Milwaukee Coach and Carriage Rides
Ongoing
Beginning on 6 p.m. on Weekdays
Beginning on 5 p.m. on Weekends
Downtown Milwaukee
414.272.6873 | milwaukeecarriage.com
See downtown’s spectacular sights with a horse-drawn carriage ride. Pick-up locations are at The Pfister, InterContinental Milwaukee and Hyatt Regency Milwaukee. Half-hour and one-hour tours available. Call to schedule.

Leonard Bearstein Symphony Orchestra
Nov. 1 – Jan. 6 | Hourly
The Shops of Grand Avenue – Center Court
414.224.0655 | grandavenueshops.com
Hear an 18-piece animatronic symphony orchestra of bears perform an array of holiday hits.

Afternoon Tea in Blu
Ongoing, Fri., Sat. & Sun. | 3 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
The Pfister Hotel – Blu
414.935.5950 | thepfisterhotel.com/holidays
Cozy up to the fireplace with tea in Blu. Guests will enjoy a tableside tea blending, presented in all-silver service by a Pfister Tea Butler, plus fresh scones, sandwiches and pastries. Call for reservations.

Indoor & In-store Farmer’s Market
Wed., Nov. 7 – Dec. 19 | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The Shops of Grand Avenue – 2nd level, Above Center Court
414.276.6696 | westown.org
Featuring a variety of local vendors, live music, live artists and chef demonstrations by Classy Girl Cupcakes.

Shop 2nd Saturdays
Sat., Nov. 10, Dec. 8 & Jan. 12
Downtown Milwaukee
414.220.4700 | milwaukeedowntown.com
From jewelry and specialty gifts to gourmet foods and men’s and women’s fashions, shop unique merchandise at discounted prices. Enter to win gift cards and merchandise at participating retailers, plus enjoy FREE two-hour on-street parking! On Sat., Dec. 8, hop aboard our FREE Milwaukee Holly Trolley.

Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival Kick-Off Extravaganza
Thurs., Nov. 15 | 5:45 p.m. Pre-Show, 6 p.m. Ceremony Begins
Pere Marquette Park
414.220.4700 | milwaukeeholidaylights.com
The official start of Milwaukee’s holiday season, the night features dancers, live music, specialty acts and a visit from Santa Claus, plus a fireworks show and free Jingle Bus rides from the park.



Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival
Nov. 15 – Dec. 31
Downtown Milwaukee
414.220.4700 | milwaukeeholidaylights.com
The 14th Annual Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival features hundreds of holiday events, thousands of lights and a convenient Jingle Bus tour to connect visitors to all the sights.

Holiday Tree Lighting at CLEAR
Thurs., Nov. 15 | 5 p.m. – 11 p.m.
InterContinental Milwaukee – CLEAR
414.276.8686 | intercontinentalmilwaukee.com
Enjoy hot toddies and a build-your-own hot chocolate bar, as well as live music from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

A Grand Avenue Christmas
Nov. 16 – Jan. 13, 2013
Pabst Mansion
414.931.0808 | pabstmansion.com
The Mansion’s nationally recognized Christmas display, A Grand Avenue Christmas, brings new and wonderful decorations and a chance for you to create your own memories.

Pancakes on Parade
Sat., Nov. 17 | 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist – Cathedral Atrium
(Enter from Van Buren St. or Jackson St.)
414.276.9814 | stjohncathedral.org
Enjoy a traditional Pancake Breakfast: pancakes, sausage, beverage or an a la carte hot coffee, homemade bakery items and loads of free warmth and hospitality along the parade route.

86th Annual Holiday Parade
presented by Johnson Controls
Sat., Nov. 17 | 9:30 a.m.
Downtown Milwaukee
262.377.5935 | milwaukeeparade.com
Spectacular floats, helium balloons, costumed characters, bands, live animals and Santa create a magical experience for the whole family. Discounted parking available in The Shops of Grand Avenue for $3 until 5:30 p.m.

Let It Snow Holiday Show
Nov. 17 – Jan. 6, 2013
Mitchell Park Conservatory
414.257.5611 | milwaukeedomes.org
Snowboys and snowgirls keep their cool this season. Sleighing, sledding, and having fun, these snowkids play throughout the poinsettia-filled scene. A larger tree decorated with snowflakes, icicles and snowmen is the centerpiece of the show.

