Downtown Hayward Merchants Welcome Birkie Athletes & Fans

The Birkie wouldn’t be the same without a visit to Downtown Hayward WI. Whether you’re a competitor, a race supporter or an avid fan, the charming destination “in the heart of it all” is one you can’t miss. The merchants look forward to welcoming visitors and offer unique finds and friendly smiles.

All week long, race rans will be happy to find a way to shop and support the Birkie, with a portion of proceeds donated to the Birkebeiner Foundation. Special items include a custom Birkie box of handmade chocolates and Birkie Bites at Lynn Marie’s Candies.

While here, capture a photo in front of the Hayward murals and the iconic Birkie Bridge and Main Street finish line vision. Take home some unique momentos, such as custom Birkie posters & framed Birkie prints or Telemark reclaimed wood frames from Lures of the North or handcrafted Birkie gear from Sweetgrass & Sage. Each locally-owned shop has unique finds, so spend some time looking around. Check out our Northwoods Humane Society Thrift Shop with great inventory and treasures, all proceeds go towards dogs and cats at our local Humane Society shelter.

From an outdoor sale at Glik’s to cozy handcrafted Village House Hats from Poland at Ronnings to Scandinavian gifts at Nordic Northwoods or gifts from Lake Kids (toy, book, games, puzzles & gifts) Shop, Scrappy’s Antiques & Vintage Items, Lori’s Card & Gift, Hayward Fly Fishing Co, Hayward Mercantile Co., Wilde Gifts & Goods, & so much more there is something for all ages. River & Rain is our wellness & crystal boutique, a must stop in and visit shop.

Winter wear and gear abounds at Riverbrook Bike & Ski with a huge Sale going on all week long. Outdoor Ventures has a variety of winter gear, while fashion takes the lead at Silver Star Market and Ahlgren’s women’s boutique. While in town pick up your Hayward souvenir gear at Ronnings of Hayward. Art lovers can take home a beautiful original from the impressive collections at Art Beat of Hayward and the Patricia MacLaughlin Gallery inside Out of the Woods Winery, James Netz Photography and Lures of the North.

In between shopping and events, there is a diverse variety of dining establishments, each with its own personality and charm. Find tasty eats and treats at Firehouse Bakery & Deli, Sundaes with Annabell & Charlotte, and Backroads Coffee. Lynne Maries Candies & Tremblay’s Sweet Shop are everyone’s favorite chocolate and candy stores. While The Social Kitchen & Cocktails, 3 Fly Sisters Taps & Wines, Out of the Woods Winery, cater to wine, beer and crafted cocktails. Main Street Tacos is authentic Mexican cuisine and Angler’s Bar & Grill has been the staple restaurant in downtown for years. Explore the nightlife atmosphere with drinks at the Moccasin, the Hayward Veteran’s Center and Good Knights bars.

Special events will energize the district throughout the week. The Lot (corner of Kansas & 3rd St) hosts its first Birkie Bash between Tuesday and Saturday, visitors may enjoy free sauna time from the Northwoods Sauna Co., bonfires, food trucks, a bags tournament, Earth Rider Brewery and more. If you are staying for the week and looking to grab lunch and or make meals at your lodging location, shop at Lynn’s Custom Meats & Catering. We have awesome places in our downtown district serving lunches during Birkie Week. Check out our Birkie Specials List Here>

Riverbrook Bike and Ski is our #1 downtown ski, bike & boutique shop! Riverbrook is hosting a Benefit for youth mountain bike team outside selling Louie’s Brats & Angry Minnow Beer. (11 am – 6 pm 2/21 & 2/22 ONLY) SALES ALL WEEK: 30-50% OFF Skis, Boots & Poles | 30% OFF Kari Traa Clothing | 30-50% OFF ALL Winter Clothing | SWIX 50% OFF Warehouse SALE

On Thursday, the Birkie Giant Ski Race on Main Street features costumed teams of six skiers, hilarious fun all gliding on one pair of giant skis, competing for the Championship. Music lovers will be thrilled when the incredibly talented Chris Kroeze and Michael Shynes return to perform at the Park Center for two nights – Thursday and Friday (Feb 20 & 21) at 7pm.

If you are looking for ATM’s in downtown multiple places they may be found, our staple bank on Main Street is Frandsen Bank, Johnson Bank is located on Hwy 63 just two – three blocks north of Main St., other businesses with ATM: Frandsen Bank (outside by drive up), Tremblay’s Sweet Shop (outside and inside), 3 Fly Sisters Taps & Wines (inside), Angler’s Bar & Grill (inside).

For a complete listing, search our website business directory  https://downtownhaywardwi.com/business-directory/

We welcome everyone… Birkie Skiers, Spectators Friends & Families ~ We hope you all have a fabulous race, fun and festive time while you’re in Hayward, WI.

Written by Kelly Wisecarver ~ Wisecarver PR & Marketing Chair DHBID