Every week, Milwaukee With Kids answers a simple question for families across the area: What are we going to do this weekend? From indoor activities to outdoor adventures, we’ve got you covered. For the full weekend list, make sure to visit the Milwaukee With Kids website.
All of the lights
Downtown Holiday Lights Kickoff Extravaganza
Pere Marquette Park
Nov. 20 | 5:30 p.m.
Every year, the city kicks off the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival in style, with music, dancing, a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus, fireworks, free cocoa and cookies, free Jingle Bus rides and pre-show entertainment by Kid Boogie Down. On top of that, the other light displays around downtown will be shining brightly at Cathedral Square Park, Zeidler Union Square and Red Arrow Park.
City of Milwaukee Christmas Tree Lighting
Deer (or Cheer) District
Nov. 21 | 5-7 p.m.
The party around the city’s official Christmas tree lighting will begin at 5 p.m. with a live band, entertainment from DJ YC and a special performance by the Milwaukee Rep as it celebrates the 50th anniversary of A Christmas Carol. The tree-lighting ceremony will take place at 6 p.m. with Mayor Cavalier Johnson and special guest appearances by Bango; Santa Claus; and Dancer, Cupid and Vixen of Reindeer Games.
Christmas Carnival of Lights
Jellystone Park | Caledonia
Nov. 22-Jan. 31
Check out the transformation of Jellystone Park, located 20 minutes south of Milwaukee, as owners the Isaacson family bring back this annual display of more than 3 million lights. After debuting in 2009, the Christmas Carnival of Lights has grown in popularity every year, as Jellystone Park’s staff and volunteers show off the end result of their five weeks of work creating totally unique displays. New for 2025, you’ll also find Candy Village with ice skating and a glowing walking path, a snowless tube slide, and an upgraded listening experience.
Domes Holiday Show
Mitchell Park Domes
Nov. 22-Jan. 4
Sing in the holidays as Milwaukee's Mitchell Park Domes playfully celebrates the classic carol, "The 12 Days of Christmas." You'll be treated to whimsical displays inspired by the inescapable verses of this beloved song — with a botanical flair. Each day's theme is reimagined through creative installations and vibrant arrangements of hundreds of poinsettias. Don't miss your chance to experience this iconic holiday event and snap a photo in front of the spectacular holiday tree.
Wild Lights Drone Show
Milwaukee County Zoo
Nov. 21 | 5:30-9 p.m.
Experience the magic of the Zoo after dark, walking through hundreds of thousands of sparkling lights throughout the forest and pathways. Enjoy an enchanted evening under the stars in an illuminated destination glowing with a variety of animal-themed light displays. And to celebrate the opening night of Wild Lights, you can watch your favorite animals appear in the sky during a special drone show at 6:15 and 7:30 p.m.
Winter Glow
Brown Deer Park
Nov. 20-Feb. 4 (select dates)
This new drive-through holiday light experience takes you on a mile-long journey featuring dazzling displays perfectly synced to cheerful holiday music. Expect 60 minutes of festive fun, favorite treats and glowing memories for all ages.
Shows and shopping
The Pigeon Gets a Big Time Holiday Extravaganza
Todd Wehr Theater
Nov. 21-Dec. 28
First Stage delivers catchy tunes, silly stories, goofy gifts, and audience antics in this musical party that features all your favorite Mo Willems characters. The Unlimited Squirrels deck the halls, and Elephant and Piggie come ready to celebrate. But will The Pigeon join in the festivities, or will he run all the way to the North Pole in search of the greatest gift ever? You’ll find out at this brand new production recommended for families with young people ages 4-14.
Deer District Holiday Market
Nov. 21-30 (closed Thanksgiving Day)
At this inaugural event organized by Deer District BID #53, attendees will find a curated lineup of local vendors offering crafted apparel, food, beauty products, home furnishings and more. Plus, there will be holiday-themed photo opps, as well as seasonal food and drink specials from the various businesses that call the Deer District home. Each day also will feature seasonal entertainment, including the city tree-lighting ceremony Nov. 21, appearances by Santa Claus, and performances from the cast of The Grinch and The Pigeon Gets a Bigtime Holiday Extravaganza.
Holiday Folk Fair International
Wisconsin State Fair Park
Nov. 21-23
This multicultural festival and program from the International Institute of Wisconsin celebrates the heritage of the people living in southeastern Wisconsin. The theme of this year’s market is “Celebrate the Culture of Traditional Music,” highlighting the melodies, lyrics and instruments used to tell stories of people around the world and music’s role in preserving cultural identity, celebrating life’s moments and educating others. The 82nd annual event features an international bazaar, coffee house, world cafe, children’s area, chef’s stage, heritage lane, All Nations Theater and more.
Blackity Black Holiday Market
Radio Milwaukee
Nov. 22 | 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
HYFIN is proud to once again partner with the African American Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin to create more than just a shopping experience. The Blackity Black Holiday Market is a platform for economic empowerment, a celebration of Black entrepreneurship, and a space where every purchase directly supports local, Black-owned businesses building their dreams right here in Milwaukee. You'll find dozens of vendors offering handcrafted jewelry and artisan goods, unique clothing and accessories, delicious treats and beverages, and one-of-a-kind gifts you won't find anywhere else.