Milwaukee Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Milwaukee and surrounding areas

Milwaukee lights up the holiday season in 2025 with festive charm around the lakefront and the Historic Third Ward. The Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival, The Nutcracker, and A Christmas Carol bring seasonal performances and community holiday activities framed by sparkling Holiday lights. Discover winter festivals, Christmas markets, and family-focused things to do that highlight local crafts, seasonal foods, and neighborhood celebrations for a cozy festive season.

Find the best Milwaukee Christmas happenings this year!

Milwaukee Christmas Events

All Christmas Events Within 25 Miles of Milwaukee

Milwaukee Christmas Markets and Shopping

Saint Kate Holiday Marketplace

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Saint Kate - The Arts Hotel
139 East Kilbourn Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53202

Discover unique treasures at the Saint Kate Holiday Marketplace, featuring over 60 local artists and vendors. Browse a curated selection of handmade crafts, artisanal goods, and festive decorations perfect for finding special holiday gifts. Immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere and support local creators.

Hover Craft Holiday Market

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ The Pritzlaff Building
333 N Plankinton Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53203

Discover the magic of Hover Craft, Milwaukee's ultimate holiday market, held at the historic Pritzlaff Building. This vibrant event showcases over 120 local artists, crafters, and designers, offering a curated selection of unique, handmade gifts. From intricate jewelry to custom art, find treasures you won't see anywhere else. Enjoy delicious...

Christmas in the Ward

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Historic Third Ward
525 E. Chicago St., Milwaukee, WI 53202

Experience the festive spirit of 'Christmas in the Ward' in Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward. This beloved event features a magical tree lighting ceremony with Santa, live reindeer, a dazzling fireworks display, and holiday movie projections. Enjoy delicious food from local trucks and restaurants, warm up with s'mores, and find unique...

Deer District Holiday Market

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Fiserv Forum Plaza

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Deer District Holiday Market in Milwaukee. This festive event showcases a curated selection of local vendors, offering unique gifts and artisanal products. Visitors can savor seasonal food and beverage specials from Deer District establishments and capture memorable moments at charming holiday-themed...

Holiday Folk Fair International (West Allis, WI)

β€’ 6 mi from Milwaukee πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Wisconsin State Fair Park Exposition Center
8200 West Greenfield Avenue, West Allis, WI 53214

Journey around the world at the 82nd Annual Holiday Folk Fair International, America's premier multicultural festival. Experience the rich tapestry of global cultures through captivating music, dance, art, and authentic cuisine. Discover unique traditions, shop for handcrafted goods, and immerse yourself in a festive celebration of heritage.

Holidays In the Village (Wauwatosa, WI)

β€’ 8 mi from Milwaukee πŸ’° $
πŸ“ The Village of Wauwatosa

Discover the enchanting 'Holidays In the Village' event series, transforming Wauwatosa into a festive wonderland. This celebration features a Holiday Sip & Stroll, encouraging exploration of local shops and dining. Small Business Saturday offers a prime opportunity to support local artisans and find unique gifts. While specific dates for the...

Brookfield German Holiday Market (Brookfield, WI)

β€’ 11 mi from Milwaukee πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Brookfield City Hall
2000 N. Calhoun Road, Brookfield, WI 53005

Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at the Brookfield German Holiday Market. This vibrant event offers a delightful blend of traditional German culture and holiday cheer. Browse unique crafts from local artisans, savor delicious seasonal treats, and enjoy live music. Families can delight in visits with Santa, engaging craft stations,...

Jingle Bell Craft Fair (Menomonee Falls, WI)

β€’ 13 mi from Milwaukee
πŸ“ Falls Choir Association
W156N8131 Pilgrim Road, Menomonee Falls, WI 53051

Get into the holiday spirit at the Jingle Bell Craft Fair, a vibrant marketplace showcasing the talents of local artisans. Discover unique, handmade gifts and festive decorations perfect for the holiday season. This event is a wonderful opportunity to find one-of-a-kind treasures while supporting community creators.

