River Arts Alliance

First Wednesday | The Laureate Reading Series
2026-02-04 19:00 - 21:00 (America/Chicago) | Blue Heron Coffeehouse, 162 W 2nd St, Winona, MN, 55987, United States
FIRST WEDNESDAY (not the usual First Tuesday, because of a scheduling conflict), the Laureate Reading Series will present DELVING FOR ELVES: AN ENCANTATORY READING BY MICHAEL WM. DOYLE, poet, historian, raconteur. 7pm, February 4th, Blue Heron Coffeehouse.
The reading will be followed by a Q&A, then an Open Mic. This event is open to the public and free
of charge. Come hear Michael Doyle cast spells in verse to enchant the disenchanted!
Doyle’s books include Buffalo Mirage! 23 Short Poems from the Life and Michael Wm. Doyle, a
Colorful Life. In addition, he served as editor and contributor to the books Wisconsin Images:
Wisconsin Artists Working in the Arts; Alma on the Mississippi: 1848-1932; and Imagine Nation:
The American Counterculture of the 1960s and ‘70s.

Exhibit at WAC | The Gaucho
2026-02-01 - 2026-03-15 | Winona Arts Center, 228 E 5th St., Winona, MN, 55987, United States
The Winona Arts Center (228 E 5th St) is excited to present “The Gaucho,” a captivating exhibition showcasing the works of Ivete Vaz de Castro Martinez, a visual artist and the Executive Director and founder of the Med City Art Festival in Rochester. The exhibit will run from February 1 to March 15, 2026, with an opening reception on Sunday, February 1, from 1-4pm.

Frozen River Film Festival
2026-02-01 - 2026-02-08 | The ARC, 255 Main St., Winona, MN, 55987, United States
To reserve your Festival Pass (in person only), or All Access pass (In Person and Online) for the 2026 Frozen River Film Festival, visit frff.org/attend. To learn more about the films featured in this year’s festival, visit frff.org/films.
The printed program will be made available the week before the festival. FRFF’s box office will open on Tuesdays-Thursdays, 11 am – 3 pm starting Tuesday January 20th at our new office in The ARC – Home of the Historic Masonic Theatre 255 Main Street, Winona, MN 55987. Please enter through the doors on 5th street where the drive up and awning are.

Annual BON APPETIT Event at Winona Arts Center
2026-01-31 18:00 - 21:00 | Winona Arts Center, 228 E 5th St., Winona, MN, 55987, United States
The Winona Arts Center is excited to host our annual BON APPETIT featuring the film, Big Night.
Enjoy Italian appetizers, desserts, wine, n/a beverages, tea & coffee beginning at 6:00pm. Film starts at 7:00. Tickets $25 in Advance ($28.52 Eventbrite) / $25 at the Door. Tickets are available at Music Mart and on Eventbrite until January 31st at 4pm.
Eventbrite: Tickets are limited to 50 so get your ticket early. Join us for a fun evening of food, film, wine and warm conversations! Big Night is a film set in the 1950s and is a lovingly crafted film about two Italian immigrant brothers and their restaurant in New Jersey. “It is a tribute to food, to all things American, to immigrants trying to make it and to the love between brothers”. Directed by Stanley Tucci & Campbell Scott. Released in 1996 in English; run time 100 minutes.

Movies at Old Main
2026-01-30 19:00 - 21:00 | Old Main Cultural Center, 20869 S College Ave., Galesville, WI, 54630, United States
20869 College Ave Galesville | Adults $10/Students $5 | Concessions available
Friday, Jan 30 | 7 PM | “You Can’t Take it With You”
Saturday, Feb 7 | 7 PM | “Hard Day’s Night”
Saturday, Feb 14 | 2 PM | “Silly Symphonies”
Saturday, Feb 20 | 7 PM | “Way Down East” A silent movie

New Look Weekend 2026 | Minnesota Marine Art Museum
2026-01-30 - 2026-02-01 | Minnesota Marine Art Museum, 800 Riverview Dr., Winona, MN, 55987, United States
The Minnesota Marine Art Museum (MMAM) invites the public to celebrate the launch of its 2026 theme, Making Waves, with the New Look Weekend, a dynamic three-day celebration featuring a Friday night party, artist-led programs, and the opening of three new exhibitions. Taking place Friday, January 30 through Sunday, February 1, 2026, New Look Weekend marks a bold new chapter for the museum with immersive experiences that bring together art, music, craft, and storytelling inspired by water.

