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Exploring The Elkhart Way: Insights into a Sustainable Movement

The fact that Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin continues to be the place I call home no matter where I wander is an incredible gift. One of the luckiest things the stars above the lake have granted me. Growing up in a place that is deeply loved by locals and by visitors who continue to visit year after year has inspired me all my life. Although I love it during each season, there’s a quality of worldliness that the village takes on in the summertime. The vibrancy of Elkhart Lake’s local way of life grew a hunger within me long ago to explore and seek out exceptional natural beauty as well as deeply rooted communities outside of my hometown. Because my home village is little, I always had this sense that a huge part of the world was literally around the corner, or just past the four-way stop.

Exploring has brought me to another little town known for its freshwater shorelines. When I first arrived in Truckee, California I noticed it contained my favorite aspects of other places I had previously called home. I’m not the first one to migrate from Elkhart Lake to this little place nestled within the Sierra Nevada mountains. I’m part of a group of Wisconsinites that arrived to the forests and lakes here and thought “this feels like home with the addition of a little elevation and greater snow accumulation to play in.”

Immediately upon arriving I noticed the Keep Tahoe Blue stickers (the campaign that inspired Keep Elkhart Blue) stamped on the sea of Subarus and pickup trucks. A desire to preserve the lake’s quality and educate visitors about how to participate in that project is strong. Everyone appreciates the beauty of the water resources that places are named after. Not everyone is aware of how human activity impacts it and how they can play a role in upholding its quality.

Moving to Truckee has deepened my understanding and brewed more curiosity than ever about the opportunities and challenges that are unique to tourist communities. Stunning places are often home to steadfast communities. In Elkhart there’s a shop inspired by this exact feeling: Small Town Big Family. These special places are also home to a distinct set of tensions. While tourism in the Truckee/Tahoe area is on a different scale and calendar than Elkhart Lake there are some conversations that hit very close to home.

Concerns about natural resource access and the preservation of those natural resources, waste, noise, affordable long term housing, cohabitating with an increased population size during certain times of the year, increased traffic/parking issues, and the continuation of a pace of life that attracts visitors to the area in the first place are just a few of the conversations many tourist destinations around the country (and the world) are having.

In addition to the wide use of bumper stickers throughout the Tahoe basin there are also local programs that have provided educational signage at trailheads to promote stewardship and preserve wildlife as well as initiatives to reduce usage of single use plastics and styrofoam. Volunteer opportunities for visitors to get involved with trail maintenance and water quality improvement are also offered. Since moving to Truckee, I’ve increasingly witnessed printed materials and signage around town that guides visitors into the realm of stewardship and participation in celebrating and preserving the place’s natural landscapes.

I’ve only been here for a few years so there’s still a lot to learn about the work that local people here are doing to preserve their home while also educating and welcoming people who visit. There’s an attitude amongst locals all around the world that requires newcomers to earn their credibility and prove their commitment to the place. The word local and who and how that word is defined is something I will be fascinated by and questioning my whole life, even more so now that I am considered a newcomer to the area I currently live. Some days I still feel like a visitor gathering information about what it means to be a part of this place in a positive way.

Turns out in Tahoe, and in every other place I’ve found myself, having a Wisconsin license plate or accent makes a great first impression. But what really seals the deal when trying to break the ice is a Wisconsin attitude. After shoveling during last year’s historic snowfall, I think I’ve finally earned the badge of local from my older and wiser neighbors on the street. Helping them shovel while they were out of town and bringing them treats as well as borrowing snow tools and gathering wisdom during power outages during huge storms helped me become a part of my little street community in a deeper way. There’s nothing like the deepest snow you’ve ever seen to bond you to the others across the street snow-blowing their driveways. 

Once the snow finally melted, I found myself having conversations with seasoned fishermen at the public docks at Donner Lake, a small local spot for fishing, swimming, and boating. It’s much smaller than Lake Tahoe, but still receives droves of visitors during the summertime. One of the fishermen I met last summer encouraged me to go get a permit, a paddleboard, and drop a line to catch my own dinner. Although he shared his lament over witnessing his hometown change as a result of tourism and the huge shifts within the local housing market, he quickly pivoted the conversation and welcomed me into his beautiful perspective of the area with generosity and joy.

Sometimes education comes through a conversation on a public dock. Sometimes an invitation into one’s way of life and a little bit of in-person storytelling is as valuable as reading about local fish species, fishing permits, and water quality on a public sign. Every channel of communication holds wisdom. The longer I’ve been in Truckee the more I’ve realized that those who’ve been here a long time often embed stewardship and a strong desire for community care within their definition of who they trust and who they welcome into their home.

Growing up in Elkhart Lake provided a similar ethic to those raised there. From a young age I learned the importance of going beyond just passively passing through a beautiful place and trying to contribute to the beauty. This requires a lot of awareness built on paying close attention and asking a lot of questions from those with more experience. It’s humbling, and it takes time, and oftentimes there are really simple interactions that change everything for the better.

It’s one thing to be a consumer, it’s another much grander, purposeful thing to be a connector/contributor when visiting or moving to an area. We get to choose how we engage with the places we spend time in. I credit the village that raised me for teaching me how to do so wholeheartedly and with a mindset of respect and openness to learning what a community celebrates as well as what worries them.

At the heart of it, Elkhart Lake has taught me that to know a place is to know its people. To know a place is to know the businesses and to go beyond being a patron. This means your face is one that brings a smile and a sigh of relief to the owners and employees when they see you walk through the door on a busy night because they are confident you are also on their team, rooting for them and respecting their hard work. To know a place is to know its seasons and how the energy of the place ebbs and flows, to witness the freeze and the thaw, and also the shifting shoulder seasons in between the peak times. 

I realize some will never know the intricacies of what makes the village of Elkhart Lake’s heart beat when it’s covered in snow. Albeit small, the summer window is often the opportunity to let people see the glorious view. Sometimes a tiny window is all we get to show people a way of life and demonstrate to them how to participate in its creation.

