Sturgeon Spectacular Returns Feb. 7-9 for Fifth Year

Sturgeon Spectacular Returns Feb. 7-9 for Fifth Year

One of Wisconsin’s quirkiest traditions, the Sturgeon Spectacular winter festival, returns to Lake Winnebago and downtown Fond du Lac for a fifth year beginning Friday morning, Feb. 7 and culminating with the crowning of Wisconsin’s snow sculpting champion Sunday afternoon, Feb. 9, 2020.

More than 30,000 people from around Wisconsin and neighboring states participated in Sturgeon Spectacular last year. Designed to celebrate and coincide with the state’s annual sturgeon spear on Lake Winnebago, praise from past attendees bolstered festival plans and informed many enhancements for this year. Namely, consolidation of events outside the downtown area onto the shores of Lake Winnebago.

“We love the energy this festival brings to our region,” explained Craig Molitor, president and chief executive officer, Destination Lake Winnebago Region. “And more than any of the previous years, there is something for all ages to enjoy here, together in the community. Since it is winter in Wisconsin, we’ve focused on making the weekend ‘winter proof’ by hosting events on-the-ice, off-the-ice, indoors, and outdoors!”

Sturgeon Spectacular is made possible through a presenting sponsorship from Alliant Energy as well as event sponsorships from other area businesses, and is coordinated by Destination Lake Winnebago Region and Fond du Lac Festivals, Inc. for the enjoyment of residents and visitors alike.

“Curling was an awesome addition in 2019 with people filling the rink from sun-up to sun-down,” shared Peter Wilke, executive director, Fond du Lac Festivals, Inc. “Building on this success, we’ve added a Curling Rink Lounge to enjoy refreshments while spectating and waiting to jump into the fun. And, as a special treat, curling experts will be stopping by Saturday to offer curling tips to all present.”

A longtime supporter of Sturgeon Spectacular, Milwaukee’s award-winning Lakefront Brewery has created a special limited-run brew that will be tapped on Lake Winnebago at the entertainment tent starting Saturday at noon. Entitled Bottom Feeder Ale, the brew is a strong ale with maple, orange, and cinnamon.

Following are a few other new features as well as returning crowd favorites slated for the weekend. Check out the a full schedule of events and details to register in advance for certain competitions throughout the weekend.

Pre-Sturgeon Spectacular Special Event

Annie’s Fountain City Café, located at 72 S Main Street in downtown Fond du Lac, has planned a “Salsa Night” warmup event to the weekend’s festivities Thursday, Feb. 6. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with concert beginning at 6:30 p.m. Contact Annie’s to learn more.

Friday, Feb. 7

Wisconsin Snow Sculpting Championship begins (1 p.m.); Running of Sturgeon Parade (6 p.m.); and Kick-off Celebration Concert (7 p.m.).

Saturday, Feb. 8

Agnesian Fun Run begins (9 a.m.); Downtown Curling Funspiel and Rink Side Lounge open (9 a.m.); Lakeside Park Winter Fun Zone and Entertainment Tent opens (10 a.m.); Igniting the Ceremonial Bonfire on Lake Winnebago (6 p.m.); Headlining musical act Boogie and the Yoyo’z take the stage (6:30 p.m.); Guys on Ice return to THELMA (2 p.m. and 7 p.m.).

Sunday, Feb. 9

ACE Academy Shanty Project exhibition (10 a.m.); THELMA’s Liquid Brunch (11 a.m. – 2 p.m.); Judging snow sculpting begins (1 p.m.).

Residents embrace this festival as their own and look forward to sharing all the region has to offer with visitors and returning guests. “Fun on the ice. Fun in the snow. Fun outside – in the wintertime – with fun loving people. That’s Sturgeon Spectacular!” added Joe Moore, city manager, City of Fond du Lac.


About Destination Lake Winnebago Region

Destination Lake Winnebago Region’s goal is to market the area as a top travel destination and to impact the local economy by advocating for commerce in the tourism, meetings and hospitality industries. Established in 1975, the Fond du Lac Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (now doing business as Destination Lake Winnebago Region) is a destination marketing organization committed to influencing economic development and attracting travelers to Fond du Lac and Lake Winnebago Region. For more information visit FDL.com.

About Fond du Lac Festivals, Inc.

Fond du Lac Festivals, Inc. is dedicated to our vision of creating community through events showcasing Fond du Lac and enhancing the quality of life for our residents while providing assistance to local charitable organizations. Our mission is to direct, promote, and support festivals and special events that showcase the Fond du Lac area community.

Media Contacts

Craig Molitor, Destination Lake Winnebago Region
920.923.3010
cmolitor@fdl.com

Shannon K Semmerling, Ask Shannon PR, LLC
shannon@askshannonpr.com