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Frozen Ground and Fresh Flakes at Quit Qui Oc

Dear February, why so frigid? And why so snowy?

Winter seems to have swept in with full force, bringing storms, fresh flakes, and freezing temps to Elkhart Lake. I know what you’re thinking. “I’m over winter and all its storms and snowflakes.” I hear you. We’re at that point in the season of turning the long last corner. Spring, where are you?

As someone who always gets a little sad to say farewell to fresh snowfalls (yes, it’s a unique relationship with winter), I’ve found that when people work with the season, rather than against it, more joy and beauty can be experienced. I suppose I am suggesting an open-minded approach to winter and considering what it brings as a blessing rather than a burden. I know for some I will never be able to change your position on this one!

For those who can convince themselves that snow is not a nuisance, but rather a special gift, I encourage you to explore the winter wonderland that the Quit Qui Oc Golf Course provides this time of year. All my life I never stepped foot onto the golf course while it was covered in a fresh white blanket, but this year that changed. Turns out, the glacial landforms take on a whole new magic this time of year. It’s sparkly and serene. It looks like a different planet from that of its summertime green.

It’s the perfect place for walking and snowshoeing after a fresh snowfall. There are just enough hills for those who want a challenge, while totally manageable to maneuver around large hills for those who prefer things steady and flat. If you’re curious to try out snowshoeing, but aren’t ready to take the plunge with purchasing your own gear, Quit Qui Oc has you covered with rentals.

If you have your own gear, check in at the office, strap on in, and hit the trail to take in a whole new experience of the village’s stunning golf course terrain. You can pay for a day rate to try it out, or consider a membership option and join the Walking & Snow Shoe Club. With this membership you get a cool winter cap and dining credits for Quit Qui’s Clubhouse. It’s a great way to keep your whole family moving outdoors until the snow melts and it’s time to bring your clubs out to the course.

You can view Quit Qui Oc’s winter membership opportunities, day rates for trail access, and gear rental options on their website here:

https://www.quitquiocgolf.com/about/walking-snow-shoe-club/.

Stay healthy and safe and enjoy the snow!

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.

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12 COOL Things You Can Do During the Chill-Out Weekend in Elkhart Lake

I don’t know about you, but I’m thrilled we’re past the arctic temps of the past few weeks!  We can finally get outdoors again and enjoy Elkhart Lake’s beautiful winter landscape.  Thankfully, Elkhart Lake has avoided huge pile-up snowfalls which other parts of country have endured.  Rather we’ve enjoyed some beautiful fresh winter blanket snowfalls here in our little piece of paradise! We’re looking forward to our Elkhart Lake Chill-Out Weekend which gives us the opportunity to have some safe winter fun again!

Nothing says hello weekend like Friday Fish Fries at Route 67, Quit Qui Oc, Lake Street Café and Three Guys & a Grill; dine in and carry out available.

Back by popular demand, Quit Qui Oc Golf Course will be starting off the weekend with a Moon Light Snowshoe.  It’s the perfect way to experience the glacial landscape along a lantern-lit path.  The event starts at 5:00 p.m. Call to reserve your spot and your snowshoes or bring your own.

After an invigorating tromp in the snow, check out the Dave Steffen Band playing at the Shore Club’s Historic Theater from 8:00 – 11:00 p.m.

For the morning breakfast and coffee lovers out there Off the Rail, All Seasons, and Ottos at the Osthoff Resort will not disappoint.

Winter Driving can be a deterrent from traveling this time of year.  But Road America can helps break down this challenge with a customized in-car Winter Driving School on Sat. Feb. 27th.  Sign up today, seats are limited.

Many people would agree our Lake is the Jewel of our Village.  Summers on Elkhart Lake are special, but the view of the landscape during winter is equally beautiful.  This Saturday Siebkens Resort will be hosting a Guided Walking Tour of the Lake.  Grab a friend, your boots or snowshoes and see the lake from a whole new perspective. The tour starts at 1:00 p.m. and costs $5.00.  Meet outside Siebken’s lobby.

Saturdays are for Brunch and Lake Street Café’s Brunch has you covered.  Serving from 11:00 – 2:00 p.m. Be sure to ask about the Bottomless Mimosas.

On Friday and Saturday, stop by SwitchGear Brewery ‘s  Beertender Appreciation Event.  Enjoy your favorite brew, share a story and say thanks to your favorite beertenders!  On Saturday from 12:00 – 4:00 tours of the brewery will lead by SG’s team of brewers.

