Celebrating the Holidays in Milwaukee

If a white Christmas is on your wish list this year, Milwaukee usually delivers. Celebrating the holiday season in Milwaukee is a truly festive experience with mid-western charm. Wisconsin offers a mix of old-fashioned hospitality and illuminating light displays for the entire family.

The Grand Geneva Resort hosts the Annual Christmas in the Country. For over a decade, the resort has delighted visitors and locals with this holiday celebration. The festivities begin in late November with a spectacular lighting ceremony followed by fireworks later in the evening.

Throughout the holiday season, visitors enjoy performances in the resort's grand ballroom. Each Sunday the families enjoy brunch with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Saturdays are a treat for children with a weekly sing-a-long musical event and the gingerbread house exhibit. Special dinner and lunch performances are available with reservations.

For over a decade, the Fireside Theatre, located in Fort Atkinson, has delighted holiday travelers with their traditional Fireside Christmas. Each year performers put on a festive holiday shows, complete with period costumes. The revelry begins late November and ends December 23. This is dinner theatre, so bring your appetite and call in advance for reservations.

Pleasant Prairie is home to Wisconsin's Jelly Belly Center and on November 25, the center is transformed into a magical holiday celebration. During the event visitors, witness the annual tree lighting ceremony and even a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Throughout the evening, the center awards door prizes and delights young and old alike with holiday entertainment. Refreshments and treats are available during the festivities. It's the Jelly Belly Center; of course there will be treats!

The Captain Frederick Pabst Mansion has been a landmark in Milwaukee for over a century and when the holiday season comes around, the mansion and grounds are transformed into a winter wonderland. Each year from November 17 until January 14, the mansion opens its doors to holiday visitors. Each year the mansion has a unique holiday theme that invites visitors to step back in time and explore the numerous exhibits.

The Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival invites thousands of people each year to enjoy the annual event. The festivities begin the lighting ceremony on November 16, in Pere Marquette Park. Over 400,000 lights are making it the city's largest holiday lighting event.

The unique light displays are the combined efforts of local businesses and people throughout the community creating dazzling displays. Some of the favorite displays include:

The Community Spirit Park, located at Cathedral Square Park. This display highlights holiday decorations created by local schools. Trees around the park are decorated with these handmade ornaments providing a truly unique experience.

The Fairytale Dreams display is located at Pere Marquette Park. This magical site includes wizards, castles and a myriad of fantasy figures in a delightful holiday scene.

The Holiday Circus Fun display draws visitors into a carnival-like atmosphere. This display is sure to be a family favorite that includes circus animals, tightrope walkers and a dazzling animated carousel.

During the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival, visitors are invited to ride the Jingle Bus. The price is $1 for a detailed bus tour of all the festival's attractions. The bus starts the tour at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center. Holiday seekers can come in from the cold at the City Center and enjoy free refreshments including hot cocoa while waiting for the Jingle Bus.

When people think of holiday travel, most do not think of a trip to the zoo. However, if you are in Milwaukee, it is a stop you do not want to miss during the holiday season. The Holiday Night Lights in early December kicks off the zoo's holiday festivities. The event includes a dazzling light display with a distinct animal theme and a visit from Mr. And Mrs. Claus.

During the second week of December, children are invited to a breakfast with Santa and they even receive a gift. Call the zoo early to register for this fun event. If you live in Milwaukee County, the zoo offers free admission on Christmas day, with valid identification.

Milwaukee offers holiday travelers and locals alike, old-fashioned festivities and dazzling modern light displays in a friendly environment that invokes the warmth of holidays past.