DNR, Fish & Wildlife Service, and the Prairie du Chien Chamber of Commerce/ Tourism Council, 800 732-1673.

March 6-8: McGregor Gun Show, Friday 5-9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. -3 p.m., admission charged, lunch available, McGregor's Landing Event Center, 111 First St., McGregor, IA, 563-873-2387.

March 7: Jose Circus, McGregor, IA, 800-896-0910.

March 14: Annual St. Patrick's Day Parade, downtown Prairie du Chien. Come enjoy the celebration of the green, 10 a.m. parade with festivities to follow at many local businesses, 608-326-8555. Parade entries are to register with the Chamber office by noon on Friday, March 13. Registration form available at Chamber office or by clicking here.

March 28-29: Home and Garden Show, exhibitors display spring-time merchandise, share gardening tips, home buying options, decorating ideas, and more, 608-326-8555, National Guard Armory, Hwy 35 N., Prairie du Chien.

April 4: Spring Craft & Gift Show, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Hoffman Hall, 1600 S Wacouta, Prairie du Chien. Crafts, gifts, baked goods, lunch booth, sponsored by the PDC Park & Rec Dept. All proceeds go to Hoffman Hall. Interested vendors can call 608-326-2985.

April 4-5: Traders Jubilee, Held at The Barn Restaurant, 4 miles N on Main St, Prairie du Chien, sponsored by River Junction Trading Co., 866-259-9172.

April 17-19: Prairie du Chien Town-wide Spring Garage Sales, for maps contact the WI-IA Shopping News, 608-326-2457.

April 22: Earth Day, annual weeklong celebration of America's National Parks (April 18-26). Call for details on conservation projects, programs, films, and hikes. Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA, 563-873-3491.

April 25-May 3: Turn off the TV week, sponsored by the Family Resource Center.

April 26: Visitor Appreciation Day at Fort Crawford Museum, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m., 717 S Beaumont Rd, Prairie du Chien, 608-326-6960.

April 25-26: The Iowa Wine Trail’s Spring Wine & Food Event, Eagles Landing Winery, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Marquette, IA, 563-873-2509.

May 1: Moonlight Madness, Downtown Prairie du Chien, 5-8 p.m., retail savings, food, music and more, sponsored by PDRI, 608-326-7374.

May 1-2: PDRI's Main Street Festival, Downtown Prairie du Chien, official grand opening of Downtown's Streetscapes, music, food, historical presentations, games and more, 608-326-7374.

May 2: "My Day Downtown Women's Retreat" sponsored by PDRI, Downtown Prairie du Chien, pampering, relaxation, workshops, shopping discounts, 608-326-7374.

May 2: Prairie du Chien Half Marathon, race begins at 7:30 a.m. for runners, 7:45 for walkers, course open until 11:30 a.m., held rain or shine, medals awarded, 608-412-0156, www.pdchalfmarathon.com

May 2: Effigy Mounds National Monument River Tour to Sny Magill Mounds. Board the Mississippi Explorer Cruises for a tour through the backwaters to visit an area of the Effigy Mounds National Monument seldom visited. Park Ranger will describe the history and intrigue of these large numbers of mounds onboard and ashore. This five-hour cruise will depart at 8 a.m. from the St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

May 2 and May 9: Bird Walk, La Riviere Park, 62036 Vineyard Coulee Rd, Prairie du Chien, 608-326-2718, meet at the park barn prior to 7:30 a.m. Wear appropriate clothing and foot gear. Binoculars and bird identification book recommended.

May 9: Guided Bird Walk, Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA, walk wetland and upland forest trails overlooking the Upper Mississippi Wildlife & Fish Refuge on International Migratory Bird Day, 563-873-3491.

May 9-10: Spring Festival, Robb Park in Gays Mills, WI, 608-735-4341, 608-735-4810.

May 10: Special Mother’s Day Mississippi River Cruise aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises. “Bald Eagle viewing on the River” will be the theme of this two-hour cruise departing at 2 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

May 16-17: Uff-da Fest, Eagles Landing Winery, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Marquette, IA, 563-873-2509.