City/County Christmas Tree Lighting
presented by Johnson Controls
Mon., Nov. 19 | 4:30 p.m.
Red Arrow Park
414.286.3318
Join Mayor Tom Barrett, County Executive Chris Abele and master of ceremonies, John McGivern, in the city's oldest tradition. The celebration begins with performances by the Salvation Army Brass Ensemble, The Rep’s “A Christmas Carol” Intern Quartet, Lincoln Center of the Arts Ambassador Choir, and Rudolph and Hermey from First Stage’s “Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer®.” Refreshments will be provided by Starbucks. Santa will also be on hand to hear children's wish lists. The official tree will be lit at 5:15 p.m.

Thanksgiving Bountiful Brunch
Thurs., Nov. 22 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The Pfister Hotel – The Rouge
414.935.5950 | thepfisterhotel.com/holidays
The Pfister Ballroom provides the perfect setting for a memorable Thanksgiving Feast. Enjoy amazing appetizers, entrees, side dishes and desserts, along with all the traditional Thanksgiving favorites. Add an overnight stay on November 21 or 22 for only $99 with your brunch reservation.

Mason Street Grill Thanksgiving
Thurs., Nov. 22 | 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Mason Street Grill
414.298.3131 | masonstreetgrill.com
An All-American grill for the quintessential American holiday featuring wood grilled steaks, seafood and a special Thanksgiving prix fixe menu. Private dining rooms are also available for gatherings between six and 60.

Thanksgiving Feast at Kil@wat
Thurs., Nov. 22 | 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.
InterContinental Milwaukee – Kil@wat
414.291.4793 | kilawatcuisine.com
Turkey and all the traditional fixins’ available beginning at 12 p.m.; a full tasting menu begins at 3 p.m.

Thanksgiving Brunch in The Café at the Hilton Milwaukee
Thurs., Nov. 22 | 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Hilton Milwaukee City Center – The Café
414.271.7250 | hiltonmilwaukee.com/promotions
A fancy feast that leaves much to be thankful for.

Thanksgiving at Bistro 333
Thurs., Nov. 22 | 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Hyatt Regency Milwaukee – Bistro 333
414.270.6130 | bistro333milwaukee.com
It’s urban chic and casual comfort at the Hyatt Regency Milwaukee’s first-floor gem. Enjoy breakfast from 8 a.m. to noon, followed by Thanksgiving dinner from noon to 8 p.m. Choose from your choice of local honey-brined natural turkey, oven-dried cranberry crusted ham or roasted rhubarb wheat berry risotto accompanied by all the traditional fixings.

Thanksgiving at John Hawk’s
Thurs., Nov. 22 | Open at 11 a.m.
John Hawk’s Pub – 100 E. Wisconsin Avenue
414.272.3199 | johnhawkspub.com
Serving turkey and all the trimmings.

Thanksgiving at Mader’s
Thurs., Nov. 22 | 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Mader’s Restaurant – 1041 N. Old World Third Street
414.271.3377 | madersrestaurant.com
Traditional Thanksgiving options with a German-inspired twist.

Thanksgiving at Karl Ratzsch’s
Thurs., Nov. 22 | 12 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Karl Ratzsch’s – 320 E. Mason St.
414.276.2720 | karlratzsch.com
Enjoy a traditional American Thanksgiving feast with a German twist.

Lighting of the Whale
Fri., Nov. 23 | 11:30 a.m.
Milwaukee Public Museum
414.278.2728 | mpm.edu
Spend “Black Friday” at MPM and witness a most unusual holiday tradition – the lighting of the massive humpback whale skeleton that hangs above the Museum’s Grand Staircase. Free with admission.

Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
Fri., Nov. 23 | 5 p.m. – 6:30 p.m., Official Lighting at 5:30 p.m.
The Pfister Hotel
414.935.5950 | thepfisterhotel.com/holidays
Join us at The Pfister as Santa hosts our Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Sip hot cocoa, eggnog and bubbles while nibbling on a holiday treat. To help those in need, please bring a non-perishable food item for Hunger Task Force.

