Northwoods Freedom Week

Festival Set-Up and Road Closure

America 250 Welcome

Opening remarks by LOLA Arts Executive Director Heather Lindemann and community leaders.

Book Launch: Today I Am An Elephant

Join local author and educator Cindy Pesek as she celebrates the release of her new children's book, Today I Am An Elephant. Families are invited to enjoy a special reading and meet the author.

Community Street Dance

Kick off Northwoods Freedom Week with an evening of music, food, and family fun featuring the Old Pine Road Band. Enjoy local food vendors, face painting, lawn games, community organizations, and the return of Vicki's famous hot dog sale.

Poetry Reading with Denise "Dee" Sweet

Experience an afternoon of poetry, storytelling, and reflection with one of Wisconsin's most celebrated literary voices.

Manoomin: The Story of Wild Rice

Presented by Roger LaBine

Learn about the cultural, ecological, and spiritual importance of manoomin (wild rice) to Anishinaabe communities.

Art Demonstration with Sharon Molinaro

Outside the Tackle Box

Watch artist Sharon Molinaro create a live painting from start to finish while discussing her techniques, inspiration, and creative process. Visitors are encouraged to stop, ask questions, and see a work of art emerge in real time.

Art Demonstration with Donna Lenard

Outside Headwaters State Bank

Donna Lenard will create a live painting inspired by the Northern Lights. Observe how color, light, and movement combine to capture one of the Northwoods' most spectacular natural phenomena.

Veterans Stories & Memories Gathering

Stateline VFW Post

Local veterans will share stories, photographs, artifacts, and memories from their military service. This meaningful community gathering honors the experiences and sacrifices of those who served while preserving local history through personal storytelling.

Story Walk

Land O' Lakes Library Lawn

Enjoy a self-guided outdoor reading experience designed for families and young readers.

Story Hour

Land O' Lakes Library

Main Street Sidewalk Art Event

Create colorful community artwork using sidewalk chalk throughout downtown with the Library team.

Art Demonstration with Lisa Krueger

Outside Local Press

Lisa Krueger of Oak View Studio will demonstrate her expressive watercolor techniques as she creates delicate nests and vibrant poppies.

Drop-In Art Projects & Ice Cream Social

LOLA Arts

Families are invited to create, explore, and enjoy hands-on art activities throughout the afternoon. All ages welcome.

Art Demonstration with Sandy VanPatten

Outside Charlie's Market

Discover the traditional craft of whisk broom making as Sandy VanPatten creates functional brooms using turkey wings and hawk tail feathers. This demonstration highlights craftsmanship, natural materials, and time-honored techniques.

Art Demonstration with Dale Popovich

Forest Lake Cafe & Wine Cellar

Watch Dale Popovich paint a live landscape featuring Pioneer Creek in Conover. Learn how artists capture atmosphere, light, and the beauty of the Northwoods environment.

Why Is the American Flag Red, White & Blue?

Presented by Jennie Saltzgiver, Daughters of the American Revolution

Explore the history, symbolism, and evolution of the American flag through an engaging presentation suitable for all ages.

Interactive Children's Activity

Create Your Own Flag.

Art Demonstration with Sue Schurch

Outside Mad Baer

Known for her beautifully decorated Lazy Susans, Sue Schurch will demonstrate her unique combination of woodburning and painting techniques. Visitors can watch as a functional household item becomes a one-of-a-kind work of art.

America 250 Mural Installation & Dedication

U.S. Post Office

Celebrate the newest addition to Land O' Lakes' growing collection of public art with the dedication of the America 250 mural and accompanying sculpture.

Kids Community Mural Activity

Children can color their own version of the mural and learn about the role public art plays in strengthening communities.

Self-Guided Public Art & Sculpture Walk

LOLA Arts' public art initiative seeks to strengthen creative collaboration, enrich community life, and establish Land O' Lakes as a destination for public art. Pick up a free Public Art Map and explore murals, sculptures, and installations throughout town.

Wildlife Photography with Ken Wiele

LOLA Arts Back Porch

Photographer Ken Wiele will share stories from behind the lens while showcasing stunning wildlife and landscape images featuring loons, eagles, hummingbirds, and other Northwoods wildlife.

Gateway Lodge Independence Celebration

Celebrate Independence Day Eve with food, beverages, live music, and community gathering behind the Gateway Lodge. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy one of the area's best views of the evening fireworks.