The Chippewa Valley recently buzzed with excitement as hundreds of runners gathered for festive 5K races spanning from winter to early spring.

At Carson Park, the December Ho H-Eau Ho 5K saw nearly 700 adults and dozens of children flood the trail in holiday costumes, filling the air with cheer and community pride.

Emi Uelmen, owner of the Eau Claire Marathon, credited dedicated volunteers for the warm, spirited atmosphere.

Valentine’s Day brings the playful XO X-Eau XO 5K, where runners enjoy donuts at each mile.

March promises the return of the Shamrock Shuffle 5K at UW-Eau Claire, featuring scenic routes and a sea of green attire.

Early registration ensures race t-shirts, underscoring the events’ community focus.

From seasoned racers to families, everyone can celebrate health, camaraderie, and local pride in the heart of the Chippewa Valley.

Why did the cow go to Chippewa Valley?

Because it heard they had great moosic festivals!

The Chippewa Valley Home Builders Association (CVHBA) has supported western Wisconsin’s home construction since 1972, serving counties like Barron, Dunn, Eau Claire, and more.

With over 400 diverse members—including builders, electricians, and interior designers—CVHBA is dedicated to high standards and quality craftsmanship.

Every member undergoes a strict review process with reference checks and insurance verification, ensuring homeowners connect with reliable local professionals.

The association’s home builders directory is a trusted resource for anyone planning a new build or remodel.

CVHBA also hosts signature events like the annual Home Show and Parade of Homes, spotlighting innovative designs and skilled craftsmanship across the Chippewa Valley.

Offering seminars and educational support, CVHBA helps residents make smart, informed decisions about home projects.

For guidance and connections to vetted experts, CVHBA remains a cornerstone for those starting a dream home or renovation.

The 13th annual Jig’s Up Blugold Ice Fishing Contest returns to Lake Wissota on Saturday, February 14, 2026, bringing anglers a shot at over $80,000 in cash and prizes.

Hosted by UW-Eau Claire Recreation, Blugold Athletics, and the Lake Wissota Lions Club, the event runs from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., with prize awards starting at 3 p.m. at The View on Lake Wissota.

Each $25 ticket lets participants register one fish, and anglers can buy as many tickets as they wish.

Top prizes go to the heaviest fish, with rewards down to 500th place, and a Ford F-150 two-year lease is up for grabs in a special drawing.

The Scheels Kids Klub kicks off at 11 a.m., ensuring fun for younger visitors.

All Wisconsin fishing rules and size limits apply, so contestants must check in by 2 p.m. for their catch to count.

"Opportunities are like sunrises. If you wait too long, you miss them." - William Arthur Ward

Eau Claire’s Silvermine Ski Jump came alive with energy as it welcomed racers and fans for the first-ever X Racing Sunday Funday, an event uniting snowmobile and snow bike competitions.

Participants from across the region battled warm weather, but spirits remained high. Brett Bauer, a competitor, praised the community’s passion and readiness to rally behind the landmark venue.

This milestone event aimed to generate crucial funds for restoring the historic Olympic-sized ski jump, a vital part of the area’s winter sports tradition. The community’s dedication was clear, with snowmobile enthusiasts eager to aid Silvermine’s revival.

The partnership between X Racing and the Flying Eagles Ski Club spotlights a shared mission to breathe new life into winter sports throughout the Chippewa Valley.

Organizers hope the weekend’s success signals a bright future, with Silvermine poised to shine once more as a beloved winter sports hub.

John Dillinger