May 16: "Bald Eagle Watching on the River" Cruise aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises. This two-hour cruise will visit active Bald Eagle nests, departs at 2 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

May 17: Rivertown Reliques, Fort Crawford Museum at 717 S Beaumont Rd, Prairie du Chien. Tour of period homes and architectural styles, 608-326-6960.

May 17: “Sharing our Stories”, 10 a.m.- 4 p.m., Villa Louis Historic Site, St. Feriole Island, Prairie du Chien. Residents of Crawford County, Wis. and Clayton & Allamakee Counties in Iowa, may tour the Villa Louis for $1 per person (age four and under free). Costumed guides will be stationed in the residence and Dousman office to answer visitor questions; refreshments to be served on the lawn, 608-326-2721.

May 23-25: Spring Arts & Crafts Festival, McGregor, IA, 800-896-0910.

May 23-25: Flea Market Marquette, IA, 800-896-0910, 563-873-3521.

May 23: Breakfast in a Victorian Kitchen at the Villa Louis Historic Site, St. Feriole Island, Prairie du Chien. Hands-on program for adults. Participants take a culinary tour of the late 19th century through the preparation and consumption of a Victorian breakfast - using the foods, utensils and technology of the time, family style breakfast served followed by tour of the estate, reservations required, 608-326-2721.

May 23: "View Bald Eaglets on the nest" River Cruise aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises. Magnificent scenery, abundant wildlife, waterfowl and bald eagles welcome you around every bend. This two-hour cruise departs at 2 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

May 23: Rockford Thunder Exhibition Game, The Rockford Thunder, a professional women's fast-pitch team will play an exhibition game against the "area stars" of Prairie du Chien, at 5 p.m., St. Feriole Island Ball Park, Prairie du Chien. The pro team will also host a youth clinic in the morning. For advanced ticket or more information contact Judy at 608-326-6181.

May 24: Voyage of Discovery Mississippi River Cruise aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises. Explore the confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers as a local historian tells the story of Explorers Marquette and Joliet. This two-hour cruise is a must for river and history buffs, departs at 2 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

May 30: "View Bald Eaglets on the nest!" Mississippi River Cruise aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, two-hour cruise departs at 2 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

May 30: Unveiling of "The Voyageur" Sculpture, Mississippi Sculpture Park, St. Feriole Island, Prairie du Chien, 3 p.m., historical program, free to public, donations welcome.

June - Saturdays: Mississippi River Cruises aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, two-hour river cruise every Saturday departing at 2 p.m. Magnificent scenery, abundant wildlife, waterfowl and bald eagles welcome you around every bend. Open boarding at St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

June 4: Wisconsin Girls High School Softball Regional tournament tournament begins on Thursday and runs through the weekend at the St. Feriole Island Ball Park, Prairie du Chien,  for more information call 608-326-6484.

June 5: Music on the River Cruise, Blend of folk, blues, and bluegrass of local musicians aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, two-hour cruise departing at 6:30 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

June 6: Effigy Mounds National Monument River Tour to Sny Magill Mounds aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises (see May 2 date for description), five-hour cruise departs at 8 a.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

June 6: Crawford County Dairy Breakfast, Hosts Tim & Char Steger and Terry Steger, more information to come.

June 6 and June 13: "View Bald Eaglets on the nest" Mississippi River Cruise aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, two-hour cruise departs at 2 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

June 12-14: Cajun Fest, enjoy a “Taste of Louisiana” with Cajun food, music and ball tournaments (Little League and adult semi-pro), St. Feriole Island Ball Park, Prairie du Chien, 608-326-2060. Hours are Friday from 5-10 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m. -10 p.m., and Sunday 10 a.m. -2 p.m. Saturday music will be from 1-4 p.m. and also from 6-10 p.m. 