Tourism is difficult work no matter the zip code. Each area of the map has a history with growing pains it has navigated and continues to navigate along the way. In the midst of trying to make sense of the delicate balance between the issues my new community faces and the overwhelming beauty I feel so lucky to experience every day, I often think about the community I grew up in and the parallel conversations taking place.

How can we all continue having conversations about the future of healthy waterways and trails, housing opportunities, waste, noise, a feeling of balance between high and low season, and most importantly – a connection to the place and the way of life that we all celebrate and hold onto because it gives us deep meaning? This meaningful lifestyle is the very reason people are drawn to places such as Elkhart Lake after all.

How do we welcome people to the village, beaches, and the boat launch while also educating them about stewardship and safety? How can we continue building bridges and fostering partnerships across different organizations within the community that share similar concerns and hopes? How can we be models in walking through businesses and natural landscapes to the rhythm that our special village hums?

I wish I had the answers to all these very important questions. While I don’t have all the answers, I do believe in the continued creation of long-lasting memories and natural beauty in Elkhart Lake that we can all enjoy. I will continue wading into these questions in the way that Elkhart Lake has taught me to do – with care and curiosity and an openness to the possibilities that small magical places offer us. I hope others will join me in reflecting on what it means to us to live out the Elkhart way.

Please stay tuned for ways to get involved with Elkhart Lake’s sustainable tourism initiatives. And if you find yourself sharing about how you enjoy the Elkhart Lake way of life on social media, please tag @elkhartlake and consider using #elkhartway. We’d love to follow along with how you embrace and share what makes this place exceptional.

Meet The Author

Kate Vollrath

Kate Vollrath was born and raised in Elkhart Lake. After several years of working and adventuring in Anchorage, Alaska and a year studying in Italy, she has returned to her favorite freshwater shoreline. Wisconsin will always be home. The incredible local culture, extraordinary community, and summer Sundays on the water are what keep her rooted and returning no matter where life takes her.

Snowflakes & Smiles: Schnee Days Weekend

With over 40 years of Schnee Days experience under their belt, you could say Elkhart Lake has deep-snow experience in winter fun.  So, grab your winter gear, lace up your running shoes, and gather your friends and family for a winter weekend of Schnee fun.

Schnee Days Weekend offers a variety of in and outdoor fun for all ages.  Elkhart Lake likes to start the weekend early with a Thursday evening moonlight snowshoe stroll.  Traversing Quit Qui Oc’s golf course in the winter brings a whole new appreciation to this beautiful property.  Snowshoeing continues all weekend long with rentals available on-site for kids and adults.

Saturday morning kicks it up a notch with the annual 5K SchneeLauf Fun Run.  Participants of all ages, along with some four-legged furry friends (leashes required), dot the route.  Costumes are not only welcome but encouraged for those who really want to embrace the fun of Schnee Days.  These SchneeLaufers are dedicated to having a good time. Even during the -12 degree polar vortex, these diehard fun runners bundled up with an extra layer of warmth under their costumes and had a blast! 

After the run, warm up for a bit with Cozy Crafts and Cocoa at the local library, provided free of charge. Then, venture back outside for an afternoon of sledding at the school hill. Following all the outdoor excitement, unwind by the pool as you decide which of Elkhart Lake’s restaurants fits your family’s mood. After dinner, either hit the arcade or pull out your favorite board games for some old-fashioned family fun.

Sunday brings more family fun with the Children’s Games & Ice Cube Hunt on the lawn of the Shore Club.  Afterwards, head across the street to Siebkens Resort for a bowl of homemade chili and a grilled cheese at the annual Chili Cook-Off!

Dive Into Snow Much More

If you’re a disc golfer, be sure to check out the Disc Golf Challenge at Road America, but keep in mind that pre-registration is required.  The inaugural Schnee Days Winter Olympics will be held at Crystal Lake Golf Course.  On Sunday, cap off your chilly adventures with Snowga in the Village Park.

For those who prefer the cozy indoors, there are plenty of opportunities to warm up with great food and spirits throughout the weekend.  Beer lovers won’t want to miss Flannel Fridays at Switchgear Brewing.  But if wine and spirits are more your mood, reserve your tickets for the annual Sip’n’ Schnee at Vintage Elkhart Lake.   On Saturday, indulge in the delicious Schnee Brunch at Lake Street Café.  There are also a variety of cocktail classes and winter pop-ups to enjoy, along with the annual Schnee Days Spirits Stroll that offers fun and tasty winter cocktail specials throughout the Village.  Along the way, check out the variety of live music options available on Friday and Saturday evening at The Osthoff Resort, The Shore Club and Brown Baer.

The Schnee Days finale is the Annual Chili Cook-Off where many of Elkhart Lake’s restaurants and residents compete for “The Best Chili” bragging rights, and brag they do, all year long!

For a full list of Schnee Days events and overnight accommodations, visit ElkhartLake.com/Schnee-Days.

Pizza, Wine & Shopping: Get to know East Rhine Street’s newest businesses

Wisconsin weather has a way of keeping everyone on their toes and during this time of year it is not rare to experience two seasons in one day. As I am writing this snow is falling onto the autumn leaves surrounding Elkhart Lake’s village square. Witnessing the season change here is bittersweet. The shift into colder temperatures means the long winter is coming. It also means that downtown becomes quieter. And the quieter months are something many locals not only look forward to but desperately rely on to recharge after marching to the beat of summer’s busy drum.


A very important part of recharging in Elkhart Lake includes enjoying what the village has to offer during a less crowded time of year. This year there are some very welcome additions in the heart of town to enjoy as the seasons change. East Rhine Street has gotten an upgrade that locals and visitors have been dreaming about. While other restaurants include pizza on their menus, there hasn’t been a place fully dedicated to the art of pizza in downtown Elkhart Lake. As of August the new business owners Laurie and Avni of Harry’s Pizza e Vino have opened their doors, making it the first artisanal Elkhart Lake pizzeria.

Considering the building was once where my friends and I would scarf down Subway sandwiches over lunch hour as teenagers, my jaw dropped and I smiled wide when I entered the building for the first time. The fact that we can now enjoy 96-hour fermented, hand-tossed Roman style pizza dough baked to perfection and raise glasses of Italian wine over candlelight is a delightful upgrade. My friends and I have grown up since our school lunch hours and it turns out that the 111 East Rhine Street interior and cuisine has grown up too.

