EAU CLAIRE, Wis.— The City of Eau Claire turns 150-years-old on Saturday, March 19. To commemorate this milestone, leaders are putting together a birthday celebration that day. 

They also are looking to the community to figure out how to celebrate their beloved city all year long.

“We worked with the City of Eau Claire, Volume One, Downtown Eau Claire Inc. and my Leadership Eau Claire team that’s part of the Chamber of Commerce,” said Rachel Meyer, development director for the Chippewa Valley Museum. “We all come together to make sure we can make the city aware that it’s the sesquicentennial year.”

Meyer said the goal of these celebrations is to provide opportunities for individuals and businesses to celebrate. People in the community are sending in ideas on how to celebrate, including eating cake while saying the word “sesquicentennial.”

“We’re also asking businesses to advertise with us and consider deals around the number 150,” Meyer said. “You can find all the information you need at visiteauclaire.com/150th.”

Meyer said what makes Eau Claire special to her is its warmth and innovation.

“There’s a lot that comes from here and goes to new places and I think that’s what makes it special to live here and to visit,” Meyer said.