June 18-21: Annual Prairie Villa Rendezvous, St. Feriole Island along the Mississippi River. Fur Trading era environment recreating life as it was in 1840's when Prairie du Chien was the hub of the fur trading, largest re-enactment in the Midwest, open to the public, free admission. Jaycee Buffalo Burger Stands serving real buffalo! For participant  information call 608-822-6916 or email: brlrendv@mhtc.net. Mailing address: Big River Long Rifles, 4840 Greenwood Rd., Fennimore, WI 53809, www.mhtc.net/~brlrendv/

June 19-21: Flea Market with over 200 vendors, St. Feriole Island along the Mississippi River, Prairie du Chien. For vendor registration write: Prairie du Chien Jaycees, PO Box 341, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821. Or call 608-326-2280 and leave your name and complete mailing address for registration to be mailed.

June 19: Mississippi Blackhawks Water Ski Show, Friday night (weather permitting) at 7 p.m. on St. Feriole Island along the Mississippi River, Prairie du Chien. Local water ski enthusiasts display their talents from barefoot skiing and water ski jumps to pyramids stacked four people high. Free admission for the hour performance, email: jklech@yahoo.com, 563-864-7588.

June 19-21: Prairie du Chien Varsity American Legion Baseball Tournament, St. Feriole Island Ball Park, Prairie du Chien.

June 19-21: Soldiers Grove Dairy Days, Soldiers Grove, WI, 608-624-3429.

June 20: Pies-a-Plenty, pies are auctioned with the profits going to Fort Crawford Museum, St. Feriole Island, Prairie du Chien, during the Prairie Villa Rendezvous, 608-326-6960.

June 20: Mississippi River Cruise aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, departing at 2 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

June 20 thru Sept. 7: Ranger Guided Programs, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily, Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA. Hikes, walks and talks presented daily, Junior Ranger activities each Saturday at 10 a.m., 563-873-3491.

June 20: History of Fur Trading on the Upper Mississippi, Educational River Cruise aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises with local historian/storyteller, two-hour cruise departs at 5 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

June 20-21: New Wine Release Weekend, Eagles Landing Winery, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m., Marquette, IA, 563-873-2509.

June 24-28: American Legion JV State Tournament, St. Feriole Island Ball Park, Prairie du Chien.

June 24: Arts in the Park, Mississippi Sculpture Park, St. Feriole Island, Prairie du Chien, 6:30-8 p.m., Cowboy Night - "Hole in the Sock Gang" shootout, cowboy songs, free to public, donations welcome.

June 26-28: Big River Scenic Trail Ride, La Riviere Park, Prairie du Chien, 608-734-3692.

June 27: Hole in the Sock Gang 1880 Street Theatre, The Old West comes alive in downtown McGregor with a reenactment of action-packed bank robberies, cowboy shootouts and saloon girls, free show, 800-896-0910.

June 27: Guided Bird Walk, Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA, walk wetland and upland forest trails overlooking the heart of the Upper Mississippi Wildlife & Fish Refuge, 563-873-3491.

June 27: "View Bald Eaglets on the nest" Mississippi River Cruise aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, two-hour cruise departs at 2 p.m. from the St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

June 27: PrairieFest in Downtown Prairie du Chien, Blackhawk Ave, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m., street festival of music, food, games, and arts & crafts. Fun for the whole family, sponsored by PDRI, 608-326-7374. 

June 27-28: Breakfast in a Victorian Kitchen at the Villa Louis Historic Site, St. Feriole Island, Prairie du Chien. Hands-on program for adults. Participants take a culinary tour of the late 19th century through the preparation and consumption of a Victorian breakfast - using the foods, utensils and technology of the time, family style breakfast served followed by tour of the estate, reservations required, 608-326-2721.

June 28: "A Celebration of Bits & Pieces" program and music, held at Fort Crawford Museum, 717 S Beaumont Rd, Prairie du Chien, 2 p.m., 608-326-6960.

July thru Sept. 7: Ranger Guided Programs, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily, Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA. Hikes, walks and talks presented daily discuss the history of the mounds and nature. Junior Ranger activities each Saturday at 10 a.m., 563-873-3491.