The antique metal ceiling and elegant wooden bar are timelessly romantic and the first thing that came to my mind when taking it all in was “Eating here while the snow is falling will be magical.” Our group started our dinner off with a celebratory round of Aperol spritzes. One person at our table ordered an Old Fashioned and after the first sip reviewed it as “phenomenal”.  Whether you’re looking for Italian-inspired spirits or the comforts of a traditional Wisconsin bar, the staff at Harry’s will take care of you.

After we finally narrowed down our selections from the impressive variety of pizza options, our table was filled with an Italian sausage pizza, a pesto pizza, and one corn pizza within minutes. (There was a corn pizza skeptic at the table but they were converted after one bite.) Our spritz glasses were replaced with glasses of the house Ripasso. Throughout the meal familiar faces continued walking in through the door which made our inaugural dinner at Harry’s even more memorable.

As if we hadn’t already been satiated and served with the utmost care, our server brought us each a pour of housemade limoncello. The true grand finale was the house-made nocino, an Italian bittersweet liqueur made from walnuts, that we couldn’t resist tasting after seeing the jar of it when we walked in. As for the nocino, ladies and gentlemen, we have officially entered the time of year where this liqueur can shine. It is the perfect ending to a meal during the seasons of falling leaves and falling snow.

In addition to Harry’s Pizza e Vino satisfying Elkhart Lake’s long standing craving for pizza it also happens to be conveniently situated right between the village’s two newest retail locations. If you find yourself enjoying an afternoon in the village anytime soon, do browse through AspenOak’s beautiful selection of homegoods, gifts, and holiday decor and the book selection at Gifts of Grace before sitting down to your pizza. And if you happen to step into Harry’s on a busy night, you can easily grab a glass of wine across the street at Vintage Elkhart Lake or a beer down the street at the Brown Baer while you wait for a table.

For those of us raised in this little village there is always enjoyment in returning to old haunts, but there is also something special about the opportunity of looking back through time and appreciating how the community has grown and changed too. It takes a lot to start something new and when new businesses bloom in Elkhart Lake it feels like all of us do too.

Meet The Author

Kate Vollrath

Kate Vollrath was born and raised in Elkhart Lake. After several years of working and adventuring in Anchorage, Alaska and a year studying in Italy, she has returned to her favorite freshwater shoreline. Wisconsin will always be home. The incredible local culture, extraordinary community, and summer Sundays on the water are what keep her rooted and returning no matter where life takes her.

Let’s Meat Up at Elktoberfest

Many are drawn to Elkhart Lake from June until August. Those who come just slightly later in the season will enjoy smaller flocks of visitors and boats as flocks of birds replace them on the lake. For some, September sets in with an end of summer melancholy. For others a welcomed slowness sets in over the village. Regardless of your attitude towards summer drawing to a close, Elkhart Lake has one last summer hurrah for you with its 2nd Annual Elktoberfest.

After a successful inaugural Elktoberfest in 2022, this year is bound to be another fantastic opportunity to experience the best of both worlds in the village – the liveliness of locals gathering in town and the quiet retreat of the lake and trails. Below are some highlights lined up for the weekend. Be prepared to walk (or run!), sip, snack, dance, and mingle with a very proud Wisconsin crowd that loves an opportunity to be in costume – better yet, Lederhosen or dirndl. (Costumes are not required at Elktoberfest, but will be welcomed with great enthusiasm.)

Festivities will commence Friday night at 5:30pm with the Stein Social at Siebkens Resort. Purchase a commemorative Elktoberfest stein and enjoy SwitchGear Brewing Company’s Oktoberfest beer and live music by the Polka Masters. A community prost will kick off at 6:00pm. Grab dinner at one of the local restaurants and make your way to the Osthoff’s Elk Room for more live music by the Abler Manus Duo.

On Saturday morning hit the ground running (or walking) at the 5K Wine & Beer Run/Walk beginning at Vintage Elkhart Lake. Participants will receive a t-shirt and medal plus a drink ticket for a pour of wine or SwitchGear craft beer. Sign up now for the Elktoberfest Wine & Beer Run 5K. The Farmers & Artisans Market will also be taking place in the village square from 8:00am until noon, where you’ll have another opportunity to pick up an Elktoberfest stein and your pre-ordered Elktoberfest t-shirt.

For the little ones, the village park will have a Root Beer Garten with face painting, games, root beer floats, and a special appearance by Culver’s mascot Scoopie and Miesfeld’s mascot Charlie the Double Brat. Across the street SwitchGear Brewing will be pouring adult-flavored brews all day. New this year is the Miesfeld’s Elktoberfest Tent on the Shore Club lawn where you will find a step above the average Sheboygan County brat fry. Sign up for the brat eating contest or the potato salad cook-off. When the sun goes down the tent will welcome The Boo! The Band from Milwaukee to the stage.

On Sunday morning you can count on the village restaurants to help you recover with post-prost calories. Take a look at the full list of restaurant options as well as the official Elktoberfest itinerary here: https://www.elkhartlake.com/elktoberfest/.  

Whether you are eight or eighty, Elktoberfest is an opportunity to celebrate the change of the season with your loved ones. Prost!

25 Years of Playing in the Mud at Two Fish Gallery

Even after being away for months at a time, it only takes a simple stroll through the village streets to be reminded of why this place is unlike any other I’ve lived. My shoulders sit lower here. You can hear the wind pass through the trees and chimes of locals’ homes. There is time to enjoy the aroma of freshly cut grass around you. Elkhart Lake is a place that maintains a timeless quality you can feel immediately upon arriving. This timelessness is the result of a community that takes its time to create and enjoy a life that is deeply connected to the surrounding environment and the other people who live within it.

Many businesses here are family-run with roots as deep as the lake the village is named for and the faces of those businesses will tell you that making something beautiful on the surface is one thing, but making something long lasting takes patience and many seasons of paying attention. It takes bustling summers to work the kinks out and it takes the solitude of long winters to dream and scheme with a notepad before the next summer rolls around. It takes a continuous fine tuning of one’s craft and endless hours of crunching numbers to match the rhythm and needs of the little seasonal zip code.