Printmaking Workshop with Preston Lawing at Winona Arts Center
2026-01-28 17:30 - 19:30, 2026-01-21 17:30 - 19:30, 2026-01-14 17:30 - 19:30 | Winona Arts Center, 228 E 5th St., Winona, MN, 55987, United States
The Winona Art Center continues our Printmaking Series with Preston Lawing. This three-week workshop will introduce participants to the technique of drypoint etching, covering both the practical aspects of creating prints and the historical context of the medium. Participants will learn how to prepare their acrylic plates, execute etchings and work safely in a printmaking studio. Participants do not need to have strong drawing skills, but a willingness to explore different marking choices that should provide lifelong joy of this simple, but elegant process. Due to the technical information and processes covered, this course is suited for those who are 18 and up. All materials are provided. Cost is $150 for the 3-day workshop. Register today with Jen at jsbenson50@gmail.com

Watercolor Classes at Winona Arts Center
2026-01-27 17:30 - 19:30, 2026-01-20 17:30 - 19:30, 2026-01-13 17:30 - 19:30 | Winona Arts Center, 228 E 5th St., Winona, MN, 55987, United States
The Winona Arts Center is pleased to welcome Miranda Lomeli-O’Reilly who will teach beginner Watercolor Classes. Each class has a different lesson. The January 13 class “Foundations” is required for new students. The January 20 class will cover Color mixing & Reinforcement. Jan 27 is Application & Evergreens Workshop. The cost of the 3-session class is $45 for members & $50/non members. There is a one-time $20 materials fee. If you have questions or want to register contact Jen at jsbenson50@gmail.com

Milwaukee Poetry Marathon
2026-01-25 10:00 - 22:00, 2026-01-24 10:00 - 22:00 | St. Kate Arts Hotel, 139 E Kilbourn Ave, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, United States
RAA member (and former area resident) Scott Lowery looks forward to participating in the 32nd Annual Poetry Marathon, a yearly celebration and fundraiser for Milwaukee’s Woodland Pattern Books, January 24 & 25, 10 am to 10 pm both days. Woodland Pattern orchestrates 400+ free and give-what-you-can programs every year, including readings, spoken word and hybrid performances, concerts, films, art shows, groups and workshops, after-school classes and summer writing camps for children and teens. In-person at St. Kate Arts Hotel, downtown Milwaukee, or online via Comcast, links coming soon at WPB Website. Scott reads during Community Hour, 7-8 pm Sunday.

River City Dancers Winter Formal at The ARC
2026-01-24 19:00 - 22:30 | The ARC, 255 Main St., Winona, MN, 55987, United States
Waltz and Tango Lesson 7 – 8 PM
Ballroom Dance 8 – 10:30 PM
$15 Admission | $10 Student Admission

The Music of Monet | John Paulson Big Band
2026-01-24 19:00 - 21:00 | Central Lutheran Church, 259 W Wabasha St., Winona, MN, 55987, United States
The 18 piece John Paulson Big Band is slated to perform a concert at Central Lutheran Church January 24th at 7:00 pm in Winona The event will include various jazz selections from their previously released CDs and feature the amazing vocalist Janette Hanson of La Crosse, WI. Included in the performance will be the premiere of John Paulson’s latest work “The Music of Monet.” Also- attend the Meet the Composer presentation Jan. 23 at 4:30 pm also at Central Lutheran. John will discuss the premiere of his new work “The Music of Monet.”

Dalila Jane at Old Main Cultural Center
2026-01-24 19:00 - 20:30 | Old Main Cultural Center, 20869 S College Ave., Galesville, WI, 54630, United States
Singer/Songwriter Delila Jane
Adults $10 / Students $5

Create a Spirit Journey Doll at Winona Arts Center
2026-01-24 12:30 - 15:30 | Winona Arts Center, 228 E 5th St., Winona, MN, 55987, United States
Cost: $55/members | $60/non members
We welcome back Cheri Bunker to the Winona Arts Center, on January 24 from 12:30 to 3:30 to create our own Journey Spirit Dolls through a blend of meditation, creativity, and intuitive expression. We begin with a guided meditation to connect with your Spirit: Who is she? What does she represent? Your Spirit Doll’s limbs and body will be crafted from beautiful tree branches gathered in the Driftless Area. Her form can be shaped with fiber, fabric, or a combination of both.

Murder in the Vault: Secrets of the Past
2026-01-23 18:30 - 21:30 | Winona County History Center, 160 Johnson St, Winona, MN, 55987, United States
Friday, January 23 | 6:30 – 9:30 PM
History Center (160 Johnson St) | $30/$40 ea.
Step into a night of intrigue, deception, and drama at the History Center! Join us Friday, January 23, from 6:30–9:30 PM for an immersive murder mystery experience where history has a deadly secret.

