Family events in Wausau, WI

Families with children are invited to enjoy a free screening of the movie “Hoppers” at the library. The story follows Mabel as she uses new technology to communicate with robotic animal versions of creatures, uncovering mysteries about the natural world. Feel free to bring snacks and refreshments, and please help keep the library clean. No registration is required.

This event takes place at Marathon Park Wausau.

This Wisconsin state sanctioned pedal pull invites children ages 4 to 12 to compete in age based classes. Registration is held before the competition, and each class recognizes the top three finishers with awards.

The Minnesota Mud Puppies meet the Wausau Woodchucks at Wausau Athletic Park. Expect a relaxed summer evening with up-close looks at emerging players, clear sightlines that highlight the rhythm and strategy on the field, and the classic ballpark feel that makes the local game memorable. Those hoping to catch first pitch may want to secure tickets ahead of time.

Explore an outdoor market at Grand Ave Artifactory featuring more than twenty booths filled with antiques, vintage finds, upcycled pieces, handmade goods, locally made products, and baked treats. The market runs rain or shine, with a plan to move to Sunday of the same weekend if severe weather requires a change and conditions allow. Vendor spots are limited, and all inquiries should go directly to the sole organizer, Jenni Phillipson. Reach out in person at Grand Ave Artifactory, send a direct message through the Grand Ave Artifactory Facebook page, or email jenni@grandaveartifactory.com. To prevent fraud, do not respond to anyone else claiming to manage vendor reservations.

Watch the Minnesota Mud Puppies take on the Wausau Woodchucks at Wausau Athletic Park. The scene is easygoing and close to the field, making it simple to follow the small moments that can shift an inning and to enjoy the steady rhythm of baseball in a classic stadium setting.

Local 4-H and FFA exhibitors present their market animals at an annual show and sale that recognizes months of care and hands-on learning. Attendees can cheer on young people building skills in livestock management, agriculture, responsibility, and leadership while taking part in a community tradition that connects urban and rural neighbors. Businesses and individuals can support youth programs and agricultural education, gain positive exposure through the event and media, and receive a complimentary photo with any animal purchase. Buyers also have the option to take home locally raised meat. Bidding is open to registered participants, and there is no obligation to buy in order to attend or sign up. Animals are sold by the pound using fair or show entry weights, and arrangements for processing and transportation can be made at the sale. The program helps develop youth through education and competition, teaches sound livestock production practices with a focus on meat quality, and highlights the importance of the livestock industry across the wider community.

Escape the summer sun and build a cozy family fort right between the bookshelves. The library will provide basic supplies to get you started, and you can bring your own blankets, sheets, and pillows to make your fort one of a kind. After it’s built, settle in for a relaxed family reading adventure. This free drop-in program is for children through age 11 and their families.

The event takes place at Marathon Park Wausau.

High-energy racing and derby action take over Wisconsin Valley Fair with the Dirt Dash as the focal point. The racing slate features the Dirt Dash, FWD and BWD, and Figure 8, with qualifying heats, consolation rounds, and feature races. Derby competition includes UDI Gut N' Go FWD and MWFA or Dirt Dash Style. Every class awards $1,000 to the winner along with a big check, and payouts and awards are presented to the top three. Registration and tech inspection are part of the entry process. The entry fee is $60 and covers all events, and a $50 late fee applies for late registration. Practice sessions and a Powerwheels segment are planned in addition to the main racing program.

Enjoy time outside where curiosity leads the way. This experience brings together exploration and learning in a lively, enjoyable format that keeps the focus on fun.

Calling all Pokémon Trainers! Join a monthly Pokémon Club meetup to trade cards and chat about all things Pokémon. This free drop-in program is open to children and their families, and you’ll meet in the Aquarium Room on the second Tuesday of each month.

Step into an interactive dinosaur adventure for children and their caregivers, with an engaging storyline and four animatronic dinosaur puppets from Dinosaur Dimensions. You’ll learn fun dinosaur facts and enjoy plenty of surprises, with a one-on-one meet and greet and photo opportunities after the program.

A concert takes place on the square at the 400 Block. Enjoy music in an open-air setting.

That 90s Band brings a playlist of 1990s greatest hits to Wausau Events Concert on the Square at The 400 Block. The performance highlights familiar favorites from the decade.

The traditional Concerts on the Square series from Wausau Events features live music with a variety of food vendors available each week. To keep the space welcoming and the grass healthy, large tables and other furniture are not allowed, and smoking and pets are prohibited. There is also a rule about when blankets may be placed so the lawn is not harmed.

This relaxed playdate at JoJo's Jungle features flexible arrival times, allowing attendees to drop in at any point. The event welcomes everyone.

Bring your little one for a fun, engaging Family Story Time at the library. Designed for children age 5 and younger (with their caregivers), this session includes stories, songs, and activities to support early literacy, creativity, and a love of reading. The group will meet in the Aquarium Room for the 30-minute program.

Bring children and caregivers to enjoy storybooks together in the Yawkey House garden under the historic pergola. After the reading, there will be a hands-on craft in the Carriage House inspired by that day’s theme. It is a relaxed, family-friendly way to enjoy stories, creativity, and local history outdoors.

River & Woods Theatre Company presents a kid-focused adaptation of Shakespeare’s Comedy of Errors performed by a cast entirely under 18. Tickets include a craft activity to enjoy as part of the experience. Seating is lawn style, so bring chairs or a blanket for comfort. Carry-ins are welcome, and there will also be snacks and bottled water available for purchase. This lighthearted take on a classic is planned with families in mind.

River & Woods Theatre Company presents its annual Shakespeare in the Park at Stewart Park with a production of William Shakespeare’s The Merry Wives of Windsor. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair or blanket for comfortable seating. Refreshments and bottled water will be available for purchase before the performance, during intermission, and after the show.

Enjoy an outdoor movie as the annual summer series brings a free screening to The 400 Block. This showing features Zootopia 2. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, and your favorite treats for a family-friendly evening in downtown Wausau, and consider stopping by a favorite downtown spot for dinner or dessert before the film. The series is supported by Title Sponsor Love You, Kid!, with media sponsor WAOW Channel 9, and two movies are sponsored by Community Foundation through the Community Arts Grant.