MATC Parade of Gingerbread Houses at Milwaukee Public Market
2025-12-12 10:00 - 20:00, 2025-12-13 10:00 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Milwaukee Public Market, 400 N Water St, Milwaukee, 53202
🎄 Step into a winter wonderland at the Milwaukee Public Market, where talented students from the Milwaukee Area Technical College (MATC) Bakery Program present a dazzling display of gingerbread houses! These intricate and imaginative creations, crafted with care and expertise, bring holiday cheer to life through the artistry of MATC’s culinary students.
Visitors of all ages are invited to admire this festive showcase, filled with whimsical details and holiday charm. It’s a delightful tradition that highlights the creativity and skill of future bakers and pastry chefs right here in Milwaukee. Come support local talent, embrace the holiday spirit, and perhaps even get inspired for your own gingerbread creations (or bid in the auction to take one home!).
The MATC Gingerbread House display is located in the Market’s Palm Garden (2nd level) and is open during regular business hours between Dec. 5–14. Admission is free.
MONDAY THRU FRIDAY
10am – 8pm
SATURDAY
10am – 8pm
SUNDAY
10am – 6pm
Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the event website to confirm the latest details.

Santa Days at Cedarburg Santa's Workshop
2025-12-12 16:00 - 19:00, 2025-12-13 11:00 - 14:00 | WI
Thanks to generous grants from the Greater Cedarburg Foundation and Festivals of Cedarburg, Inc., a charming 15′ x 15′ gingerbread house graces Cedarburg’s Washington Avenue for the entire Christmas season; located just outside of the Cedarburg Community Gym:
W63N645 Washington Ave
Cedarburg, WI 53012
Santa and Mrs. Claus often stop by in the days leading up to Christmas. When Santa’s not in to greet guests, you can peek in the windows to see his charming fireplace and the toys he and the elves have been working on!
Santa and Mrs. Claus are excited to meet with as many families as possible this year. Please note – there is high demand and we can’t always accommodate every family. We encourage you to arrive early as we schedule families into time slots the day of each event, and there are a limited number of time slots each day. Once you are on the list, we encourage you to walk around and enjoy our lovely town while you’re waiting for your reservation. We begin taking walk-up reservations 15 minutes BEFORE the workshop opens. Please note, some families do come well before the workshop opens to stand in line to make their walk-up reservations.
We appreciate your patience and kindness. Our volunteers work very hard to try to get every family in, and are just as upset to have to turn families away. Please don’t make their jobs more difficult than it already is!

2025 Santa Days:

Friday, November 21 (Santa and Mrs. Claus will be walking through Cedarburg, 5-8p)

Friday, November 28, 4-7pm

Saturday, November 29, 11am-2pm

Saturday, December 6, 11am-2pm

Friday, December 12, 4-7pm

Saturday, December 13, 11am-2pm

Friday, December 19, 4-7pm

Saturday, December 20, 11-2pm

Monday, December 22, 4-7pm

*Santa is at the Cedar Creek Settlement on Friday, December 5!

Please note: Dates, times, and pricing are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check with the event organizer or venue to confirm the latest details.

Milwaukee Downtown Holiday Lights Festival
2025-12-12 16:30 - 22:00, 2025-12-13 16:30 - 22:00 | Downtown Milwaukee, WI
November 20, 2025 – January 1, 2026
It’s a glowrious time to be Downtown! Our parks and streets will soon be aglow with holiday spirit and more than a half million brilliant bulbs. Meanwhile, a flurry of shows, Santa photo ops and exceptional dining opportunities are beckoning friends and family to gather here all season long! So, make the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival the highlight of your season.
View the 2025 festival guide here.
Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the event website to confirm the latest details.

Santa's Christmas Cavalcade in Downtown Milwaukee
2025-12-12 17:00 - 19:45 | Milwaukee Public Market, 400 N Water St, Milwaukee, 53202
Santa’s Christmas Cavalcade in partnership with Milwaukee Downtown
Saturday, Dec. 6 and Friday, Dec. 12, 2025
Departs at 5:15 PM from Milwaukee Public Market
See Santa and Mrs. Claus on this festive route riding atop a vintage fire truck. Route departs from the Milwaukee Public Market’s Water Street entrance at 5:00 PM and travels throughout Downtown.
The cavalcade travels east on Wisconsin Avenue to the lakefront, and passes Pere Marquette Park, Cathedral Square Park, Zeidler Union Square, Catalano Square, and Light the Hoan between 5:15 pm – 7:45 pm.
Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the event website to confirm the latest details.