Kick back with The Almost Ordinaries at the Concourse Restaurant & Lounge on Sat. from 2:00 – 6:00 p.m. Check out their new menu features.  

While you’re out and about hit the Shops on the Square.  If you need to gear-up Elkhart Lake Outfitters has you covered with a wide variety of active lifestyle and outdoor gear.  Or order some fun Vintage Elkhart Lake Tasting Kits of specially selected wines and snack pairings.  These were designed with your Chill-Out weekend in mind!

Saturday night dinner and beverage menus will keep your taste buds satisfied. Check out Paddock Club, Concourse Restaurant and Lounge, Lake Street Café, Route 67, Anchor Lanes and Three Guys and a Grill.

Winter trail hiking is another great way to stay fit and enjoy the outdoors this time of year.  Take advantage of the Ice Age Trail LaBudde Creek Segment   Or pack up your cross country skis and head to the near-by  Kettle Moraine State Forest where you will find 15 miles of well-groomed trails.

And, last but not least, pack your skates and tubes and enjoy some good ole’ fashion free winter fun.  Skating is open to the public in June Vollrath Park and sledding is across the street at the near-by hill next to Elkhart Lake High School. 

The Winter Getaway Packages available make the Chill-Out Weekend Getaway even better with some exceptional value added offers for the off season!

Last-Minute Valentine’s Day Inspiration

As we hit mid-February, I start to get a little restless with winter. I find Valentine’s Day a bright spot on the calendar!  Setting aside time with the special people in my life is more meaningful than ever as we persist through COVID.  So, show your Valentine or Galentine that you’re really thinking about them. Surprise them with a special Elkhart Lake Getaway because life this past year has been hard!  

Valentine’s Day Getaway Packages

When planning your Valentine weekend in Elkhart Lake, there are a variety of packages you will want to consider:

I Love You So Siebkens – Book a weekend getaway for just the two of your and include some extra goodies onto your packages like a cheeseboard, charcutier board, and bottle of red, white, or bubbly.

If you plan to stay at The Shore Club you’ll receive a bottle of wine or champagne with your stay — Galentines and Valentines  Weekend Special.

The Romance Package at The Osthoff Resort includes one night in an elegant guest room plus a $50 dining credit and a $50 Aspira Spa credit!

Bundle Up With Your Valentine

Check out some of the great collabs going on with local businesses teaming up to show your someone special that you have been thinking about them.

Order a Valentine’s Day Gift Bundle featuring a Gina’s Fine Gifts & Framing & Elkhart Lake Outfitters gift card, gorgeous floral bouquet from North Gate Shop and a bottle of Amore Italian Red Blend & assorted chocolate truffles from Vintage Elkhart Lake! These amazing bundles will be perfectly packaged and ready for pickup Feb 12th or 13th. You can even preorder online!

The Feedmill Shops have teamed up to offer a  Love Local Valentine Day basket. This includes some of SwitchGear’s tasty Imperial Stout, a bar of beer and goat milk soap, $25 Elkhart Lake Outfitter gift card, and last but not least a delicious variety of Off the Rail baked goods.

Make your weekend even more memorable with Spa Together Package at Aspira Spa. Enjoy a Customized Couples Massage or Facial, followed by a soothing 30-minute whirlpool bath, while sipping on a complimentary glass of Champagne in front of the fireplace in your own SpaSuite. This journey concludes in the Spa Café, as you enjoy a delicious meal together from a select menu provided by Concourse Restaurant & Lounge (up to a $30 value).

Yoga at Aspira Spa – Fuel your love for self-care with a rejuvenating one-hour session of yoga. Learn how to use this practice to deepen and enrich the love that you have for yourself, which will exude attractiveness in every area of your life – in love, work, family and more. Saturday, February 13 at 9am.

While staying, be sure to take advantage of breath-taking outdoor scenery in and around Elkhart Lake. Explore the beautiful landscape by snowshoe at Quit Qui Oc Golf Course. Equipment rentals are available. Then warm up by their firepits with a beverage. There is also great winter hiking on the Ice Age Trail or cross country skiing in the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Pack your skates and work on our figure-eights at the skating area near the resident beach or at the rink in June Vollrath Park. 

Date Night Delights

Dining in Elkhart Lake is always a veritable feast, but even more so with these special Valentine menus.