July: Arts in the Park, Every Wednesday in July, 6:30-8 p.m., Mississippi Sculpture Park, St. Feriole Island, Prairie du Chien, historical, musical and artistic expressions, free to public, donations welcome.

July 3-5: 100th Anniversary of Pete's Hamburgers, Downtown Prairie du Chien, join in the fun of this historic event, 608-326-6653.

July 3: Music on the River Cruise, Blend of folk, blues, and bluegrass of local musicians aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, two hour cruise departs at 6:30 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

July 4: Fourth of July Celebration, Bagley, WI.

July 4: Fourth of July Celebration, Eastman, WI, 866-452-7967.

July 4: Effigy Mounds National Monument River Tour to Sny Magill Mounds. Board the Mississippi Explorer Cruises for a tour through the magnificent backwaters to visit an area of the Effigy Mounds National Monument seldom visited. Park Ranger will describe the history and intrigue of these large numbers of mounds onboard and ashore. This five-hour cruise will depart at 8 a.m. from the St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

July 4-5: Independence Day Celebration, fireworks at dusk (date TBA), flea market under the bridge Saturday thru Monday, Marquette, IA, 800-896-0910.

July 5: War of 1812 and Zeb Pike River Cruise, Educational river cruise aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises with local historian/storyteller, two-hour cruise departs at 2 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

July 10-11: American Indian Heritage Celebration, Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA. Weekend long activities include Friday evening (7-8 p.m.) and Saturday (10 a.m. - 4 p.m.) Indian dance and music performances. Saturday will also feature Indian cultural exhibits, crafts, art demonstrators, traditional American Indian food stand, and story telling. www.nps.gov/efmo, 563-873-3491.

July 11: Chamber of Commerce Annual Fireworks, Lawler Park on St. Feriole Island, Prairie du Chien, 608-326-8555.

July 11: Pig in the Park, Mississippi Sculpture Park, St. Feriole Island, Prairie du Chien, 5-7 p.m. Roast pork dinner with all the fixin's. Music also provided.

July 11-12: The War of 1812 in Wisconsin: The Battle of Prairie du Chien, Villa Louis Historic Site, St. Feriole Island, Prairie du Chien. The War of 1812 came to Prairie du Chien on July 17, 1814 when U.S. and British-Canadian soldiers clashed on what are now the grounds of Villa Louis. Events from the historic event will be interpreted through a living history camp and a narrated battle that will take place each day. Admission charged, 608-326-2721. Hours Saturday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. with a battle at 7 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. with the battle at 2:30 p.m.

July 18-19: "In the Good Ol' Summertime at the Winery", Eagles Landing Winery, Marquette, IA, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., 563-873-2509.

July 18: Great River Car Show & Cruise, McGregor and Marquette, IA, 800-896-0910.

July 22-25: Crazy Days, Prairie du Chien retail stores, big summer savings, 608-326-8555.

July 24: Moonlight Madness, Downtown Prairie du Chien, 5-8 p.m., retail savings, food, music and more, sponsored by PDRI, 608-326-7374.

July 25: Valley Fish & Cheese 25th Anniversary Celebration, Great family fun begins at 11 a.m., prizes, contests, clowns, fresh Fried Mississippi Catfish & Frog Legs all day, live music in the evening. Spend the day with Mississippi Mike, 304 S. Prairie St, Prairie du Chien, 608-326-4719.

July 25: Lily & Lotus Flower Mississippi River Cruise aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, thousands of beautiful, fragrant water lily and lotus flower blossoms will be in full bloom, two-hour cruise departing at 2 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

July 25: Hole in the Sock Gang 1880 Street Theatre, The Old West comes alive in downtown McGregor with a reenactment of action-packed bank robberies, cowboy shootouts and saloon girls, free show, 800-896-0910.

July 25: River Bluff Daze, antique tractor pull, fireworks and more, 608-734-9406, Ferryville, WI.

July 25: Guided Bird Walk, Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA, walk wetland and upland forest trails overlooking the Upper Mississippi Wildlife & Fish Refuge, 563-873-3491.

