THE PFISTER AFTERNOON TEA
Fri. – Sun., Now through May 3
Seating times: 12:30 p.m., 1 p.m.,
1:30 p.m. & 2 p.m.
The Pfister Hotel – Blu
414.935.5950
thepfisterhotel.com
Enjoy a tableside tea blending, presented in all-silver service by a Pfister Tea Butler. The afternoon is complete with traditional andwiches and pastries. Reservations required.
CHRISTKINDLMARKET MILWAUKEE
November 15 – December 24
Fiserv Forum
312.494.2175
christkindlmarket.com/milwaukee
Experience a traditional German holiday market at the Fiserv Forum, complete with delicious food and drinks, collectibles and gifts. Admission is free.
HOLIDAY AND CHILDREN’S BOOK SALE
Sat., November 16
9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Central Library
414.286.3000
mpl.org
Featuring a large selection of new children’s books, as well as adult fiction and nonfiction titles, fill their stockings with a variety of stories. All proceeds benefit the library.
SANTA’S MAILBOX PRESENTED BY SERVING OLDER ADULTS
November 21 – December 15
Cathedral Square Park
414.220.4700
milwaukeeholidaylights.com
Downtown is connecting children to the joy and fascination of Santa and his elves. Place a child’s letter to Santa in Santa’s Mailbox at Cathedral Square Park. Be sure to include a return address because Santa and his extra special helpers will send each child a personalized reply in the mail. Holiday spirit delivers the letters to Santa – no postage required!
CHRISTMAS AT THE PABST MANSION
November 21 – January 5
Pabst Mansion
414.931.0808
pabstmansion.com
As one of Milwaukee’s grandest holiday traditions, generations of families have come to bask in the splendor of the Mansion’s holiday decorations, as well as the grandeur of the house itself. Three floors will be open to the public.
FLANNELS AND FRIENDS
Thu., November 21
4 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Best Place
414.630.1609
bestplacemilwaukee.com
Live music, great games, dinner and fantastic friends create a memorable night that makes a difference for young people with heart disease and their families. Proceeds benefit Camp Odayin’s Residential Camp and Family Camp programs. 21+ ages event.
JINGLE BUS RIDES PRESENTED BY MEIJER
Thu. – Sun., November 22 –
December 29
6 p.m. to 8:20 p.m.
The Avenue
161 W. Wisconsin Avenue
414.220.4700
milwaukeeholidaylights.com
Marvel at downtown’s spectacular sights aboard the convenient Jingle Bus. For $2 per person, visitors can relish in the holiday spirit while admiring a festive panorama. The 40-minute tour is narrated by Milwaukee Downtown’s Public Service Ambassadors who acquaint riders with key attractions and landmarks. Enjoy free cookies and cocoa, plus discounted parking is available in the adjacent structure for $3 with a voucher.
IDEAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT TREE LOT
November 23 – December 23
Pere Marquette Park
262.251.3578
ideal-landscaping.net/treelots.html
An old-fashioned tree lot featuring fresh Wisconsin trees, wreaths, garland and holiday décor. Closed Thanksgiving. Don’t miss an ice carving demonstration on Dec. 7 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and a live reindeer visit on Dec. 15 from 1:30 p.m. to 4 p.m.
CLASSICAL CHRISTMAS FLORAL SHOW
November 23 – January 5
Mitchell Park Domes
414.257.5608
milwaukeedomes.org
Enjoy the festive atmosphere among vivid poinsettias and decked-out holiday trees.
MILWAUKEE TURKEY TROT
Thu., November 28 • 9 a.m.
Veterans Park
224.757.5425
wisconsinruns.com
Work up an appetite with a 5K or 8K run.
THANKSGIVING BOUNTIFUL BRUNCH
Thu., November 28
11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Pfister Hotel
414.935.5950
thepfisterhotel.com
A casual yet elegant setting providing ample holiday cheer. There is much to be thankful for, from appetizers and entrees to side dishes and desserts – plus all the traditional trimmings.
8TH ANNUAL BLACK FRIDAY BEERFEST
Fri., November 29
4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Harley-Davidson Museum
414.287.2789
h-dmuseum.com
Forget the mall. The best way to spend Black Friday is with great friends and your favorite craft brews. Sample a variety of beers from many of the Midwest’s best craft breweries.
THE PFISTER’S ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY
Fri., November 29
5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
The Pfister Hotel
414.935.5950
thepfisterhotel.com
Watch the expressions on young and old alike as Santa officially lights The Pfister holiday tree at 5:30 p.m. Sip warm drinks and nibble on a holiday treat. Nonperishables will be collected for Hunger Task Force.
