Welcome to Janesville Buzz! Your Guide for Things to Do in Janesville WI

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As Buddy the Elf once said, “The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear.” 🎶✨But is he right… or is there an even better way to enjoy the festive season?Janesville, we want to hear from YOU! Cast your vote below and tell us how you like to celebrate.

Tucked inside the Bodacious Block of 42, you’ll find three distinct shops that together create one of Janesville’s most charming culinary hubs. Among them is So Chopped, a newer cafe serving up fresh, vibrant, and customizable meals. From signature salads and wraps to build-your-own creations, paninis, a quesadilla of the week, and a rotating soup of the day. So Chopped is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., it’s the perfect midday stop for something delicious, fast, and thoughtfully crafted. In true Bodacious fashion, everything here reflects a commitment to local ingredients and community-inspired flavor.Today’s visit brought two standout dishes to the table. First up was the Roasted Turkey Fontina Focaccia, a towering sandwich creation that hits all the right notes and served with kettle potato chips and a pickle spear. The combination of tender turkey breast with blackberry & orange jam delivers a sweet-tart brightness that pairs beautifully with the smoky applewood bacon. Peppery arugula and crispy onions add texture and balance, while the Bodacious maple balsamic ties everything together with a warm, slightly sweet finish. All of this is served on a soft, flavorful focaccia roll that makes every bite feel like a little Thanksgiving inspired celebration.The second dish, was the Twisted Sesame Signature Salad. A fresh, colorful standout packed with flavor and crunch. Built on a bed of spring mix, it’s topped with mandarin oranges, edamame, carrots, mushrooms (which I swapped for extra oranges), sliced almonds, crispy wonton strips, pea pods, and a sesame ginger vinaigrette that brings a bright, zesty kick. It’s the kind of salad that leaves you feeling satisfied rather than weighed down. Deliciously balanced, hearty, and full of texture. The extra pop of citrus from the added oranges made it even more refreshing.What makes this experience even more special is the ethos behind Bodacious Shops. As their website puts it, they aim to be “a culinary and cultural beacon” in the heart of Janesville. One that celebrates local ingredients and blends Midwestern warmth with modern culinary excellence. Every dish feels like a reflection of that mission. Whether you're grabbing a quick lunch, meeting a friend, or simply exploring Janesville’s food scene, So Chopped offers a modern, flavorful place where community and craftsmanship come together deliciously.