July 31-August 1: Prairie Dog Blues Festival, St. Feriole Island along the Mississippi River, Prairie du Chien. Two stages in a park-like setting, international, national and regional blues bands performing. Camping on site. Event shuttle runs to motels in town. Event also includes ski team performance, food and beverage stands, various vendors with hand-made products, 608-326-0085, www.prairiedogblues.com, ticket hotline opens May 1, 888-567-1567.

August - Saturdays: Mississippi River Tours aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, two-hour cruise every Saturday departing at 2 p.m. Magnificent scenery, abundant wildlife, waterfowl and bald eagles. Open boarding St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

August thru Sept. 7: Ranger Guided Hikes, 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. daily, Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 N of Marquette, IA. Hikes, walks and talks presented daily, Junior Ranger activities each Saturday at 10 a.m., 563-873-349.

August 1-2: Lincoln's Frontier - 1825-1832, Villa Louis Historic Site, St. Feriole Island, Prairie du Chien. The years spanning the 1825 Treaty of Prairie du Chien and the Black Hawk War of 1832 witnessed monumental change for the regions Indian people. These were the years of Lincoln's youth and the Black Hawk War would bring him, as a citizen-soldier, to what would become the state of Wisconsin. Living historians, representing soldiers and civilians of the era, share their perspectives on the necessity and impact of these changes. Admission charged, 608-326-2721.

August 1-2: Abraham Lincoln Bicentennial Film Series at Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA. Compliment your visit to Villa Louis Historic Site's "Lincoln's Frontier" programs by watching films from various Lincoln sites within the national park system, 563-873-3491.

August 7: Music on the River Cruise, Blend of folk, blues, and bluegrass of local musicians aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, two hour cruise departs at 6:30 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

August 8: Effigy Mounds National Monument River Tour to Sny Magill Mounds aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises (see July 4 listing for description), five-hour cruise departs at 8 a.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

August 8: Moonlight Hike, Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA. Meet historical characters detailing the events in the area during the era of "Abraham Lincoln's Frontier - 1825-1832", reservations taken beginning Monday, August 3, 563-873-3491.

August 8: Lily and Lotus Flower Mississippi River Cruise aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, thousands of beautiful, fragrant water lily and lotus flower blossoms will be in full bloom, two-hour river cruise departing at 2 p.m. from the St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

August 9: Peek at Prairie's Past, call for program information, Fort Crawford Museum, 717 S Beaumont Rd, Prairie du Chien, 608-326-6960.

August 12-16: Crawford County Fair, fairgrounds, Gays Mills, WI, 608-326-0224 or during the fair 608-735-4379.

August 15: Lily and Lotus Flower Mississippi River Cruise aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, thousands of beautiful, fragrant water lily and lotus flower blossoms will be in full bloom, two-hour river cruise departing at 2 p.m. from the St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

August 15-16: Passport to the Iowa Wine Trail, Eagles Landing Winery, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Marquette, IA, 563-873-2509.

August 16: Voyage of Discovery Mississippi River Cruise aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises. Explore the magnificent confluence of the Mississippi and Wisconsin Rivers as a local historian tells the story of Explorers Marquette and Joliet. This two-hour cruise is a must for river and history buffs, departs at 2 p.m. St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

August 22: Lily and Lotus Flower Mississippi River Cruise aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, (see Aug. 8 listing for description), two-hour cruise departs at 2 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

August 22: Kids Archeology Day, Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA.  Kids will learn about archeology through fun hands-on activities: pottery, American Indian tools, and mock archeology digs, 563-873-3491.

August 25: National Park Founders Day, Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA. Celebrate the 93rd anniversary of the establishment of the National Park Service- August 25, 1916, free admission.  563-873-3491.

August 29: Guided Bird Walk, Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA. Walk wetland and upland forest trails overlooking the Upper Mississippi Wildlife & Fish Refuge, 563-873-3491.

August 29: Hole in the Sock Gang 1880 Street Theatre, The Old West comes alive in downtown McGregor with a reenactment of action-packed bank robberies, cowboy shootouts and saloon girls, free show, 800-896-0910.