PABST TWILIGHT TOURS
November 29 & 30,
December 6, 13, 20, 21 & 23
5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Pabst Mansion
414.931.0808
pabstmansion.com
This evening open house invites guests to visit the Pabst Mansion after dark to behold the enchanting glow of kindled Christmas trees accompanied by light refreshments.
VISIT WITH SANTA AT DISCOVERY WORLD
November 29 – December 1,
December 7 – 8, 14 – 15 & 18 –
23
Discovery World
414.765.9966
discoveryworld.org
The holiday isn’t complete without a visit with Santa! Come and greet Jolly Old St. Nick all the way from the North Pole!
MILWAUKEE MAKERS MARKET
Sat, November 30
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Discovery World
414.765.9966
discoveryworld.org
Meet Milwaukee jewelry makers, artists, designers and other skilled artisans. Shop one-of-a-kind, locally-made products including ceramics, women’s clothing, leather goods, candles and more. Admission to the market is free.
SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY
Sat, November 30
Historic Third Ward
414.273.1173
historicthirdward.org
Support locally-owned businesses as Milwaukee retailers offer incentives and specials during this one day sale.
SLICE OF ICE
December – Mid-March (weather permitting)
Red Arrow Park
414.289.9791
countyparks.com
A slice of winter fun in the heart of downtown! Bring your own ice skates and skate for free or rent a pair at the warming house.
CHRISTMAS AROUND MILWAUKEE BAKERY BUS TOUR
Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays
throughout December
Various Locations
414.255.0534
milwaukeefoodtours.com
Travel around the world and back on this guided tour. Sample (and if desired, purchase additional) holiday cookies, candies and pastries from a collection of Milwaukee bakeries.
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS & DESSERTS TOUR
Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays
throughout December
Various Locations
414.255.0534
milwaukeefoodtours.com
See downtown’s holiday lights, plus sample hot chocolate and desserts from local restaurants. The bus will be led by a singing tour guide for a holiday caroling sing-along.
SUPER-DUPER HOLIDAY
December 1 – January 2
BMO Harris Bank
770 N. Water Street
414.765.7500
bmoharris.com
Check out the superhero-themed décor that will fill up the entire bank lobby with a larger-than-life display.
17TH ANNUAL NUTCRACKER TEA
Sun., December 1
11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
The Wisconsin Club
414.902.2103
milwaukeeballet.org/events
The Nutcracker Tea features excerpts from the holiday classic, costumed characters, a decadent brunch, a ballet lesson, and more photo opportunities than you can count! Become part of the magic of “The Nutcracker” with this family event.
WESTOWN GETS LIT
Thu., December 5
4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
310W Plaza
310 W. Wisconsin Avenue
Join Westown leaders on the plaza of 310W for a new holiday celebration as the neighborhood’s holiday tree is lit. Enjoy free cookies, cocoa, s’mores and so much more! Plus, after Westown is set aglow, head to The Avenue and board the Jingle Bus to see all of downtown’s merriment.
MIAD HOLIDAY SALE
Thu., December 5
6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Fri., December 6
5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Sat., December 7
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Milwaukee Institute
of Art & Design
414.847.3200
miad.edu
Browse one-of-a-kind art and design work created by MIAD students and alumni. Proceeds support the artists/designers and MIAD student scholarships.
CHRISTMAS IN THE WARD
Fri., December 6
5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Catalano Square
Menomonee & Broadway
414.273.1173
historicthirdward.org
Get into the holiday spirit with live music, a tree lighting ceremony, fireworks, great shopping and horse-drawn carriage rides.
LIGHT UP THE BRANCHES
Fri., December 6
5:30 p.m.
War Memorial Center
414.273.5533
warmemorialcenter.org
Join the War Memorial Center in honoring service with the lighting of five Christmas trees representing each branch of military service. Free event with hot chocolate, cookies, carolers, Santa and more!
BREAKFAST WITH SANTA AT THE PFISTER
Sat. & Sun., December 7 – 8,
14 – 15 & 21 – 22
8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. &
11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Pfister Hotel
414.935.5950
thepfisterhotel.com
Join Santa and his elves for a festive feast, a gift for each child, crafts, letters to Santa, and countless memories. Small seating groups will ensure that everyone has an exceptional experience.
MASON STREET GRILL
CHRISTMAS CAROL EXPERIENCE
Sat., December 7, 14 & 21
Mason Street Grill
414.298.3131
masonstreetgrill.com
Reserve your spot for a wonderful winter’s evening, enjoying dinner at Mason Street Grill followed by “A Christmas Carol” presented by Milwaukee Repertory Theater. Complimentary parking in The Pfister structure and transportation arranged for you.
