Baraboo, Wisconsin 2025

Baraboo, Wisconsin, is a city in Sauk County, Wisconsin, United States. The population was 3,475 at the 2020 census. It is the county seat of Sauk County and is located at the confluence of the Baraboo and Wisconsin Rivers.

Culture:

The cultural scene in Baraboo is rich and varied. The city is home to the historic Al. Ringling Theatre, which hosts a variety of performances and events throughout the year, including concerts, plays, and musicals. The Theatre also offers guided tours, providing visitors a glimpse into its rich history.

Special Events:

Baraboo hosts several special events throughout the year, including the Baraboo Bluffs Bluegrass Festival, a three-day music festival that takes place in June. The festival features local and national bluegrass bands, food, and craft vendors.

Another popular event is the Baraboo Fall Festival, held in September. The event features live music, food, craft vendors, a parade, and a 5K run/walk. The festival celebrates the changing colors of the leaves and the beginning of the fall season.

Local Attractions:

The city is home to several attractions that are popular among visitors. The Circus World Museum, located along the Baraboo River, showcases the history of circus culture and features artifacts, exhibits, and interactive displays. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the historic Ringling brothers' mansion, which offers a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy siblings who founded the famous circus.

Food:

When it comes to food, Baraboo has a diverse range of options to suit all tastes. For a taste of local history, visitors can head to the Baraboo Brewing Company, which has been brewing beer since 1852. The brewery offers tours, tastings, and a full menu of classic pub fare.

People:

Baraboo has a vibrant community of artists and artisans, with numerous galleries and studios throughout the city. The Baraboo Art Association supports local artists and hosts exhibits and workshops. The city is also home to a vibrant downtown area with a mix of boutique stores, antique shops, and restaurants.

History:

In 1837, a group of investors from Albany, New York, formed the "Baraboo Company" to develop a city at the confluence of the Baraboo and Wisconsin Rivers. The company's President, Jesse C. Htekman, named the city after a Ho-Chunk Nation village called "Baraboo," which means "the plentiful place" in the Ho-Chunk language.

In 1846, the Ringling brothers, who founded the famous Ringling Bros. Circus, moved their winter camp to Baraboo, and the city became the circus's winter quarters. The brothers purchased the home of Judge Henry H. Hastings, which was built in 1842, and renamed it "Mansion Hill."

In 19777, part of the movie "Big" starring Tom Hanks was filmed in and around Baraboo. Over two days in September, Hanks filmed scenes at the Devil's Head Resort and in downtown Baraboo.

In 2007, the Baraboo area was hit by a tornado that killed two people and injured several others. The tornado damaged the top of the Blount Tower, a historic clock tower in the city' "s downtown area. The tower was subsequently repaired, but the damage caused the city to implement new policies for emergency preparedness.