August 29: Lily and Lotus Flower Cruise aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, (see Aug. 8 listing for description), two-hour cruise departs at 2 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

September 4: Music on the River Cruise, Blend of folk, blues, and bluegrass of local musicians aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, two hour cruise departing at 5:30 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

September 5: Effigy Mounds National Monument River Tour to Sny Magill Mounds. Board the Mississippi Explorer Cruises for a tour through the magnificent backwaters to visit an area of the Effigy Mounds National Monument seldom visited. Park Ranger will describe the history and intrigue of these large numbers of mounds onboard and ashore. This five-hour cruise will depart at 8 a.m. from the St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

September 5: Lily and Lotus Flower Mississippi River Cruise aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, thousands of beautiful, fragrant water lily and lotus flower blossoms will be in full bloom, two-hour cruise departs at 2 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

September 5-6: Good Ol' Summertime Celebration, art & crafts, Hole in the Sock Gang Street Theatre, parade (Saturday) all in McGregor, flea market in Marquette Saturday thru Monday, , 800-896-0910.

September 11-13: Prairie du Chien Town-wide Fall Garage Sales, for maps contact the WI-IA Shopping News, 608-326-2457.

September 12-13: Villa Louis Carriage Classic, Villa Louis Historic Site, St. Feriole, Island, Prairie du Chien. The brief heyday of the Dousman Family's famed trotting horse operation, the Artesian Stock Farm, will be recalled during this elegant event, one of the largest carriage driving competitions in the nation. Well over 100 drivers hitch finely trained horses of many breeds to new and restored carriages. Events take place in a fenced arena as well as on the lawns and grounds surrounding the Villa Louis. Visitors may also tour the Dousman family home and enjoy refreshments on the mansion lawn. www.carriageclassic.com, 608-326-2721.

September 13: "Captain Jack's Life on the Mississippi" River Cruise, aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises. Captain Jack, a noted Smithsonian Archivist, will share his personal life experiences onboard various Mississippi River transportation which includes keelboats, steamboats, towboats and barges. This cruise will transit the navigation channel, backwaters and view massive barge loading and unloading facilities. The two-hour cruise departs at 2 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

September 18-19: Cannons & Redcoats, Friday School Program, 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Saturday - Family & Scout Day, 8:30-4 p.m., Fort Crawford Museum, 717 S Beaumont Rd., Prairie du Chien. Exhibit of life in 1814 Prairie du Chien during the British years. Over 20 historic stations. Including American Camp, candle making, bowl carving, lead pouring, cannon firing, French fur trading and more. Saturday evening program at 7 p.m., call 608-326-6960.

September 19-20: Fall Quilt Festival, Downtown Prairie du Chien, Beautiful quilts displayed throughout downtown, 608-326-4593, sponsored by Pickett Fence and PDRI.

September 19: Steamboats on the River Cruise, Ultimate cruise for river buffs aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises. Local historian/storyteller and Smithsonian Archivist Captain Jack will share stories of yesteryear's romantic steamboat era. You will hear intriguing recollections of famous river men and their mighty steamboats that helped to build a new nation. Not without tragedy as you learn of wrecks, explosions and human sacrifice. This two-hour cruise departs at 5 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

September 19-20: "Turning Grapes into Wine", Eagles Landing Winery, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., free admission, Marquette, IA, 563-873-2509.

September 19-20: Driftless Area Art Festival, Beauford T. Anderson Memorial Park, Soldiers Grove, 866-452-7967.

September 19: Railroad Days, Marquette Depot & Information Center, Marquette, IA, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., telegraphy demonstration, railroad program and activities, food, story telling, museum tours, 800-896-0910.

September 25: Moonlight Madness, Downtown Prairie du Chien, 5-8 p.m., retail savings, food, music and more, sponsored by PDRI, 608-326-7374.