Illuminate Ozaukee at Zeunert Park Cedarburg
2025-12-12 17:00 - 20:00, 2025-12-13 17:00 - 20:00 | Herman A. Zeunert Park, WI, United States
Experience the magic of the holidays!
Each December, the Ozaukee Nonprofit Center partners with local businesses and nonprofits to transform Zeunert Park in Cedarburg into a glowing drive-thru winter wonderland. Families can wind through the park and take in dazzling light displays, festive music, and plenty of holiday cheer.
Keep an eye out for Santa or other fun holiday characters appearing throughout the season. They love surprising guests along the route!
Every display is created and sponsored by a local organization, each one adding its own sparkle and creativity. Visitors can cast their vote for a favorite display when they arrive, helping crown this year’s Holiday Design Champion. Enter the light show from Lincoln Blvd and exit onto Hamilton Road. Zeunert Park is located just a few minutes from downtown Cedarburg, making it easy to enjoy a full night of holiday fun, from shopping and dining to festive events.
This event is free, however there is a suggested minimum $20 donation. Your cash or credit donation helps strengthen our community! All proceeds support the Ozaukee Nonprofit Center and our network of local nonprofit agencies.
Illuminate Ozaukee celebrates community, creativity, and connection, all while supporting the programs and partners of the Ozaukee Nonprofit Center.

Please note: Dates, times, and pricing are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check with the event organizer or venue to confirm the latest details.

Winter Wonder Woods at Hawthorn Glen MKE
2025-12-12 17:00 - 20:00, 2025-12-13 17:00 - 20:00 | Hawthorn Glen Nature Center, 1130 N 60th Street, Milwaukee, WI, 53208, United States
New This Year: No Registration Required!
This year, Milwaukee Recreation is offering the Winter Wonder Woods experience to all community members for free! Community members no longer have to register for a time slot and attend during a specific window of time. Participants may enjoy the experience and enter and exit Hawthorn Glen as they please.

Celebrate winter in style with Milwaukee Recreation’s Winter Wonder Woods! Join us to experience seasonal serenity in the city while creating lasting memories and new traditions.
Explore the winter beauty of Hawthorn Glen Outdoor Education Center with an evening walk through the woods, featuring nature-inspired displays that gently illuminate the path and your understanding of the natural world. This year, we’re scaling back some of our lighting to allow Hawthorn Glen’s natural beauty to take center stage.
Complimentary warm drinks and cookies will be available.

Where: Hawthorn Glen
Dates: Dec. 10-13, 2025
Times: 5-8 p.m.
Cost: FREE
No registration required.

Note: Parking is extremely limited in both the Hawthorn Glen parking lot and on the street on the adjacent Martin Dr.
Street parking is not permitted on 60th St. Carpooling and ride-sharing is greatly appreciated!
Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the event website to confirm the latest details.

Christmas Carnival of Lights (Caledonia)
2025-12-12 17:00 - 21:00, 2025-12-13 17:00 - 21:00 | Jellystone Park Caledonia, 8425 HWY 38, Caledonia, 53108, United States
November 22 – January 31*
*Closed for Thanksgiving (11/27) & Christmas (12/25)
*Open Fridays & Saturdays only in January
November 22 & 23 (Grand Opening): 5pm to 10pm
November 24 – December 11
Sunday – Thursday: 5pm to 9pm
Friday & Saturday: 5pm to 10pm

December 12 – December 20
Sunday – Thursday: 5pm to 9pm
Friday & Saturday: 5pm to 10:30pm
December 21 – December 24
Sunday – Tuesday: 5pm to 10pm
Wednesday (Christmas Eve) : 5pm to 9pm
December 26 – 31
Everyday: 5pm to 9pm
January 2 – 31
Friday & Saturday: 5pm to 9pm
LOCATION
Jellystone Park™ in Caledonia, WI
8425 HWY 38 Caledonia, WI 53108
Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the event website to confirm the latest details.