My village stroll today takes me to one of my favorite local businesses. As I arrive at the steps of the local art gallery, I take a moment to admire the gardens that are home to ceramic sculptures as well as local pollinators. Two Fish Gallery is a place that appears to have always been here. It’s difficult for me to picture this street without it. The gallery owners, Patrick and Karen, have interwoven their love for art and botany in a way that soothes, inspires, and leaves a lasting impact on anyone who visits. In a lot of ways, the couple’s home, garden, and gallery embody the village’s spirit.

Photo Credit: Elkhart Lake Tourism

Patrick comes to the porch to meet me, water in his hospitable Wisconsin hand and tie dye Crocs on his feet. The little universe of plants and pottery he and Karen have created on East Rhine Street is currently celebrating 25 years. They are seasoned in creating art for their gallery and gardens, and also in the art of running a local business. “We’ve reinvented ourselves many times” he responds to me congratulating him on hitting the 25-year mark.

 As the potter reflects on the reinvention that has taken place within his business, I realize that reinvention is at the heart of everything he does. Ceramic artists begin with raw clay and then give it a new life entirely in the form of a solid and hopefully beautiful piece of art. Reinvention happens every time an artist approaches the raw material. The same approach goes for gardeners. Karen has turned their property’s soil into a symphony of green. Her Certified Wildlife Habitat is home to native flora and fauna.


“This is my 50th year of playing in the mud,” Patrick’s eyes twinkle as he does the math. His mother was an artist and his grandmother encouraged him creatively from a young age. He was also a collector of ceramics as a child. It wasn’t until his senior year at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee that he really dove into ceramic art with his own hands. “I was an accidental grad student. I fell in love with ceramics my last year of undergrad and that left me no choice but to continue taking as many ceramic classes as I could.”

Patrick eventually made his way to the John Michael Kohler Art Center (JMKAC) where he would find himself on the other side of the classroom as an instructor. The classroom is where he would eventually meet his wife Karen, the botanist and brains behind the Two Fish gardens today. “We were living in parallel universes, both teaching the subjects we love.” The classroom is also what led him to Elkhart Lake. “One day I was talking with one of my students, Jess Gunther. She was really involved with the local chamber at the time. I was telling her about my dream for a home gallery and she told me that Elkhart Lake could be a wonderful place to make that happen.”

Patrick then counts on his fingers the five requirements he had for his dream setup. “I needed a place where I could live, work, sell my work, and also teach. And my fifth requirement was that the place needed to be easy to find, ideally a place where people were already walking by.” As he gives me his list it’s clear that the home he found checks every single one of his boxes.

“Things are often right in front of you, but you need to be willing to get specific when creating your dreams.” He found his dream property six months after making his list. “In Elkhart Lake, everybody takes care of everybody. I learned that shortly after getting involved here.” His story of meeting a friend in the village and then becoming part of the Elkhart Lake family is similar to many others who have made Elkhart Lake their home. If you give your heart to this place you’ll often find that one thing can lead to another.

“We call this place the cottage,” Patrick points to the porch we’re both standing on. The porch is cloaked in greenery and feels like a little jungle. “We love our home and it’s easier to visit this space outside our front door than it is to travel up North. This is our little cottage right here,” he lets out a laugh. The couple’s gallery and “cottage” is their year-round home in the summer tourist town. “We aren’t beach people. In the winter we run into the studio.”

As many business owners in town experience, Patrick and Karen’s life ebb and flow with the seasons. The seasonality can definitely be a challenge, but it can also be seen as an opportunity to learn new skills and catch up on areas of the business that need to be improved. The couple has gone through many evolutions as a business and has been a place that showcases the work of other artists too. Art mediums including clay, glass, jewelry, metals, and paper goods have all been displayed on the shelves.

One of the aspects that stands out at Two Fish is the owners’ commitment to fair-trade goods. “As an artist myself, I feel strongly about rewarding the maker,” Pat proudly reflects upon his decision to start offering fair-trade products. If you find a treasure at Two Fish, you’re extremely likely to not only know the name of the artist, but a story about the process behind the piece’s creation.

Two Fish Sculpture Garden
Photo Credit: Elkhart Lake Tourism

Patrick and Karen have always provided a place where people could find tranquility during heavy times. “I remember after September 11th, people wanted color, they wanted to be surrounded by art. During the recession, it was music to our ears that people wanted to make sure their income was connected to things that had an origin story. During tough times, people can’t buy what they once did, so when they do buy something, they want it to bring them some type of connection. Knowing the artist behind a piece can help with that.” In most recent history, the pandemic also brought about a time when people came to Two Fish for comfort. “We provided a safe and inspiring place for people during a time of a lot of uncertainty. Turns out, looking at art on some shelves was the most exciting thing happening during their day!”

The story of Two Fish Gallery is one that speaks through the transformation of raw earth through mediums of clay and soil. Education continues to be at the core of how they continually transform personally and professionally. Patrick has been a teacher since his days at the JMKAC and has since established the Two Fish School where he offers his locally beloved ceramic classes that fill up in minutes once he posts them online. “The classroom is always therapy. I find great comfort in it. I can read the energy in the room and help guide my students and I always learn things from them because they try things I’ve never thought of.”

Patrick Robison, Owner of Two Fish Gallery

One of Patrick’s and Karen’s goals for the near future is to be better students themselves. “If you’re a teacher, you really like to be a student too.” They’ve figured out a balance of crafting art and teaching which has allowed them to condense their gallery hours as a result. “Locals know us and our schedule well now. And as for visitors, you can’t go three blocks without leaving town. If they are interested, they will certainly find us!” The current schedule allows them to take more workshops and continue keeping a schedule of weekly tai chi. “Hopefully it will keep me playing in the mud a little longer,” Patrick smiles.   