Pre-Concert Talk with John Paulson
2026-01-23 16:30 - 18:30 | Central Lutheran Church, 259 W Wabasha St., Winona, MN, 55987, United States

Russian Music Recital at Old Main Cultural Center
2026-01-18 14:30 - 16:30 | Old Main Cultural Center, 20869 S College Ave., Galesville, WI, 54630, United States
Tickets: $10 Adults | $5 School-Age

Seven Sundays at Winona Arts Center
2026-01-11 13:00 - 16:00 | Winona Arts Center, 228 E 5th St., Winona, MN, 55987, United States
The Winona Arts Center is excited to debut our new series, Seven Sundays: WAC Art & Music Series 2026 on January 11 from 1:00-4:00. This is the final date of the Foundations exhibit which features 10 emerging artists and will feature a musical performance by guitarist Brian Ebbinger. Seven Sundays is an arts and music series during 2026 where a musical performance will be paired with each newly hung visual art exhibit. All seven events are free. This series is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the SEMAC thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.

Vision Boards with Mary Lee Eischen
2026-01-10 13:00 - 15:00 | Winona Arts Center, 228 E 5th St., Winona, MN, 55987, United States
Start your year off by creating a Vision Board for 2026 at the Winona Arts Center with Mary Lee Eischen on Saturday January 10 from 1pm to 3pm. A vision board is a group of images, photographs, pictures that are laid out on a board that please the eye of the creator and then attached with a glue stick. It allows the creator to imagine what is next; what is coming or what is possible in a person’s life! It’s a fun way to think about the new year and open up possibilities. By the end of class, participants will go home with a 15 x 20 Crescent Collage Board filled with images, words, colors and feelings that uplift their spirits to bring positive energy for themselves and those around them in 2026.
Cost: $48/members & $53/non-members
Material Fees: $15 (collage board & additional materials)

Scottie Miller & Cierra Alise Hill at Winona Arts Center
2026-01-09 19:00 - 21:00 | Winona Arts Center, 228 E 5th St., Winona, MN, 55987, United States
Friday | January 9 | 7:00 pm
Winona Arts Center | 228 E 5th Street
The Winona Arts Center is very excited to bring Scottie Miller & Cierra Alise Hill for a concert on Friday, January 9 at 7:00. The gallery and coffeehouse open at 6:00 for coffee, tea, and treats. There will be a cash bar for wine & beer. Tickets are $20 in advance at Music Mart (115 E 3rd St) with no fees or at Eventbrite. Tickets are $25/door. Read more.

Audition for The Original One Acts 2026
2026-01-07 17:00 - 19:00, 2026-01-06 17:00 - 19:00 | The ARC, 255 Main St., Winona, MN, 55987, United States
Blending humor, satire, and emotional realism, this showcase of six short plays explores identity, vulnerability, and connection across generations. The works presented highlight diverse voices and complex characters navigating moments of personal and societal change. They invite empathy, reflection, and discovery. Together, these stories offer performers rich opportunities to engage with meaningful and challenging material.

Oil Painting Class at Winona Arts Center
2026-01-06 10:00 - 13:00 | Winona Arts Center, 228 E 5th St., Winona, MN, 55987, United States
Get your New Year off to a colorful start and join Casey Wicka at the Winona Arts Center for Oil Painting! Classes are held every Tuesday from January 6 through March 24 from 10am to 1pm. If you are looking to grow your creative skills in a fun and friendly atmosphere, then this is the place for you. The topic in these winter classes will be color. Invest in your creativity and email Jen to sign up jsbenson50@gmail.com.
Members: $35 per class, Non-members: $40 per class
All materials included.