Winter Formal: Teens with Special Needs Dance at St. Francis Children's Center
2025-12-12 17:30 - 20:00 | St Francis Children’s Center, 6700 N Port Washington Rd, Milwaukee, WI, 53217, United States
You’re invited to our Winter Formal on Friday, December 12th from 5:30 PM to 8:00 PM, as we step into a magical Winter Wonderland!
Get ready for music, milestone photos, laughter, and unforgettable memories!
Dressing up is completely optional—come as you are and ready to dance, connect, and enjoy the evening! The night begins with Red Carpet Drop-Offs from 5:30 to 6:00 PM, followed by a warm welcome from our Executive Director. Gluten-free appetizers will be served at 6:00 PM, and dancing will be happening all night long.
This special evening is designed for teens ages 14–19 who have a support need or special need, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you. To make the night more meaningful and fun, each teen is kindly asked to bring a plus one—whether that’s a close friend, sibling, or family member. There’s no age limit for plus ones; we just ask that they be someone special who makes you feel supported and comfortable.
To attend the Winter Formal, families must reserve two free tickets in advance—one for the teen and one for their plus one. Tickets are required to attend, and no walk-ins will be accepted in order to keep the event safe and organized. We kindly ask guardians to secure tickets by the end of November, unless they sell out earlier. When booking, you’ll need to provide the plus one’s full name, age, phone number, email, and relationship to the teen. Please note that both tickets must be reserved at the same time.
While we’re excited to welcome everyone to this magical evening, we unfortunately cannot provide transportation to or from the event, so families will need to plan ahead. Thank you for helping us make this a smooth and joyful experience for all!

Please note: Dates, times, and pricing are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check with the event organizer or venue to confirm the latest details.

Kids Holiday Market and Free Santa Photos at Adeline Montessori School (Oconomowoc)
2025-12-13 09:00 - 12:00 | Adeline Montessori School, 995 S Sawyer Rd, Oconomowoc, 53066, United States
This festive community event invites young creators ages 6–16 to launch their very own mini-business for a day. From branding and product creation to setting up their booth and selling to real customers, kids will gain hands-on experience, build confidence, and have a blast showcasing their hard work.

Plus:• Santa will be onsite for photos• Adeline Montessori will be hosting a delicious pancake breakfast• Perfect for holiday shopping, family fun, and supporting local young entrepreneurs!

Vendor Spots:• Ages 6–16• $15 per booth• Limited spots — register now using the link in bio!

Event Date:Saturday, December 13th • 9:00 AM – 12:00 PMAdeline Montessori School
995 S Sawyer Rd, Oconomowoc, WI 53066

Admittance is free for shoppers!

Come shop, support, and celebrate our next generation of makers and doers.
We can’t wait to see you there!

Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the event website to confirm the latest details.

Santa's Mailbox Arrives in Cathedral Square Park DWN MKE
2025-12-13 09:00 - 19:00, 2025-12-14 09:00 - 19:00 | Cathedral Square Park, 520 E Wells Street, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, United States
Santa’s Mailbox has Arrived in Cathedral Square Park!
Make a day of it and ride the hop there and get some hot cocoa along the way.
Santa’s Mailbox
November 10 – December 14
Cathedral Square Park
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!
Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the event website to confirm the latest details.

Meet Santa at IMPROV (The Corners of Brookfield)
2025-12-13 10:00 - 12:00 | Milwaukee Improv, 20111 N Lord St, Brookfield, WI, 53045, United States
Meet Santa at IMPROV

By The Corners of Brookfield

Dec 13 from 10am to 12pm

A chance to tell the man himself what’s on your list!

Join us for a festive holiday celebration at IMPROV! Bring the whole family to meet Santa, snap a photo with him, enjoy complimentary activities and get into the holiday spirit!
When: Sunday, December 3th, 10a-12p
Where: IMPROV at The Corners of Brookfield (located in the parking structure)
Activities:
– Complimentary Photos with Santa
– Hot Chocolate Station
– Christmas Craft Station
– Write Your Own Letter to Santa and hand deliver it to him!
– Face Painting
– Sweet Treats
It’s a jolly good time for everyone—don’t miss it!
*this event is free, but please register ahead of time – one ticket per family*
Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the event website to confirm the latest details.

Visit the Midwest's Largest G-Scale Train in Menomonee Falls
2025-12-13 10:00 - 15:00 | Shady Lane Greenhouse, W172N7388 Shady Lane, Menomonee Falls, WI, 53051, United States
This remarkable attraction began in 1998 when proprietor Karl Hornung was inspired by a magazine article about garden-scale railroads. What started as a small 6′ x 24′ Christmas setup quickly grew in size and popularity, eventually taking over half a greenhouse by its third year.

