Why Shopping & Eating Local Matters More Than Ever This Holiday Season

The first time I tried the new smash burgers at Whiskey Ranch Janesville, it was one of those perfect lunchtime decisions that makes you wonder why you didn’t do it sooner. I stopped in for a delicious lunch and ordered one of their highly recommended smash burgers. You can choose a single or a double, but after one look... I knew I had to go big.What hit me first was the flavor. These patties aren’t your run-of-the-mill ground beef. Whiskey Ranch uses a custom blend of USDA Black Angus choice chuck, sirloin, and skirt whole muscle steak. A custom blend crafted exclusively for them. You can taste that difference immediately. Every bite is rich, juicy, and full of that deep, steak-like flavor that makes you stop mid-conversation and say, “Okay, this is really good.”Then there’s everything piled on top. Shredded lettuce for crunch, pickles for tang, caramelized onions for that sweet, savory melt, and their house burger sauce that ties it all together. It comes stacked between a golden bun with those irresistible crispy edges, the kind that crackle just enough when you bite in. Honestly, it felt like the kind of burger you remember days later. Truthfully, I'm already planning my next lunch at Whiskey Ranch Janesville just for the burger.And if you enjoy spending your Sundays out and about in Janesville, here’s the real treat: their Double Smash Burgers are just $10 all day and it comes with your choice of side. Double the patties, double the excuse to come back. Once you’ve had one, you'll be hooked!

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.  

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.

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/

"The Bookmobile extends the reach of the Hedberg Public Library beyond the brick and mortar building and increases access to materials for library patrons across our wonderful community."  – Dr. Jessica Grandt, Principal at Harrison Elementary, HPL Board Trustee Hedberg Public Library (HPL) is thrilled to announce the impending arrival of a new bookmobile in spring 2026, further expanding access to library resources and services across the community.   Guided by the library’s mission of “building community by providing inviting spaces to discover, share, create, and connect,” the HPL Bookmobile fosters a love of reading, supports early literacy, and provides essential resources to residents of all ages. A new HPL Bookmobile marks the library’s next chapter in bringing books, early literacy programs, and other resources directly into community spaces throughout the city. This milestone will be celebrated with an unveiling event in late spring.  The library gives special thanks to the Hedberg Public Library Foundation and the Friends of HPL for their contributions of $200,000 and $50,000 respectively, which were instrumental in making the new bookmobile a reality.   "A new bookmobile for Hedberg Public Library is more than just new wheels; it's about extending Hedberg's reach, bringing the joy of reading and vital resources to every corner of Janesville, ensuring that knowledge and connection are accessible to all, regardless of where they live," said Lara Polk, President of the HPL Foundation.  The bookmobile that HPL currently uses was donated as part of a 2016 Leadership Development Academy project. According to René Bue, Fund Development Manager at the library, “The bookmobile we have now has served us well. We have issued over 200 new library cards each June during our summer school visits and have been able to connect families with resources in the community. However, it is showing its age, and it is time to replace it with a new bookmobile which will allow us to expand our services to additional locations and to be active during more months of the year.”  To help support the new bookmobile and its operation, HPL is seeking sponsorships from local businesses and organizations and will be hosting public donation opportunities in 2026.   Hedberg Public Library is committed to connecting people with ideas, knowledge, and resources that enrich lives and strengthen the community. Through innovative programming, outreach, and services, HPL strives to make learning accessible and engaging for everyone. Learn more at hedbergpubliclibrary.org    

If you’re searching for a special occasion dessert (or even a just because dessert!) in Janesville that feels like a warm hug wrapped in buttercream, The Sweet Daisy is your spot. Owned and lovingly run by Hayley, this home bakery specializes in personalized cookie cakes and gourmet cookies. Each one crafted with extra time, care, and a whole lot of heart. Her signature cookie cake strikes that rare, perfect balance between soft and crunchy, with edges that gently crisp while the center stays irresistibly tender. And the buttercream? Simply outstanding. It’s smooth, flavorful, and not overly sweet, yet still satisfies even the most dedicated sweet tooth.We recently had the joy of collaborating with The Sweet Daisy for one of our free promotional Buzz video through Janesville Buzz, and Hayley truly went above and beyond. In the middle of filming, she surprised us with the sweetest gesture! A mini custom cookie cake featuring our logo piped entirely in buttercream. It was not only the most thoughtful and beautiful surprise, but absolutely delicious! It showcased exactly what makes her bakery special: creativity, craftsmanship, and genuine care. If you’re looking for a dessert that tastes as good as it looks, made by someone who pours love into every detail, The Sweet Daisy is a must-try in Janesville.📍 Janesville, WI🔗 https://thesweetdaisywi.square.site/