Hedberg Public Library will offer a variety of free programs all month long. Visit the online calendar at HedbergPublicLibrary.org for the most up-to-date details or follow the library’s Facebook page.    Santa and Mrs. Claus will again make a stop at HPL in coordination with Janesville’s Jolly Jingle on Saturday, December 6. Children and families can enjoy a festive storytime filled with holiday stories, songs, and fun at either 9:30 or 11 a.m. in the Program Room. A photo opportunity with the jolly couple will be in the Fireplace Room from 10-11 a.m. No registration is necessary.   The Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) of Rock County will offer Memory Screenings at HPL on Thursday, December 11 from 11 a.m.-3 p.m. to promote early detection, start conversations, and encourage physician follow-up for signs of dementia. Registration is required for a 30-minute time slot. Register online, at the library, or call 608-758-6600.   Stop by the library throughout December to enjoy local musicians as they perform holiday music in the Fireplace Room. Find the full lineup on our website. Performers interested in participating in Hedberg Harmony in the future may call 608-758-5803.  Hedberg Public Library, 316 S. Main St., is open Monday-Thursday, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. and Friday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. HPL Express, located inside Uptown Janesville at 2500 Milton Ave., is open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Both library locations will be closed on December 24, 25, and 31, as well as January 1.    EXHIBITS:  ART: Mixed Media by Judy Hatlen, Digital Collage by Duane Brewer CASE: Assemblage by Jennye Byrns   STORYTIMES:  Resume January 7, 2026    COMMUNITY OFFICE HOURS:   SOCIETY’S ASSETS  Mondays from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.  December 1-29 STUDY ROOM 4  Society's Assets is a local nonprofit that provides independent living services supporting individuals of any age with any disability who live in Racine, Kenosha, Walworth, Rock, and Jefferson counties. No registration necessary.    COMMUNITY ACTION INC.  Wednesdays from 3-5 p.m.  December 3 & 17 STUDY ROOM 4  Community Action, Inc. (CAI) is a not-for-profit organization offering programs to fight poverty in Rock and Walworth counties in Wisconsin. No registration necessary.     BOOK CLUBS:  Resume in January. Visit our website for full details.  OTHER RECURRING:   READING MENAGERIE: GREET THE CREATURES for ages 5-12  December 1 - April 30 CHILDREN’S ROOM Build your magical menagerie and meet the newest creatures in the mix! Register and pick up your Reading Tracker to start collecting cards. Readers earn ONE CARD for every 30 minutes tracked.   TECHNOLOGY OFFICE HOURS for adults  Thursdays at 11 a.m. & 12 p.m. December 4 & 18 HPL EXPRESS | UPTOWN JANESVILLE, 2500 MILTON AVE. Wednesday, December 10 at 10 & 11 a.m. December  STUDY ROOM 1 Sign up for a 45-minute tech help appointment with Tyler, HPL’s Innovation Librarian. Get help with a new device, troubleshoot tech problems, or learn a new skill! Walk-ins are welcome, but registration is recommended. Call 608-758-5833 or email tkellman@hedbergpubliclibrary.org to make an appointment.   CHESS CLUB  Saturdays from 1-3 p.m.  December 6-27 WOODRUFF ROOM  Play, learn, or watch with chess Life Master and former WI State Champion, Peter Webster. No registration necessary.   READ-IN WITH MARY for ages 5-11  Mondays from 3:30-5 p.m.  December 1-29 CHILDREN’S ROOM  Bring or choose your own reading material for some cozy silent reading with Mary the Comfort Dog. Take turns reading aloud if you'd like! No registration necessary.   MONDAY NIGHT MAGIC for teens & adults  Mondays from 5-7 p.m.  December 1 & 15 LAB 316  We invite you to experience the captivating world of Magic: The Gathering, whether you're a skilled player or a curious newcomer. We would be delighted to teach you the fundamentals if you're unfamiliar or join in a game or two if you are an experienced player. Join us for an immersive adventure where every move shapes the outcome. No registration necessary.   DUNGEONS & DRAGONS for adults    Mondays from 5-7 p.m. December 8 & 22 WOODRUFF ROOM Calling all new and experienced adventurers (ages 18+)! The library's new Dungeon Master is ready to lead you through epic quests and thrilling campaigns. Whether you're a seasoned player or curious to try Dungeons & Dragons for the first time, all are welcome to play. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online, at the library, or call 608-758-6600.    FEATURED PROGRAMS  CHAIR YOGA for teens & adults    Wednesday, December 3, 6 p.m.  PROGRAM ROOM  Join us for a gentle yoga class perfect for anyone with mobility or balance challenges, or for those who work while seated. Chair provided. Please bring any other props you like to use for yoga. No registration necessary. Participate at your own risk and let the instructor know of any injuries or modifications before the program. Part of our Healthy @ Hedberg Initiative.    WOOD CARVING DEMO for all ages  Saturday, December 6 From 9 a.m.-12 p.m.  ATRIUM  Visit with members of the Rock River Valley Woodcarvers and learn the skills of their craft. No registration is necessary.   