What is Rooted in Racine?
Rooted in Racine is a 6-month series that focuses on local happenings, events, and activities in the Racine County area.
Emma Rose Widmar is the 21st ArtRoot Writer-in-Residence and will focus exclusively on two topics: disability awareness and community happenings.
Rooted in Racine can serve as an accessible guide for locals to use and tourists to navigate Racine. This guide will aim to be published weekly or bi-weekly. Think of this as your one-stop shop for the inside scoop. My drive is to encourage people, especially those with disabilities, to be in the now and feel eager to know what is happening on the Third Coast.
The events featured are not all events I have attended. If I have an accessibility tip or information, I will share the details. Accessibility looks different for all people with different disabilities. For someone with a peanut allergy, accessibility is vastly different than the needs of someone with a disability that impacts their mobility.
My personal experience living with invisible illnesses has made me more aware of inaccessibility.
When reading, keep in mind the term, “dynamic dysability,” and the reason I mention this is that many disabilities are dynamic, suggesting that someone’s impairment fluctuates and changes in severity and where symptoms can shift daily and even hourly.
Know of an event that Emma should include in her weekly distribution of information? Send Emma an email at emmawidmarwrites@gmail.com with details about your event for the potential to be featured!
Events happening locally
July is jam-packed with endless fun in Racine County. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re a kid, a single twenty-something year old, or even a family looking to get out on the town.
The start of the month really starts off with a bang, quite literally (think fireworks). There are multiple events happening across Racine County in honor of the 4th of July, but not all of them will be included on this list.
Use this list to plan your adventures in Racine County.
July 1
Concert at the Racine Zoo
Whether you are visiting Racine County for the upcoming holiday or are a local just looking for something to do this week, look no further.
The Racine Zoo is hosting a Pink Floyd Tribute Band called “Echoes of Pompeii” on July 1, 2026 at 7 p.m. with the zoo’s doors opening at 5:30 p.m. Tickets are available on July 1, online. Learn more by visiting the Racine Zoo’s website: HERE.
Accessibility note: Live music can be a triggering environment for those sensitive to sound. The Racine Zoo prides itself on being a sensory-inclusive space. They offer sensory bags for guests. It is always best to arrive early to go over any potential accessibility questions you may have.
Wheelchair users or those with mobility difficulties can use the cement pathways throughout the Racine Zoo for a more accessible experience.
Calling all yogis
Racine County offers two unique yoga experiences on Wednesdays. Ironically, both yoga events have an attachment to coffee or other fun drinks.
Yoga in the Yard at Mocha Lisa
Mocha Lisa, 2825 4 1/2 Mile Rd., is the home base on Wednesday nights with Thrive with Cassandra. Cassandra Bjelajac is a Reiki master and yoga instructor. I have personally taken her classes at Mandala Yoga, 3205 Washington Ave., and thoroughly enjoy her attention to detail and insight on how to make poses more accessible and/or approachable.
The class starts at 6:30 p.m. and lasts 45 minutes. It is $15 to participate.
Mocha Lisa suggests bringing your own yoga mat, but if you don’t own one, bring a blanket or beach towel. With the class comes a drink voucher to use at Mocha Lisa. The coffee shop shared, “drink vouchers do not expire, and can be used for any drink, any size!*”
More details can be found on the Facebook event.
Accessibility note: As someone who practices yoga with a disability, it is important to remember that your yoga practice does not compare to anyone else’s. Your abilities are what they are, and wherever you are at is enough.
If you cannot practice yoga on the floor or by standing, bring along a chair. Chair yoga is effective and can help you complete more poses in your practice. I believe yoga is a mental exercise as well as a physical experience. As for modifications if needed, Cassandra is extremely friendly.
From my experience, my memory recalls that the outside of Mocha Lisa is more accessible than the inside. There is a set of stairs to climb to get to where the baristas take your order. If you cannot do stairs, I would recommend calling the cafe. Perhaps they’d be willing to order your coffee over the phone and bring it to you if you have a mobility need that prevents you from going inside.
Contact 262.681.2644 to ask accessibility related questions.
Bend and Brew
Offered weekly on Wednesday nights from 6 p.m. to 6:45p.m. is the free Bend and Brew event. There are also classes offered on Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. and 9 a.m. to 9:45 a.m.