September 26-27: Breakfast in a Victorian Kitchen at the Villa Louis Historic Site, St. Feriole Island, Prairie du Chien. Hands-on program for adults. Participants take a culinary tour of the late 19th century through the preparation and consumption of a Victorian breakfast - using the foods, utensils and technology of the time, 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., family style breakfast served followed by tour of the estate, reservations required, 608-326-2721.

September 26: Hole in the Sock Gang 1880 Street Theatre, The Old West comes alive in downtown McGregor with a reenactment of action-packed bank robberies, cowboy shootouts and saloon girls, free show, 800-896-0910.

September 26-27: Gays Mills Apple Festival, tourists 608-735-4810, art & crafts 608-735-4643, flea market 608-735-4521, parade 608-735-4695, Gays Mills, WI.

September 26: National Public Lands Day, Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA, free entrance day, 563-873-3491.

September 26: "Pearl Buttons on the Mississippi" Cruise aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises. Hear the history of buttons by a local historian, once a major industry along the Mississippi River. Clams were harvested from the river's bottom and made into buttons. Two hour cruise departs at 3 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

September 26-27: Fall Foliage Cruises on the Mississippi River aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, two hour cruise departs at noon both days, St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

October 2: Music on the River Cruise, Enjoy the unique blend of folk, blues, and bluegrass of local musicians aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, two hour cruise departs at 5 p.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

October 3: Effigy Mounds National Monument River Tour to Sny Magill Mounds aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises (see Sept. 5 listing for description), five-hour cruise departs at 8 a.m., St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

October 3: Guided Bird Walk, Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA. Walk wetland and upland forest trails overlooking the Upper Mississippi Wildlife & Fish Refuge, 563-873-3491.

October 3: "Visiting Our Ancestors", tour Prairie du Chien's historic cemeteries - Evergreen Cemetery, St. Gabriel's Cemetery, Fort Crawford Military Cemetery, French Cemetery, and the Brisbois Graves. Guided tour begins at 1 p.m. and will be completed at 4 p.m. Contact Fort Crawford Museum 608-326-6960, 717 S Beaumont Rd, Prairie du Chien.

October 3-4: Hawk Watch at Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA. Enjoy the fall migration in the heart of the Mississippi Flyway! Highlights of this premier Midwest birding event includes live raptor demonstrations, adult educational programs, children's activities and hawk banding (catch and release). Programs and activities 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Hike park trails through fall foliage - sunrise to sunset! www.nps.gov/efmo/current.htm, 563-873-3491.

October 3-4: Shihata Orchard Fest, visit the Apple House with 25 varieties of apples, jams & jellies, award winning cider, pumpkins, Wisconsin wine, cheese and sausage. Weekend outing of family fun with wagon rides in the orchard, U-pick apple, and The Pumpkin Patch. Free samples of many Apple House products, six miles north of Prairie du Chien on Hwy 27, left on Limery Rd., 608-326-2785.

October 3-4: Fall Foliage Cruises aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, two hour cruise will depart at noon both days, St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

October 3-4: Fall Arts & Crafts Festival, Triangle Park, McGregor, IA, 800-896-0910.

October 3-4: Flea Market, Marquette, IA, 800-896-0910.

October 10-11: Fall Foliage Cruises aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, two hour cruise will depart at noon both days, St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

October 10: Spirits of St. Feriole: A Lamplight Tour, Villa Louis Historic Site, St. Feriole Island, Prairie du Chien. Historic guides lead visitors through Villa Louis buildings and grounds to encounters with a series of spirits in dramatic skits that tell stories of 19th century life in Prairie du Chien. Tours begin at dusk, flashlights recommended, 608-326-2721.

October 10-11: Leaf Arts & Crafts Festival, Triangle Park, McGregor, IA, 800-896-0910.

October 10-11: Flea Market, Marquette, IA, 800-896-0910, 563-873-3521.

October 17-18: Marquette Oktoberfest, Marquette, IA, hosted by Eagles Landing Winery, free admission, 563-873-2509.

