The holiday season is almost here, and Lake Geneva is just the place for holiday fun! As twinkling lights adorn the streets and sweet aromas fill the air, Lake Geneva transforms into a magical getaway. Throughout the city, from Grand Geneva and Yerkes Observatory to Gage Marine and the heart of downtown, find holiday fun for the whole family! Read along for our exclusive holiday wish list in Lake Geneva!
#1 Grand Geneva
Begin your holiday fun in Lake Geneva at Grand Geneva, full of festive spirit this time of year! There’s no better way to start the day than Brunch with Santa. Bring your kiddos for an unforgettable morning, enjoying an extravagant brunch buffet, holiday entertainment, and, of course, time with Santa.
As the magical holiday evening rolls around, discover Grand Geneva’s Christmas in the Country, kicked off by the 30th Annual Illumination Ceremony on Sunday, November 24th! With one switch, millions of lights bedazzle the resort, topped off by a grand firework show in the starry night sky.
Walk the grounds and uncover sweet treasures, from cookies and cider to Santa and gingerbread houses! Follow the lights on the Grand Geneva trolley for an incredible Trolley Tour of Lights! Weave around the resort, seeing amazing displays and celebrating the joyful season. Grand Geneva promises memories of a lifetime.
#2 Yerkes Observatory
More holiday fun in Lake Geneva is unfolding at Yerkes Observatory, home to the World’s Tallest Glass Tree! The coolest part? You can be part of its making, whether you donate green glass or help build it! The first two weekends in December, stop by and see the tree magically come to life.
As the tree transforms layer by layer, artists’ glass-blown creations, steel sculptures, and wooden gifts come to life. Speaking of gifts, be sure to shop the Winter Market and load your sleigh with something special made by local artisans. These unique (and fan-favorite) gifts include intricately made glassware! Add a special touch to this year’s gift-giving season.
Don’t miss out on the Star Topping Event–the ultimate showstopper! Mark your calendar for Sunday, December 15th at 4 pm and return for the completion of the tree. The glass tree is topped off with an impressive blown-glass star that measures four-and-a-half feet tall!
#3 Gage Marine
Another one-of-a-kind holiday experience awaits at Gage Marine–the Christmas Tree Festival and infamous Santa Cruise. This year, attend the Christmas Tree Festival, where Gage Marine is beautifully decorated for the holidays. Make your way through the endless rows of Christmas trees, taking photos and sending your holiday wish list to Santa!
All aboard! But first, a quick stop by Santa’s Bar for a festive drink. Sipping on the season’s flavors, soak up an unforgettable tour–the Santa Cruise. The boat is bedazzled with more lights and spirited decorations! Watch for Santa on the shoreline, who reads off all the names on this year’s “Nice List!” Will you hear yours?
#4 Downtown Lake Geneva
Our fourth and final stop on the holiday wish list is dreamy downtown Lake Geneva, full of shopping fun and more seasonal festivities! First, shopping! On Main Street, Allison Wonderland is loaded with new toys and games your kiddo will surely love. Browse it all from board games to puzzles and make new memories this year.
While you’re downtown, venture to Geneva Lake Museum, home to the original brick-paved Main Street! This time of year, it transforms into a magical holiday wonderland with the Parade of Trees event. More than 40 uniquely decorated trees line each side of the brick street! Have a favorite? Vote for yours and join in on the festive fun!
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Lake Geneva offers a magical backdrop for creating cherished holiday memories. This wish list is only a sliver of the holiday fun in store. Let Grand Geneva, Yerkes Observatory, Gage Marine, and downtown be the beginning of your unforgettable getaway. Embrace the festivities and make this season the best yet!
For a sneak peek into Lake Geneva’s magical holiday season, watch this Discover Wisconsin original short, ‘Lake Geneva’s Holiday Magic’ now:
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Hailey Rose: Writer for Discover Mediaworks. A born & bred Wisconsinite with a love for fishing, hunting, and enjoying the great outdoors.