Mistletoe Market (Waukesha, WI)

β€’ 17 mi from Milwaukee πŸ’° $
πŸ“ Waukesha County Expo Center
1000 Northview Rd, Waukesha, WI

Discover a festive holiday shopping experience at the Mistletoe Market. This event showcases over 100 talented artisans and makers offering a wide array of unique, handmade goods. Find perfect gifts, from artisanal soaps and candles to delightful confections and handcrafted jewelry, all made in the USA by the artists themselves.

A Cedarburg Christmas (Cedarburg, WI)

β€’ 19 mi from Milwaukee πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Downtown Cedarburg

Discover the enchanting holiday magic of A Cedarburg Christmas, transforming historic downtown into a festive winter wonderland. Visitors can indulge in unique holiday shopping, enjoy visits with Santa, listen to carolers, and experience the joy of horse-drawn sleigh rides. This event offers a perfect blend of seasonal activities and community...

Mukwonago Midnight Magic (Mukwonago, WI)

β€’ 25 mi from Milwaukee πŸ’° $
πŸ“ Mukwonago Chamber of Commerce
100 Atkinson St, Mukwonago, WI 53149

Experience the enchantment of Mukwonago Midnight Magic, a beloved holiday tradition. This festive event brings together local artisans and vendors, offering a delightful array of handcrafted gifts, unique decorations, and seasonal treats. Immerse yourself in the cheerful holiday spirit as you explore the marketplace and enjoy the vibrant community atmosphere.

Milwaukee Christmas Light Displays

Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival

πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Downtown Milwaukee
301 W. Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53203

Downtown Milwaukee shines brightly during the Holiday Lights Festival, transforming the city with over half a million brilliant bulbs. Explore parks and streets adorned with festive decorations, including the unique Ornament Trail and illuminated displays in Cathedral Square Park, Pere Marquette Park, and Zeidler Union Square. The event promises a...

Milwaukee Ornament Trail

πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Downtown Milwaukee
301 W. Wisconsin Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53203

Wander through downtown Milwaukee and discover the enchanting Ornament Trail, a public art display featuring uniquely designed, oversized holiday ornaments. This festive attraction winds through Wisconsin Avenue, Water Street, and the Historic Third Ward, offering a delightful visual experience for all ages. Pick up an activity guide to navigate the...

Winter Wonder Woods

πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Hawthorn Glen Outdoor Education Center
1130 N 60th St, Milwaukee, WI 53208

Experience the magic of winter at Milwaukee Recreation's Winter Wonder Woods. This enchanting event invites visitors to stroll through the illuminated Hawthorn Glen Outdoor Education Center, where nature-inspired displays create a serene and beautiful atmosphere. Enjoy complimentary warm drinks and cookies while appreciating the natural beauty of the woods. It's...

Racine Kiwanis Holiday Lights at the Christmas Carnival of Lights (Caledonia, WI)

β€’ 14 mi from Milwaukee πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Yogi Bear's Jellystone Parkβ„’ Camp-Resort
8425 State Rd 38, Caledonia, WI 53108

Experience the enchanting Racine Kiwanis Holiday Lights at the Christmas Carnival of Lights. Drive through a wonderland of over 3 million lights synchronized to festive music, featuring classic displays and unique, handcrafted scenes. Visit Santa in his workshop, or opt for a magical sleigh ride or golf cart train adventure....

Country Christmas Drive Through & Walking Nights (Pewaukee, WI)

β€’ 19 mi from Milwaukee πŸ’° $
πŸ“ Country Christmas at The Ingleside Hotel
2810 Golf Road, Pewaukee, WI 53072

Experience the enchantment of Country Christmas, a spectacular holiday event featuring a mile-long illuminated trail with animated creatures and dazzling light displays. Choose from special walking nights, festive bike rides, or a classic drive-through experience. Enjoy the magic and support a good cause.

DaySpring Luminary Hike & Live Nativity (Pewaukee, WI)

β€’ 22 mi from Milwaukee πŸ’° $
πŸ“ DaySpring Church & Schools
N14W29489 Silvernail Rd., Pewaukee, WI 53072

Step into the Christmas story with DaySpring's Luminary Hike & Live Nativity. Follow a mile-long trail illuminated by over 2,500 luminaries, encountering live characters from the Nativity. After the journey, explore the new Bethlehem Marketplace for unique gifts and festive dΓ©cor, and warm up with hot chocolate. It's an unforgettable...

