Note: “We pick three” is a rotating column where Spectator writers pick their top three upcoming events in Eau Claire and the Chippewa Valley.

2021 Polar Plunge: the great outdoors

Although this year’s Polar Plunge will look different to previous plunges, the annual Polar Plunge is still making ways for people to have fun and raise money for athletes of Special Olympics Wisconsin.

COVID-19 safety measures such as mask-wearing and social distancing will be strictly enforced. People can still participate from the safety of their homes as well, by following the guidelines provided here.

This weekend’s events will be snowshoeing and sledding. Sleds will not be provided, but snowshoes will be available to rent free of charge.

According to their website, if participants register and raise $75, it will pay for your “tubing adventure” and a long-sleeve tee. The more money someone raises, the more prizes they can earn whether they participate online or in-person.

The 2021 Polar Plunge will take place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Feb. 20 at Pinehurst Park, 3523 Delbert Rd., Eau Claire. Participants must register online in order to get into the event.

If neither the online experience nor the event at Pinehurst Park, people can “Choose your adventure” on their website, where there are other events and opportunities for people to join.

Crokicurl family fun nights

Altoona Parks and Recreation is hosting weekly Crokicurl Family Fun Nights every Monday and Wednesday through Mar. 3.

The cost of the event is $5 a night for each two-person team. Each match will be three out of five rounds.

The event takes place from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at River Prairie Park, 1419 Front Porch Place.

According to their event page, two, two-person teams will be able to register for each timeslot. Time slots are available at 6 p.m., 6:30 p.m., 7 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Teams can register on the Altoona Parks & Recreation Department’s website.

For more information, interested parties can check out their website, call the department at 715-839-5188 or email them at [email protected] or [email protected].

Mettle and Mirth Art Show

Artisan Forge Studio is showcasing the exhibit Mettle and Mirth. The exhibit is available to see online or in-person at the Chippewa Valley Museum.

The exhibit showcases more than 70 pieces of art from local artists. According to the Visit Eau Claire page, “the exhibit is powerful, delightful and lives up to its ‘mettle and mirth’ title.”

The Mettle and Mirth Art Show is available to see in person until Mar. 2 during the museum’s normal hours:

•       Tuesday 5 to 8 p.m.
•       Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 12 to 4 p.m.
•       Closed Sunday and Monday

Guests can visit the museum at 1204 E. Half Moon Drive, which is in Carson Park. 

Additional admission information can be found on their Hours & Admissions or Facebook page.

Due to COVID-19, there is a nine person group capacity and face coverings are required for all guests. Guests can read more about their safety measures on their COVID-19 policy page.

General admission tickets are $7 for adults, $4 for students with valid school ID, $4 ages 5-17 and free for children four and under.

Viewers are able to vote on their favorite pieces and purchase them for their own use. Most of the art will be available for purchase through the museum’s online store until Mar. 2.

Lunderville can be reached at [email protected].