Sugarloaf Community Theatre Announces Auditions for Winnie the Pooh
2026-01-05 18:00 - 20:30 | Bluffview Montessori School, 1321 Gilmore Ave, Winona, MN, 55987, United States
Monday, January 05 2026 | 6 – 8:30 pm
Bluffview Montessori School
1321 Gilmore Ave, Winona, MN
The holidays will soon be behind us and January and February often feel so lifeless. Sugarloaf Community Theatre offers just the bright-and-merry, warm and full-of-heart creative solution to pour yourself into: auditions and performances of Winnie the Pooh and the Birthday Surprise, written by Ash Wicka.
Director Jamie Schwaba tagged Wicka’s play as “a beloved story, new adventure.” As you might imagine, when your favorite characters like Winnie the Pooh, Piglet, Owl, Tigger, Rabbit, and Eeyore try to put together a surprise party for Christopher Robin, things go a little sideways, but in the end, their big hearts win the day.
Even if you have zero theater experience, we welcome you to come audition in a friendly at-ease environment. Sugarloaf Community Theatre folks enjoy bringing new talent into the fold. Winnie the Pooh and the Birthday Surprise Playwright Wicka, 16 years old, says even if you’re scared of speaking in front of people, theater is like exposure therapy. And if you’re comfortable on stage, you’re already a natural!
The following is all it takes for auditions, which isn’t as daunting as it might seem. All adults and children 12+ are welcome to audition on Jan. 5 (sign up for a 10-minute slot between 6-8:30 pm) and if cast, participate free of charge. Those auditioning should prepare a monologue (short speech from a play or film delivered by a single character, including animated films and cartoons) that is approximately 1 minute long and will show off your ability to portray a character and memorize lines. During your 10-minute audition time slot, you will also be asked to read a few lines out of the script. That’s it! Sign up on the AUDITION INFORMATION tab at www.linktr.ee/sugarloaf
All auditions, rehearsals, and performances will be held at easy-access Bluffview Montessori School (1321 Gilmore Ave, Winona, MN 55987)
For those who are cast, a full cast (and parents of those under 18) meeting will be held on Jan. 7th at 6:30pm. Rehearsals will be held 3-4 days a week, Monday- Friday from 6:30-8:30 pm, Jan. 8- Feb. 20, however not every actor will be called to every rehearsal, we try to be very respectful of your time! Tech Week (the week of the performance) rehearsals will be held Feb. 23, 24, 25, and 26 from 6:00-10:00 pm. No absences are allowed during Tech Week or Performance, except in cases of illness or family emergency. We will do our best to honor any conflicts listed on the audition form or mentioned at auditions, but once the rehearsal schedule is finalized, additional absences may not be accommodated. Performances will be held on Friday, Feb. 27 at 9:00 am, Saturday, Feb. 28th at 10 am & 2 pm, and Sunday, March 1 at 2 pm.
The show has fun roles—SO many beloved Winnie the Pooh characters–for all experience levels, so come audition and join the positive theatre environment that Sugarloaf Community offers. If you have questions, please reach out to Sugarloafcommunitytheatre@gmail.com.
Sugarloaf Community Theatre is an organizational member of the River Arts Alliance. To learn more about the benefits of membership, please visit: riverartsalliance.org/membership/.

Holiday Jazz Jam December 21 Supports Riverway
2025-12-21 14:30 - 17:30 | Two Fathoms Brewing, 65 E Front St., Winona, MN, 55987, United States
December 21 | 2:30 – 5:30 pm
Two Fathoms Brewing
Following last month’s CD release party, H3O Jazz Trio is back for a holiday Jazz Jam at Two Fathoms Brewing on December 21 from 2:30 to 5:30 pm. The trio will be playing tunes off their new holiday release “Combo Carols” and everyone is invited to join in the festivities. This month’s Jazz Jam fundraiser recipient will be Riverway Learning Community.
Riverway Learning Community is a pre-k-12th grade public charter school committed to the foundation of a more hopeful and enlightened future by the development of an environment that nurtures the growth of mind, body, and spirit, both as individuals and as members of the larger community. Riverway promotes respect for the simultaneous independence and interdependence of all things.
H3O Jazz Trio and Two Fathoms Brewing (formerly Island City) have helped support local nonprofits with over $74,500 in total donations thanks to the generosity of Jazz Jam patrons! Last month’s Jazz Jam contributed $805 to support WSU’s Student Chapter of the American Choral Directors Association.
Everyone wishing to sing, play, or cheer on their friends is welcome to join the H3O Jazz Trio at Two Fathoms Brewing’s monthly Jazz Jam! Interested players can choose from a wide selection of songs. Music is available from the Hal Leonard Real Book series, bring your own music, or just name that tune!
Come early to enjoy a Two Fathom’s beverage and enjoy an afternoon of great music with H3O Jazz Trio and friends … all while showing your support for our community!
An up-to-date schedule is always available at H3OJazz.com. The family-friendly Jazz Jam is free and open to all – young and not so young.
More information about Riverway Learning Community can be found at: https://www.riverwaylearningcommunity.org
H3O is now accepting applications for 2027. Use this simple form to nominate your favorite nonprofit for a future Jazz Jam: http://H3OJazz.com/jazz-jams/non-profit-nominations.html
You can also email info@H3OJazz.com for more information.
Eric Heukeshoven is a member of the River Arts Alliance. To learn more about the benefits of membership, please visit: riverartsalliance.org/membership/.

Commonweal Theatre Presents A Sherlock Carol
2025-12-21 13:30 - 16:00 | Commonweal Theatre, 208 Parkway Ave. N, Lanesboro, MN, United States
Preview Dates
Saturday, Nov 8 | 7:30-10:00 pm
Sunday, Nov 9 | 1:30-4:00 pm
Thurs-Fri, Nov 13-14| 7:30-10:00 pm
Full Run Dates Listed on RAA Event Page
Commonweal Theatre Company
208 Parkway Ave N, Lanesboro, MN
commonwealtheatre.org

Join the Commonweal Theatre Company for Mark Shanahan’s merry and mysterious mashup, A Sherlock Carol. The worlds of Charles Dickens and Sir Arthur Conan Doyle collide in the ultimate Christmas crossover! Learn more.
