Whether it’s the weather or the abundance of pine trees, Wisconsin just knows how to provide the right atmosphere to create cozy holiday memories. Today we are discovering some of the many Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s celebrations that take place around the state. Grab your Santa stocking caps and fill up those thermoses with hot cocoa as we hit the road to our yuletide jamborees.
Candlelight Stroll – Hudson (12/6)
If you are looking to celebrate the holiday season with a special someone, head to Hudson for a magical carriage ride through the candlelit streets. Many local restaurant and shops offer fine dining deals during the Candlelight Stroll so be sure not to miss out on this excellent evening.
Kenosha HarborHoliday Market – Kenosha (12/7-8)
This event is a mashup of several traditions and foods across various cultures such as German, Korean, Mexican, and Scandinavian. The HarborMarket features two heated tents with over 60 vendors providing hot, delicious food. A gem of the event is a Victorian Christmas inside the Civil War Museum that explores the traditions of soldiers and civilians during and after the Civil War. Come check it out for yourself Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 7-8 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Holidazzle – Beloit (12/6)
Holidazzle is Beloit’s unique winter shopping experience. This annual event will be hosting over 30 businesses to fill up the streets of downtown to offer one-of-a-kind gifts, holiday music, and even a visit from Santa himself! Don’t miss the passing carolers who will be singing up and down the streets!
Christmas Village – Chippewa Falls (Now through 1/1)
Take a tour through Irvine Park near downtown Chippewa Falls to be welcomed by the stunning ambience of Christmas past as you drive through Christmas Village. Christmas Village is a replica of Victorian style décor, reminiscent of stories like A Christmas Carol. The light show on display is enough to impress even the most passionate of holiday decorating enthusiasts. The park will be open from Thanksgiving night through New Year’s Day.
Christmas in Cable – Cable (12/6-7)
When you think of Christmas you imagine snowfall, pine trees and the chilly winter winds. That’s why the town of Cable, located just outside of the rustic Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, makes for the perfect hot spot of holiday activities. Stop by the Lakewood’s Resort for a marvelous Scandinavian Christmas dinner, including cultural dishes like Danish Meatballs over butter noodles, honey cured salmon, or the traditional lutefisk. The weekend also boasts several events, such as an arts and crafts fair, a Christmas cookie bazaar, and breakfast with Santa accompanied by other seasonal gift sales.
Home for the Holidays at the Lincoln-Tallman House – Janesville (12/12)
See the Lincoln-Tallman House dressed in its festive best over the holidays! With more than 25 trees, each sponsored by a different business or nonprofit, these beautiful and creatively decorated trees will lift your holiday spirits. Plan an afternoon or evening strolling through the house while enjoying cider and Christmas cookies, before discovering the joy of the Holiday Light Show at the Rotary Botanical Gardens.
Christmas in the Country – Lake Geneva (Now through 1/1)
We finish off our tour in the always-fabulous Lake Geneva. Their Christmas in the Country festival boasts millions of lights across 1300 acres of the Grand Geneva, a beautiful holiday display in The Lodge, and an epic gingerbread house competition. Holiday tea service and breakfast with Santa are also available. There’s no better way to get in the holiday spirit!
There are so many holiday festivities happening around the state, and we’d love to hear some of your favorites. Share with us in the comments below or on social media using #discoverwisconsin!