Holiday Happenings

 
***Please note, events and activities are subject to change or cancellation. Please call ahead of your arrival.***

Santa’s Mailbox

Sponsored by Educators Credit Union 
With support from Serving Older Adults and National Association of Letter Carriers – Pioneer Branch 2
November 12 – December 16
Cathedral Square Park
414.220.4700 | milwaukeeholidaylights.com
Place a child’s letter to Santa in Santa’s Mailbox. Be sure to include a return address because Santa and his extra special helpers will ensure each child receives a personalized reply. Holiday spirit delivers the letters. No postage required!


Cheer District, illuminated by We Energies Foundation 

November 15 – January 15
Deer District
deerdistrict.com 
Cheer District, illuminated by We Energies Foundation, will feature B93.3’s Letters to Santa mailbox, fireworks on New Year's Eve, and the City of Milwaukee Christmas Tree Lighting. 


Holiday Show at the Domes

Mid-November – Early January
Mitchell Park Domes
414.257.5600 | milwaukeedomes.org
No matter the weather outside, the Domes are always toasty warm inside, and the annual Holiday show is one of the Milwaukee's top winter attractions. A new theme brings a new look each year, but you can expect to find a display featuring poinsettias, chrysanthemums, amaryllis, and other plants as well as a decorated spruce.


Deck the Streets and Village

November 16 – January 31
Milwaukee Public Museum
414.278.2728 | mpm.edu
Experience the magic of the holiday season inside two of MPM's most beloved exhibits, Streets of Old Milwaukee, and European Village, where the walkthrough turn-of-the-century streetscapes have been transformed into winter wonderlands.  

Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival Kickoff Extravaganza

Presented by Johnson Financial Group
Thu, November 21 | 6:30pm
Pre-show fun starts at 5:30pm
Pere Marquette Park
414.220.4700 | milwaukeeholidaylights.com
Music, dancing, Santa and a thrilling fireworks display combine for the brightest night of the year. Best of all, it’s free, right down to the cookies, cocoa and Jingle Bus rides. Pre-show entertainment begins at 5:30pm.


Christmas at Pabst Mansion

November 21 – January 5 
Pabst Mansion
414.931.0808 | pabstmansion.com
It’s a self-guided holiday tradition the whole family can enjoy! From glitz and glam to train tracks and holiday magic around the tree, each room each room is decked from tip to mistletoe.


The Ornament Trail

November 21 – January 19
Downtown Milwaukee
414.220.4700 | milwaukeeholidaylights.com
Explore 15 larger-than-life, hand-painted ornaments by locally and nationally renowned artists.


Trainfest 2024

November 23 & 24 
Baird Center
414.908.6000 | bairdcenter.com
Immerse yourself in the fascinating world of miniature railroading! The show features hundreds of booths of train manufacturers and retailers, as well as huge operating exhibits, activities for kids, free seminars and more.


FEZtival of Trees

November 23 – 30
Tripoli Shrine Center
414.933.4700 | tripolishrine.com
Walk through a wonderland of trees decorated by local businesses and organizations, snap a photo with Santa and enjoy a light show during the week of Thanksgiving. Then, place a bid for a chance to win a fully decorated tree, to take a piece of the holiday spirit home with you. 


Cream City Creatives Holiday Market

Sun, November 24 | 10am to 3pm
Turner Hall Ballroom
creamcitycreatives.com
This annual holiday market has been bringing Milwaukee to life with creativity since 2014. Shop from dozens of vendors offering local goods that make perfect gifts for family and friends.


Pfister Hotel Thanksgiving Bountiful Brunch

Thu, November 28 | 11am to 3:30pm
The Pfister Hotel
414.273.8222 | thepfisterhotel.com
Celebrate in the breathtaking atmosphere of the Pfister Grand Ballroom, the perfect destination for your family’s cherished Thanksgiving. There is much to be thankful for, from appetizers and entrees to side dishes and desserts, plus all the traditional trimmings.


Milwaukee Turkey Trot

Thu, November 28 | 9am
Veterans Park
wisconsinruns.com
Join the flock during the annual Turkey Trot. It’s your pre-turkey workout. Your body will thank you later!


