2025 Milwaukee Holiday Guide: Lights, Festive Fun & Good Cheer

The holiday season has arrived in Milwaukee, 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.

Christmas in the Ward

When: December 5, 2025 | 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Where: Catalano Square, Broadway & Menomonee St., Milwaukee, WI
This festive evening features a tree lighting ceremony, fireworks, live reindeer, and performances by local choirs and theater groups. Food trucks, s’mores, and holiday vendors add to the lively atmosphere. Make sure you don't miss any stops by downloading the Merry Map in advance.
More info: historicthirdward.org/christmas-in-the-ward

Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival

When: Through January 1, 2026 | Nightly
Where: Downtown Milwaukee, Pere Marquette Park, Cathedral Square Park, Red Arrow Park and Zeidler Union Square
This six-week celebration transforms four downtown parks and the square into themed winter wonderlands, with more than 500,000 lights, interactive displays and festive street decorations along Wisconsin Avenue. Visitors can enjoy free cocoa, cookies and narrated Jingle Bus tours on weekends. Explore the Festival Brochure for more details, including a full roundup of recurring and one-time events around the area.
More info: milwaukeeholidaylights.com

Christmas at the Pabst Mansion

When: Through January 4, 2026 | 10 am–4 pm Monday–Saturday, 11 am–2 pm Sunday
Where: Pabst Mansion, 2000 W. Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee, WI
Step inside the historic Pabst Mansion to see grand Christmas trees, garlands, train displays, and elegant holiday décor throughout the rooms. Self-guided tours highlight the mansion’s Gilded Age charm, with seasonal touches that make every corner sparkle. Advance tickets are recommended for this popular ongoing attraction.
More info: pabstmansion.com/events/christmas-at-the-pabst-mansion/

Candy Cane Lane

When: November 28 – December 25, 2025 | Evening hours vary by day; see website for details
Where: West Allis neighborhood, bordered by 92nd–96th Streets and Montana–Oklahoma Avenues
A beloved Milwaukee tradition, Candy Cane Lane features dozens of homes decked out in dazzling lights and holiday displays. Visitors stroll or drive through the neighborhood while donating to the MACC Fund, supporting childhood cancer research. It’s festive, charitable and a must-see local tradition.
More info: candycanelanewi.com

The Nutcracker

When: Select dates between December 6 – 26, 2025 | Various showtimes; see website
Where: Marcus Performing Arts Center, 929 N. Water St., Milwaukee, WI
Milwaukee Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker dazzles audiences with inventive choreography, whimsical sets, and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score. Nearly 200 dancers, including students from the Ballet School & Academy, bring this magical world to life. It’s a treasured holiday tradition for families and a highlight of the theater's December calendar.
More info: milwaukeeballet.org/The-Nutcracker

All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914

When: Select dates December 11 – 22, 2025 | Times vary by day; see website
Where: Vanguard MKE, 266 E. Erie St., Milwaukee, WI
This moving theatrical production retells the true story of the World War I Christmas Truce, when soldiers laid down arms to share songs of peace. Featuring stirring a cappella arrangements, it’s a powerful reminder of humanity and hope during the holidays. Seating is first-come, first-served, with doors opening 30 minutes before showtime.
More info: vanguardmke.com/tickets

Hometown Holiday Pops

When: Select dates December 13 – 21, 2025 | Matinee and evening performances available; see website
Where: Bradley Symphony Center, 212 W. Wisconsin Ave., Milwaukee, WI
The Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, joined by the Milwaukee Handbell Ensemble and Symphony Chorus, presents a festive program of carols and holiday classics. With rich harmonies and sing-along moments, this concert is both joyful and family-friendly. Note: ticket pricing includes a $4 historic preservation fee and a $6.50 processing fee.
More info: mso.org/concerts/holiday-pops/66545

Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve

When: December 27, 2025 | 3 pm and 7:30 pm
Where: Fiserv Forum, 1111 Vel R. Phillips Ave., Milwaukee, WI
The legendary Trans-Siberian Orchestra brings its electrifying holiday rock opera back to Milwaukee. Fans can expect dazzling lights, pyrotechnics and a mix of Christmas favorites and greatest hits. As a bonus, for the first time since 2019, attendees can join the signing line to get one item signed by the group members, free of charge.
More info: fiservforum.com/events/detail/trans-siberian-orchestra-1

Enjoy the season, make a few memories close to home and have a happy holiday, Milwaukee!

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