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Jefferson, Wisconsin
Jefferson, Wisconsin is a small community nestled where the Rock and Crawfish Rivers meet.  A strong community which annually celebrates its German heritage in September.


Welcome to Gemuetlichkeit City

Welcome to Jefferson, where years ago a group of pioneers settled here knowing the rivers would be a vital source of transporting their goods to other settlements.  It wasn’t long before they knew this was where they wanted to stay.  Jefferson grew, later becoming the County Seat, and now has a population of over 7,800.  Preservation of our beautiful historic buildings dating back to 1878 continues.  Our community realizes the importance of preserving and revitalizing our downtown which brings renewed interest in new business development. How proud our forefathers would be to see this continued preservation.

To learn more about the history of Jefferson visit the Jefferson Historical Society in the lower level of City Hall at 317 South Main Street. 


Events
Gemuetlichkeit Days marks its 41st celebration on September 16-18, 2011. The theme for this year’s festival is “Autumn Harvest.” The German community dons their dirndls and lederhosen throughout the weekend, and throughout the year at area parades and festivals.  Great bands provide non-stop music throughout the weekend. German food, contests, a craft fair and a huge parade on Sunday at noon are a few of the things held over the weekend.  Visit www.gdays.org for a schedule of events.

Jefferson Chamber of Commerce sponsors several events throughout the year including City Wide Rummage Sale-Spring & Fall, Autumn Fest and the 16th Annual Parade of Lights along with six Concerts in the Park held at Rotary Park throughout the summer.   Four Cruise Nights in Jefferson are scheduled for 2011 on the first Wednesday of the month, June through September. Check the calendar of events for more details.

The Jefferson County Fair is held July 6-10, 2011 at the Fair Park, which is also the scene for many other events held throughout the year. Every weekend is a busy weekend at the Fair Park. Madison Classics Spring & Fall Car and Swap Meets are held annually at the Fair Park and bring thousands of visitors into our community.

A newly formed Arts Council has some great events planned for 2011, check the website for more information.

The Performing Arts Center is a 1,000-seat auditorium located in Jefferson High School and home to the Council for the Performing Arts.  The CPA presents national and local talent throughout the school year.


Recreation
Jefferson has eight beautiful parks. Available are picnic areas, baseball fields, skateboarding, golf course, volleyball courts, soccer fields, inline skating, and ice skating facilities. Jefferson has several great places for family reunions or just for relaxing. The Playland of Dreams children’s play land provides a great place for family entertainment.

Biking enthusiasts come from the surrounding area to ride The Glacial Drumlin Trail, and the Jefferson Aquatic Center offers more recreational choices. The newly expanded, nationally recognized Jefferson County Dog Park is located north of the city off of Hwy 12.

The Rock and Crawfish Rivers meet in Jefferson providing ideal fishing, canoe and kayak opportunities.  A fish ladder constructed by the DNR in 2005 enables the fish to get above the dam -
quite unique to see and watch! Jefferson has one of only a few such ladders constructed in the state.  The Milwaukee Street Walk Bridge is also very unique and worth taking a walk across.

Looking for some nostalgic entertainment?  One of only a few left in the country, Hwy. 18 Outdoor Theater shows double features from late April/early May thru September.


Shopping/Dining
For a day trip, we have two antique shops, two resale shops, a quilt shop, coffee shops, art gallery, bakery, seasonal & year round garden shops, farm markets and a stained glass shop, along with appliance, flooring and other retail businesses. There are several eating establishments to enjoy a great hamburger, nice lunch or dinner.

We invite you to spend some time in this quiet and serene community.  Visit our website for more events and information on the county.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Jefferson Chamber of Commerce
920-674-4511
www.jeffersonchamberwi.com






Jefferson County Tourism Council  •  The Official Guide 2012-2013  •  PO Box 243  •  Jefferson, Wisconsin 53549