Milwaukee Christmas Movies, Theater and Entertainment

A Christmas Carol

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Pabst Theater
144 E Wells St, Milwaukee, WI 53202

Milwaukee's beloved holiday tradition, 'A Christmas Carol,' returns for its 50th Anniversary production. Experience Ebenezer Scrooge's iconic transformation through beautiful music, lively dancing, and stunning special effects. This adaptation of Charles Dickens' classic tale promises a dazzling Christmas feast, inspiring holiday cheer with its timeless message of peace, hope, and...

The Nutcracker

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Marcus Performing Arts Center
929 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202

Step into a world of enchantment with Milwaukee Ballet's spectacular production of The Nutcracker. This beloved holiday tradition, hailed as 'equal parts smart and magical,' features nearly 200 dancers, including students from the Milwaukee Ballet School & Academy, bringing Tchaikovsky's iconic score to life. Prepare for a visually stunning performance...

The Pigeon Gets A Big Time Holiday Extravaganza!

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Todd Wehr Theater, Marcus Performing Arts Center
929 N. Water Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202

Join Mo Willems' beloved characters for a spectacular holiday musical party! The Unlimited Squirrels and Elephant & Piggie are ready to celebrate, but will The Pigeon join the festivities or search for the ultimate gift? This brand-new musical promises catchy tunes, silly stories, and audience interaction for a truly unforgettable...

Black Nativity by Langston Hughes

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Wilson Theatre at Vogel Hall
121 E State St, Milwaukee, WI 53202

This holiday season, experience the magic of Langston Hughes' 'Black Nativity' as it returns for its 10th anniversary production. Directed by Sheri Williams Pannell, this joyous musical weaves scripture, poetry, dance, and song into a powerful African-American interpretation of the Nativity story. Featuring talented local artists, it's a celebration of...

MGK: Lost Americana Tour

πŸ’° $$$
πŸ“ Fiserv Forum
1111 Vel R. Phillips Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53203

Get ready for MGK's highly anticipated 'Lost Americana Tour' as it stops at Fiserv Forum. This massive global tour supports his seventh studio album, 'Lost Americana,' and promises to be his biggest headline run yet. Experience MGK's dynamic blend of rap, rock, and alt-pop, delivered with the high-energy spectacle that...

Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Fiserv Forum
1111 Vel R. Phillips Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53203

Prepare for an unforgettable holiday spectacle as the Trans-Siberian Orchestra returns to Fiserv Forum with 'The Ghosts of Christmas Eve: The Best of TSO & More'. This highly anticipated performance blends rock, classical, and theatrical elements, featuring dazzling lights, pyrotechnics, and powerful storytelling. The show includes a special 25th-anniversary salute...

Nuncrackers (Elm Grove, WI)

β€’ 9 mi from Milwaukee πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Sunset Playhouse
700 Wall Street, Elm Grove, WI 53122

Get ready for a holiday season filled with laughter and cheer with "Nuncrackers" at Sunset Playhouse. This musical comedy brings the beloved "NUNSENSE" humor to life as the Little Sisters of Hoboken tape a Christmas TV special in their convent basement. Expect favorite carols, "wacky humor," and a "Secret Santa"...

Milwaukee Christmas Food, Drink and Parties

Old Milwaukee Mixer

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Milwaukee Public Museum
800 West Wells Street, Milwaukee, WI 53233

Celebrate the season with an enchanting after-hours holiday mixer set within the charming 'Streets of Old Milwaukee' and 'European Village'. This event offers a unique opportunity to step back in time, enjoying curated small bites with seasonal drink pairings, hands-on Victorian parlor games, and live holiday music. Commemorate the evening...

Wauwatosa Holiday Sip & Strolls (WI)

β€’ 5 mi from Milwaukee πŸ’° $
πŸ“ Village of Wauwatosa
Wauwatosa, WI

Experience the magic of the holiday season at the Wauwatosa Holiday Sip & Strolls. This festive event invites you to wander through the charming, historic Village of Wauwatosa, adorned with twinkling lights and holiday cheer. Local shops and restaurants offer delightful sips, treats, and special promotions, creating a perfect evening...

