We can't believe we are in December. 2020 brought us tremendous challenges of all sizes, and as we come in to the last month of 2020, some would say "good riddance!" In many ways, we concur! But we at WCAB have also felt a lot of optimism and inspiration from these difficult times. People have been creative, reached out to each other, gotten tough and resilient. WE hope that those who are struggling can be impacted by the enormous heart of this community, there is so much love to share.
With "the Holidays" upon us, we always think it is interesting to note just how many celebrations happen in December. Check out this nice list, with links!
That said, we wish each and every one of you a Merry Little Christmas. Remember: "next year all our troubles will be out of sight!"
Our Arts and Culture News has a new format! As always, we encourage you to browse through: see all the happenings and opportunities in our community, and if you feel curious, click on the bright blue links to take a deeper dive and get more details!
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The members of the Waupaca Community Arts Board are full of gratitude! |
We went in to our annual campaign, fully aware that we are mid-pandemic and that we might understandably not receive contributions to our Annual Friends Campaign, as in years past...but you proved us wrong! Our hearts are full, and we thank each and every one of you who contributed, helping us far exceed our 2020/21 goal!
Check out our story, WBAY heard about the Waupaca Area's generosity during Covid for our organization, and put us on the news!
Here's to 2021! With your help, we are already planning fabulous events to engage, entertain, and bring out your inner creative spirit!
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Thank you, Waupaca!
And for those who still want to be a Friend of WCAB, it is never too late to be our Friend...
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WCAB's Shape Poetry Contest! |
WE are happy to announce that just yesterday, submissions for the Shape Poetry Contest have closed. Thanks to everyone who got creative and wrote a shape poem! We are anxious to begin the process of choosing our winners, so stay tuned to our web and Facebook pages for more announcements! Can't wait to share some of these really wonderful poems with you!
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The Waupaca Area Arts and Culture Network
2020 Yuletide Trail
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Hygge is the term we have used to describe this Yuletide Trail event! Hygge means "being cozy at Home" which is, well, what we all need to be doing to be safe this holiday season! So we celebrate Hygge this year, and hope that you will too!
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A collaborative event to lift our spirits! |
The Waupaca Area Arts and Culture Network is a monthly meeting of Waupaca's arts and cultural organizations, city and business leaders, who share information, mutually support each other, and work together on events that enrich our community.
The Yuletide Trail is in its Second Year, and like every other event, has had to either cancel, or find ways to be safe during Covid. Well, we are proud to say that we found many ways to help our community celebrate the holidays this year!
We hope that you join in on the many events and opportunities that will get you in the holiday spirit! Each individual activity is sponsored by one of our wonderful organizations or businesses...so, join us on the 2020 Yuletide Trail!
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Hygge Tins: Get yours while supplies last! |
Coupons, Candy and other surprises will be found in the prefilled tin.
Coupons in the tin will be good at the following local businesses: Simply Scandi, Panache', Silvermist Garden Center, Fletcher's Jewelry, Main Street Marketplace, Loot Vintage & Supply, A Touch of Glass, HH HINDER Brewing Co, Antiques on Main, Aquamos Coffee Collaborative, The Revival, Waupaca Historical Society Gift Shop, Memaw's Local Crafters, Office Outfitters, Waupaca River Gallery & Gifts, Chez Posh, Northern Home & Lucky Tree! Tins are sponsored by Community First Credit Union.
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Also: proceeds from these Hygge Tins will benefit the Waupaca Historical Society...thanks to underwriting from Communiyt First Credit Union! Thanks, guys!!!
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Holiday Story Books, Ornament kits and Online Stories!
The Waupaca Area Public Library is a stop on the Yuletide Trail again this year! Even though we can't see you in person, we invite you to join us for a virtual storytime at the l ibrary YouTube channel. Snuggle and up and enjoy readings from your favorite librarians and community members. Storytime starts at 2pm on December 5th and will be available throughout winter.
In addition, you can pick up copies of some of these stories to build your own winter-themed library at area businesses (and right here at the library, too!):
Northern Home (available in store): If It's Snowy and You Know It Clap Your Hands by Kim Norman
Winchester Academy (available along the Santa parade route): 'Twas the Night Before Christmas by Clement Moore
All 5 books are available starting November 30th while supplies last.
The library also has ornament kits for curbside pick up! Create your own beautiful ornament for your tree!
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Santa Claus is
Coming to...Waupaca!!!
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has made special arrangements to bring Santa to Waupaca...he won't be able to meet with kids individually, of course, (covid!!! we don't want Santa to get sick before Christmas!!!) but, he will be touring the neighborhoods of Waupaca, with a beautiful sleigh (pulled by a truck...the Reindeer rarely visit prior to the magical night!) on
Saturday, December 5 starting at 11 am.
Dress warm, check out the map and find your spot on his route to wave to the Joly Old Elf Himself!
Oh, and Don't forget: Santa will be handing out storybooks on his tour!
Kids: we are encouraging you all to write a letter to Santa, and drop it off in the special box in the Library lobby. He will pick them up before he leaves town.
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Toys for Tots curbside drop off at the Waupaca Danes Hall |
Toys for Tots. They are hosting a Drive-Thru Toys for Tots Drop-Off during the Yuletide Trail, on
Saturday, December 5, 2020,
from 10:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m.
Please bring a new, unwrapped toy for a child aged 0-17 years old. Stay in your car, and one of their friendly, efficient, masked elves will come and get the toy.
