7 things to do around Wausau this week

 

‘Rock of Ages’

July 17-19 | Veninga Theater, Wausau
Just a small-town girl, a city boy and the biggest rock anthems (and hair) of the 1980s are coming to Wausau this week, as Wausau Community Theatre stages a high-energy production of the Tony award nominated musical “Rock of Ages.” This show features the hits of 1980s biggest acts, including Journey, Night Ranger, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister and more. Set during the tail end of the 1980s in Hollywood, aspiring rock star Drew longs to take the stage as the next big thing (and longs for small-town girl Sherri, fresh off the bus from Kansas with stars in her eyes). But the rock ’n’ roll fairy tale is about to end when developers sweep into town with plans to turn the fabled Sunset Strip into just another capitalist strip mall. Can Drew, Sherri and the gang save the strip before it’s too late? “Rock of Ages” plays July 17-18 and July 23-25 at 7:30 p.m., with 2 p.m. Sunday matinees on July 19 and 26, at the Veninga Theater in Wausau. Tickets range from $12 for kids to $27 for adults and can be purchased at wausaucommunitytheatre.org.

 

Rumble by the Rib

Saturday, July 18 | Trailmates Snowmobile Grounds, Stettin
Get ready for an evening of dirt spittin’, smoke billowing loud engines at the Rumble by the Rib. This tractor pull starts at 6 p.m. out at the snowmobile grounds that recently hosted Taste N Glow. The event will feature six Wisconsin Tractor Pull Association classes: Pro Farm Tractors, Super Farm Tractors, Light Limited Super Stock Tractors, Super Stock 4×4 Trucks, Four-Wheel-Drive Trucks and Pro Street Diesel Trucks. Gates open at 4 p.m. with food and drink vendors and a kids bounce houses on site. Admission is $15 for individuals 11 and older, kids ages 10 and under are free.

 

Food Truck Rodeo & Craft Show

Saturday, July 18 │ Willow Springs Garden, Wausau
Get on out to Willow Springs Garden this weekend for an old-fashioned fun time amid the scenic rolling hills of the Marathon County countryside. The Food Truck Rodeo & Craft Show is a great opportunity to support a variety of local food vendors and crafters. Peruse vendor booths for one-of-a-kind handmade goods while enjoying delicious local cuisine. Western wear — such as bandanas, cowboy hats and boots — are encouraged, and there will even be a western photo-op area for guests. Dine outside or in the historic round barn. Open 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cash bar. Free admission. A portion of the proceeds from this event will benefit the Lincoln County Humane Society.

 

Urban Sketching Workshop

Saturday, July 18 | Center for the Visual Arts, Wausau
Discover the art of urban sketching in this fun and inspiring workshop! Learn essential tools and simple techniques for creating dynamic sketchbook layouts while capturing the beauty of the world around you. Explore how to find interesting subject matter and building confidence sketching on location. Perfect for beginners and experienced artists alike, this is a great opportunity to get outside and get your creativity flowing. Students will be provided a kit with a sketchbook and drawing supplies, but are welcome to bring their own materials if they have certain media they enjoy using. Two sessions available: 9-11:30 a.m. or 1-3:30 p.m. Great for adults and kids ages eight and up. Registration is $45 and can be completed at cvawausau.org.

 

The Magic of Isaiah

Tuesday, July 21 | Oak Island Park, Wausau

Get ready to be amazed! Children and their caregivers are invited to attend an interactive comedy magic show at Oak Island Park, brought to you by the Magic of Isaiah. Watch in wonder as mind-boggling tricks and illusions are performed right before your eyes, keeping you surprised, entertained and rolling with laughter! This free event takes place at Oak Island Park from 10-11 a.m., just look for the Marathon County Public Library signage. In case of rain, it will take place in the Community Room at MCPL Wausau. 715-261-7220.

 

Movie in the Park

Thursday, July 23 | 400 Block, Wausau
What says summer better than watching a movie on a warm not, laying on the cool grass under the stars? Once again, the Wausau & Marathon County Parks, Recreation & Forestry is hosting movie screenings at the 400 Block free of charge. This coming week they will screen the 2025 animated hit “K-Pop Demon Hunters,” rated PG. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and treats and enjoy a night of family entertainment in the beautiful setting of downtown Wausau. Don’t forget to head to your favorite downtown business for treats or dinner before the movie! Starts at 7 p.m.

 

Concert in the Clouds

Saturday, July 18 | Rib Mountain Amphitheater, Wausau
The Rib Mountain amphitheater is a stunning place to take in a live music performance. The Concert in the Clouds series, once a month, offers visitors a free concert in front of an unrivaled view of the Wausau area. This month’s concert features Harmonious Wail, whose Americana-infused gypsy jazz takes listeners from Parisian cafes to the Memphis Delta, and to heartfelt folk scenes across America. The Wail weaves simple ponderings through a musical journey, enticing smiles, laughs and perhaps even a tear on a purely uplifting experience. This concert is free, but a state park vehicle pass is required to park. 6-8 p.m. ribmountain.org