Seasonal & Holidays
2025 Greendale Holiday Guide: Lights, Festive Fun & Good Cheer
From small-town charm to seasonal celebrations, these hometown holiday highlights bring the spirit of the season to life.
The holiday season has arrived in Greendale, bringing twinkling lights, cheerful events and plenty of ways to make memories close to home. From light displays to beloved local traditions, here are the hometown holiday highlights you won’t want to miss.
Please note: Dates and details are subject to change, so be sure to check with each organizer before you go — many events require tickets or reservations in advance.
Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival
When: Now through January 1, 2026
Where: Cathedral Square, 520 E. Wells St., Milwaukee, WI; Père Marquette Park, 900 N. Plankinton Ave., Milwaukee, WI; Zeidler Union Square, 301 W. Michigan St., Milwaukee, WI
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Kick off the season at the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival, a six-week celebration filled with festive energy and family-friendly fun. Visitors can explore the ornament trail showcasing 20 giant hand-painted ornaments, drop letters in Santa’s Mailbox, and enjoy Cocoa with the Clauses with photo opportunities and warm drinks. Brilliant light displays illuminate the city each night, bringing holiday cheer to every corner.
More info: milwaukeedowntown.com/bid-events/milwaukee-holiday-lights-festival
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Christmas at the Pabst Mansion
When: November 20, 2025 to January 4, 2026 | 10 AM–4 PM Monday-Saturday, 11 AM–2 PM Sunday
Where: Pabst Mansion, 2000 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI
Discover a beloved local tradition as the Pabst Mansion transforms into a breathtaking winter wonderland. Each room showcases unique holiday décor, including sparkling tree displays and intricate seasonal details that change every year. Visitors can explore the mansion at their leisure while learning about its rich history. Tickets range from $15 to $22, with free admission for children aged 5 and under.
More info: pabstmansion.com/events/christmas-at-the-pabst-mansion
Wild Lights at the Zoological Society of Milwaukee
When: Select dates through December 31, 2025 | 5:30–9 PM
Where: The Zoological Society of Milwaukee, 10005 W Bluemound Rd, Milwaukee, WI
Stroll through dazzling illuminated pathways at the Milwaukee Zoo’s annual Wild Lights celebration. Visitors can admire vibrant animal-themed installations, themed light areas and festive displays throughout wooded trails. Families can also enjoy a magical ride on the North Shore Bank Safari Train. Drive-thru nights are available on Nov. 23, Dec. 7, 14 and 21 for a cozy, car-friendly experience.
More info: milwaukeezoo.org/visit/upcoming-events/wild-lights
A Christmas Carol at The Milwaukee Rep
When: November 25–December 24, 2025 | Showtimes vary (evenings and matinees)
Where: Pabst Theater, 108 E Wells St, Milwaukee, WI
Experience the Milwaukee Rep’s celebrated production of A Christmas Carol, featuring Rep favorite Matt Daniels as Scrooge. This classic story of redemption is brought to life with striking visuals, moving performances and beautiful music. Recommended for ages 6 and up, the show runs 2 hours and 10 minutes with one intermission. Tickets sell out quickly, particularly on weekends.
More info: milwaukeerep.com/shows/show/a-christmas-carol-2025
Wauwatosa Holiday Market
When: December 3–21, 2025 | Mon–Thurs 3 PM to 9 PM; Fri & Sat 10 AM to 10 PM
Where: Village of Wauwatosa, W. State Street, Wauwatosa, WI
Celebrate the season at the nearby Wauwatosa Holiday Market, inspired by traditional European festivities. Visitors can browse artisan-crafted goods in decorated chalets and enjoy hot chocolate, mulled wine and German specialties like Usinger sausages. A heated tent hosts live entertainment, including dance performances, and Santa makes an appearance at the Irish Christmas Cottage. Admission is free, and the event is wheelchair accessible.
More info: travelwisconsin.com/events/fairs-festivals/wauwatosa-holiday-market-230878
The Nutcracker at The Milwaukee Ballet
When: Select dates December 6–26 | Showtimes vary (evenings and matinees)
Where: Marcus Performing Arts Center, 128 N Jackson St, Milwaukee, WI
Enjoy Milwaukee Ballet’s timeless performance of The Nutcracker, complete with Tchaikovsky’s iconic score, vibrant costumes and enchanting choreography. This family-friendly production is recommended for ages 4 and up, with a special sensory-friendly performance on December 11 designed for guests with autism and sensory sensitivities.
More info: milwaukeeballet.org/The-Nutcracker
All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914
When: December 11–22, 2025 | Showtimes vary; see website
Where: Calvary Presbyterian Church, 303 E Clarence St, Milwaukee, WI
Experience the powerful true story of the 1914 World War I Christmas Truce, told through stirring narration and an extraordinary a cappella chorus. This moving production highlights the moment British and German soldiers set aside their weapons and shared the spirit of the season together. The show runs 75 minutes with no intermission and is recommended for ages 10 and up.
More info: vanguardmke.com/tickets
Enjoy the season, make a few memories close to home and have a happy holiday, Stillwater!
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