From 2011 to 2013, the railroad underwent further expansion, moving into a 4,800-square-foot space located in The House of Blooms. Today, with 16 tracks stretching over 2,000 feet, the display features a stunning collection of passenger, freight, diesel, steam, and cogwheel mountain trains.

Train enthusiasts of all ages come from far & wide to experience this engaging display. Surrounded by table & chair settings, you can enjoy hours perusing all the details of the trains, the track and the landscape, by yourself or with your family.

Visit us on weekends to witness this incredible, ever-evolving masterpiece in action. Trains run every Saturday and Sunday from 10am-3pm. Everyone is welcome, and it’s FREE.

Please note: Dates, times, and pricing are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check with the event organizer or venue to confirm the latest details.

Kooky Cookie House at Shady Lane Greenhouse (Menomonee Falls)
2025-12-13 10:00 - 15:00 | Shady Lane Greenhouse, W172N7388 Shady Lane, Menomonee Falls, WI, 53051, United States
The historic and magical Kooky Cookie House has its new and permanent location at Shady Lane Greenhouse in Menomonee Falls.
Kids of all ages will enjoy this opportunity to walk thru the functioning cookie factory. From those who have treasured memories of days gone by to those little ones who will get the chance to form new holiday memories.
Come see the inside workings of the gingerbread cookie factory, that has been refurbished by many passionate volunteers over the years. There are great photo opportunities, coloring pages, and more. Come visit, the house will be open daily through the holiday season, 10am to 3pm.
Shady Lane Greenhouse wishes to thank all those who have donated funds and time to the restoration of this beautiful and memorable “house!”
Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the event website to confirm the latest details.

Christkindl Market Menomonee Falls
2025-12-13 10:00 - 16:00 | Menomonee Falls Downtown, ​N88W16712 Appleton Ave, Menomonee Falls, WI, 53051, United States
Step into a European-inspired Christkindl Market Village market full of artisan vendors, warm drinks, handmade goods, cozy holiday vibes, and a Kinder Korner for the little ones!
Families will enjoy professional portraits inside Santa’s Workshop, live reindeer, princess meet and greet with Elsa and Anna, and warm hot chocolate for a sweet treat. Also experience horse drawn carriage rides around the historic block!
Enjoy a Hallmark moment with family and friends as Menomonee Falls Downtown transforms into a winter wonderland this December.

Please note: Dates, times, and pricing are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check with the event organizer or venue to confirm the latest details.

A Very Grafton Grinchmas in Downtown Grafton
2025-12-13 10:00 - 16:00 | Downtown Grafton, Grafton, WI, United States
It’s going to be a very Grinchmas Christmas in downtown Grafton, and you’re invited to join the merry mischief!

From 10AM–4PM, bop around to your favorite participating businesses as they transform into festive, Grinch-themed wonderlands filled with holiday drinks, fun collaborations, exclusive promos, and cheerful activities.

Then from 11AM–2PM, keep your eyes peeled as you travel through downtown on the hunt for The Grinch himself! Snap a photo if you find him, and don’t forget to stop by The Stillery to grab a picture with Cindy Lou Who

Come ready for laughs, photos, festive treats, and a whole lot of holiday spirit (with just a tiny touch of Grinchy mischief).

Shop. Sip. Smile. A Very Grafton Grinchmas Christmas awaits!

Saturday, December 13th 10AM – 4PM throughout Downtown Grafton

Please note: Dates, times, and pricing are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check with the event organizer or venue to confirm the latest details.

ABC Academy at Central Library
2025-12-13 10:30 - 11:30 | Milwaukee Public Library / Main Branch – Central, 814 W. Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee, WI, 53233, United States
ABC Academy
Saturdays, 10:30-11:30 am
Central Library – 814 W Wisconsin Ave Milwaukee WI
Stories and a fun letter craft help build pre-reading and fine motor skills to support early literacy. This interactive program focuses on letter recognition. Each week, learn all about a new letter!
Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the event website to confirm the latest details.

Story Time at Wonderland Bookshop
2025-12-13 11:00 - 11:30 | Wonderland Bookshop, 4001 N Downer Avenue, Shorewood, Wisconsin, 53211
Join us for a story time! We will be reading one of our favorite stories every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. RSVP encouraged but not required. We hope to see you there!

