From classic performances to dazzling light displays, the following are some of the top holiday events in Wisconsin that promise to add that touch of magic to your seasonal celebrations.
Nov. 1 to Dec. 31: Christmas in the Dells Dinner Show
Wisconsin Dells
Christmas in the Dells Dinner Show is a brand new holiday production in Wisconsin Dells, featuring Santa, dancing elves, the area’s largest living nativity and much more. During this special seasonal show, guests can enjoy an incredible cast alongside the orchestral sounds of an amazing brass section while savoring a four-course dinner feast (which is included in the dinner price).
Cost: $79.95 per adult, ages 12 and up; $49.95 for kids, ages 3 to 11.
For more information: dellschristmasdinnershow.com.
Nov. 16 to Jan. 1: Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival
Milwaukee
Downtown Milwaukee comes alive with the dazzling spectacle of the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival. Marvel at the city’s radiant transformation as thousands of lights illuminate the streets, parks and iconic landmarks. The festival offers a magical stroll through the heart of the town with a brand-new Ornament Trail, making it a cherished holiday tradition for locals and visitors alike. Other holiday happenings are also on the agenda, including Cocoa with the Clauses, Jingle Bus rides and more.
Cost: Free to attend Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival. Ticket prices vary for other downtown events.
For more information: milwaukeedowntown.com.
Nov. 17 to Dec. 14: Country Christmas
Pewaukee
Discover the magic of Country Christmas at The Ingleside Hotel in Pewaukee. This holiday extravaganza–with walk-through, drive-through and wagon ride options–features a spectacular light display, a holiday village with festive activities and even a chance to visit with Santa. Bring the whole family and create cherished memories at this enchanting destination.
Cost: Varies depending on activity. Starts at $8 for a walk through the holiday village; $25 for carloads and $20 for wagon rides.
For more information: thecountrychristmas.com.
Nov. 24 to Dec. 30, Select Dates: WPS Garden of Lights
Green Bay
Kicking off Friday, Nov. 24, bask in the glow of 40 nature-themed displays comprising 350,000 twinkling lights at Green Bay Botanical Garden during WPS Garden of Lights. In addition to holiday light displays, guests can partake in horse-drawn wagon rides and concessions and stop by the Fischer Visitor Center for fun activities for kids of all ages (including story time with Mrs. Claus and photos with Santa on select nights). WPS Garden of Lights takes place Nov. 24 to Dec. 30 on select evenings, 4:30 to 9 p.m.
Cost: From $12 to $20 for adults; $5 to $13 for kids, ages 3 to 12.
For more information: GBBG.org/Lights.
Nov. 24 to Dec. 31: Enchant Christmas
Milwaukee
Enchant Christmas–taking place at Franklin Field in Milwaukee–is an immersive holiday experience. Adventure through The Great Search, a larger-than-life light maze; shop The Village, with artisan vendors, specialty crafters and boutiques; enjoy the Ice Skating Trail; take pics at Santa’s Landing; and much more. Check out Enchant Christmas’ calendar for special theme nights!
Cost: Starting at $34 for adults and $25 for juniors.
For more information: enchantchristmas.com.
Nov. 25 to Dec. 17: East Troy Christmas Day Trains
East Troy
These magical train rides depart from East Troy Depot and head to Santa’s workshop, located at the Elegant Farmer. While there, children can visit and take photos with Santa. The total experience is two hours in duration (one hour at the Elegant Farmer). There are five departures per day on select dates through Dec. 17.
Cost: Starting at $26 for adults; $22 for children, ages 3 to 14; $9 for infants and toddlers.
For more information: www.easttroyrr.org.
Dec. 1: Lake Mills Classic Christmas Weekend
Lake Mills
Embrace the charm of a small-town Christmas with Lake Mills Classic Christmas Weekend. This festive event features a holiday market and various activities for the whole family, including a meet-and-greet with Santa, indulgent treats and a tree-lighting ceremony. Immerse yourself in the warmth of community and the joy of the season in the heart of Lake Mills with this holiday event in Wisconsin, taking place from 5 to 10 p.m.
Cost: Free, subject to purchases.
For more information: enjoyjeffersoncounty.com.
Dec. 1: Family Fun: Holidays Around the World
Janesville
Embark on a global journey in the Kids’ Art and Music class from Prodigy Kids LLC. This immersive experience explores holidays worldwide, from Diwali to Hanukkah, through vibrant artworks and melodic tunes. Fostering both artistic talent and cultural understanding, this class inspires young minds to become ambassadors of unity. The holiday event in Wisconsin will take place from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.
Cost: $35 per student, ages 11 and under.
For more information: hisawyer.com.
Dec. 1 to Dec. 31: Wild Lights at Milwaukee County Zoo
Milwaukee
Back and brighter than ever, Wild Lights at Milwaukee County Zoo is ready to take visitors on an immersive journey this holiday season. Marvel at the captivating light displays, enjoy seasonal treats and experience the magic of the season at this holiday event in Wisconsin. This family-friendly evening is a delightful way to celebrate the winter, surrounded by the zoo’s enchanting ambiance daily from 5:30 to 9 p.m.
Cost: General admission at the gate starts at $20 per adult and $18 per child under 12.
For more information: milwaukeezoo.org.
Dec. 1 to Dec. 3: A Madison Symphony Christmas
Madison
Let the Madison Symphony Orchestra serenade you into the holiday spirit with A Madison Symphony Christmas. Featuring a repertoire that captures the essence of the season, these performances are a harmonious blend of tradition and celebration. Join in the merriment at Overture Hall and let the symphony weave a magical tapestry of holiday joy as you listen to your favorite holiday tunes from Dec. 1 to Dec. 3. Each performance will take place at a different time: Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m.
Cost: Starting at $15.
For more information: madisonsymphony.org.
Dec. 15 to Dec. 24: The Nutcracker by Madison Ballet
Madison
Immerse yourself in the timeless enchantment of “The Nutcracker,” as choreographed by Sara Stewart Schumann. This beloved holiday classic takes the audience on a journey alongside Clara, who is transported from the coziness of her home on Christmas Eve to the exotic Land of Sweets. A feast for the senses, this performance at Overture Hall is a magical experience for all ages, taking place on select dates and times as early as 1 p.m.
Cost: Prices start at $19.
For more information: overture.org.
Dec. 16: 125 Strong: Holiday Celebration
La Crosse
Celebrate the season with La Crosse Symphony Orchestra’s 125 Strong: Holiday Celebration. From 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., this musical experience, featuring performances from some of Wisconsin’s best, includes traditional Hanukkah, Christmas and Kwanzaa songs.
Cost: From $11 to $66 per person.
For more information: lacrossesymphony.org.
Dec. 27: Trans-Siberian Orchestra: “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve”
Milwaukee
Experience the season’s magic with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra’s “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve” at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee. This electrifying performance combines rock, classical and holiday music, creating a spellbinding audio-visual experience that will leave you in awe. The famous traveling orchestra will have two shows, 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $39 per person.
For more information: fiservforum.com.