Paddock Club is offer a special Valentines week menu filled with mouth-watering entrees like Crab & Lobster Ravioli and Wagyu Flat Iron Steak.  The menu is available for dine in or curbside pick-up Thursday, Feb. 11 – Sunday, Feb 14th.  

The Concourse Restaurant and Lounge has a special Valentines Menu available Feb 13th and 14th including Herb Roasted Prime Rib and Pecan Crusted Walleye and a Mousse Cake Duo; luscious!

For a change-up, check out the delicious brunch menu at Lake Street Café on Saturday from 11am – 2pm. Be sure to ask about the bottomless Mimosas!

Either indoors or out, there are a variety of options to enjoy your Valentines Weekend in Elkhart Lake. Have a safe and cozy weekend. 

Cross-Country Skiing in the Kettle Moraine State Forest

Activity around Elkhart Lake doesn’t stop when the water turns cold and the last Fall leaves settle on the ground. In fact, many outdoor enthusiasts can’t wait for the snow to fly.

Over the last two years, I’ve been introduced to a very loyal and passionate group of cross-country skiers in the area. As a novice to the sport, it has been fun to learn more about the extensive trail system nearby. Just 10 minutes from downtown Elkhart Lake, the Greenbush Group Camp parking lot (in the Kettle Moraine State Forest) is the starting point for over 15 miles of well-groomed trails. Winding country roads connect Elkhart Lake to this skier’s paradise (or “Nordic Heaven” according to the local club), complete with a small log cabin for warming up.

The trail system is named by colors, and serious skiers talk about completing a “rainbow” on good condition days (i.e. one loop of each color). As a newbie, I enjoy the brown loop, a relatively easy 1-mile loop that starts and ends at the cabin. Read more about the different trails: https://greenbushusa.com/trails.php

Get the full trail map:

Ski Trails Only

Ski + Snowshoe + Biking Trails

What to know before you go:

  • In addition to a State Park Pass (daily or annual – https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/admission.html), a Trail Pass ($5 daily or $25 annual – https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/parks/trailpass.html) is also required for skiers. These can both be purchased from the parking lot attendant on weekends or in the drop box during the week (CASH ONLY).
  • Check Skinnyski.com before you go for trail conditions (go to Trails/Trail Reports/SE Wisconsin to find “Greenbush”): https://www.skinnyski.com/trails/reports.asp
  • Trails are groomed for both classic and skate skiing
  • Don’t miss the log cabin and its stove. Bring some cocoa/snacks and make time for a break. It’s part of a complete skiing experience!
  • These trails are hilly. Located in the Kettle Moraine State Park (glacially sculpted contour), there are lots of ups and downs.
  • Snowshoeing and fat-tire bikes are also welcome (on their own set of trails – see trail map link included earlier in post)
  • Some of the trails have lights for nighttime skiing
  • A local ski club manages the trails and the log cabin, and they have a website that can help to answer any other specific questions. More details and photos here: https://greenbushusa.com/

Happy skiing!

William Jacob

William Jacob is from Sheboygan, WI. He grew up spending summers at Elkhart Lake and has a strong family connection to the area. He enjoys kayaking, hiking and camping and his outdoor adventures have taken him to all seven continents. William is a big advocate for the natural beauty of Elkhart Lake and the surrounding area.

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Ready, Set, Schnee

Everyone knows how to do summer here. That’s easy. What’s not to love? Embracing January, however —  that takes some grit. It takes some local knowledge regarding how to survive, and better yet, how to thrive, when deep winter sets in.

Whether it was lining up gear the night before school for a snowy recess, digging through the family skate collection for the right size when the ice was finally solid, or piling into the car on a snow day to hit the school hill, seizing winter was simply second nature while growing up in Elkhart Lake. 

Of course, not everyone holds this affection for Wisconsin winter. There are those who will curse the season all through April, until the chance of flurries starts to taper. Wintertime can be brutal, especially with the current state of the world where people are trying to stay healthy and safe.

Lucky for us, our Elkhart Lake Chamber of Commerce has an entire festival to help us through. For as long as I can remember, Schnee Days has been a twinkling light amid January dreariness. It is a celebration of those magical white crystals falling from the sky, and an opportunity to play in them.

