Friday comedy at the Grand | Your Wausome Weekend Guide

Wausau events for the weekend of Nov. 19-25, 2025

Sponsored by

Dusty Slay

Friday, Nov. 21: There are two ways I can conjure an accurate image of comedian Dusty Slay. One is to imagine the spiritual successor to the Blue Collar Comedy Tour’s originators, such as Jeff Foxworthy. A second is the physical embodiment of a Bob Seger song from the 70s. Armed with a trucker hat, long hair, a flannel shirt and a righteous beard, you can guess the kind of humor you’re getting into with Slay. He tells a story of his mom pouring milk into a bowl and calling them for ice cream, only to tell them “you’re too late” when they entered the kitchen. He’s been a full-time traveling comedian since 2014, has been on the Tonight Show six times and debuted his special on Netflix last year. Slay’s a beast, and comedy fans won’t want to miss this performance. 7 pm. $25-$58.75. Check out the event page for more.

Cirque Musica: Holiday Wonderland

Saturday, Nov. 22: If you’ve never seen one of these Cirque shows, they’re pretty incredible. They’re colorful, well-choreographed and are just a visual feast. This latest version, Cirque Musica: Holiday Wonderland, looks like it’s no exception, with a stunning variety of acrobatics and feats done with a winter wonderland backdrop. Even those who don’t see themselves as “theater” people can most likely find something to enjoy here. Shows at 3 pm and 7:30 pm. $64-$104. See the event page for more.

Eat30 Gala

Saturday, Nov. 22: It’s yet another night of fine dining for a good cause. This time, the Eat30 Gala supports the Hmong American Center. On the menu is live Hmong music, cultural dances, and a dinner worthy of the black tie dress code at the Central Wisconsin Expo and Convention Center. (Though some will be in traditional Hmong dress.) 1-11:30 pm. Prices range from $475 for an entire table to $15 advanced single tickets for the night concert at 7 pm. See the event page for full details and options.

Festival of Trees

Tuesday, Nov. 25: The Festival of Trees is one of Wausau’s holiday markers of the Christmas season. But this gala is a special night for those looking for a fancy and holiday festive night out. Not only can you stroll the stunningly decorated trees, but you can sample culinary delights and enjoy adult beverages or NA cocktails, bid on displays and participate in a live auction. And for those who just want to see the trees, the ongoing festival starts Wednesday at 9 am. Festival gala starts at 6 pm. $85. See the event page for more.

Jordan Miles Band

Friday, Nov. 21: While I can’t say I’ve ever seen the Jordan Miles Band specifically, I have seen Jordan Miles play. He’s a great musician, whether he’s on bass or on the keys. Miles, once a key member of the band Substyle, is joined in his band by musicians Matt Rhyner, Carmyn Hoen and Nick Hoen for this appearance at the Intermission Bar. This is something local music fans are going to want to keep an eye on. 9 pm. See the event page for more.

Dylan Earl and his band

Thursday, Nov. 20: Lamplight Sessions has been hosting a number of what you might call alt country or outlaw country bands — real country, in my opinion. And Dylan Earl is definitely that. Born in Louisiana and raised in Arkansas, Earl cites groups such as Rattlesnake Milk and Esther Rose amongst his influences. His is a breezy country with a deep lap steel sound punctuating his lightly drawling vocals. Opener not yet announced. 7 pm. $38. See the event page for more.

In Brief

Long Gone Henry, 9 pm Friday, Nov. 21 at Malarkey’s Pub

Caleb and Emily, 7:30 pm Saturday, Nov. 22 at Cheek’s Bar and Grill

Stringdingers, 8 pm Saturday, Nov. 22 at Intermission Bar

Klein Creek, 6 pm Saturday, Nov. 22 at Mosinee Brewing Co.

Tina Turner: The Musical, 7:30 pm Tuesday, Nov. 25 at the Grand Theater (There’s a Wednesday show as well.

Sponsored by

Sharing is caring! Share this with your friends and family as you plan your weekend.