Before I step inside the gallery to browse for a new ceramic butter dish he shares with me where his relationship with clay currently stands. “Clay reminds us we can’t force things. The final step, firing, is the one you have the least control over. You have to embrace what works and let go of what doesn’t. I’m more enamored with clay now than I ever have been.”

In a world that demands everything must move quickly, this village and the people who contribute to its vibrancy give a different message – good things take time, and if you take the time to have an open mind and give yourself to a community and your artform, there is a lifetime of beauty to be enamored with. Sometimes all it takes is an opportunity to play in the mud.

Meet the Author

Kate Vollrath

Kate Vollrath was born and raised in Elkhart Lake. After several years of working and adventuring in Anchorage, Alaska and a year studying in Italy, she has returned to her favorite freshwater shoreline. Wisconsin will always be home. The incredible local culture, extraordinary community, and summer Sundays on the water are what keep her rooted and returning no matter where life takes her.

Where There Are Greens There Is Gold

100 years of Hard Work and Hitting Golf Balls at Quit Qui Oc Golf Course

It’s only July, but today the intensity of the sun and the rising lake temperature feel more like August. As I step onto the grounds of the local Quit Qui Oc Golf Course I feel the current lack of precipitation that everyone has been discussing in the village in a deeper way. After giving a wave to Todd in the pro shop, I find his wife Rachel, the third generation owner of the establishment, standing beside the horseshoe bar in the clubhouse tavern.

She lets me know early into our chat that the greens are stressed from the summer’s dry start. “In the fall we don’t have to worry about moisture as much. The good news is, when the grass is dry it gives you a little extra roll. Hey, I’ll take it!” She smiles as she quickly expresses the silver thread of the dry spell, a skill that everyone who runs a business in this little village learns along the way. With a short summer tourist season and a long winter reliant upon a town of around 1,000 local residents, Elkhart Lake is a beautiful, yet at times challenging place to run a business. Quit Qui Oc is currently celebrating its 100th year, and Rachel’s family has operated it for 68 of those years, making it one of the longest standing family-owned businesses in the village.

Hole #2 on Quit Qui Oc Golf Course
Photo Credit: Quit Qui Oc Golf Course

She then goes on to tell me that today the course will be hosting their junior golf program attended by an impressive number of 90 children ages 7-12 years old. Meanwhile, a women’s senior golf tournament for ages 70 and up is also kicking off. “There are eighty-year-old women here who still insist on walking eighteen holes!” I can feel Rachel’s pride in providing a place for people to age healthily both in body and mind as she tells me this. In addition to running leagues and teaching private lessons, Rachel is working shifts in the golf course’s restaurant this summer. “I knew at some point I would need to learn what went on in the kitchen, so I learned,” she tells me in her humble, hardworking Wisconsin tone.

I ask her if her father is still around helping out and she tells me he still has an office upstairs so he can continue to be close to all the action. Rachel’s father, Tom Weise, was a household name I knew as a child growing up in Elkhart Lake given his leadership of the golf course. His wife, Lynn, also played a major role in managing the office for nearly 20 years. I still remember being greeted by Tom when my family would dine for lunch on quiet winter afternoons much colder than the one today. Within five minutes of walking into the clubhouse and meeting Rachel I’m flooded with childhood nostalgia and realize this nostalgia is connected to precisely what makes this place tick.

Establishments become establishments in Elkhart Lake because of families like Rachel’s. The backbone of these greens are years of a family torch, in this case, a sound sense of balancing long hours and a love for the game, being passed down.

1937 — Quit Qui Oc Club House
Photo Credit: Quit Qui Oc Golf Course

Anyone who calls it their home course or their home tavern for Friday night fish fry will tell you it’s an impressive operation. It feels more like many operations happening all at once given the leagues, lessons, and libations served up to golfers and non-golfers no matter the season. The art of wearing many different visors within one day is baked into this place like the sun bakes down on the course each summer. There is golden family wisdom living in the property’s green hills.

Unlike many of my relatives, I am not a skilled golfer, but I’ve always felt Quit Qui Oc was a place I could call my home course when I do get the itch to join a family golf scramble or meet for a Rachel Reuben in the dining room. It’s not exclusive, it’s a place where everyone can come to play, and if you visit the course you’ll feel that welcoming energy immediately. The people who run the show are working and recreating in their own backyard, and it’s a backyard they cherish deeply.

What began in 1922 as a dream of the Elkhart Lake Men’s Association to transform picturesque farmland into a nine hole golf course grew into what would become the life’s work of thelocal Elkhart Lake Wiesefamily. Rachel’s grandfather, Carl J Wiese took over the glacially carved golfer’s paradise in 1955 and then eventually Rachel’s parents, Tom and Lynn Weise became next in line to run the establishment. Rachel is now at the helm of this family legacy along with her husband Todd and the help of their daughter Elizabeth. They also employ around 100 people in the summer and about half that in the winter. Today you can join the Weise’s in their commitment to generational recreation on the front nine holes, the back nine holes, and the driving range. And for those who don’t golf, I assure you the restaurant and bar will welcome you with open arms and is definitely worth stopping in.

Photo Credit: Quit Qui Oc Golf Course

Like many who grew up in Elkhart Lake, Rachel was steeped in the seasonal hospitality industry from a young age. Her family’s line of work allowed for a lot of play too, and play she did, with both her parents as well as her Grandmother Edna and Edna’s friends. Eventually she went on to compete on the boys’ golf team at Elkhart Lake-Glenbeulah High School where she was a member of the 1990 state championship team. “Playing during the boys’ season allowed me to also play volleyball which I really liked too.” She reminds me of the beauty in being from a small place and being able to try everything. Maybe this is one of the reasons she is able to juggle so many facets of the business with grace. She then eventually went on to compete at UW Madison.

These days she lives the dream of being a mother who plays rounds of golf with her daughter. Elizabeth is currently home for the summer helping out wherever she is needed at Quit Qui Oc. “She does it all. Kitchen, beverage cart, pro shop, you name it,” Rachel tells me. When the summer draws to a close, Elizabeth will be returning to Concordia University where she will take a page from her mother’s book and continue competing on the men’s golf team. “She still likes golf and she still likes us,” Rachel happily shares with me. “The magic of golf is the generational aspect. It’s a lifelong game and you don’t have to be at the same level as everyone else. You can truly play with anybody. Sometimes Elizabeth and I will go out and play only as many holes as we feel like that day.”

