Events worth checking out for the week of July 28, 2022

By Kayla Zastrow

Levitt Amp Concert Series: Old Man Saxon

THURSDAY 7/28 | PFIFFNER PARK, STEVENS POINT

Old Man Saxon

Old Man Saxon, a rapper from Denver, takes the outdoor stage at Pfiffner Park this week. Most recently featured as the crowd favorite on the hit Netflix series Rhythm + Flow, Saxon’s been a rapper since he was 13. His music has been featured on HBO’s Silicon Valley, Netflix’s hit film Someone Great, and on Madden commercials. He’s performed at Hip Hop Kemp in Czech Republic and Hiero Day in Oakland, and he’s opened for artists like Devin The Dude, Cam’ron, Ghostface Killah, Curren$y and Oddisee. In just two years, Old Man Saxon has gone from broke and homeless in Los Angeles to an esteemed rap professor, father and international entertainer. Starts at 6 pm. Details at Createportagecounty.org.

The Minks

FRIDAY 7/29 | LAMPLIGHT SESSIONS, MOSINEE

The Minks are a Nashville based psychedelic-blues band that’s heavy on the rock and roll. The band’s palpable sound has roots in every music fan’s top ten—from Lou to Patti to Creedence to Hank—but blends them into something totally original and current. Mixed with raw, jangly instrumentation and soulful saccharine vocals, it’s as much a throwback as it is modern rock and roll. For ages 21+. Doors open at 6 pm. Show starts at 7 pm. $20. Details at lamplightsessions.com.

PJ’s Live Summer Lineup: The Jerry Schmitt Band

WEDNESDAY 8/3 | PJ’S-SENTRYWORLD, STEVENS POINT

He’s from Stratford, but is also a Nashville recording country artist who has received radio airplay not only in Wisconsin but internationally in Australia, Europe and Japan. Schmitt, along with his six piece band, bring an electrifying presence to the stage with their many years of experience. Jerry and his band have been recognized with many awards and titles over the years, including being crowned the 2007 State Country Band Champions by the Hodag Country Music Festival. Their covers of classic country favorites and original tunes appeals to audiences of all ages and will keep you out on the dance floor all night long. Starts at 6 pm. 866-479-6753.

Concerts on the Square: The Third Wheels

WEDNESDAY 8/3 | 400 BLOCK, DOWNTOWN WAUSAU

The Third Wheels are a fresh take on the traditional cover band, bringing high energy to every show. Fronted by the charming and charismatic Carmyn Hoen, this soul infused, high energy pop and rock band has a diverse set list, covering many genres, generations and styles. If you’re a fan of acoustic duo Open Tab, then you’ll be excited to hear Carmyn and Nick with a little more rock to their sound with drums, keys and bass. bass. Their songs aim to bring people in, get them on the dance floor and make them want to stay all night long. Free. Starts at 6 pm. Details at Wausauevents.org.

Hmong Wausau Festival

SAT.-SUN. 7/30-31 | THE PEOPLE’S SPORTS COMPLEX, WAUSAU

This huge event, hosted by The Hmong American Center, showcases music, dancing, pageants, foods and art. The festival is jam-packed with fun for the whole family, and draws people from around the Midwest. The event is full of competitions including, singing and dancing, volleyball, cornhole, flag football, soccer, and more. Returning this year are night festivities on Saturday with food vendors, fireworks and more with live entertainment. Start at 7 am. 715-842-8390 or [email protected] for more details. 

Wisconsin Valley Fair

TUES.-SUN. 8/2-7 | MARATHON PARK, WAUSAU

This is one of the largest, longest-running county fairs in Wisconsin. It began in 1868 as an agricultural showcase, with part of the opening ceremony spoken in German. That agricultural focus continues to this day—the draft horse show and farm animals are still a big draw—but it’s also six full days of fun for all ages with carnival rides, dangerously delicious fair food, and national music acts such as Lee Greenwood, Carly Pearce and .38 Special. $25 season admission until August 1.Unlimited ride wristbands $25 in advance; $33 at the fair. Details at wisconsinvalleyfair.com.

Grandstand entertainment:

Tuesday: Lee Greenwood

Wednesday: Carly Pearce

Thursday: .38 Special

Friday: Rodeo

Saturday: Rodeo 

Sunday: Draft Horse Show and Demolition Derby

Paddle Pub Crawl 8

SATURDAY 7/30 | EAGLES CLUB LANDING, WAUSAU

This event has become a Wausau area summer tradition. Hundreds of kayaks, canoes, and other paddle-powered vessels gather to travel from Eagles Club up the Rib River to Trails End Bar as a group. It’s not just a paddle, it’s a full on party with live music on the water and at Trails End Bar, with A Taste of Manila serving Filipino cuisine at Trails End Bar. Starts at 11:30 am. Details on Facebook: Wausau Paddle Pub Crawl.