Let’s make a child’s Christmas Wish come true!
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The Waupaca Community Arts Board and the Waupaca Danes Hall are teaming up to offer a special Livestream Concert! |
What would the Holidays be without Music? WCAB and the Danes Hall have arranged a covid-safe concert that you can watch live, on our WAACN Facebook Page, and then replay via Youtube throughout the holidays!
Plan to tune in at 5:30 for an hour of your favorite Holiday Music. Santa himself will stop in for a couple tunes, before heading back to the North Pole!
This covid-safe concert (we are protecting the musicians...no audience, lots of cleaning between acts, etc....) will be a delight. Featured musicians include:
**Weedcutts Duo (Del Weed and Jeff Cutts)
**Santa Clause Himself! (thanks to Joe Jones)
**Tim Koll and Pamela Gusmer, John Hammond and Kathy Allen
**Marci Beaucoup, Fran Rademacher and Little Baba
**Nell and Matt Buchman
**Ron Reynolds
For more information and updates, go here:
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We cannot help but think about those who need a little more warmth. Those families who are struggling for one reason or another.
The grassroots Waupaca Community Aid group that sprung up is providing the coordination for this event. many hands have pulled together to make these items with love for all.
On December 5, home made mittens, hats and scarves will be distributed, from our families to yours!
Distribution will be across the street from the Waupaca Library, look for a White Pick-up Truck. You can choose form among many hand made items to help keep you warm this winter!
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A Special Reading of Twas the Night Before Christmas |
Our last Yuletide Trails 2020 event will take place on our WAACN Facebook page as well as on the radio: Wauapca Radio 96.3fm at 6:45, right after the Livestream Concert...
Learn more about this historic poem from the early 1800's, by clicking the above blue link.
Then tune in on December 5 at 6:45 to hear it read aloud. Perhaps you will want to recite the poem along with our special reader! Or, just listen and enjoy this timeless tale!
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Other December Happenings... in and around our community!
Events, classes, stress relief and local artisan shopping!
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Holiday Stress, compounded by all the other stresses we have been experiencing....make sure you take time for your self this holiday season!
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Our local retailers have been so supportive of this year's Yuletide Trail, despite having had a tough year. I think we all can agree that they rock! They have stuck together, and hung in there.
During this shopping season it is more important than ever to shop local when ever you can!
And our support means so much to them...check out this wonderful video that they created, giving us thanks!
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Don't forget our parade is THIS Friday night! There is PLENTY of room to spread out, the parade goes for almost 1 mile! You can find a spot on the sidewalks all the way from St. James Church and Amherst Marine down to the Tomorrow River School District at the other end of town! If you would like to BE IN THE PARADE, click here!
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Come to downtown Weyauwega and see the debut of our extravagant light show. Tune into 107.7 f.m. to listen to Holiday music and see the light show. Sit in the comfort of your car or on a bench.
The light show will be played in the evenings starting at 6 pm until 10 pm every weekend until Jan 4th.
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Wednesdays, on ZOOM, join this weekly meditation from Loving Awareness Sanctuary! We can all benefit from this right about now! Self Care is critical during these times. You deserve a high vibe hour to let go, breathe, and focus on allowing more peace and love in.For info on how to join,
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At A Touch of Glass: December 9, 6pm: This month our free class is a simple but elegant Pearl and Leather necklace. Join us and create using your own beading supplies or order one from us. If you purchase a kit but miss our live event don't worry - they will post the video on their website for you to watch anytime you want. The kits make great gifts! Kits are puzzles you can wear!
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December 16 at 6:30 pm at The Paint Store: Enjoy an evening filled with laughter, friends and the creative side. No experience necessary. Yes, you have creativity, let us help you get it out on canvas. We provide the canvas and all the art supplies you need. Bring a friend and make a memory. Go HERE for more info!
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Thankful Thursdays continue at The Filling Station! On December 17, 20% of sales will go to the Waupaca County Sheriff’s Department K-9 Unit. Call 715-281-0403 or 715-942-0348 to place your Covid-safe carryout order!
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Waupaca Citgo will be taking donations for children in need for Christmas. If you would like to make a donation please stop by during business hours we will have a box for donations. We will also be making wish list if anyone needs ideas. We will be accepting gift cards at counter to be donated towards toys and personals. We will also have a box for gently used coats, hats, gloves and boots. If you have any questions please contact Julie at 715-650-1389 or Rachel at 715-802-3831 we will be taking donations as of October 27 through Friday December 18.
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Join Yoga Hive's Mollie and Blaine LIVE on Zoom for this 2-hour virtual workshop. Learn about Japa Mantra, how to use a Mala and spend time making your own! These make GREAT and thoughtful holiday gifts for friends and family. Sign up includes one mala kit, but you are welcome to register and get discounted additional kits, too! You either pick them up in person at a Yoga Hive studio, or we'll mail to you for $5 shipping anywhere in the USA.
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And finally....good bye 2020...hello new year!!! |
It is our heartfelt hope that we will all get through these holidays with a certain amount of cheer, reflection, safety and continued connection despite these circumstances... WE are all in this together, Waupaca. Keep reaching out, being benevolent and creative, and we will see you in 2021!
Please take a minute and just listen to this absolutely sweet version of this traditional song. Thank you Waupaca community, and thank you James Taylor!
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