Christmas in Milwaukee is a special time of year, with lots of festive activities & events to help you get into the holiday spirit!
Whether you are looking to start new family Christmas traditions or partake in old ones, browse our interactive map & calendar for Milwaukee Christmas events, holiday light displays and kid-friendly Christmas shows near you. Find out where you can go ice skating or cut your own Christmas tree, too, for even more seasonal family fun.
What are your family's favorite things to do for Christmas in Milwaukee? Like & review your picks below, and add any that are still missing!
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wichristmascarnival.com
Christmas Carnival of Lights
Lisa R said: One mile of Christmas lights take families on a journey past beloved holiday characters and heartwarming winter scenes. The road ends at Santa's coffee shop and workshop where you can get out of your car, warm up with hot drinks, and take care of some last minute holiday shopping. Santa will be on hand for photos throughout most of December. You can also consider booking a seat in Santa's sleigh or in a limo golf cart.
Caledonia, WI
1 review
Santa's Mailbox in Cathedral Square
Lisa R said: Fast track letters to the North Pole at the Santa Mailbox in Cathedral Square. Kids can drop off their letters with no postage needed. Every letter with a return address will receive a personalized letter in return. No need to add your own stamp.
Milwaukee, WI
1 review
pabstmansion.com
Pabst Mansion - Self Guided Holiday Tour
Lisa R said: A Milwaukee holiday tradition! With unique decorations every year, this grand exhibition offers an ever-changing feast for your eyes. Open every day for guests to explore each festive room. Perfect for those from one to ninety-two, enjoy this time with family and friends at the Mansion as you enjoy the elegantly decorated interiors.
Mon - Sat opens at 10 am, Sun opens at 11 am
Last entry at 3:15 pm, daily
1 review
Mitchell Park Domes - The Domes Holiday Show
Lisa R said: Enjoy the traditional holiday floral show with staples such as pointsettias, amaryllis, single stem white mums (resembling snow balls), snow white pop mums and cycalmen. You will also see some non traditional color among the classics such as bright pink poinsettias and lime green amaryllis.
1 review
Past Events (6)
fallsparades.org
Menomonee Falls Christmas Parade
Lisa R said: This annual parade winds through downtown Menomonee Falls. More than forty local businesses will participate with holiday displays, floats, and performances. The parade will conclude with a visit from Santa.
Menomonee Falls, WI4:30pm
1 review
historicthirdward.org
Christmas in the Third Ward
Lisa R said: Meet Santa and other costumed characters, enjoy fireworks and live performances, and treat yourself to something from the Cookie Bake Sale that benefits the Ronald McDonald House at this busy holiday kick-off event sponsored by the Historic Third Ward. Mrs. Claus will stop by with live reindeer and some elves to answer questions during the opening ceremonies.
Milwaukee, WI5:30pm-8:30pm
1 review
milwaukeedowntown.com
Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival Kick-Off Extravaganza
Lisa R said: This year, the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival will ring in the season by partnering with WISN 12 and The Pabst Theater Group to produce an all-new variety show. Packed with local talent and a spectacular finale, viewers won’t want to miss this sampling of downtown’s holiday shows. Please note that the 2021 kickoff event will be a televised event only. They look forward to gathering for an in-person kickoff again in 2022.
Milwaukee, WI
1 review
milwaukeedowntown.com
Milwaukee Downtown - Self Guided Jingle Bus Tours
Lisa R said: Get acquainted with Downtown’s lights and sights via a self-guided audio tour available on the iHeartRadio app. Families can learn about Downtown’s lights and sights via a five-episode podcast on the iHeartRadio app. Just search “MKE Jingle Bus Tour” in the iHeartRadio app or anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts, and follow along by car or on foot.
1 review
thepfisterhotel.com
The Pfister Hotel - Christmas Celebration Brunch
Lisa R said: Celebrate Christmas in style with a lavish brunch at The Pfister Hotel. Brunch is held in the festively decorated Pfister ballroom. In addition to photos with Santa, which are highly encouraged, every child will receive a special gift and will be able to make crafts while composing a hand written letter to Santa. Reservations required.
Milwaukee, WI
1 review
craftfairwisconsin.com
Holiday Craft and Gift Expo
Lisa R said: You'll find the largest collection of handmade food, gifts, and holiday decorations at Milwaukee's annual Holiday Craft and Gift Expo. Kids can look forward to a variety of holiday entertainment, including carolers and a visit from Santa. Refreshments will be available for purchase.
Brookfield, WI
1 review
Primary photo: Lena Rose on Unsplash
Upparent collects community-submitted recommendations and reviews, and any ideas that are shared reflect the opinions of individual contributors.
