Milwaukee Downtown kicks off the holidays with return of holiday lights show

Photos by Yvonne Kemp

Milwaukee Downtown, BID #21 illuminated the city during the “24th annual Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival” presented by Johnson Financial Group, Nov. 17, 2022 – Jan. 1, 2023. The sixweek celebration began on Thursday, Nov. 17 with a kickoff ceremony Pere Marquette Park, 900 N. Plankinton Ave. Featuring live music and dance acts, holiday treats, fireworks, and a visit from Santa Claus, the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival Kickoff Extravaganza jump started the city’s season of cheer. This holiday spectacular featured DJ Shawna, Vertical Essence, Dance Academy of Mexico, cast members from “Black Nativity,” Jenny Thiel, Donna Woodall, Sarah Fierek, and St. Michael’s Ukrainian Choir. The event was capped of with a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus along with a magnificent fireworks display to close out the show. During the show the audience got to stay toasty with free hot cocoa and cookies, sponsored by DoubleTree by Hilton.

After the Nov. 17 kickoff, families can view all the decorated sights aboard the Jingle Bus. The 40-minute narrated tour is a no-fuss way to see the magic of downtown. Tour highlights include “Community Spirit Park” at Cathedral Square Park, sponsored by Madison Medical Affiliates and Ideal Property Management; “Christmas Chalet” at Pere Marquette Park; and “Santa’s Celebration Square powered by We Energies” at Zeidler Union Square. The Jingle Bus will run Thursdays through Sundays, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Nov. 18 -Dec. 30. Rides are $5 per person and, new this year, tickets must be purchased in advance at www.milwaukeeholidaylights.com.