October 17-18: Fall Foliage Cruises aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, two hour cruise will depart at noon both days, St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

October 17-18: Breakfast in a Victorian Kitchen at the Villa Louis Historic Site, St. Feriole Island, Prairie du Chien. Hands-on program for adults. Participants take a culinary tour of the late 19th century through the preparation and consumption of a Victorian breakfast - using the foods, utensils and technology of the time, 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., family style breakfast served followed by tour of the estate, reservations required, 608-326-2721.

October 23- 24: Hoffman Haunted Hall, 1600 S Wacouta Ave, Prairie du Chien, 7-10 p.m., sponsored by the Parks & Recreation Dept., 608-326-7207.

October 24: Moonlight Hike, Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA, Yellow River Bridge Boardwalk Trail and Fire Point Trail, reservations taken beginning Monday, Oct. 19, 563-873-3491.

October 25: Effigy Mounds National Monument 60th Birthday, This actual anniversary day celebration will feature a "Sunday in the Park" with special talks, hikes, exhibits, birthday cake and refreshments, Marquette, IA, 563-873-3491.

October 24-25: Fall Foliage Cruises aboard the Mississippi Explorer Cruises, two hour cruise will depart at noon both days, St. Feriole Island river front, Prairie du Chien, 1-877-647-7397.

October 30-31: Hoffman Haunted Hall, 1600 S Wacouta Ave, Prairie du Chien, 7-10 p.m., sponsored by the Parks & Recreation Dept., 608-326-7207.

October 31: SpooktoberFest, Downtown Prairie du Chien, children's costume contest, hayrides, trick or treating, sponsored by PDRI, 608-326-7374.

October 31: Hole in the Sock Gang 1880 Street Theatre, The Old West comes alive in downtown McGregor with a reenactment of action-packed bank robberies, cowboy shootouts and saloon girls, free show, 800-896-0910.

November 7: Tastes, Toasts, & Tomfoolery, Downtown Prairie du Chien, sponsored by PDRI, 6 p.m. - midnight, admission charged, music, dancing, food, auction, 608-326-7374.

November 7-8: The Iowa Wine Trail’s Fall Holiday Wine & Food Event, Eagles Landing Winery, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Marquette, IA, 563-873-2509.

November 20: Moonlight Madness, Downtown Prairie du Chien, 5-8 p.m., retail savings, food, music and more, Chili Cookoff contest 4:30-6 p.m., sponsored by PDRI, 608-326-7374.

November 20-22: McGregor Gun Show, Friday 5-9 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Sunday 9 a.m. -3 p.m., admission charged, lunch available, McGregor's Landing Event Center, 111 First St., McGregor, IA, 563-873-2387.

November 26: Thanksgiving Day Turkey Trot, 3 mile run/walk, Hoffman Hall, 1600 S Wacouta, Prairie du Chien, 608-326-7207.

December 5: A Holiday Open House in Iowa’s First National Park Unit, Effigy Mounds National Monument, 3 miles N of Marquette, IA, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., 563-873-3491.

December 5-6: Holiday season begins in Marquette & McGregor with grand light displays, tour of homes, bake & craft sale, caroling, carriage rides and more, 800-896-0910.

December 5-6 and December 12-13: 1890s Christmas Holiday on a Victorian Country Estate, Villa Louis Historic Site, St. Feriole Island, 521 N Villa Louis Rd, Prairie du Chien. Visit the Dousman family as they prepare for the holidays in the 1890s, including decorating the house and preparing for a Christmas Eve visit from St. Nick. Christmas Day finds the family opening gifts in the parlor, attending church and gathered at the dinner table for a Christmas feast. They greet the New Year with a reception and social dance hosted by the family for daughter Virginia Dousman's 18th birthday. Lamplight programs will be presented on Saturday, Dec. 5 and 12, 608-326-2721.

December 5-6, December 12-13, and December 19-20: Wines & Tastes of the Holidays, Eagles Landing Winery, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Marquette, IA, 563-873-2509.

December 31: "Droppin' of the Carp", entrance of St. Feriole Island, Blackhawk Ave, Prairie du Chien, 9 p.m. bonfire and entertainment, countdown at 11:40 p.m. and ends with fireworks, 608-326-8602.