By Devon Welsh
14th Annual Turkey Trot
Thursday, 11/23 | 400 Block, Wausau
Start Thanksgiving Day off right with a 5k run or walk that will get your metabolism ready for the big dinner. The race starts and ends at 400 Block in downtown Wausau, partly moving along the Wisconsin river in between. 100% of your registration fee goes to United Way’s Marathon County Hunger Coalition, helping those in need during the holiday season and throughout the year. Last year’s event saw more than 1,700 participants and $52,000 raised. Leashed dogs and baby strollers are welcome, as are people of all ages. 8:30 am. $35. Register at runsignup.com/unitedwayturkeytrot2023
Furry Friendsgiving
Thursday, 11/23 | Humane Society of Marathon County, Wausau
The Humane Society is organizing a Thanksgiving event of sorts for the pets in their care. Drop by in the afternoon if you’d like to give the animals some love and remind them that even though they do not have a home, they have a lot to be thankful for. The event is free to all, and no appointment is required. Just come by to spend some time, and consider taking home a new friend during this holiday season. 3:30 – 5:30 pm. Free. catsndogs.org
Finding Nemo Jr.
Fri-Sun 11/24-26 | Center for Civic Engagement, Wausau
If you’re picturing something akin to a school play, you’d better readjust your expectations — the Central Wisconsin Children’s Theater puts on some stellar productions, with a degree of professionalism and performance that will knock your socks off. Here the organization will be putting on a production of Finding Nemo Jr., a 60-minute adaptation of the award-winning Pixar film Finding Nemo. Follow along as Marlin leaves his home on the Great Barrier Reef to rescue his son, Nemo, who was captured and taken to Sydney. Fri-Sat 2 pm and 7 pm; Sunday 2 pm. $15, senior/youth $13. mycwct.org (BCK)
Midwest Crossroads Comedy Showcase
Saturday 11/25 | Whitewater Music Hall, Wausau
This is a comedy showcase that lives up to its name – comedians from around the midwest are meeting in the middle in Wausau for a night of stand-up. Come for a chance to end the Thanksgiving holidays with laughs, featuring touring comics from Milwaukee, the Twin Cities and central Wisconsin. Trevor Anderson, Judd Reminger, Dana Ehrmann, Casey Flesch and Matt Torkelson each offer distinctive comedic styles and perspectives. $15. 7:30 pm. whitewatermusichall.com
Festival of Trees – Teddy Bear Blast
Saturday 11/25 | Central Wisconsin Convention & Expo Center, Rothschild
The Festival of Trees continues through the Thanksgiving weekend with Teddy Bear Blast, an event for younger children. Families can come to make ornaments, play holiday games and have their faces painted. This morning event will also include story time, singalongs, and a visit with Santa. Snacks will be provided. Funds raised support end of life care through Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services, as well as the Aspirus Family House. 9-11 am. $10 in advance, $15 at the door. Children three and under get in free.
Breakfast with Santa
Saturday, 11/25 | Wausau Labor Temple, Wausau
Ok, with Thanksgiving out of the way, that means we can all start focusing on Christmas! And for sure your kids have their wishlists ready to show Santa. The Labor Temple has been doing this breakfast with Santa for a long time, and it’s become a Christmas tradition for many. Come and enjoy the all-you-can-eat breakfast, have the kids sit on Santa’s lap, and check out the Elf Shelf. 8 am to noon. $8 adults, $4 children 5-12, 4 and under free. Wausau Labor Temple on Facebook. (BCK)