Thanksgiving at Mason Street Grill

Thu, November 28 | 1pm to 8pm
Mason Street Grill
414.298.3131 | masonstreetgrill.com
Enjoy an all-American feast for this quintessential holiday with a special Thanksgiving prix fixe menu. Private dining rooms are also available for your family gathering.


Thanksgiving Harvest Dinner

Thu, November 28 | 11am to 7pm
ARIA at Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel
414.270.4422 | saintkatearts.com
Experience an artisanal American Thanksgiving at ARIA. Enjoy a special prix fixe menu featuring special dishes as well as traditional Thanksgiving favorites.


Twilight Tours

November 29 – December 29 & January 4
Thu – Sat | 4:30pm to 7:30pm
Pabst Mansion
414.931.0808 | pabstmansion.com 
A self-guided evening tour with twinkling lights, live holiday music, and drinks for purchase like glühwein and hot pecan whiskey cider to give you that warm Christmas glow!


Pfister Tree Lighting Ceremony

Fri, November 29 | 5pm to 6:30pm
The Pfister Hotel
414.273.8222 | thepfisterhotel.com
Join The Pfister Hotel for a signature holiday tradition as Santa lights the spectacular lobby tree. Sip warm drinks and nibble on a holiday treat while you enjoy the fun. Nonperishable food items will be collected for Hunger Task Force. 

 


Letters to Santa at the Pfister

 November 29 – December 15
The Pfister Hotel
414.273.8222 | thepfisterhotel.com
Write a letter to Santa and drop it off at The Pfister Hotel North Pole Mailbox. Each child will receive a personalized note from Santa himself, plus all children will receive a free cookie from the Pfister front desk when they drop off their letters. 
 


Holiday Mimosa Tours

November 29 – January 4
Fri, Sat & Sun 
Pabst Mansion 
414.931.0808 | pabstmansion.com
The only guided tour during Christmas at the Pabst Mansion... with a mimosa! This tour is for those wanting a guided experience during the holiday season with a little something extra. Cheers to making special holiday memories!


Small Business Saturday

Sat, November 30 
Historic Third Ward
414.273.1173 | historicthirdward.org
Explore the unique offerings around the Historic Third Ward as you #shopsmall. Stop into the many independent businesses in the neighborhood to check off goodies on your gift list.


Milwaukee Makers Market

Sat, November 30 | 10am to 4pm
Sun, December 15 | 10am to 4pm
Discovery World
414.765.9966 | discoveryworld.org
Support local crafters, artists and creators by browsing dozens of booths featuring clothing, visual art, candles, home goods and so much more. This no-charge-to-enter artisan showcase is the perfect opportunity to shop for co-workers, pets, uncles, aunts and everyone in between.


2024 Holiday Marketplace

November 30 – December 1 
Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel
414.276.8686 | saintkatearts.com
Enjoy the holiday ambiance of Saint Kate's ARC Theatre while interacting and connecting with over 60 local artists and vendors. This holiday showcase is the ideal place to find perfect gifts for friends and family, all while taking in the sights and sounds of local music and art!


Slice of Ice

December thru Mid-March 2025
(weather permitting)
Red Arrow Park
414.289.8791 | countyparks.com 
Ice skate in the heart of Downtown at the "Slice of Ice" rink while surrounded by twinkling lights and dazzling décor.


MIAD Holiday Sale

November 30 – December 2
Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design
888.749.MIAD | miad.edu
Each year during the first week of December, MIAD students and alumni show off their wares ranging from sculptures, paintings and photographs to jewelry, stickers, greeting cards and more. Shop their affordable offerings and view the on-campus galleries while you visit.


Father Christmas Visits the Mansion!

December 1 – 22 
Sun| 3pm to 5:30pm
Pabst Mansion
414.931.0808 | pabstmansion.com
With his lantern, walking stick and white-trimmed red cloak, a whimsical Father Christmas travels south to visit the Pabst Mansion each Sunday during the holiday season. Create magical memories with letter writing to Santa, holiday treats for purchase, and room after room of enchanting Christmas displays.