Blazin’ Yuletide Ride
Fri., Nov. 23 | 4 p.m.
Harley-Davidson Museum
414.287.2789 | h-dmuseum.com
Forget the sleigh — Santa will be leading the Museum's second annual Holiday Light Parade on two wheels! Bring the whole family to watch this one-of-a-kind holiday spectacle. Or, better yet, join in the festivities. All makes and models welcome.



Black Friday Beer Fest
Fri., Nov. 23 | 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Harley-Davidson Museum
414.287.2789 | h-dmuseum.com
Sample a variety of beers from many of Wisconsin's best breweries throughout The Garage.

Holiday and New & Used Children’s Book Sale
Sat., Nov. 24 | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Central Library – 814 W. Wisconsin Ave.
414.286.3000 | mpl.org
Great holiday gift giving deals including books, audiobooks, DVDs and more. Sponsored by Friends of the Milwaukee Public Library.

Small Business Saturday
Sat., Nov. 24 | 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Historic Third Ward
414.273.1173 | historicthirdward.org
Support Milwaukee retailers and shop the locally-owned businesses in the Historic Third Ward. As part of Small Business Saturday, retailers will offer incentives and specials for shoppers.

BMO Harris Bank Holiday Display
Nov. 26 – Jan. 2
BMO Harris Bank – 770 N. Water St.
Mon. – Fri. | 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Weekends, Christmas Day & New Year’s Day | 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Special note: The lobby will be closed after 1 p.m. on Sat., Dec. 8 and Mon., Dec. 24; and at 5 p.m. on Wed., Dec. 19 and on Wed., Jan. 2.
414.765.7700 | harrisbank.com
This year’s BMO Harris Bank Holiday Display features more than 150 life-sized Steiff animals. The display is free and open to the public.

Christmas in the Ward
Fri., Nov. 30 | 5 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Sat., Dec. 1 | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Catalano Square – Corner of Broadway and Menomonee
414.273.1173 | historicthirdward.org
Enjoy the holiday spirit of the Historic Third Ward with live entertainment and a variety of shops to explore. This year’s tree lighting ceremony and fireworks take place Fri., Nov. 30. The fun continues with shopping, tree sales, dining and more on Sat., Dec. 1.



Jolly’s Outdoor Gingerbread House
Fri., Nov. 30 | 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
Sat., Dec. 1 | 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.; 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.
Fri., Dec. 7 | 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Sat., Dec. 8 | 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Catalano Square
414.273.1173 | historicthirdward.org
Visit Santa in Jolly’s Outdoor Gingerbread House in Catalano Square (Menomonee & Broadway). Receive a cookie and tell Santa what you want for Christmas. Have your picture taken with Santa for a $5 donation (proceeds benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities Eastern Wisconsin) or bring your own camera!

European Holiday Traditions Come Alive!
Fri., Nov. 30 & Sat., Dec. 1 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Milwaukee Public Museum
414.278.2728 | mpm.edu
Get a better understanding of enduring holiday traditions that you may still experience today as enactors and interpreters immerse you in the European holiday traditions of a century past. Free with admission.

Breakfast with Santa at George Watts & Son
Sat., Dec. 1, 8, 15 & 22 | 9 a.m.
George Watts & Son – Watts Tea Shop
414.290.5720 | wattsteashop.com
Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast with a fabulous surprise for every child and adult at Milwaukee’s most historic Tea Room. Meet the Jolly Old Elf and listen to Mrs. Claus read her special tale of "The Night Before Christmas." Call for reservations.

Holiday Artisan Market
Sat., Dec. 1 & Sun., Dec. 2 | 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Discovery World Promenade
414.765.9966 | discoveryworld.org
Complete your holiday shopping early! Find a wide variety of artists selling treasures for everyone on your shopping list. Also, enjoy live music, holiday workshops in the Kohl’s Design It! Lab, festive treats and complimentary gift wrapping. Admission is free. Park free with a $50+ market purchase or for $5 with any purchase.

