Experiences
Whether you're here for a weekend, a season or finding a new forever home, Chetek offers endless activities for families & fun.
SUMMER ACTIVITIES
MARKETS & MORE
Chetek is home to a vibrant mix of markets, boutiques, and artisan vendors that celebrate the creativity and spirit of our community. From fresh produce and handmade goods at our seasonal farmers markets to charming downtown shops filled with one-of-a-kind finds, there’s always something new to explore.
Be sure to check out our famous wine walks, too.
FESTIVALS
Chetek knows how to throw a party. Our calendar is packed with festivals that bring the community together and welcome visitors with food, music, and high-energy fun.
Summer hits its peak with Liberty Fest, a multi-day 4th of July celebration featuring parades, live music, street dances, and one of the area’s best fireworks shows over the lake.
ENDLESS ENTERTAINMENT
Summer in Chetek sounds like live music in the park, cheers from lakeside patios, and the splash of the Hydroflites Water Ski Show Team cutting across the bay. With six connected lakes perfect for boating, tubing, paddling, and fishing, there’s no shortage of ways to dive into fun. Add in local bars featuring live bands and DJ nights, and your days don’t have to end when the sun goes down.
WINTER ACTIVITIES
HARD WATER
When the lakes freeze, the fun doesn’t stop—it just shifts gears. Chetek turns into a winter playground with some of the best ice fishing in the region, miles of scenic snowmobile trails, and peaceful routes perfect for snowshoeing. Whether you’re drilling holes in the ice or carving tracks through the snow, Chetek proves that lake life is a year-round adventure.
CHAMBER EVENTS
The Chetek Chamber keeps the winter spirit alive with a full lineup of cold-weather fun. Santa Day and the Christmas Parade light up the season with holiday cheer, small-town magic, and family-friendly festivities. Then things rev up at Winter Fest, where high-speed snowmobile races and the legendary Bikini Run bring thrills (and chills!) to the frozen lake. From cozy to crazy, Chetek knows how to celebrate winter in true Wisconsin style.
VIBRANT COMMUNITY
From downtown shops open year-round to both indoor and outdoor events at local businesses, Chetek never stops! Many resorts offer winter lodging as well..
Remember to check out Christie Mountain as well. Just minutes north of Chetek, Christie Mountain is a hidden gem of a ski hill tucked away in Rusk County's Blue Hills.
WE'RE HERE ALL YEAR
STRONG SCHOOLS
The Chetek-Weyerhaeuser School District is more than a place of learning—it’s a cornerstone of the community. Known for its dedicated educators, modern facilities, and strong academic and extracurricular programs, the district offers students a well-rounded education in a supportive, small-town environment. With opportunities in STEM, the arts, athletics, and leadership, it’s a school system that helps kids grow—and gives families one more reason to call Chetek home.
INFRASTRUCTURE
Chetek may be rooted in tradition, but it’s focused on the future. Recent investments in infrastructure—including a modernized water tower, upgraded wastewater treatment facility, vibrant art, and improved parks—demonstrate the city’s commitment to growth, sustainability, and quality of life. These enhancements ensure that Chetek remains not only a great place to visit, but an even better place to live, work, and build for generations to come.
ROOM TO GROW
Chetek is open for opportunity. With available residential lots, commercial properties, and two well-positioned business parks, there’s plenty of space to build—whether you’re looking to plant roots or launch your next venture. The city’s supportive leadership, reliable utilities, access to rail & road, and small-town appeal make it an ideal place for entrepreneurs, developers, and families alike. In Chetek, growth isn’t just welcome—it’s expected.
