What is new for Northwoods Drifter in 2026
The Hodag Dome buzzed with the energy of collaboration last Thursday as 93 exhibitors from across seven Northwoods counties gathered for the annual Up North Community Expo. For local businesses, nonprofits, and organizations, it’s become the region’s go-to networking event — a place where connections happen over decorated booths and genuine conversations.
Lauren Sackett, CEO of the Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce, watched the day unfold with satisfaction. “A lot of good interaction that we saw throughout the day,” she noted, highlighting the quality of connections made between exhibitors and attendees.
The expo has grown into something bigger than just a business fair. It’s where the Northwoods community comes together to tackle workforce challenges, recruit volunteers, and shine a light on causes that matter.
Every organization at the expo had its own mission, but they all shared a common goal: making meaningful connections with Northwoods residents. Some were looking for new employees to fill open positions. Others needed volunteers or members to expand their reach.
The competitive booth decorating added a creative spark to the event. Organizations didn’t just set up tables — they transformed their spaces into engaging displays that told stories about their work.
The Tri-County Council on Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault exemplified this approach perfectly. Their booth featured flower graphics, a tree decorated with educational facts, and an interactive flower crown-making station.
“Domestic violence and sexual assault can be a super sensitive topic to talk about, so it’s always super important having a positive environment, and we talk about empowerment a lot,” explained Casey Wagner, the organization’s Executive Director.
By creating a welcoming space centered on growth and resilience, they made difficult conversations easier to start. That’s the kind of community-building that makes this expo essential.
Rhinelander’s position as a Northwoods hub made it the natural choice for an event spanning seven counties. The expo drew participants from across the region — from Vilas to Oneida, Forest to Iron.
For smaller communities throughout the Northwoods, getting visibility can be challenging. The expo levels the playing field, giving organizations from every corner of the region a chance to connect with a broader audience.
Key benefits for exhibitors included:
The Rhinelander Area Chamber of Commerce has served the community for over a century, but events like the Up North Community Expo show how it continues to evolve. This isn’t your grandfather’s chamber meeting — it’s dynamic community engagement designed for today’s challenges.
The Chamber extended the networking into the evening with Expo After Hours at Rouman Cinema, where local food and beverage vendors kept the conversations flowing. Smart move — some of the best connections happen over good food when the formal presentations are done.
Exhibitor applications for next year’s expo opened the day after this year’s event wrapped. That quick turnaround speaks to demand.
In an era of remote work and digital connections, face-to-face events like the Up North Community Expo serve a crucial function. Online networking has its place, but there’s no substitute for looking someone in the eye and having a real conversation about shared challenges.
For Northwoods organizations, geographic isolation can make networking difficult. Driving to Madison or Milwaukee for conferences isn’t practical when you’re running a small nonprofit or family business. Regional events bring the networking to where people actually live and work.
The expo also highlights the diversity of the Northwoods economy. This isn’t just tourism and timber anymore — though those industries remain vital. The exhibitor list reflected healthcare providers, tech businesses, educational institutions, environmental organizations, and service providers of every kind.
With applications already open for next year’s expo, the Rhinelander Chamber is building on this year’s success. The 93-exhibitor turnout set a high bar, and the quality of interactions suggests the event will continue growing.
For organizations considering exhibiting next year, the formula is clear: come with an engaging booth design, be ready for genuine conversations, and understand that people remember how you made them feel more than what your brochure said.
The Up North Community Expo proves that community strength comes from connection. When 93 organizations from seven counties can gather in one space and find common ground, that’s the Northwoods spirit in action. Whether you’re recruiting employees, seeking volunteers, or just want to understand what’s happening across the region, this expo delivers.
Next year’s event will likely be even bigger. If you’re involved with a Northwoods business or organization, it’s worth marking your calendar now.
Written by
Mike has been coming up or living in the Northwoods since his childhood. He is also an avid outdoorsman, writer and supper club aficionado.
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