Milwaukee is bursting with holiday cheer, and these gingerbread displays are a sweet way to celebrate.
Here are five must-see gingerbread displays and activities near Milwaukee that promise to spark your kids’ imaginations and bring festive cheer:
1. MATC Parade of Gingerbread Houses at Milwaukee Public Market
📍 Where: Milwaukee Public Market, Main Atrium
📅 When: Dec. 6 – Dec. 12
🎟️ Admission: Free
Talented Milwaukee Area Technical College culinary students showcase their whimsical gingerbread creations in this delightful exhibit each year a the Milwaukee Public Market. Perfect for families, this free event offers an up-close look at the imaginative details and creative designs of these edible masterpieces.
2. Gingerbread Village at North Shore Boulangerie
📍 Where: 4401 N. Oakland Ave., Shorewood
📅 When: Now through Christmas
Step into the holiday season at North Shore Boulangerie, where Pastry Chef Christina Schubert’s intricate gingerbread village is on display. Peek through the window—or better yet, step inside for a pastry and coffee—to see cozy gingerbread homes, a glowing Christmas tree, and even a skating rink with animated villagers.
Don’t miss the Lunch with Santa on Dec. 14 and Dec. 22, complete with a prix fixe menu and a visit from the jolly elf himself. Reservations are required.
3. Santa’s Workshop at Cedarburg’s Washington Avenue
Step into the holiday magic with Santa’s Workshop, a charming 15′ x 15′ gingerbread house in downtown Cedarburg that welcomes families throughout the Christmas season.
When Santa and Mrs. Claus aren’t on hand to greet guests, you can still peek inside the windows to see the cozy fireplace and the bustling workshop where toys come to life. It’s a heartwarming stop that’s sure to spark joy for visitors of all ages.
4. Grand Geneva Gingerbread House Competition in Lake Geneva
📍 Where: Grand Geneva Resort, Lake Geneva
📅 When: Nov. 24 – Dec. 31, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. daily
The Gingerbread House Walk at Grand Geneva showcases local artistry with houses created by community members of all ages. Vote for your favorite, explore the festive upper level of the Brissago Foyer, and consider making a donation to support United Way of Walworth County.
5. Waelderhaus Annual Gingerbread Festival in Kohler
📍 Where: Waelderhaus, Kohler
📅 When: Nov. 29 – Dec. 30 (hours vary by day)
🎟️ Admission: Free
Take a festive trip to Kohler’s Waelderhaus to see dozens of creative gingerbread houses from local schools and community groups. Weekend visits include live holiday music performances at 2 p.m., adding a magical soundtrack to your visit.
6. Dine at The Gingerbread House in Muskego
📍 Where: The Gingerbread House, 1885 Farmstead, Muskego
📅 When: Open year-round (hours vary)
Enjoy a cozy meal at The Gingerbread House in Muskego, a charming farmhouse-inspired bistro, complete with freshly brewed coffee, homemade soups, and sandwiches. The rustic setting and boutique make it a delightful stop for families seeking a low-key holiday outing.
Want more festive ideas? Be sure to check out our full Holiday Fun Guide for santa sightings, holiday lights, magical experiences, and more.
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
