Irvine Park
Chippewa Falls businessman William Irvine, his firm, Chippewa Lumber and Boom Company, and L.C. Stanley established Irvine Park in 1906 through a generous donation of 165 acres of land. Since then, the size of Irvine Park has grown to 318 acres and is a recreational resource for the citizens of Chippewa Falls.
Take a short walk through Irvine Park, and you will find many locations and areas with rich history
- The Band Shell, designed in the 19th Century Romantic tradition and erected in 1924, stands as a memorial to “Our Soldiers and Sailors.” This popular site is used for summertime concerts and weddings.
- The historic Irvine Park Main Pavilion, built in 1908, is a great alternative for your reunions or large group gatherings. This pavilion can accommodate approximately 180-200 people for your events and comes with the use of the kitchenette behind the pavilion.
- The Sunny Valley Schoolhouse, built in 1903, and the Log Cabin, over 100 years old, are fine examples of our proud heritage. These sites are open to the public on Sundays in the summer from 1:00-5:00pm.
- The Rumbly Bridge was erected in 1907 over Duncan Creek near the Park’s back entrance. The Rumbly Bridge is possibly the only remaining metal truss in Wisconsin specifically designed as an ornamental park bridge.
As you walk through the park, there is history at every turn. Take time to explore and appreciate this beautiful park.
**Admission to Irvine Park & Zoo is free, but donations are appreciated**
Christmas Village
The Chippewa Falls Christmas Village, in beautiful Irvine Park, is an impressive display of life size Christmas scenes reminiscent of the Victorian era and local historical replicas. It is set up during the holiday season along with a dazzling display of over 60,000 lights.
Established in 1987, as an out-growth of the Chamber of Commerce Retail Committee, the Christmas Village has grown into an independent project of great size involving individuals, businesses, volunteer organizations, and city government.
The 25th Anniversary, in 2012 featured a special Community Tree, new displays, a historical Christmas Village display on opening night, and the return of holiday music playing throughout the Christmas Village.
The years beyond promise to be fill of exciting new displays, expanded lighting and new areas opening up. You can continue this tradition by becoming involved as an individual, a group or business.