The classes are located at Reefpoint Marina’s grassy park area, end of Christopher Columbus Causeway. To access the location, I always refer to the address for Reefpoint Brew House, 2 Christopher Columbus Causeway. First, you will drive to the restaurant, then you will pass it, and then drive until you cannot drive any further until you reach the park.
Please note that announcements about topics such as weather alerts are made on the Downtown Racine Facebook event page. There have been times that due to weather classes were moved indoors to Yoga Roots Renew,
All ages and skill levels are welcome. Arrive 5 to 10 minutes early to sign in.
After practice, attendees will receive a certificate to redeem for a free coffee or beer at several participating downtown businesses, including:
Coffee: Red Onion Cafe, 555 Main St. and Divino Gelato, 245 Main St. Unit 105
Beer: The Ivanhoe Pub & Eatery, Pub On Wisconsin, Joey’s Yardarm
Mimosa: The Maple Table
Accessibility note: Accessibility includes taking financial questions into consideration as well. Oftentimes those with disabilities or those of elder age are on fixed incomes. Free events can be more accessible to people because there is not a financial strain attached to the event. This event is free, but they do suggest a $5 donation to support the instructors.
The location includes doing yoga on a grassy area, including platforms that are accessed by taking steps upward. One level is accessible without having to take additional steps.
July 2
Live music
Franksville Craft Beer Garden
The Franksville Craft Beer Garden is nestled inside Franksville Memorial Park, 9614 Northwestern Ave, offering entertainment, a bite to eat, and cold beer. What more could a Wiconinite ask for?
This week, Ryan McIntyre is set to take the stage at the beer garden. They will perform from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Thursday. Not only is there live music, but it is also Taco Thursday. Local businesses Pig Tailz and Picos Tacos will be on site serving up some grub. Food is served from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
While a beer garden may seem like a space for adults, it is actually a place where families are welcome to gather. There are two parks within close proximity for children to utilize. They’ve got root beer on tap and an outdoor space the whole family can use.
Accessibility Note: Handicapped parking is available near the entrance of the beer garden. For those in wheelchairs, those who use walkers, or those with mobility challenges, please note that the beer garden does take place on uneven grass surfaces. However, there is a paved pathway that leads to a section of picnic tables under a structure. To access the various food trucks and beer tent, you will have to go on the grass. If this is not doable, I encourage bringing an able-bodied buddy along so you can stay on the pavement and they can help with getting food or drinks.
For those who are neurodivergent or may feel anxious in crowded spaces, please take note that this space is outdoors, but it can get busy. Arrive early to beat the crowds. For those with digestive diseases or needs, there are real bathrooms on site.
Waterford River Rhythms
A free concert series, Waterford River Rhythms, will take place in Waterford at Village Hall Park, 123 N. River Street, Waterford, WI. Each week this reoccuring event takes place at the park. All shows start at 6:30 p.m. and end at approximately 9 p.m.
The band Debutants will take the stage on July 2.
According to their website, they are a “seven-piece “Indiana Newgrass” band from Fort Wayne, IN, blending bluegrass with indie folk, Americana, and a fearless sense of exploration.”
Accessibility Note: I have not attended this event before, therefore cannot comment on its accessibility. It is noted on the website that their is limited handicap parking available onsite. This is working to be improved, but should be noted. Arrive early if handicap parking is needed.
July 3
Fireworks in Sturtevant
Drum roll…you all have been waiting for the 4th of July events happening in Racine County. The events kick off on July 3.
The Village of Sturtevant will host its fireworks at 9:30 p.m. on July 3 at Fireman’s Park, 9630 Charles St. The Boy Scouts will have a fundraiser onsite; guests can park for $5 per car at Fireman’s Park. Learn more online.
Accessibility note: This event can be crowded, loud, and disturbing for individuals with sound sensitivity. There are bathrooms located within the park.
Car show and festivities in Raymond
Raymond will also host their firework show on July 3. Not only fireworks, but they will have their annual car, truck, and motorcycle show, vendors, live music and more on the third. It starts at 10 a.m. and more details can be found online.
Accessibility note: I have not participated and cannot give an opinion.
First Fridays
First Fridays will kick off the celebrations in Downtown Racine too. The theme is Red, White, and Blues. The event runs from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Friday throughout the downtown area.
Grab a bite to eat, listen to some music and shop around at the various small businesses. More information is online.