While Schnee Days has always featured outdoor activities, this year the opportunity to have some fun in the snow feels even more exciting. My heartstrings are pulled by hometown nostalgia to see the longstanding traditions of the ice cube hunt and the chili cookoff on the schedule. Even though daily life currently feels different, these little joyful moments bring us comfort we can count on.

Newer activities over the years have sprung up, too, including winter disc golf and Snowga (snow yoga). I’m planning to kick the weekend off with a new tradition at the Friday evening Moonlit Snowshoe Stroll at Quit Qui Oc, and then hitting the pavement Saturday morning at the SchneeLauf. Take it from a local — the 5k is more fun when in costume. Costume or not, walk or run, 2k or 5k, there’s a spot for everyone!

We will see which of the many snowy shenanigans call our names on Saturday afternoon. There are multiple locations for sledding, along with places to enjoy ice skating and snowshoeing. Sunday will be all about the comfort food with takeout from the Chamber Chili Cook-Off held at Siebkens Resort.

Now that the Schnee Days 2021 lineup is ready, it’s time to plan your multi-sport weekend and get ready to gear up. In the meantime, cross your fingers and toes, and maybe consider wearing your pajamas inside out a time or two before the big weekend. It’s an old ritual that helps call upon the snow gods for heaps of schnee.

Please see the full lineup of Schnee Days 2021 activities along with Covid-19 protocol here:  https://www.elkhartlakechamber.com/schnee-days.

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.

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Old Fashioneds by Firelight

There is no such thing as bad weather, just bad gear — a mantra I’ve learned all my life in northern climates. If there is one thing that my Wisconsin roots have provided me, it is the strong foundational spirit of leaning into winter. Hat, check. Gloves, check. Let’s go, the sun will soon set! A positive northern latitude attitude helps a great deal, too.

After some time away, I’ve returned to Elkhart to see each season unfold. Turns out, as the world was flipped upside down in 2020, many friends found themselves here, too. The word home takes on a new meaning when you’re riding out the storm of a pandemic. Some of us are winterized, while others haven’t done winter in a while, and are still making trips to Fleet Farm for more layers. This winter, we’re united by our commitment to keeping fires and spirits stoked as temps and daylight hours drop.

With this new season, comes new challenges for those who live and work here. This time of year is always tough in town and the pandemic adds a layer of difficulty. If there is one thing that pairs with inhaling wintertime oxygen, it is the kind of food and drink that thaws your toes when your wool socks are no longer cutting it. What does this look like during a winter when gathering indoors is complicated? Meeting friends around the fire under the frigid night sky.

The Brown Baer’s fireside cocktails have brought a spark to our dark winter nights. For the hearty Wisconsin souls, old fashioneds taste even better when your fingers are a little numb. For those who are still working on their winter layering game, a drink over ice outside in December is anything but fun. But maybe a toasty ginger hot toddy is more your speed?

The Baer’s steaming seasonal drink specials will help insulate you, guaranteed. Some mulled wine, hot buttered bourbon, or peanut butter whiskey hot chocolate will hold you over until your takeout dinner is ready. While it’s not the same night out on the town, it provides just enough joy and connection, to one another and to the businesses who light up our spirits, during the season we need it most.

While wintertime in a pandemic brings new circumstances, it also brings new traditions. Our favorite local spots have been working tirelessly to serve our community safely. In turn, we’ve created new social activities around their offerings. It’s incredible what a little fire can do for morale. To love Elkhart is to experience its magic in all seasons. And this unusual winter, that means layering up so we can meet before dinner for fireside drinks in our favorite village. Whether or not we can convince you to brave the elements by the fire, we hope to see you passing by on the sidewalk or grabbing your trusty takeout.

You can stay updated on the Brown Baer’s social media channels for winter drink specials. They also deliver now! Mon, Thurs, Fri, Sat, Sun, 4:30 pm – 8:00 pm.

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.

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Bundle Up & Bring on 2021!

Oh 2020, what a ride it’s been. Only a few days remaining in the year we will never forget. What do we make of it? Do we reflect on all we’ve learned during the past year?  Do we set intentions for the year ahead? Do we make a toast for simply coming this far with our community? It can be challenging to celebrate when everything around us feels uncertain. Some of our traditions don’t feel as safe this year. Some of us couldn’t gather with those we love most.

Whether or not you are big on holiday traditions, I think we can all agree that this season has been unlike any other. This year has felt restricted and heavy with loss. Yet, it has also been a time of relying on our community for support, peace and joy. I can’t think of a place that embodies the word community more than Elkhart Lake. While this place can be sleepy in December, it holds a serenity we locals love.

