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The holiday season is the perfect time to experience the magic of live reindeer in Milwaukee with your family. All around the city and southeastern Wisconsin, you’ll find festive events where kids can meet reindeer up close and capture holiday memories. From tree lighting ceremonies to special holiday gatherings, here’s your guide to reindeer events near Milwaukee this December.
1. Milwaukee Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
When: Friday, November 21, 2025
Where: “Cheer District” (Deer District)
Details: The 111th Annual City of Milwaukee Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is packed with holiday cheer – and reindeer! Santa’s companions, Comet, Vixen, and Dancer, will make a special appearance during the festivities. Enjoy live music, a DJ, and performances before the tree lights up at 6 p.m. This free, family-friendly event also features free parking at select locations.
2. Christmas in the Ward
When: Friday, December 5, 2025, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Where: Catalano Square, Historic Third Ward
Details:
Celebrate the season in the heart of Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward! Mrs. Claus and her live reindeer will bring North Pole magic to Catalano Square, where kids can meet them and learn more about Santa’s sleigh team. This event also features holiday lights, a tree lighting ceremony, s’mores by the fire, and a dazzling fireworks show over the Milwaukee River.
3. Trees for Less
Dates & Times
- Friday, Nov. 28th, 2025 | 12–3 pm
- Saturday, Nov. 29th, 2025 | 11am–2 pm
- Sunday, Nov. 30th, 2025 | 12–3 pm
Trees for Less is a full-service Christmas Tree farm with beautiful fresh cut Christmas trees, wreaths, porch pots and gnomes. This year they are offering a Reindeer Photo Experience in partnership with The Aurora Acres. Step inside a cozy holiday tent with a decorated sleigh, festive Christmas decor, and enchanting live reindeer. You’ll get a timeless photo keepsake, and have the chance to chat with their reindeer experts! The experience is first come, first served, no registration required. ($30 per digital photo, delivered instantly to your phone.)
4. Mid State Insurance Holiday Give Back
When: Date TBD
Where: 7105 W Mequon Rd, Mequon, WI 53092
Details:
This heartwarming event combines holiday fun with giving back. Families can meet Santa and his reindeer while enjoying hot cocoa, snacks, and crafts. Kids can even collect “reindeer food” to sprinkle on their lawns on Christmas Eve! Admission is free with a donation to the Lakeshore Regional Child Advocacy Center.
5. Deer District Holiday Market — New This Year!
📍1134 N Vel R. Phillips Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53203 (Outside Fiserv Forum)
📅 Nov. 21–30 (Closed Thanksgiving Day)
- Free to attend
- Local vendors (16 shops this year!)
- Santa visits, reindeer, & carolers
- Letters to Santa station
- Holiday eats & drinks
6. Christmas on the Corner in Port Washington
When: December 6, 2025
Where: Downtown Port Washington
Details: Experience a Hallmark-style celebration complete with horse-drawn carriage rides, photos with Santa and his reindeer, cookie decorating, and holiday crafts. The event also includes a Christmas parade, tree lighting, and fireworks finale.
7. Schuetze Recreation Center Holiday Event
When: TBD
Where: Schuetze Recreation Center, 1120 Baxter Street, Waukesha, WI
Details: Families can meet Santa and one of his reindeer before settling in for a free screening of The Polar Express with complimentary popcorn. Bring chairs or blankets for a cozy evening of holiday fun.
8. The Corners of Brookfield
When: Sunday, November 21, 2025
Where: Market Square, The Corners of Brookfield
Details: Sells out quickly! Live reindeer and holiday music take center stage at this festive family event, which includes photos with reindeer, goodie bags, and hot cocoa.
Tips for Enjoying Reindeer Events
- Arrive Early: Many events draw large crowds, so arrive ahead of time to secure parking and get the best views.
- Dress Warmly: These events are often outdoors, so bundle up for Wisconsin’s winter weather.
- Check Event Websites: Times and details can change, so confirm the latest updates before heading out.
Want more holiday fun? Check out our full Holiday Fun Guide with Santa sightings, Christmas Light Displays, 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.