STORIES WITH SANTA for kids & families   Saturday, December 6, 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Storytime: 9:30 a.m. or 11:30 a.m.  Photo Ops: 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. PROGRAM ROOM Join Santa and Mrs. Claus for a festive storytime filled with holiday stories, songs, and fun - plus a photo op with the jolly couple! No registration necessary. Part of the Jolly Jingle celebration.  HEDBERG HARMONY: JANESVILLE ACADEMY MUSIC for all ages  Saturday, December 6, 2:30 p.m. FIREPLACE ROOM Listen to live music by local musicians to celebrate the spooky season. No registration necessary.  PERK UP & PUZZLE for adults  Monday, December 8, 10:30-11:30 a.m. PROGRAM ROOM Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea and some conversation while we work on a featured puzzle or brain game together - or to take it home to do it yourself. No registration necessary.  HEDBERG HARMONY HOLIDAY EDITION: EMERSION ORCHESTRA for all ages Mondays, December 8 & 15 at 10:30 a.m. Monday, December 29 at 6 p.m.  FIREPLACE ROOM Enjoy holiday music on piano. No registration necessary.  ADOPT-A-PET AT THE LIBRARY for all ages  Wednesday, December 10, 9:30-11:30 a.m.  ATRIUM  Meet adorable adoptable pets from the Humane Society of Southern Wisconsin. No registration necessary.   HEDBERG HARMONY HOLIDAY EDITION: KRIS GLEASON for all ages Wednesday, December 10, 2 p.m. FIREPLACE ROOM Enjoy holiday music on piano. No registration necessary.  EVENING YOGA for teens & adults  Wednesday, December 10, 6 p.m. PROGRAM ROOM Join us for a beginner-friendly gentle Vinyasa Yoga class. Bring your own yoga mat or towel and any props you may prefer (blocks or strap) and water. No registration necessary.  AMERICAN RED CROSS BLOOD DRIVE for adults Thursday, December 11, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. FIREPLACE ROOM Make an appointment at redcrossblood.org or 1-800-RED-CROSS. Walk-ins are welcome.  MEMORY SCREENING for adults  Thursday, December 11, 11 am-3 pm STUDY ROOM 1 The Wisconsin Department of Health Services and the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Institute have teamed up to promote early detection, start conversations, and encourage physician follow-up for signs of dementia. Registration required for a 30-minute time slot. Register online, at the library, or call 608-758-6600.  HEDBERG HARMONY: SOUTHERN WISCONSIN DULCIMER CLUB  for all ages  Saturday, December 13, 10 a.m. FIREPLACE ROOM Enjoy relaxing dulcimer music on the 2nd Saturday of each month. No registration necessary.  HOLIDAY MOVIE BINGO for teens & adults Saturday, December 13, 12-2 p.m. PROGRAM ROOM Play bingo using all our favorite holiday movie tropes! Cozy attire, slippers, and blankets are encouraged. Popcorn and hot cocoa provided while supplies last. No registration necessary.  HEDBERG HARMONY HOLIDAY EDITION: ECLECTIC RED for all ages Saturday, December 13, 1 p.m.  FIREPLACE ROOM Enjoy holiday music in the Fireplace Room. No registration necessary.  MEMORY CAFÉ: COOKING DECORATING WITH CRAIG HS CHOIR for adults  Monday, December 15, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. PROGRAM ROOM Craig High School Choir will be performing and then staying to decorate cookies with our group. A Memory Café is a social gathering for individuals who are experiencing early-stage memory loss or dementia and attend with a family member, friend, or a care partner. It is a safe and welcoming space to connect, find support, and enjoy a sense of community and purpose. Registration is required. Register by calling ADRC’s Dementia Care Specialist Karen Tennyson at 608-741-3615.  HEDBERG HARMONY: ROCK RIVER STRING BAND  for all ages   Monday, December 15, 2 p.m.  FIREPLACE ROOM  Listen to live music by local musicians. No registration necessary.   BREASTFEEDING VILLAGE: EDUCATION & COMMUNITY FOR NEW MOMS for adults Tuesday, December 16, 12:30-1:30 p.m. PROGRAM ROOM presented by Rock County Nutrition Health Associates (WIC) Learn the ‘How Tos’ of nursing and pumping! Find comradery with other moms, explore common questions and concerns, and overcome those obstacles as a breastfeeding community. Registration required. Call Nutrition and Health Associates at 608-893-7014 or email annikard@nhawic.org.  HEDBERG HARMONY HOLIDAY EDITION: MADISON CAPITAL CHORDSMEN for all ages Tuesday, December 16, 6:30 p.m.  FIREPLACE ROOM Enjoy holiday music in the Fireplace Room. No registration necessary.  CASUAL CRAFTERS for teens & adults  Thursday, December 18, 5:30-7 p.m.  LAB 316  Create a crafting community! Bring your current project or start a new one, browse our new Little Free Lab 316 craft supplies, and meet other crafters. No registration necessary.   WINTER STORYWALK for all ages  Around December 19 ROBERT O. COOK MEMORIAL ARBORETUM presented in partnership with the City of Janesville Recreation Division and the School District of Janesville Stroll through Counting Winter by Nancy White Carlstrom.  HEDBERG HARMONY HOLIDAY EDITION: EMMA FIELD for all ages Saturday, December 20, 11 .m.   FIREPLACE ROOM Enjoy holiday music in the Fireplace Room. No registration necessary.  HEDBERG HARMONY HOLIDAY EDITION: SAWYER DODD for all ages Saturday, December 20, 2 p.m.  FIREPLACE ROOM Enjoy holiday music in the Fireplace Room. No registration necessary.  