While we enjoy our solitude, we also know how to spring to life when celebration calls. Elkhart is small, but mighty in spirit. This village carries a spark of fun and festivities, even in the dead of winter. What a perfect little spot to turn the page on the craziness of 2020 and step into 2021.

For me, it will be time to celebrate in true Wisconsinite fashion. Many of my family’s holiday traditions are rooted in outdoor merriment. On New Year’s Eve, we will be gathered around the bonfire, toasting something bubbly from Vintage Elkhart Lake. New Year’s Day will bring us to the longstanding local Tiki Bar tradition of Bloody Marys in the brisk January air.

Depending on your comfort level during this strange time, there are a range of activities to enjoy. Below is the lineup of New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day festivities happening in Elkhart Lake. Bundle up and bring on 2021!

NEW YEAR’S EVE

Siebkens

A Very Siebkens New Year- Celebrating the 80’s because 2020 doesn’t deserve it! Reserve your tickets for a six-course dinner with two limited seatings for COVID precautions.

Early Party: 5:00pm – 7:30pm and Late Party: 8:00pm – 2:00am which includes DJ, dancing and serving your favorite 80’s cocktails.

Osthoff Resort

Ring in the New Year and Rock out the old with two live music opportunities:
Jim Rosetti at the Elk Room from 8:30pm – 12:30am

Enjoy and exquisite meal and a champagne toast with the Abler Boys from 9pm – 1am at Concourse Restaurant and Lounge

The Shore Club

The Shore Club Holiday Pop-Up is filled with music, holiday decor, games and a scavenger hunt for all ages. The Tiki menu will be available 5pm-midnight. Open 4pm – Late. 

NEW YEAR’S DAY

The Shore Club

A very merry local tradition. The Tiki Bar will be serving brats, burgers, and cheese curds. Polka band, too! 11:00am until the temps drop.

Route 67

Dave Steffen band will be rocking from 1:00pm – 4:00pm. Outdoor bar and tent setup with food service.

Ouit Qui Oc

Winter Tailgate Party! –Fun starts at 10:00 a.m. Snowshoeing or walking on the golf course, winter golf, yard games, and firepits with smores. Lunch served from 11:00am – 3:00pm. Fish Fry from 4:00pm – 8:00pm.

Make your New Year’s safe and fun with great overnight packages

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.

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Christmas Crowlers

It’s always a mad dash to the finish line for Christmas, isn’t it?  And it never fails, there are always a few gifts that are a challenge.  I find food and beverages always make great gifts, but especially for the holidays.  I would recommend checking out  Switchgear Brewery .  Their selection of craft brews makes for a great gift, and if you haven’t heard, they just released their Seasonal Brews!

Home for the Holidays is a Christmas Candy Stout with flavors of cinnamon, vanilla, and orange. Peppermint Fatty is a delightful peppermint stout and might just be a nod to one of our favorite Snoopy characters. 😊  Last, but not least, is the Ghost Pepper Stout.  I personally might shy away for this one, but Brewer Nick says, “there’s no need to be afraid of this ghost, it just leaves a little peppery tickle”.

Switchgear’s brews are always delicious, no doubt, and the 3-Can Crowler Carrier makes for a hip and tasty gift.  Right now, you can purchase a festive Christmas Crowler Trio and receive all 3 of the Holiday flavors for $20.00.  The fun names also make for great conversation starters when with your faves!

If that’s not enough, you can add on a Red Ale Cheddar Cheese Spread, now available for the Holidays.  This unique collaboration with Masters Gallery Foods and SwitchGear Brewing Company combines their signature Resorter Red Ale and aged cheddar to make this one-of-a-kind cheese spread.   Available year round at $5, it is now on sale at $4 a container.

It’s Wisconsin, you can’t go wrong with beer and cheese!

For other fun gift items, check out some of the great Switchgear swag

Grab an extra Holiday Crowler and treat yourself when all the shopping is done!  Or better yet, stop in the Taproom and take a load off; enjoy your favorite brew and order from Three Guys and Grill delivering exclusively to Switchgear’s Taproom on Thursday, Friday, and Saturdays.