Breakfast with Santa at The Pfister
Sat., Dec. 1, 8, 15 & 22 | 9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
The Pfister Hotel
414.935.5950 | thepfisterhotel.com/holidays
Share a jolly breakfast with Santa and his elves in our festively decorated ballroom. Each child receives a special gift.

Robin Berk Handmade Santas Trunk Show
Sat., Dec. 1
George Watts & Son – Watts Tea Shop
414.290.5720 | wattsteashop.com
Stop in to meet local artist Robin Berk and view her fabulous handmade, heirloom-quality Santas, each with their own story. Have your purchase signed by the artist and learn about her inspiration and creative process.

Brady Street Festivus
Sat., Dec. 1 | 12 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.
Brady Street
414.272.3978 | bradystreet.org
After shopping and dining at your favorite Brady Street destinations, celebrate this special occasion with awesome “un-holiday” specials and deals. Be sure to come “air your grievances” and participate in the annual Festivus “feats of strength” in an effort to win the Festivus Pole!

10th Annual Nutcracker Tea
Sun., Dec. 2 | 10 a.m. & 2 p.m.
Wisconsin Club
414.902.2114 | milwaukeeballet.org
Brand-new surprises will accompany your favorite experiences, offering something for everyone.

Milwaukee Santa’s 5K Run/Walk
Sun., Dec. 2 | 8:15 a.m. Registration, 9:25 a.m. Kids Dash, 9:30 a.m. 5K
McKinley Park
milwaukeesanta.com
Run or walk with hundreds of Santas during the Milwaukee Santa’s 5K. Don’t stop too long at the candy stations! Pucker up as you run beneath mistletoe, enjoy holiday music and warm up at the finish with hot cider and cookies.

What is Your Christmas Made of?
Sun., Dec. 2 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist – Cathedral Atrium
(Enter from Van Buren St. or Jackson St.)
414.276.9814 | stjohncathedral.org
An alternative Christmas giving opportunity. Make your Christmas gifts special by offering financial support to Cathedral outreach ministries, which assist our neighbors in need.

Holiday Choirs at The Pfister
Dec. 3 – 20
The Pfister Hotel
414.273.8222 | thepfisterhotel.com/holidays
Take in your favorite carols with The Pfister’s Holiday Singers performing in the majestic lobby of Milwaukee’s legendary hotel.

Buddy Valastro: The Cake Boss
Homemade for the Holidays Tour
Thurs., Dec. 6 | Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
The Riverside Theater
414.286.3663 | pabsttheater.org
See Buddy Valastro live as he shares some of his favorite holiday baking tips and stories, plus live cake decorating contests, a Q&A with Buddy, cake decorating demonstrations and more!

Holiday Feasting and Festing
Thurs., Dec. 6 | 6 p.m.
Harley-Davidson Museum
414.287.2778 | h-dmuseum.com
Make this year's holiday celebrations more delectable. Join Motor® Executive Chef Kirk at our annual Holiday Cooking & Cocktail class. Learn new and delicious holiday menu ideas and easy-to-prepare holiday cocktails. $25.95 per person. Space is limited and reservations required!

Dickens’ Dinners
Dec. 7 – 9, 14 – 16, 19 – 20 & 22 | 5:15 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
Pabst Mansion
414.727.6980 | bartolottacatering.com
Let the holiday magic enchant you as Charles Dickens returns to the Historic Pabst Mansion. Your evening begins with a self-guided tour of the Pabst Mansion, followed by a champagne reception, passed appetizers and a traditional three-course English-style feast.

Build Your Own Gingerbread House
Sat., Dec. 8 | 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
Central Library – 814 W. Wisconsin Avenue
414.286.3011 | mpl.org
Listen to the story of the gingerbread man and create your own miniature gingerbread house. Registration required; call or register online.

Cocoa with the Clauses
presented by Madison Medical Affiliates
Sat., Dec. 8 | 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Cathedral Square Park
414.220.4700 | milwaukeeholidaylights.com
This outdoor event offers families a free photo opportunity with the jolly old elf and his Mrs. Just bring your own camera! Free hot cocoa and cookies will be served throughout the afternoon and kids receive a goodie bag while supplies last. Kid-friendly menus at budget-conscious prices will also be available at several neighboring restaurants. Non-perishable food items will be collected.