January 3rd, 1923Quit-Qui-Oc Golf Club purchased a 74 acre farm in the village of Elkhart Lake from Edward Wolf. The silo served as a lookout tower when it became part of the golf course. 
Photo Credit: Quit Qui Oc Golf Course

As I leave the building that has welcomed me and so many others all our lives, Rachel’s words about her family’s history in this village beside the lake continue to replay in my mind. Their mission statement is one of multigenerational work, but not without multigenerational play. This delicate balance is what allows her family’s heritage to continue on through hot summers and then keeps them warm through the colder months to come. Their heritage is a story of hardworking Wisconsin business ownership. It is also one of family leisure in a landscape that only a lucky few call home. “We do work a lot, it’s true, but we do it because we love it. We love this place. We love the game.”

Meet the Author

Kate Vollrath

Kate Vollrath was born and raised in Elkhart Lake. After several years of working and adventuring in Anchorage, Alaska and a year studying in Italy, she has returned to her favorite freshwater shoreline. Wisconsin will always be home. The incredible local culture, extraordinary community, and summer Sundays on the water are what keep her rooted and returning no matter where life takes her.

4th of July in Elkhart Lake

Let sparks fly, it’s Fourth of July Weekend! From fireworks on the lakefront to the annual parade through downtown, there is so much fun to be had on America’s birthday. Here are a few ways to show off your red, white, and Elkhart blue spirit this weekend.

Friday, June 30th

Elkhart Lake Fireman’s Picnic
5 to 11pm
| Fireman’s Park & Beach
Come out to support the Elkhart Lake Fire Department at the Annual Fireman’s Picnic and enjoy food, drinks, and live music. Organized by the Elkhart Lake Fire Department.
5-7:30pm — Live Music by Ebert’s Dancing Machine
7:30-11pm — Live Music by The Toys

Elkhart Lake Fireworks
Lakefront | Dusk (9:30pm)

This is going to be a firework show for the books! Grab a chair, blanket, friends, and family and head down to the lakefront on Friday evening for the firework show over the lake.
Organized by the Elkhart Lake Fire Department.

Live Music by Pink Houses
7-11pm | Osthoff Lake Deck

Live Music by Breakwater Rocks
7-11pm | Tiki Bar at Shore Club Wisconsin


Saturday, July 1st

Farmers & Artisans Market
8am to Noon | Village Square
Wake up early Saturday morning for one of Elkhart Lake’s largest farmers markets of the summer. Pick up fresh seasonal vegetables, flowers, cheeses, local arts and specialty products.

Live Music by The Federal Hippies
7-11pm | Siebkens Resort

Live Music by Kirstie Krause
7-11pm | Osthoff Lake Deck

Live Music at Alex White & Friends
7-11pm | Tiki Bar at Shore Club Wisconsin


Sunday, July 2nd

Elkhart Lake Fireman’s Parade
11:30am | Downtown Elkhart lake
Blankets and chairs will line the streets of downtown during the best small town parade in Wisconsin. Enjoy the outdoor Bloody Mary bars and the overload of red, white, and blue! Beginning behind Siebkens Resort and ending at Fireman’s park.
Organized by the Elkhart Lake Fire Department.

Elkhart Lake Fireman’s Picnic
5 to 11pm | Fireman’s Park & Beach
Come out to support the Elkhart Lake Fire Department at the Annual Fireman’s Picnic and enjoy food, drinks, and live music. Organized by the Elkhart Lake Fire Department.
1:30-5pm — Live music by Rebel Grace

Live Music by Bowser
2-6pm | Osthoff Lake Deck

Live Music by Dave Steffen Band
7-11pm | Tiki Bar at Shore Club Wisconsin


Monday, July 3rd

Live Music by Jesse & James
2-6pm | Osthoff Lake Deck

Live Music (TBD)
2-6pm | Tiki Bar at Shore Club Wisconsin


Tuesday, July 4th

Live Music by KOJO
2-6pm | Tiki Bar at Shore Club Wisconsin

Live Music by KOJO
6-10pm | Osthoff Lake Deck

Memorial Day Weekend in Elkhart Lake

The weather is warm, smells of a sizzling barbecue float through the air, and the sweet sounds of an Elkhart Lake summer echo throughout the village…It’s Memorial Day Weekend. The three-day unofficial kick off of summer is right around the corner, so we’ve put together a few ways you can dive into the festivities of this special holiday weekend.

1 | Listen to Live Music

Summer. Live. Music. Those words are like music to our ears. It’s more than just the music, it’s the way that people come together, whether you’re visiting for the day, the week, or you live here. The Tiki Bar and The Osthoff Lake Deck are the perfect venues to sip on a drink, take in the beautiful views, and enjoy the sweet sounds of summer.

2 | Get on the Water

Grab a kayak and go! It’s your first opportunity of the summer season to rent watersports and soak up the blue, green waters. Check out Elkhart Lake Watersports on the lakefront of The Shore Club Resort or Osthoff Watersports on the lakefront of The Osthoff Resort. Heads up, the water still might be a bit cold, but we know some of you can’t wait to jump in.

4 | Browse the Farmers & Artisans Market

There is nothing quite like strolling through the first farmers market of the year on a sunny Saturday morning. Pick up fresh produce from local farmers, unique crafts from local artists, and, of course, the fan favorite spring rolls. Check out over 50 vendors that will be there Saturday, May 27th from 8am to 12pm.

3 | Grab a Brat at Memorial Park

Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and snag a spot for The Village’s annual Memorial Day program at Memorial Park. Take a moment during this holiday weekend to remember the thousands that have given their lives in honor of our country. After the ceremony, grab a brat or burger from the The Lions Club Brat Fry — 10am to 1:30pm.
The Memorial Day Program will be held Saturday, May 27th at 11am at Memorial Park on the corner of Chicago Street and South Lincoln Street.