6 Reasons to Spend the Holidays at The Osthoff Resort

The holidays are a time that we usually spend running around from Christmas at grandmas and grandpas, to Christmas at your extended family and then maybe a Christmas celebration with friends. We love to be surrounded by our friends, family, and relatives, but unfortunately things are looking a little different this year. With the flexibility of working from home, it is the perfect time to take your family on an extended holiday vacation. Wondering where that magical place may be? Well, The Osthoff Resort is full of ways to celebrate the holiday season without all the hustle and bustle. Here is why you should find your home away from home at The Osthoff Resort this year.

1. Hot Chocolate, Christmas Cookies, and Live Music – December 24, 2020

The whole family can snuggle up by the fire and indulge in a complimentary hot chocolate bar, Christmas cookies and live piano music in the Elk Room from 4-7pm. This is for Osthoff Resort guests only.


2. Gifts From Santa on Christmas Morning – December 25, 2020

Santa will make a special stop at The Osthoff Resort. Youngsters will wake up Christmas Day morning to find a stocking with their name on it and full of treats, games and special gifts. This is for Osthoff Resort guests only and you can sign up at the front desk.


3. A Christmas Day Meal to Indulge In – December 25, 2020

There is no reason to spend Christmas Day in the kitchen this year. Enjoy a delicious Christmas meal with the family at The Concourse. The menu includes honey glazed baked brie, a poached pear salad, and rosemary roasted prime rib. Indulge in a little dessert with gingerbread cake and pumpkin filled cream puffs.


4. Ring in the New Year with Surf & Turf – December 31, 2020

You can’t beat this New Year’s Eve feast with steamed mussels in a tarragon vermouth butter sauce, mushroom bisque, and a roasted beet salad to start. For your entrée, enjoy the a spin on the classic Surf and Turf with scallops and venison, and truffle mashed potatoes. Top it all off with piece of their mouth watering champagne cake.


5. Live Music by the Abler Boys in the Concourse Restaurant & Lounge – December 31, 2020

Kick off New Year’s Eve at Concourse Restaurant & Lounge with complimentary party favors, a midnight champagne toast and live entertainment by The Abler Boys from 9pm-1am.


6. Live Music by Jim Rosetti in the Elk Room – December 31, 2020

Relax in the comfort of the Elk Room and soak up the last few moments of 2020. Enjoy live music by Jim Rosetti, from 8:30pm – 12:30am. There will also be complimentary party favors and champagne toast at midnight.


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Christmas Dinner in the Village

Planning for the holidays during a pandemic has added new layers of stress for all of us.  I come from a large Italian family with many holiday traditions.  We are desperately trying to hold on to these delicious traditions, but honestly, many of them are sadly slipping away this year.  Big gatherings and meals are how we celebrate EVERYTHING; but especially Christmas!  Christmas Eve is our favorite as it includes a huge spread of hors d’oeuvres, an Italian course and then a traditional ham dinner made by my 85-year-old father – it’s tradition!

But this year everything is different.  Gatherings are discouraged, cooking dinners with the extended family…discouraged. Traveling in general…discouraged.   So, I am incredibly thankful of how mindful our restaurants are to help alleviate these stresses.  We can take a load off and let two of our favorite Village Restaurants do the planning, shopping, and cooking this year!  

Lake Street Café is offering 5-Course Christmas Dinner. Everything is prepared to perfection and all you need to do is heat and serve! Order per plate, ala carte or family style for 6 or more.

The courses are what you might expect: Appetizers, Soup and Salad, Pasta, Entrée with choices of sides and of course dessert.  But I’m telling you, the menu options are mouthwatering; Beef/salmon carpaccio, Caccion & Peppe with Parmesan and Truffle, smoked sliced ham with apple bourbon glaze, sweet potato puree, a white chocolate tart infused with vanilla bean, fresh berries and caramelized pistachios.  This is a celebration meal! 

Right next door the Paddock Club is also offering an amazing Christmas Menu, ready to be heated at your convenience.  They too are offering options within each course; like prosciutto and pea arancini (a personal family favorite!) beat salad, short ribs beef bourguignon or chicken roulade, provolone and leak potato gratin, Pot de crème or cinnamon rolls for dessert. And just wait….a pomegranate champaign cocktail kit to boot!

Seriously, no one needs to be spending time in the kitchen over the holiday with these menus! 

If I can’t have my big Italian family around the table because it is discouraged, these fully prepared meals will certainly make for an amazing Christmas Dinner for my family and yours! Get your orders in early!