Accessibility note: There are paved sidewalks to use. Each business has different accessibility.
July 4th
Racine County knows how to party. Here’s what is shaking on The 4th of July:
Keeping descriptions as short and sweet as can be due to the amount of events.
Burlington
Fireworks
Burlington is ready to go out with a bang this 4th of July. The City of Burlington will launch their fireworks from Festival Park, 681 Maryland Ave., at dusk. This park is located behind Walgreens in Burlington. You can see the fireworks from the park or also from Echo Park or surrounding areas.
Racine
Parade
The 4th Fest of Greater Racine kicks off with a pre-parade at 8:30 a.m. The pre-parade features the noisy police cars, fire engines, military vehicles, classic cars, tractors, and more. Then, the official parade then kicks off at 9 a.m. on the morning of the 4th.
Attendees can pick a spot anywhere along the route stretching from Goold St. and Main St. moving south around the turn at 14th St. Its 2.6 miles long. The earliest you can claim a spot is 5 a.m. according to the official 4th Fest of Racine website.
Fireworks
Fireworks in Racine will take place at North Beach around 9 p.m. on the 4th of July, but can be viewed along the coast of the Lake Michigan shoreline. The time starting can vary.
Accessibility note: Multiple streets downtown will be closed. Handicap parking will be limited. It is a loud and crowded event. The website shares, “handicap parking is available at North Beach. In an effort to be more accessible, on parade day the number of handicap parking spaces increases to 22, triple the number available any other day of the year. These spaces are first come, first served with a valid placard. Once the spaces are full, vehicles will be directed to park with the general public.”
Other: Racine Farmers Market
The Racine Farmers Market will be open at Festival Park in Downtown Racine on the 4th of July from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. They have vendors from various small businesses offering produce, meats, cheese, artisan goods, gifts and more. Updates can be found on their Facebook page.
Accessibility note: I have not been to the farmers market yet.
Raymond
Parade
Raymond will have their parade at 1 p.m. starting at at the Raymond Village Hall, 2255 S. 76th St., in Franksville, and ending at Raymond School, 2659 S. 76th St., in Franksville. Chairs and blankets are recommended to be set out early to save a spot for the parade.
Fireworks
Fireworks will start at 9:30 p.m. on the 4th. The festivities will take place outside of Raymond School. There will also be a DJ from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. as well as food and drinks all day and night. All details about the event can be found online.
Accessibility note: I have not been to this event since childhood. I can’t comment, but I do suspect that like any festival it will be loud and busy.
Union Grove
Parade
The kid’s parade in Union Grove starts at Graham Public Library, 1215 Main St. It starts at 9 a.m. on the 4th.
Union Grove’s official parade starts at 9:15 a.m. at the Racine County Fairgrounds parking lot, 19805 Durand Ave., turns east onto 15th Ave. where it will continue north through downtown on Main St. It will end at Union Grove High School, 3433 S Colony Ave.
More details are available on the Facebook event.
Accessibility note: Cannot comment as I haven’t been to the parade.
Waterford
Parade
The Lions Club of Waterford hosts a kid’s parade and a regular parade that kicks off 10:30 a.m. and then 11 a.m. on the 4th of July.
Main Street closes around 10 a.m. because children at this time are prepping for their parade. Children can participate in the event by gathering at 3rd and Main St. Decorate a bike, wagon, or scooter and hit the streets in red, white, and blue. Then get ready for the grand parade. It starts at 7th and Main St., then turns south on 1st St. Learn more online.
Accessibility note: Cannot comment as I haven’t been to the parade.
Fireworks
Got a boat? View the Tichigan Lake Fireworks on the 4th from the comfort of your own boat. Boaters start lining up for the show around 7 p.m., but the show doesn’t start until dusk. The fireworks can be viewed from surrounding the lake if you don’t have a boat, but in my personal experience, it really caters to these boater attendees. View more online.
Accessibility note: Arrangements are truly individualized on the basis of if you have your own boat. I have been to this event, but not as a spectator without a boat. Events are loud and busy.
Have fun, be safe
Whether you choose to attend these events or not, its your choice. Celebrate how you’d like this 4th of July. If you have a chronic condition or disability, pace yourself, enjoy what you can, and be safe.
ArtRoot Writer-In-Residence 