Hover Craft: Handmade Holiday Shopping Extravaganza

Sun, December 1 | 12pm to 6pm
Pritzlaff Building
hovercraftmke.com
Milwaukee’s creative community comes together for the 15th year of Hover Craft, brimming with one-of-a-kind handiwork. Thousands of shoppers peruse this holiday showcase, so snag your ticket to shop online in advance.


Breakfasts with Santa 

Sun, December 1, 8 & 15
Harley-Davidson Museum
414.287.2778 | motorrestaurant.com/happenings
Enjoy a full morning buffet with the jolly old man in the bright red suit at the home of all things black and orange. Decorate cookies and write letters to Santa. Tickets required.


Jingle Bus Rides

December 5 – 29
Thu – Sun | 5pm to 9pm 
(weather permitting)
Courtyard Milwaukee Downtown
414.220.4700 | milwaukeeholidaylights.com
Marvel at Downtown’s spectacular sights aboard the convenient Jingle Bus. For $8 per person, visitors can relish in the festive panorama while a narrator shares stories of the jolliest attractions and landmarks. Advance ticket purchase required.


City of Milwaukee Christmas Tree Lighting, illuminated by We Energies Foundation

Thu, December 5
Deer District
deerdistrict.com 
The 111th annual City of Milwaukee Christmas tree lighting will take place in Deer District. 


MIAD Holiday Sale

December 5 – 7 
Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design
414.847.3200 | miad.edu
Each year during the first week of December, MIAD students and alumni show off their wares ranging from sculptures, paintings and photographs to jewelry, stickers, greeting cards and more. Shop their affordable offerings and view the on-campus galleries while you visit.


Christmas in the Ward

Fri, December 6 | 5:30pm to 8:30pm
Catalano Square
414.273.1173 | historicthirdward.org
Dash into the holiday season with festivities under the Historic Third Ward’s Christmas tree. This night is packed with live entertainment, food trucks, local shopping, and photo ops alongside Santa and his reindeer. 


Christmas Lights & Desserts Bus Tour

Fri & Sat | December 6 – 22
Various Locations
414.255.0534 | milwaukeefoodtours.com
Show off your ugly Christmas sweater and spread some holiday cheer on the Christmas Lights & Desserts sing-along! This Santa-approved bus tour is the perfect mix of tasty treats and light-hearted holiday spirit.


Christmas Around Milwaukee Bakery Bus

Fri – Sun | December 6 – 22
Various Locations
414.255.0534 | milwaukeefoodtours.com
The Christmas Around Milwaukee Bakery Bus will fill your bellies with holiday cookies and your hearts with good cheer while you make delicious memories. Great for a girls outing or family celebration! 


Santa Cycle Rampage

Sat, December 7 | 9am
Various Locations
wisconsinbikefed.org
Join more than 1,500 fellow Santas, Mrs. Clauses, reindeer, grinches, snowmen, elves, dreidels and more for this 12-mile slow-rolling holiday party on wheels.


Cocoa and Candy Canes with Santa

Sat, December 7 | 12pm to 2pm
Milwaukee Public Museum
414.278.6170 | mpm.edu
This Sustainer+ members-only event includes a private photo-op with Santa and Mrs. Claus, as well as hot cocoa, candy canes, and holiday-themed arts and crafts. Reservations are required and space is limited! 


Santa’s Christmas Cavalcade

Sat, December 7 | Departs at 5pm
Fri, December 13 | Departs at 5pm
Downtown Milwaukee
414.220.4700 | milwaukeeholidaylights.com
See Santa and Mrs. Claus on the festive route riding atop a vintage fire truck. Sarah Fierek will also be on board singing jazzy holiday tunes. Route departs from the Milwaukee Public Market and travels throughout Downtown. 


Breakfast with Santa Saturdays

December 7 & 8, 14 & 15 | 8:30am & 11am
The Pfister Hotel
414.273.8222 | thepfisterhotel.com
Back by popular demand, guests can share a jolly breakfast with Santa and his elves in The Pfister’s newly-renovated Grand Ballroom. 


Brunch with Santa

December 7 & 8, 14 & 15 | 9am & 11:30am
Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel
414.935.5950 | saintkatearts.com
Start a new holiday tradition at Saint Kate's Brunch with Santa and create lifelong memories! Guests will have the opportunity to experience a plentiful brunch in Saint Kate's festive ballroom and visit with the jolly man himself. 