Hanging Out at The Hard Left Lounge

The holiday season is in full swing, so it’s time to sip on World-Class cocktails and indulge in delicious bites at Siebkens Resort’s Hard Left Lounge. This winter pop-up allows visitors to social distance comfortably in your own little cozy pod made up of vintage furniture collected over the years at the historic Siebkens Resort. So grab a drink in the lounge, order dinner in the Main Dining Room, and stick around for a few games of darts.

World-Class House Cocktails

Here are a few of our favorite cocktails — The Hard Left, of course a signature here, a martini made with olive oil washed gin, celery bitters, vermouth and house-pickled onions.

Darby the Mule puts an elevated spin on a Moscow Mule made with vodka, local honey, aloe, Siam Queen basil, and Mixwell young ginger ale. All of the mixers used for cocktails are made from organic ingredients with no preservatives.

Now this one will take you way back, the Doug. This is a tribute to one of the previous owners favorite pairing, a High Life and a shot of Jägermeister. Keeping true to the tradition at Siebkens.

Mocktails

The Hard Left Lounge also offers a full list of unique non-alcoholic cocktails like the Irish Jimmy which is a play on an Irish Coffee with Seedlip Grove, demerara sugar, coffe, cream and SRT dust.

Two other great mocktails are the Mercy Me with a punch of pear, sage, lemon and ginger, and the Wiggy, made up of Seedlip Garden, rosemary, aromatics, and Mixwell dandelion tonic.

Delicious Holiday Dishes

Is your mouth watering yet, because it should be! Check out a few of these delicious dishes that you will have to try for yourself, and yes, they taste as good as they look. Siebkens also sources most of their ingredients from local producers.

Pork Belly – crispy pork belly on top of aged cheddar polenta, kale & pickled cranberries

Chicken & Biscuit – fried chicken thighs tossed in a honey buffalo sauce on top of buttermilk biscuits

Swedish Meatballs – Juicy meatballs made of beef, pork, and veal then topped with brown gravy and a side of mashed Yukon potatoes

Mussels – Maine black mussels cooked in a sauce with hints of garlic, thyme, fennel and dill

This is a holiday pop-up you need to add to your bucket list this season. Get together with a small group of friends and enjoy a few delicious cocktails and food until midnight. You can also make a weekend of it in Elkhart Lake, which eliminates the hassle of driving and will jumpstart your holiday spirit!

The Hard Left Lounge is open:
Dec 18th & 19th – 5pm to 12am
Dec 26th – 5pm to 12am
December 31st – A Very Siebkens NYE – Times are TBD

‘Tis the Season for a Holiday Themed Pop-Up Restaurant

Preparing for the Holidays is always a bit stressful for me.  I’m a list maker and this time of year the list is long; decorating, cards, baking, shopping, wrapping.  Santa is checking his list twice-right?  Me…..I’m checking it daily, sometimes hourly!  So, if you’re like me, when the work is all said and done, some Holiday Cheer is in order.  The Shore Club’s Holiday “Pop-Up” Restaurant might be just the Holiday Cheer we all need.

The Shore Club’s historic theater is all decked out with Christmas décor and fun for the whole family. It’s open Thursdays – Monday each week through New Years, from 4:00 – Close.  The kids can explore 4,400 square feet of social-distanced space, as they check off items from the Kid’s Holiday Scavenger Hunt. There is also a huge collection of games like Jenga, pool, foosball, bowling, Super Mario, Big Bass Fishing, poker, bingo, etc.; a game-night extravaganza!

The food is fun and easy too.  The Kids will love the Lil’ Tiki’s menu and the free hot chocolate.  Mom and Dad can add a splash of Kahlua or peppermint schnapps for a nominal fee while enjoying the Sociable Starters and Big Plate menu favorites.

The Live Music adds another touch of Cheer with Dave Steffen 12/18 and Paul Sucherman on 12/26.  The theater has some of the best acoustics in the area, so you can either kick back or hit the dance floor and have some fun.  And it would not be WI without some Packer Game Day fun -this Sat. 12/19 with a 7:15 kick off against the Panthers.  Free shots when the Pack scores a touchdown.

And if that is not enough fun, wear a festive costume or ugly sweater and take a swing at the “Best Holiday Dressed” contest. Its only $1 to enter and winners will be announced on Jan 1st at the TIKI Bar New Year’s Day Party.