Good morning, La Crosse.

Irishfest is kicking off today at 3 p.m. at the Oktoberfest grounds—celebrating its 20th anniversary with Irish food, live music, vendors and activities for kids.

The three-day event will feature 20 musical acts on four stages—plus a genealogy station with seven computers for visitors to trace their roots.

A 19-year-old from Black River Falls died after his car rolled over on County Road C Wednesday morning as witnesses reported he was speeding before losing control on a curve—officials said he was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.

Final preparations for the Ashley for the Arts festival in Arcadia took place on Thursday and the event will run through Saturday with over 3,500 volunteer shifts and 70 nonprofits helping with setup — last year the festival raised over 750,000 dollars and has given more than 4 million dollars to local groups. Today, Brad Paisley and ZZ Top will perform as the festival boosts local shops and restaurants — drawing many visitors to this community event.

The Children's Museum has created an outdoor play area — with daily food trucks serving snacks and meals from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. — during the downtown sidewalk sales to offer families a fun space while they shop.

A mobile preschool in a converted RV also will add interactive learning for children at the event.

Founder Pat Stephens previews La Crosse Irishfest as the festival, celebrating 20 years, runs today through Sunday at the south side Oktoberfest grounds—featuring Irish beer, a mashed potato eating contest and games like telephone pole throwing.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is asking locals to help with Operation Deer Watch and the Game Bird Survey this August and September.

Volunteers can record deer information until Sept. 30 + game bird details until Aug. 31 using the Survey123 app to aid wildlife management.

Onalaska state Sen. Brad Pfaff almost announced his run for lieutenant governor on Aug.

4 while saying his vote helped pass a state budget that approved $194 million for UW‑La Crosse’s science center. He said candidates for statewide office should come from beyond Milwaukee and Madison—calling for fresh voices in state government.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation announced that work on the Tank Creek Bridge, East Channel Black River Bridge, and West Channel Black River Bridge along Highway 35 between Holmen and Trempealeau has been delayed until 2029 to replace deteriorating structures.

The DOT revised its plan to keep one lane open during repairs after community concerns—an informational meeting is scheduled for August 19 at 6 p.m. at Trempealeau Village Hall.

Meet the Magic 3

10 a.m. - 5 p.m. — The Court Above Main — Free entry — Dive into a day of magic with character meet-and-greets, activities, and more fun for all ages.

Great River Folk Festival 2025

10 AM – 4 PM — Riverside Park — Ticket prices vary — Celebrate folk music with a vibrant community atmosphere and performances.

The Avett Brothers Concert

7:00-8:30 p.m. — La Crosse Center — Ticket prices vary from $69 — Enjoy a night of folk rock from the renowned Avett Brothers.

SLiD EP Release Party

9-11:30 p.m. — Popcorn Tavern — $5 admission — Celebrate the debut EP release of SLiD with special performances by The Reach Outs and Fernando Mendoza.

Touch a Truck

10 a.m. - noon — Viking Elementary School, 500 E Wall St, Holmen, WI — Free entry — Experience the thrill of climbing and exploring trucks and large vehicles, including a helicopter landing!

Elvis Explosion Gospel Show

10:00-11:30 a.m. — La Crosse Center — Ticket sales available — Experience an uplifting Elvis-themed gospel performance.