The holiday season in Janesville shines bright each year with Janesville’s Jolly Jingle, a festive weekend filled with magic, music, and memory-making for all ages. Held annually on the first weekend in December, this beloved celebration brings the community together with a full lineup of events including ice skating, a lighted parade, live theater, fireworks, a tree lighting, family activities, kids’ entertainment, and so much more. With most activities free or low-cost, it’s the perfect way to kick off the season without breaking the holiday budget.Families will find endless ways to celebrate! Whether you're cozying up for storytime with Santa, exploring holiday markets, enjoying live performances, or watching the night sky sparkle with fireworks, it'll be a weekend to remember. The variety of activities ensures there’s something for everyone, from little ones experiencing the wonder of the holidays to adults embracing the nostalgia and joy of the season.At its heart, Janesville’s Jolly Jingle is built on a simple mission: to create an exciting and diverse schedule of holiday events that delight people of all ages, welcome both residents and visitors, and generate meaningful economic impact for the community. It’s more than a weekend of events. It’s a celebration of togetherness, tradition, and the joyful spirit that makes Janesville shine each December.📍 Downtown Janesville, WI🔗 https://www.janesvillejollyjingle.com/

Small Wonders Learning Center in Milton, WI is redefining early learning with intentional, play-based education that lets kids imagine, explore, and truly thrive. 🌟 Their whole-child approach builds curiosity, confidence, and lifelong skills. Schedule a tour and see the magic in action!📍 880 McEwan Ln, Milton, WI 53563 🔗 https://smallwondersltd.com/

Step into a glowing wonderland of 100+ decorated trees inside The Rock County Historical Society's Lincoln-Tallman House! 🎄✨ From festive drinks to kid-friendly scavenger hunts, there’s something magical for everyone. Grab your advance tickets and make this holiday tradition part of your season!Dates: December 4 - 28Event Hours:Thursdays & Fridays: 3–7 p.m.Saturdays & Sundays: Noon–4 p.m.📍 440 N Jackson St, Janesville, WI 53548🔗 More about RCHS: https://rchs.us/🔗 Tickets: https://events.wiscotix.com/e/holiday-tree-show

With 94 years of family tradition, unbeatable prices, and true old-school service... that’s what makes Siker Furniture a Janesville favorite. With free delivery, layaway options, and a team that treats customers like family, finding your perfect piece has never been easier.🪑 Visit Siker Furniture today and let them earn your business!📍 2708 Milton Avenue Janesville, WI 53545 🔗 https://www.sikerfurnitureandbedding.com/#janesvillebuzz #janesville #janesvillewi #wisconsin #explorejanesville #explorewisconsin

A space created with heart, community, and over 20 years of yoga experience. Flow & Co Wellness Studio is all about feeling welcome, slowing down, and finding a moment to breathe. With special events, classes, and holiday sales coming up, there’s never been a better time to start. 🧘 Come flow with them and book your first class today!📍 4336 Milton Ave Suite 110, Janesville, WI 53546 🔗 https://www.flowandcostudio.com/