Please note: Dates, times, and pricing are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check with the event organizer or venue to confirm the latest details.

Southridge Mall Kids Corner Holiday Elf Dance Party
2025-12-13 11:00 - 12:00 | Southridge Mall, 5300 S 76th Street, Greendale, WI, 53129, United States
𝗞𝗶𝗱𝘀 𝗖𝗼𝗿𝗻𝗲𝗿 𝗛𝗼𝗹𝗶𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗘𝗹𝗳 𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘆!
Get ready to dance, sing, and celebrate the season at Southridge Mall’s Holiday 𝗘𝗹𝗳 𝗗𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗣𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘆!
A 𝘀𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝘃𝗶𝘀𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗡𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝗣𝗼𝗹𝗲 will be making a surprise stop at the start of the event to spread some holiday cheer — you won’t want to miss it!
𝗟𝗼𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻: Outside of the lower level Macy’s interior entrance 𝗗𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘀: Enjoy music, movement, and festive fun for the whole family as cheerful elves lead the dance floor!
Don’t miss out on this joyful celebration — grab your little ones, sing your heart out, and experience the magic of the season at Southridge Mall!
𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘊𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯 𝘮𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘣𝘦 𝘢𝘤𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘦𝘥 & 𝘴𝘶𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘣𝘺 𝘢 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘭𝘦 𝘢𝘥𝘶𝘭𝘵 𝘢𝘵 𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦𝘴. 𝘚𝘰𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘥𝘨𝘦 𝘔𝘢𝘭𝘭 𝘥𝘰𝘦𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘢𝘤𝘤𝘦𝘱𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘱𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘪𝘣𝘪𝘭𝘪𝘵𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘴𝘶𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘴𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘰𝘧 𝘊𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯.

Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the event website to confirm the latest details.

Cocoa with the Clauses at Cathedral Square Park Downtown Milwaukee
2025-12-13 11:00 - 14:00 | Cathedral Square Park, 520 E Wells Street, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, United States
Cocoa with the Clauses at Cathedral Square Park in Milwaukee
Cocoa with the Clauses
Sat, December 13 | 11am to 2pm
Cathedral Square Park
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 Educators Credit Union will be provided.
Cost: Free
Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the event website to confirm the latest details.

Santa at the Pebble House Port Washington
2025-12-13 12:00 - 15:00 | WI
Come to the Pebble House in Port Washington from 12-3pm to visit with Santa! Kids of all ages are welcome.
There will be cookies and treats and, of course, Santa. Bring your letters as Santa will have is mailbox placed at the Pebble House from November 29th to December 20th.
These are the dates Santa will be at Pebble House from 12-3pm:

Saturday November 29
Sunday December 7
Saturday December 13
Saturday December 20

Please note: Dates, times, and pricing are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check with the event organizer or venue to confirm the latest details.

Kapco's 20th Anniversary Kids2Kids Toy Drive in Grafton
2025-12-13 15:00 - 19:00 | WI
This year marks the 20th anniversary of Kapco’s Kids2Kids Toy Drive! In 2006, the Kacmarcik family, along with WTMJ-AM, created a simple grassroots toy drive. Thanks to the growth and support of our partners, along with thousands of students, this program has distributed over 335,000 toys and is still going strong.

Join us for a Celebration of Giving Event on Saturday December 13th from 3pm – 7pm. The event will take place at Kacmarcik Center for Human Performance, located at 885 Badger Circle, Grafton, WI 53024.

Kapco and Kacmarcik Center invite guests to bring a new toy and enjoy the holiday season with musical performances, outdoor lights, a special tribute to Ozaukee County’s first responders, and, of course, plenty of toys!

Please note: Dates, times, and pricing are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check with the event organizer or venue to confirm the latest details.

Milwaukee Lakefront Holiday Drone Show at Veteran's Park
2025-12-13 17:00 - 18:30 | Veterans Park, 1010 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive, Milwaukee, WI, 53202, United States
Join UScellular and T-Mobile for a free, family-friendly drone show illuminating the Milwaukee skyline. All are welcome to enjoy the lights, community cheer and hot chocolate. In addition to holiday classics, attendees will enjoy drone designs created by the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee members. Join us at Veteran’s Park for holiday cheer!
Please note: Dates and times are subject to change, and occasionally events may be cancelled. Please check the event website to confirm the latest details.
