Here are some of the most popular Wausau summer events that are back in 2021
WAUSAU - Get ready, because your favorite summer events are back this year.
Last year, many organizers were forced to cancel or alter Wausau's most popular events to help slow the spread of COVID-19. And while things could still change this year, here are a few events that are moving forward with plans.
Concerts on the Square
Concerts on the Square will begin June 16 and run until Aug. 18. The annual concert series is held on the 400 Block in downtown Wausau.
The 2021 schedule includes performances by Pacific Coast Highway, Big Mouth and Dig Deep. For a full schedule, visit wausauevents.org.
Taste N Glow Balloon Fest
Taste N Glow Balloon Fest is a new event that will feature balloon launches, balloon glows, a tractor pull, a craft show, a flea market and live music. It will also host several food trucks and have other food tents as well as a beer garden, according to the event's Facebook page.
The event will take place July 9 to July 11 at Trailmates Grass Drag track, 140914 Stettin Drive in Marathon City.
ChalkFest
ChalkFest is back this year. The event will be held on the 400 Block in downtown Wausau July 10 and 11, though the ChalkFest Committee said the event might have a few changes this year due to COVID-19. The committee plans to release more details soon.
Hmong Wausau Festival
The annual Hmong Wausau Festival will be held July 31 and Aug. 1 at the Marathon County Sports Complex, 602 E. Kent St.
The event celebrates the Hmong community while hosting competitions, such as the Mr. Hmong Royalty Talent Pageant, and tournaments for flag football, volleyball and more. The event will also feature food and merchandise vendors from across the U.S.
Big Bull Fall Blues Fest
The Big Bull Fall Blues Fest will take place Aug. 20 and 21 at Fern Island Park.
The event will feature musicians Friday and Saturday. Acts include The Jimmy's, Mike Zito and his Big Blues Band, Eric Gales and more. Tickets are available online now.
Wisconsin Valley Fair
This year's Wisconsin Valley Fair will run from Aug. 3 to Aug. 8 at the Marathon Park, 1201 Stewart Ave. in Wausau.
This year's fair will feature Boogie and the Yo-yo'z on Aug. 3, Roots and Boots on Aug. 4, Randy Houser on Aug. 5 and Ezra Ray Hart on Aug. 6.
Contact USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin reporter Melissa Siegler at msiegler@gannett.com. Follow her on Twitter at @Marie2Melissa.