On Friday, December 6, Catalano Square will be filled with holiday magic, from twinkling lights and live music to Santa visits and cozy treats. Here’s your family-friendly guide to all the highlights of this can’t-miss celebration.

Event Details at a Glance

• When: Friday, December 5, 2025, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
• Where: Catalano Square, Historic Third Ward
• Admission: Free, with select activities suggesting donations

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Event Highlights and Schedule

Cookie Sale for a Cause (5:30–8:30 p.m.)

Festive Food Trucks and Warm Beverages (5:30–8:30 p.m.)

S’mores and More by the Fire

Special Performances and Lighting Ceremony

5:30 p.m. – The Milwaukee Police Band kicks off the evening with lively tunes to set the holiday mood. 6:00 p.m. – The Tree Lighting Ceremony begins! Santa Claus, alongside local dignitaries, will light the holiday tree in a scene that feels straight out of a Hallmark movie. Enjoy music from the Bach Chamber Choir and Renewed Spiritual Gospel Choir as the tree twinkles to life. 6:30–8:30 p.m. – Jolly’s Gingerbread House opens for Santa visits! Kids of all ages can share their Christmas wishes with Santa and pose for a photo for a $5 suggested donation benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities. 7:00 p.m. – Don’t miss the spectacular winter fireworks display over the Milwaukee River, The fireworks are perfectly paired with a light show on the Hoan Bridge for a dazzling display of holiday cheer. 7:15 p.m. – Skylight Music Theatre will perform holiday classics, adding an extra touch of magic to the night with their vocal talent and festive spirit. 8:30 p.m. – Wrap up the festivities with a grand finale light show on the Hoan Bridge. The “Light the Hoan Holiday Show” promises to be a beautiful end to an unforgettable evening.

Activities for Kids (and Kids at Heart)

Live Reindeer and Holiday Characters

Mrs. Claus and her reindeer will be in Catalano Square, adding a bit of North Pole magic. Friendly elves will be on hand to answer kids’ most pressing questions, like whether reindeer really fly!

Costumed Characters

Look out for Jolly & Ginger Gingerbread as they roam the square, ready to pose for pictures and spread holiday cheer. They’ll bring a smile to kids and adults alike.

Holiday Movie Screenings

New this year, Milwaukee Airwaves will be projecting favorite holiday movies on the side of the Broadway Theatre Center. It’s a perfect way to take a break, grab some popcorn, and enjoy holiday classics with the family.

Parking and Tips

Parking is available for $10 at the Historic Third Ward parking structures (212 N. Milwaukee Street and 225 E. Chicago Street) after 5 p.m., and both cash and card payments are accepted. Families are encouraged to dress warmly, as the activities are outdoors. Also, be sure to grab the “Merry Map” to make navigating the event easy!

Shop the Ward: Holiday Shopping and Arts

Extend the holiday cheer by visiting Third Ward shops throughout December. The “Shop the Ward” campaign, running from November 30 to December 23, offers daily gift card giveaways on Instagram to encourage visitors to explore local retailers. You’ll find unique gifts, holiday décor, and an array of artwork at neighborhood galleries and studios.