It’s been a loooong spring. And considering we live in Northern Wisconsin, that’s saying something! But for three months, the world held its breath and time seemed to stand still, at least for some of us.

June 20th marks the official beginning of Summer! So, if you haven’t ventured out into our beautiful Northwoods Communities yet, and you’re wondering what’s out there to see and do, we thought we’d share some ideas for you to consider. 

A variety of restaurants, from breakfast cafes to steak houses have re-opened their doors for dine in business. If you haven’t yet re-experienced a date night or a family dinner out, you might want to do a little research to see whether your favorite nosh spot is one of them! 

One of the best parts of living here in the Northwoods is the abundant green space – parks, nature trails, biking trails and the like are all open and are very safe places to spend afternoons enjoying the summer sunshine. The fresh air and wide open spaces are just what’s needed after a long spring quarantine!

Have you heard about the pop-up drive-in movie theater that’s now here for the summer in the Chippewa Valley? It’s called CV Drive-In and it has a rotating selection of movies you can catch from your car. It’s a throw-back fun experience that has found itself right at home in these current times. AND, they just announced a drive in concert – Garth Brooks at the Northern Wisconsin State Fairgrounds on June 27th. He’ll be broadcasting a live concert to drive-in theaters across North America, including right here in our home town. 

If retail therapy is what you need, rest assured that the Oakwood Mall is wide open for business and so are a myriad of stores, from downtown boutiques to furniture showrooms and  electronics box stores. You’re sure to find a way to spend any stimulus money you may have saved for a sunny day. Now’s your chance!

After all, it is Summer. And we all need to find our own ways to have joy in our lives and to be out amongst our friends and neighbors. If you are nervous about how to navigate all the social expectations this side of Covid, our best advice is to be kind and respectful, and to give grace to those who are also doing their best to feel this out.