5| Go Fast Road America

Even though it’s not a major race weekend at Road America, you can still get on the track! Do you have the need for speed, then a ride in a Road America Pace Car is just for you. Feeling more of a relaxed vibe, check out their Sunset Cruises which are a leisurely, low-speed, 3 lap experience of the 4-mile track at sunset. Space is limited for for each of these activities, so make sure to sign up ahead of time.

6 | Find a Spot at Fireman’s Park & Beach

The weather for Memorial Day Weekend is shining bright just in time for the official opening of Fireman’s Park & Beach. Snag a picnic table or two, fire up the grill, and gather with friends and family. Don’t forget to check out their new yoga classes on the beach every Saturday morning starting at 8:30am with Twisted Warrior Yoga Studio.

There is no shortage of memories to be made this Memorial Day. For more vacation ideas and fun things to do, follow along with the Elkhart Lake Life Blog all summer long.

National Travel and Tourism Week

Credit & Source: U.S. Travel Association, Tourism Economics

About National Travel and Tourism Week

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the annual industry celebration

National Travel and Tourism Week, (NTTW) the annual celebration of the contributions of the U.S. travel industry, will spotlight the essential role that travel will play in driving economic growth and innovation through the theme #TravelForward.

“The travel industry fuels every industry—our industry’s success is the nation’s success,” said U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman. “This week is a prime opportunity to elevate the message that travel is essential to moving America’s economy forward.”

Established in 1983, NTTW is an annual tradition to mark the U.S. travel industry’s role in stimulating economic growth, cultivating vibrant communities, creating quality job opportunities, stimulating business activity and elevating the quality of life for everyday Americans.

Travel serves as a catalyst for a productive U.S. economy and helps power the success of other industries. The U.S. travel industry generated a $2.6trillion economic output in 2022 and supported 15 million jobs, fueling communities, small businesses and working families across the country.

Travel spending also generated nearly $160 billion in federal, state and local taxes in 2022—revenue that helped fund critical public services while saving each U.S. household an average of $1,270 in taxes.

Please visit ustravel.org/NTTW to learn more about National Travel and Tourism Week.

It’s The Elkhart Way

It’s easy to see why our little village attracts visitors from all over the globe. The natural beauty is an idyllic backdrop for the simple charm and lake vibes found here. As Elkhart Lake remains a treasured destination, we are aware of the challenges associated with that popularity. We love welcoming visitors to share this gem of the Midwest and want to do everything we can to protect it and respect it for future residents and visitors alike. This is why Elkhart Lake Tourism is introducing a new initiative this year called ‘The Elkhart Way’. The Elkhart Way movement focuses on the idea of responsible tourism in our community and helps us all realize the role we all play in keeping Elkhart Lake the special place it is.

Protect & Respect…it’s the Elkhart Way
We know you love Elkhart Lake as much as we do, and we encourage you to LOVE it like you LIVE here. Let’s treat Elkhart Lake like your own backyard, because in some respect, it is.

Take it Slow…it’s The Elkhart Way
It’s time to relax, you’re officially on lake time. Experience Elkhart Lake at its pace and remember patience is a virtue when you are on vacation. There may be longer wait times at restaurants because of seasonal hours and staff shortages, so if the leisure pace doesn’t work with your timeline, check out another spot nearby. And, if you can, always try to plan ahead.

Put Waste in the Right Place…it’s the Elkhart Way
Pack it in, pack it out. Let’s all do our part in keeping Elkhart Lake clean. There are garbage receptacles located around the village and in businesses for your use. If you aren’t located next to one, hang on to your garbage or waste until you can dispose of it properly. Let’s all leave our beaches, streets, sidewalks, and parks clean and litter free.

Leave only footprints…it’s the Elkhart Way
The lake — It’s the gem of our village, and when we all treat it like one then we all reap the benefits. Beach day? Leave it how it was when you arrived, if not, better. Boating? Respect “no wake” zones and hours, inspect your boat before you enter the lake and after you leave the lake. Remove. Drain. Dispose. We can all do our part in keeping Elkhart blue.

Be a good neighbor…it’s the Elkhart Way
It may feel like paradise but always remember there are people that call Elkhart Lake home. Whether at your vacation rental, resort or on the beach, let’s all try to keep the noise in check and avoid loud music or behaviors that may disturb others.

We are excited for another great year ahead and encourage everyone to continue sharing the love we all have for this community because it’s The Elkhart Way.

Winter Solace on the Shores of Elkhart Lake

Depending on who you ask, growing up in a small town can feel like a mixture of equal parts idyllic and isolating. And if you ask those who grew up in a small town with long winters, they’ll probably tell you that days spent cooped up hearing winter wind whistle against a window can lead one to discover a lifelong skill of creating your own joy. Wisconsin winters can be challenging. They can also spark creativity, community, and a commitment to celebrating northern latitude living. And celebrating that means you must become friendly with solitude, to the point of one day craving it.

Although there were moments growing up when I daydreamed about living in larger, louder, more bustling places, I now crave the slowness and serenity that defines my hometown. No matter the season, Elkhart Lake is a place that seeps into you and asks you to move through life a little bit more mindfully. Locals will tell you that to truly know the village is to experience it at its pace rather than the busy one you are accustomed to. When you enter the village limits, you have officially begun living on Elkhart Lake time, and that is a wonderful feeling.

When we find ourselves still living within winter, yet our minds are shifting into spring, it is an excellent time to visit the shores of Elkhart Lake. I know what you’re thinking, “What is there to explore while the lake is still thawing?” I assure you, if you take the time to slow down and listen, the lake and the village will answer you by restoring your body and mind. Here are a few ideas for how to enjoy the late winter season as you journey through the home stretch of the icicles dripping.

There are options to enjoy the beauty of the area that will cost you nothing and local businesses that hold down the fort year-round for little bits of luxury for those seeking that too.