Saturdays with Santa
Sat., Dec. 8, 15 & 22 | 12 p.m. – 1:30 p.m.
The Shops of Grand Avenue – Food Court
414.224.0655 | grandavenueshops.com
Gather the kids for an afternoon of craft-making and jolly entertainment with Santa and Radio Disney. Free with food donation to Hunger Task Force.

Build a Gingerbread House & Breakfast with Santa
Sun., Dec. 9 & 16 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Harley-Davidson Museum
414.287.2778 | h-dmuseum.com
Let your children explore their artistic tastes this holiday season by giving them a canvas of gingerbread. Space is limited and reservations required.

Slice of Ice
Opens Thurs., Dec. 6 | 5 p.m.
(weather permitting)
Red Arrow Park
414.289.8791 | countyparks.com
Bring your own ice skates and skate for free or rent a pair for $7/children and $8/adults 18+. A warming house is available with refreshments for purchase at Starbucks.

Trains! Trains! Trains!
Sat., Dec. 15 & Sun., Dec. 16 | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Discovery World Promenade
414.765.9966 | discoveryworld.org
Step back in time and revisit your youth or bring along the kids to let them discover the magic of model trains for themselves. See displays by the Lionel Club of WI, Badgerland Gaugers Club, WI National Model Railroad Association and more.



Breakfast with Santa at Hotel Metro
Dec. 15 & 16 | 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Hotel Metro
414.225.3270 | hotelmetro.com
Enjoy breakfast classics for all ages and meet Santa! Call for reservations.

Holiday Tea at George Watts & Son
Wed., Dec. 19 2:30 p.m.
George Watts & Son – The Watts Tea Shop
414.290.5720 | wattsteashop.com
Sit and slowly sip seasonal teas while enjoying the view from frosty windows overlooking Milwaukee’s East Town neighborhood. Enjoy a free gift while you snack on finger sandwiches and special seasonal treats. Call for reservations.

A Mason Street Grill Christmas
Mon., Dec. 24 | 5 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Tues., Dec. 25 | 1 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Mason Street Grill
414.298.3131 | masonstreetgrill.com
Your downtown Christmas tradition starts at Mason Street Grill, featuring classic American favorites and a specially prepared Christmas prix fixe dinner. Private dining rooms are also available for your family gathering, whether it’s six or 60.

Christmas Eve at The Milwaukee ChopHouse
Mon., Dec. 24 | 4:30 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Milwaukee ChopHouse – 633 N. 5th Street
414.226.2467 | milwaukeechophouse.com
Regular dinner menu available. Make your reservations early!

Christmas Celebration Brunch at The Pfister
Tues., Dec. 25 | 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
The Pfister Hotel
414.935.5950 | thepfisterhotel.com/holidays
Your Pfister Christmas features a spectacular buffet filled with a delicious assortment of appetizers, salads, entrees and decadent desserts presented in our ballroom. Add
an overnight stay on December 24 or December 25 for $99 with your brunch reservation.

Christmas Day at Bistro 333
Tues., Dec. 25 | Noon - 8 pm
Hyatt Regency Milwaukee - Bistro 333
414.270.6130 | bistro333milwaukee.com
Open for breakfast from 8 a.m. to noon. A prix fixe, four-course dinner menu will be served from noon to 8 p.m. Entree highlights include mulled cider spice crusted ham with thyme roasted Yukon potatoes, winter squash risotto with crispy rutabaga, or herb roasted hanger steak with baby beets.

Christmas at The Café
Tues., Dec. 25 | 11 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Hilton Milwaukee City Center – The Café
414.271.7250 | hiltonmilwaukee.com
Serving traditional holiday favorites and specialty items.

Milwaukee Winter Fest
December 26-31
Delta Center
milwaukeewinterfest.com
Winter Fest is Milwaukee’s one-of-a-kind, family winteractive extravaganza. Our rides, activities and entertainment are designed to thrill people of all ages, so kids and adults alike will find a cure for cabin fever and create memories that last a lifetime. Get your tickets today at MilwaukeeWinterFest.com.