HAPPY HARLEY DAYS AT THE HARLEY-DAVIDSON MUSEUM
Sat., December 7, 14 & 21 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Harley-Davidson Museum
414.287.2789
h-dmuseum.com
For three Saturdays in December, experience an all-new H-D Museum Family Fun Guide and roaming entertainment. Bring your wish list to Breakfast with Santa (reservations recommended) and after your visit with the Big Guy, enjoy hands-on holiday frame decorating at MOTOR Bar & Restaurant.
BRADY STREET FESTIVUS
Sat., December 7
3 p.m. to 1:30 a.m.
Brady Street
414.272.3978
bradystreet.org
Air your grievances and participate in feats of strength for the highly coveted Festivus Pole. Dining and drink specials will also be offered. Plus, don’t miss the 4th Annual Festivus One-Mile Run – 5,280 “Feats” of Strength at 3 p.m.
SANTA HUSTLE 5K MILWAUKEE RUN/WALK
Sun., December 8
8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Veterans Park
847.829.4536
santahustle.com/milwaukee
Be part of one of the largest, growing races as thousands of Santas hit the streets.
A VERY MERRY MILWAUKEE
Sun., December 8
10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Milwaukee County Historical Society
414.273.8288
milwaukeehistory.net
Tour the Holiday Treasures & Traditions exhibit, see Billie the Brownie, hear live music and take a picture with Santa! Visitors can also listen to Mrs. Claus as she reads a holiday favorite, participate in a coloring activity or write a letter to Santa so he doesn’t forget any wishes.
OLD MILWAUKEE MIXER: A STREETS HOLIDAY PARTY
Thu., December 12
6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Milwaukee Public Museum
414.278.2728
mpm.edu
Get up close and personal with some of the Milwaukee Public Museum’s unseen collections and learn more about holiday and winter traditions of years past.
EUROPEAN VILLAGE ALIVE!
December 13 & 14
Milwaukee Public Museum
414.278.2728
mpm.edu
Lean about centuries-old European holiday traditions from costumed docents.
COCOA WITH THE CLAUSES PRESENTED BY MADISON MEDICAL AFFILIATES
Sat., December 14
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Cathedral Square Park
414.220.4700
milwaukeeholidaylights.com
Straight from the North Pole, Santa and Mrs. Claus return for this annual cocoa klatch. The free outdoor event is a chance for kids to share their wish lists, and for moms and dads to snap a keepsake photo. Just remember to bring your camera! Elves and other holiday characters will also be there.
PFISTER HOLIDAY MARKETPLACE
Sat. & Sun., December 14 & 15
10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The Pfister Hotel – Lobby
414.935.5950
thepfisterhotel.com
Discover, interact and connect with local artists and experience holiday fun and art in many forms. Explore local music and fine art, curated by Renee Bebeau. The perfect place to find the perfect gifts!
THE DICKENS DINNER
December 18 – 21
6:15 p.m.
The Grain Exchange |
414.727.6980
bartolottas.com
Let the magic of this heartwarming evening enchant you as Charles Dickens, Victorian carolers, and delectable food and holiday spirits create a memorable occasion.
THE SALVATION ARMY
30TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS FAMILY FEAST
Wed., December 25
Wisconsin Center
414.302.4300
samilwaukee.org
The Salvation Army of Milwaukee County once again presents its annual Christmas feast for every member of the community to partake. Admission is free and all are welcome. Even Santa and Mrs. Claus will drop by, bearing gifts for the kids while they last. Volunteer and donation opportunities available.
CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION BRUNCH AT THE PFISTER
Wed., December 25
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Pfister Hotel
414.935.5950
thepfisterhotel.com
A Pfister Christmas brunch begins with a complimentary mimosa or Bloody Mary, followed by a spectacular buffet featuring a delicious assortment of appetizers, salads, entrees and decadent desserts.
A MASON STREET GRILL CHRISTMAS
Wed., December 25
1 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Mason Street Grill
414.298.3131
masonstreetgrill.com
Experience classic American favorites and enjoy a specially prepared Christmas menu at Mason Street Grill. Private dining rooms are also available for your family gathering, big or small.
MILWAUKEE COACH & CARRIAGE
Ongoing
Downtown Milwaukee
414.272.6873
mkecarriage.com
See downtown’s holiday lights on a relaxing carriage ride! Half-hour and one-hour tours available. Rides start from the Hyatt Regency Milwaukee, Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel, or The Pfister Hotel. Carriages can hold up to four adults with wagons available for larger groups.
Reservations required.