La Crosse parks board approves series of special-event permits for downtown and neighborhood parks

The La Crosse Board of Park Commissioners unanimously approved a package of special-event and facility requests at its March 19 meeting, clearing several recurring and one-time activities contingent on other required city and county permits.

The approvals included a Second Saturday downtown art market in Civic Center Park, an EMS Week 5K run/walk in Riverside Park, the Breakthrough Type‑1 Diabetes walk in September, and the Aura Trails Fest presented by Trek Bicycle Corporation in May. Staff described each as annual or standard events and said organizers will secure any outstanding special-event permits through the clerk's office.

The board also approved two separate requests to allow alcohol service at Black River Beach Neighborhood Center — one for a wedding on June 6 and another for a family reunion on Aug. 1 — with staff explaining that the building must be reserved for events that include alcohol service and park board approval is required.

Each motion was moved and seconded as recorded in the meeting packet and passed without objection.

The actions require organizers to complete any additional city or county permitting steps before staging their events.