Kenosha Christmas Charities Annual Fundraising Dinner (Kenosha, WI)

β€’ 27 mi from Milwaukee πŸ’° $$$
πŸ“ UW-Parkside Ballroom

Experience an elegant evening at the Annual Fundraising Dinner hosted by Kenosha Christmas Charities. This event supports disadvantaged children in Kenosha County, providing them with toys, food, and winter outerwear. Enjoy a night of community and giving at the UW-Parkside Ballroom, with registration opening in October. Seating is limited, so...

Milwaukee Christmas Giving Opportunities

Greenfield Letters to Santa (Greenfield, WI)

β€’ 7 mi from Milwaukee
πŸ“ Greenfield City Hall
7325 W Forest Home Avenue, Greenfield, WI 53220

The City of Greenfield Parks and Recreation Department invites children to share their holiday wishes with Santa Claus. This cherished tradition ensures that letters from Greenfield's young residents reach the North Pole. Opportunities to participate include writing letters online or dropping them off at Greenfield City Hall and local holiday...

Milwaukee Other Christmas Activities

Milwaukee Holiday Happenings

πŸ’° $
πŸ“ Various Locations

Milwaukee transforms into a winter wonderland with 'Hello Holidays,' offering a diverse array of festive events and activities for all ages. From dazzling light displays and charming holiday markets to cultural celebrations and family-friendly gatherings, the city invites residents and visitors to embrace the season. Enjoy tree lightings, special performances,...

Brunch with Santa

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel
139 East Kilbourn Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53202

Join the festive spirit with a delightful Brunch with Santa at Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel. This special holiday event offers a plentiful brunch and the magical opportunity to meet Santa Claus himself. It's the perfect way to create cherished holiday memories with family.

Kwik Trip Holiday Face-Off

πŸ’° $$
πŸ“ Fiserv Forum
1111 Vel R. Phillips Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53203

Get ready for the thrilling Kwik Trip Holiday Face-Off, returning to Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee for its fifth year. This exciting college hockey tournament features top teams battling it out over two days. Witness the semifinal round on December 28th, followed by the championship and third-place games on December 29th....

Canadian Pacific Holiday Train Stop (Wauwatosa, WI)

β€’ 5 mi from Milwaukee πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Village of Wauwatosa
Harwood Ave., Wauwatosa, WI

Experience the magic of the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train as it makes its festive stop in Wauwatosa. This heartwarming event supports Tosa Cares, collecting essential food and monetary donations to combat local food insecurity. Enjoy live music performances and a special visit from Santa Claus, all while soaking in the...

Greenfield Holiday Tree Lighting (Greenfield, WI)

β€’ 7 mi from Milwaukee πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Konkel Park
5151 W. Layton Ave., Greenfield, WI

Join neighbors and friends for the Annual Greenfield Holiday Tree Lighting, a FREE event to usher in the festive season. Enjoy a day filled with cheerful music, engaging kids' winter activities, and the magical moment of the tree lighting ceremony. Capture holiday memories with photos alongside Santa and other characters,...

Elfie Scavenger Hunt (Menomonee Falls, WI)

β€’ 14 mi from Milwaukee πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Menomonee Falls Downtown District

Embark on a festive "Where's Elfie?" scavenger hunt through the Menomonee Falls Downtown District. Children aged 5-12 can search for hidden elves in participating businesses, enter their playing cards for a chance to win a special make-and-take craft, and contribute to a good cause by bringing food donations.

A Cedarburg Christmas (Cedarburg, WI)

β€’ 18 mi from Milwaukee πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Cedarburg

Cedarburg, Wisconsin, transforms into a magical Christmas destination, inviting visitors to recapture their holiday spirit. Stroll down a nationally recognized main street adorned with twinkling lights and charmingly decorated shop windows. Cozy up in warm cafes and restaurants, and explore a calendar packed with festive events, including films at the...

Waukesha Christmas Parade (Waukesha)

β€’ 18 mi from Milwaukee πŸ’° FREE
πŸ“ Downtown Waukesha
Waukesha, Waukesha 53188

Join the City of Waukesha for its 62nd Annual Christmas Parade, a heartwarming tradition that transforms Downtown Waukesha into a festive wonderland. Experience the magic as marching bands fill the air with holiday cheer and beautifully decorated floats illuminate the streets. Children's eyes will sparkle with delight as they catch...

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