Things to Do in Waukesha & Milwaukee Counties: August 28-30, 2026Summer may be winding down, but Southeastern Wisconsin is not slowing down! From community festivals and farmers markets to live
Dated: December 18 2024
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Weekend Holiday Events You Won't Want to Miss in the Milwaukee Area
The holiday season is in full swing, and the Milwaukee area has a wealth of festive events perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking to celebrate the season. Whether you're in the mood for Christmas lights, live entertainment, or simply some holiday cheer, we've rounded up some of the best local events happening this weekend. Plus, with plenty of opportunities to shop locally and explore the community, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here are the top events to check out this weekend:
Letters to Santa Mailbox at the Smiley Barn Toy Store
ALL WEEKEND
📍 Smiley Barn Toy and Candy Store, Delafield
Take your little ones to the Smiley Barn Toy Store in Delafield and let them send their Christmas wishes straight to Santa with the "Letters to Santa" mailbox. A heartwarming holiday tradition, this event is sure to put everyone in the Christmas spirit.
Country Christmas at the Ingleside Hotel
ALL WEEKEND
📍 Ingleside Hotel, Pewaukee/Waukesha
The Ingleside Hotel in Pewaukee is transformed into a winter wonderland with its Country Christmas celebration. Enjoy a cozy, festive atmosphere with activities for all ages, from gingerbread houses to festive dining. This event is a must-see for anyone in the area.
See a Live Nativity
Saturday at St. Matthew’s in Oconomowoc
Saturday and Sunday in Pewaukee
📍 St. Matthew's, Oconomowoc | Pewaukee
Experience the true meaning of Christmas at a live nativity scene this weekend. The event in Oconomowoc on Saturday and Pewaukee on both Saturday and Sunday promises to be a beautiful and peaceful experience for all who attend.
SnowGlobe Holiday Festival powered by Enchant
ALL WEEKEND
📍 Ballpark Commons, Franklin, WI
Head to Milwaukee’s Ballpark Commons for the SnowGlobe Holiday Festival, an enchanting event featuring ice skating, light displays, and festive activities. Powered by Enchant, this holiday festival is perfect for making memories with your loved ones.
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical
ALL WEEKEND
📍 Marcus Center for the Performing Arts
If you're a fan of the classic holiday special, don't miss Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts.
An Enchanted Christmas at Glacier Rock Farms
Friday and Saturday
📍 Glacier Rock Farms, Lebanon
Glacier Rock Farms in Lebanon is offering an enchanting experience with its Christmas festivities, including a magical train ride through the farm. This is the perfect opportunity for families to enjoy a festive night out.
Hot Chocolate with Santa
Friday
📍 Big Backyard, New Berlin
Bring your little ones to the Big Backyard in New Berlin for a warm and cozy evening with Santa. Enjoy hot chocolate, holiday treats, and the chance for your children to share their Christmas wishes with the man in red.
Handmade Holiday Mini Market at the Brookfield Conference Center
Saturday
📍 Brookfield Conference Center
Support local artisans and shop unique gifts at the Handmade Holiday Mini Market at the Brookfield Conference Center. This market is perfect for finding one-of-a-kind presents and spreading holiday cheer.
Tosa Holiday Market
ALL WEEKEND
📍 The Village in Wauwatosa
The Tosa Holiday Market is back this weekend, with holiday treats, local vendors, and plenty of festive cheer to go around. This market is the perfect place to shop locally and enjoy the season.
Burn Boot Camp Kids Camp
Saturday
📍 Burn Boot Camp, Oconomowoc
Get the kids moving this holiday season at Burn Boot Camp’s Kids Camp in Oconomowoc! It’s a great way for them to burn off some energy while having fun.
Skating with Santa
📍 Mullett Ice Center
It’s time to lace up your skates and hit the ice! Skating with Santa at Mullett Ice Center is a fun-filled event for the entire family. Remember to take a photo with Santa after your skate! Hartland, WI
The Domes Holiday Parade Exhibit
ALL WEEKEND
📍 Mitchell Park Domes, Milwaukee
The Domes Holiday Parade exhibit is officially open! Check out the beautiful model train displays, festive lights, and holiday scenes at the Mitchell Park Domes. It’s an iconic holiday event in Milwaukee!
Slice of Ice at Red Arrow Park
ALL WEEKEND
📍 Red Arrow Park, Downtown Milwaukee
Enjoy outdoor ice skating at Red Arrow Park's Slice of Ice rink in downtown Milwaukee. It’s a perfect spot to skate and take in the festive lights around the park. Be sure to also enjoy the stunning Milwaukee Holiday Lights while you're there!
With so many incredible events happening this weekend, it's the perfect time to get out and celebrate the holidays with your family and friends in the Milwaukee area. Whether you're looking to shop, ice skate, or enjoy a performance, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Happy Holidays!
The Hupke Team

Jennifer has been a trusted name in Southeastern Wisconsin real estate since 2003. With over two decades of experience, she brings a strategic, detail oriented approach to every transaction, whether i....
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