Janesville, WI — Festively decorated trees of all shapes and sizes will transform the Lincoln-Tallman House into an elegant wonderland this holiday season. The Rock County Historical Society’s (RCHS) annual Holiday Tree Show features a sparkling collection of trees creatively decorated by local businesses, nonprofits, individuals, and families. Visitors of all ages can wander through the beautifully adorned Italianate mansion, located at 440 N. Jackson St. in Janesville, from December 4 – 28. Presented by Blackhawk Community Credit Union (BHCCU), the Holiday Tree Show features more than 100 trees with unique, personal decorations on the main and upstairs levels of the Lincoln-Tallman House. The show includes a scavenger hunt and holiday activity booklets for extra fun for younger visitors. At the heart of the show stands a stunning 20-foot tree, rising through the mansion’s elliptical to the second floor. Each room surrounds guests with the glow of twinkling lights, creating a magical, immersive holiday experience. “The annual Holiday Tree Show is a community celebration of joy! So many local businesses, families, and nonprofits participate to embody the beauty of the season for Rock County and the region,” said Catherine Barton, RCHS board secretary and Holiday Tree Show volunteer. “The decorations are so inventive and special, and every year there is something new to see.” Visitors may continue the fun by strolling to the Tallman Carriage House to enjoy a beverage and stop for a selfie with Santa and Mrs. Claus.  This year, the Holiday Tree Show is partnering with the spectacular Holiday Light Show at the Rotary Botanical Gardens. People who buy advance tickets to the Holiday Tree Show can enjoy a special discount for the Holiday Light Show. This local collaboration highlights the fact that visitors can enjoy two gorgeous holiday displays while supporting two local organizations. Tree Show dates are Thursdays – Sundays in December. Hours are 3 – 7 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, and Noon – 4 p.m. on weekends. Closed Christmas day. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit rchs.us. Ticket pricing is $15 for adults (13+) online; $18 at the door; $5 for children ages 3-12. Children 2 and under are free.

The City of Janesville invites community members to help fill a vital need this season by participating in Noodles for Neighbors!From November 3 through November 28, residents are encouraged to donate boxes or bags of pasta at designated drop-off locations across the City. All donations will go directly to ECHO, Inc. to support individuals and families in need throughout the Janesville area.The community can find Noodles for Neighbors collection bins at:City Hall (18 N. Jackson Street)Janesville Police Department (100 N. Jackson Street)Janesville Fire Department (303 Milton Avenue)Transit Service Center (101 Black Bridge Road)Wastewater Utility (3300 W. Tripp Road)Water Utility (123 E. Delavan Dr.)City Service Center (2200 N. US Hwy. 51)Janesville Senior Center (69 S. Water Street)Woodman’s Sports and Convention Center (2510 Milton Avenue)For questions or direct donations, contact Kelly Bedessem, Housing Services Director at (608) 755-3052 or bedessemk@janesvillewi.gov.

There’s a new aroma drifting through downtown Janesville. The unmistakable scent of freshly baked cookies from Sugardust Bakehouse, the newest (and already wildly popular) bakery in town. Open just a short while, Sugardust has quickly become a local favorite. So much of a favorite that they’re selling out daily, even on a random Tuesday!I finally managed to snag a few cookies before they disappeared. An M&M cookie sprinkled with festive Halloween colors and a peanut butter cookie topped with the most adorable little Reese’s Cup spider. Each bite was soft, rich, and packed with that made-from-scratch goodness you can only get from a baker who truly loves what they do.That love runs deep at Sugardust Bakehouse. As shared on their website, the passion for cookies started “way back in the 1900s,” when Diane, the owner, tasted a life-changing chocolate chip cookie at a friend’s house. That moment sparked decades of baking making thousands of cookies for family, friends, neighbors, and community events. Every recipe tells a story, and every treat is made with care, connection, and a touch of nostalgia.Now, through Sugardust Bakehouse, those stories are being shared with all of Janesville. It’s more than a bakery. It’s a space where memories are made and community is built, one cookie at a time. So next time you’re in Janesville, stop by early, grab a few cookies before they sell out, and share a little sweetness with someone you love. After all, that’s exactly what Sugardust is all about.📍 2549 Milton Ave., Janesville, WI🔗 https://www.sugardustcookies.com/