“Very Merry” Celebration at the Milwaukee County Historical Society

Sun, December 8 | 10am to 1pm
Milwaukee County Historical Society
414.273.8288 | milwaukeehistory.net
Families are invited to bring their kids to take pictures with Santa (prints available to purchase) and enjoy some treats from Mrs. Claus' kitchen. There will be kids' activities, coloring pages and holiday music. 


Storytime with Santa 

Sun, December 8 & 22 | 11am to 1:30pm
Discovery World
414.765.9966 | discoveryworld.org
Enjoy a festive adventure with enchanting tales and holiday cheer. Santa will be share stories and spread joy as the holiday magic comes to life at Discovery World.


Old Milwaukee Mixer 

Thu, December 12 | 7pm to 9:30pm
Milwaukee Public Museum
414.278.2728 | mpm.edu
Eat, drink, and be merry during this after-hours party. Stroll through the Streets of Old Milwaukee decked out for the holidays while learning about how people celebrated the season during the Victorian period. Enjoy tunes from the Checkmate Barbershop Quartet and get your photo taken for a personalized holiday card to commemorate the occasion! 21+ event.


Cocoa with the Clauses

Presented by Madison Medical Affiliates
Sat, December 14 | 11am to 2pm
Cathedral Square Park
414.220.4700 | milwaukeeholidaylights.com 
Santa and Mrs. Claus return for this annual cocoa klatch. The free outdoor event is a chance for kids to share their wish lists and for moms and dads to grab a keepsake photo. Elves and other holiday characters will also be there! Plus, complimentary cookies and hot cocoa sponsored by Taste of Home and Dunkin’ will be provided.


European Village Alive!

Sat, December 14 | 11am to 3pm
Milwaukee Public Museum
414.278.2702 | mpm.edu
MPM's European Village exhibit will "come alive" as docent interpreters in period clothing take you to holiday celebrations of the past. Visitors will learn the history of European traditions, many still around today, including greeting cards, Christmas trees, wreaths, gingerbread, mistletoe, holly, nativity scenes, and stockings. 

 


 

Cocoa & Claus

Sat, December 21 | 9am to 12pm
Betty Brinn Children's Museum
414.390.5437 | bbcmkids.org
Santa is stopping by Betty Brinn Children’s Museum before he heads out on his big Christmas Eve voyage! Families are invited to the Museum for Santa story time and photo opportunities, and a build-your-own toy activity in Santa’s Workshop. Hot cocoa will be available for purchase. Event tickets cost $20 and include access to the Museum's interactive floor exhibits. Advance ticket purchase recommended.


ARIA Christmas Dinner

Tue, December 24 | 2pm to 9pm
Wed, December 25 | 10am to 8pm
ARIA at Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel
414.270.4422 | saintkatearts.com
Experience delicious holiday specialties steeped in the culinary tradition of the Midwest at ARIA. Enjoy festive offerings inspired by all the comforts of a home-cooked feast on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.


Mason Street Grill Christmas

December 24 & 25
Mason Street Grill
414.298.3131 | masonstreetgrill.com
Experience classic American favorites and enjoy delicious Christmas specials, in addition to the regular menu. Private dining rooms are also available for your special holiday gathering.


Christmas Celebration Brunch

Wed, December 25 | 9am to 1:30pm
The Pfister Hotel
414.273.8222 | thepfisterhotel.com
Head to The Pfister's newly-renovated Grand Ballroom for a Christmas celebration featuring a spectacular buffet that includes an assortment of the finest salads and starters, entrees, desserts and cocktails.


Holidays on the Hoan

Various Dates
Hoan Bridge
lightthehoan.com 
Throughout the season, Milwaukee’s iconic Hoan Bridge will be lit up on select dates. Please visit their website or social media @lightthehoan for up-to-date information


Afternoon Tea

Wed – Sun, Ongoing 
The Pfister Hotel – Blu 
414.935.5950 | thepfisterhotel.com
Treat your family and friends to a relaxing afternoon experience with an incredible panoramic view of Downtown. You’ll feel like royalty with tea, sandwiches and pastries served on silver platters by a Pfister tea butler. Reservations required.