Milwaukee Downtown Business Improvement District #21 flips the switch to illuminate the city's urban parks.
PHOTO CREDIT: milwaukeedowntown.com
If you’ve driven through downtown Milwaukee recently, you’ve probably noticed things are looking bit more festive.
Colorful, shimmering lights now adorn three of the city’s urban parks, and ornate chandeliers now hang above intersections on Wisconsin Avenue. The decorations are part of the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival, a longstanding Milwaukee tradition.
Behind it all is Milwaukee Downtown Business Improvement District #21.
“Close your eyes and imagine a winter wonderland,” said Elizabeth Weirick, executive director of Milwaukee Downtown BID.
Pere Marquette, Zeidler Union Square, and Cathedral Square Parks are each decorated in their own themes. From Santa’s toy box to playful penguins, and traditional trees decorated by Milwaukee Public School students, the parks are bursting with holiday cheer.
Beyond the newly illuminated parks, if you stroll down Wisconsin Avenue you will notice 17 chandeliers hanging above intersections. Old World Third Street is also decked out in holiday lights.
To see the displays for yourself, catch one of Milwaukee Downtown’s “ jingle buses.” For just $1 per person, you can enjoy a 40-minute tour of all the holiday sights around downtown Milwaukee. Board the shuttle at the Grand Avenue and enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and cookies after your tour.
“People are ready to take a step back and take a deep breath. Let’s reunite as a community and focus on all the really great things we have to celebrate,” Weirick said.
Milwaukee Downtown BID #21 is a not-for-profit that promotes businesses in downtown Milwaukee. To learn more about its mission and its partner businesses, visit its official website.