Take in the forests and fresh water of the Kettle Moraine

Visit the Kettle Moraine State Forest where it’s so quiet you can hear the snow fall and listen to the trees wave at you in the wind. There are sections where you can wander into dense pines and feel you’ve entered Narnia. Walking beneath those tall trees can be a helpful reminder that winter is as beautiful as it is brutal. I’ve escaped to them a time or two when winter felt long and spring was nowhere in sight. Every time you return from those trails, you’ll feel better than when you pulled into the lot. If you’re feeling a little more sporty, the trail system has designated areas for cross country skiing.

Winter may still be holding on, but we are gaining more sunlight each day. Wisconsin winter sunsets do not get nearly as much credit as the summer ones do. Maybe it’s because viewing them does require some effort to venture outside just as it’s starting to become tempting to cozy in for the night. Make this the year that you become a chilly weather sunset catcher and visit the Sheboygan County Marsh Tower. At this lookout point you can take in the sun sinking over the natural wetland that Elkhart Lake is connected to. You can also head to the Osthoff Resort’s brick walking path beside the lake and watch the sky turn pink across the ice. Winter days feel warmer and longer when you take the time to say goodnight to the sun.

Walk beside the lake where you can hear the frozen water expand and contract and send creaking noises from shoreline to shoreline. I know this may sound like a very simple and even silly thing to spend time doing, but this is something that locals seek out and then discuss with one another during the winter months. It’s a sound that is unique to the winter season and people find joy in getting quiet enough so they can listen to what the lake has to say.

Find treasures and treats in town

Once spring comes, you know life will become a little more busy, so take advantage of the last bit of quiet time and catch up on your reading list. You can get an Elkhart Lake Public Library card for free and grab some reading material to carry you through the rest of the frosty nights.

When the temperatures don’t warm up quite as quickly as you’d like them to, you can count on Off the Rail or Lake Street Café for hearty soups. Then get a new candle or bath product at Gina’s Fine Gifts to turn your bathtub into a spa experience. Baths and candles make days instantly brighter and warmer regardless of the groundhog seeing his shadow.

If you’re seeking a real spa, check out the Aspira Spa at the Osthoff Resort. They offer a full range of spa services plus a hot tub, sauna, and meditation room. After you properly soak, steam, and soothe your body, visit Vintage Elkhart Lake for wine and cheese to help you celebrate the fact that you will wrap up winter on a note of thriving rather than surviving. And if you’re feeling fatigued after a season that can bring grey days, Two Fish Gallery’s shelves are filled with vibrant earth-colored art that make any day feel like summer no matter the season.

If you fancy a down-home Wisconsin escape from the cold, you can always count on the Brown Baer for an old fashioned or beer on tap. Most likely you will be greeted by a local bartender and see several camouflage coats hanging off bar stools. SwitchGear Brewing Company is also a great option to tuck into for the beer drinkers, and with the chilly air outside, their dark stout is always recommended.

If you want to wrap up your day with the pinnacle of comfort, feast on the house specialty Bolognese for dinner at the Paddock Club. If you’re feeling extra proud of yourself for making it through February, do order the panna cotta. Nothing celebrates the days getting longer like witnessing the winter sunset across the village sky and then tasting food made with local ingredients and lots of love. It tastes even better during this time of year where it’s easier to grab a window seat and locals fill the bar. 

Meet the Author

Kate Vollrath

Kate Vollrath was born and raised in Elkhart Lake. After several years of working and adventuring in Anchorage, Alaska and a year studying in Italy, she has returned to her favorite freshwater shoreline. Wisconsin will always be home. The incredible local culture, extraordinary community, and summer Sundays on the water are what keep her rooted and returning no matter where life takes her.

Chill Out at The Lake

Famous for its freshwater shoreline, exceptional dining options, live music with lake views, and road racing circuit, Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin is known for its buzzing summertime energy. Come winter, the village of approximately 1,000 inhabitants takes on a different tune.

At first glance visitors will assume the place has drifted off into a deep hibernation dream state. Embracing life beside the lake when the lake is frozen requires a little more knowledge of the place. Nestled within rolling kettles and evergreen trees, Elkhart Lake is stunning and provides serenity year round. And the best part – everything you need can be accessed within a couple mile radius.

Grab a coffee in town at Off the Rail café, and then venture into the Kettle Moraine Ice Age Trail System to take in the landscape that defines this corner of Wisconsin. If there’s frozen precipitation, snowshoeing and nordic skiing are definite itinerary possibilities. After exploring the trail, thaw your bones with a massage and sauna or hot tub session at the Aspira Spa.

Once you’ve stretched and soothed your legs, fuel up with a hearty lunch at Lake Street Café. The window tables are great for looking out on the center of the village. After lunch, wander to find treasures in the local shops. Two Fish Gallery is a must-see shop with locally-made ceramics and a wide selection of stunning functional art.

For Elkhart Lake clothing and other gifts, Small Town Big Family and Elkhart Lake Outfitters are the best bets. Another delightful shop in wintertime is Nordic Accents.

Once afternoon hits, head over to the wine shop, Vintage Elkhart Lake where the owner is a certified sommelier from California wine country and has been pouring tastes from all over the world for a decade. Beer lovers should head to the cozy bar at SwitchGear Brewing Company on the edge of town.

Evenings in Elkhart Lake offer a vibrant range of dining options. Quit Qui Oc’s perch dinner ranks high on locals’ list and is the best way to take in the Friday Night Fish Fry culture. Another laid-back dining option is the Brown Baer, serving elevated bar food at their cozy corner location. You can’t beat the Paddock Club if you’re looking for fine fare featuring Wisconsin ingredients. The menu changes often but there is always handmade pasta and classy cocktails.

After dinner, be sure to check the village website for live music. The community loves a live band and dance floor. The Elk Room at the Osthoff often has live shows on weekends and a bar that pours sophisticated drinks on the rocks.

If you are thinking about venturing to Elkhart Lake this winter you’ll find many opportunities to bundle up and join Wisconsin winter head on.

Meet the Author

Kate Vollrath

Kate Vollrath was born and raised in Elkhart Lake. After several years of working and adventuring in Anchorage, Alaska and a year studying in Italy, she has returned to her favorite freshwater shoreline. Wisconsin will always be home. The incredible local culture, extraordinary community, and summer Sundays on the water are what keep her rooted and returning no matter where life takes her.