In 2024, the City of Onalaska took an exciting step toward earning its official “Butterfly City” designation. One of the required criteria was the completion of a butterfly-themed art project—and our community delivered with creativity and heart!

One hundred metal butterflies were painted by local residents and displayed proudly in the Greens Coulee roundabout and at City Hall. Each artist added their own colorful flair, turning the project into a vibrant celebration of local talent. On Labor Day, every participant received their butterfly back to display in their own yards—spreading beauty all across Onalaska.

Inspired by the success, in the summer of 2025, locals returned to the roundabout with a new burst of creativity: hand-painted metal flowers. These cheerful pieces were once again displayed in the Greens Coulee roundabout, offering drivers and pedestrians a delightful, unexpected splash of color throughout the season.

Together, these public art efforts continue to enrich our community spirit—and bring us closer to becoming an official Butterfly City.