Milwaukee’s Holiday Lights Festival 2025: A Must-See Event for Holiday Enthusiasts in Wisconsin, USA

Published on December 2, 2025

Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is one of the most festive places to be during the holiday season, and the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival 2025 is at the heart of this winter celebration. Running from November 20, 2025, until the arrival of the New Year, this spectacular festival lights up the city with over 500,000 twinkling Christmas lights and offers a wealth of festive activities that make it one of the most beloved holiday traditions in the Midwest. With its 27th annual edition, the event continues to draw both locals and tourists, creating a vibrant and magical atmosphere in the heart of Milwaukee.

Whether you’re visiting the city for a short holiday break or you’re a local looking to embrace the festive cheer, the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival offers something for everyone, from stunning light displays to interactive experiences for families. This year, the festival is bigger and brighter than ever, showcasing Milwaukee’s iconic locations through creatively designed light displays and activities that celebrate the holiday season.

A Dazzling Display of Lights Across Milwaukee

As one of the largest holiday light festivals in the United States, the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival transforms the city into a glowing winter wonderland. Over 500,000 lights are spread across Milwaukee’s landmarks, including Red Arrow Park, Pere Marquette Park, Zeidler Union Square, Wisconsin Avenue, and Community Spirit Park. These areas are adorned with Christmas trees, chandeliers, reindeer, and intricately designed light sculptures depicting fairy tale scenes, making it one of the most visually stunning holiday celebrations in the country.

The festival’s expansive reach throughout Milwaukee ensures that no matter where you are in the city, you’re bound to encounter sparkling holiday lights. These festive displays not only enhance the city’s charm but also encourage visitors to explore various neighborhoods, boosting tourism and making the event a major attraction in Wisconsin. As tourists wander through the streets, they’re treated to the sight of iconic landmarks like Red Arrow Park and Zeidler Union Square, which are reimagined with festive lights, offering a truly magical holiday experience.

The Ornament Trail: A Walk Through Christmas Art

One of the standout features of the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival is the Ornament Trail. This trail runs primarily along Wisconsin Avenue, right in the heart of downtown Milwaukee, and showcases 20 oversized ornaments designed by local artists who are deeply connected to the city. These creative and artistic ornaments make for a perfect photo opportunity, and their inclusion in the festival highlights the importance of local talent in the city’s holiday celebrations.

The Ornament Trail is not just a visual treat but also an interactive experience, inviting visitors to take part in the seasonal fun. It’s a fantastic way for tourists to explore downtown Milwaukee while appreciating the artistic side of the festival. The oversized ornaments represent a blend of tradition and modern creativity, reflecting the community’s deep appreciation for the arts and culture.

A Family-Focused Celebration with Santa Claus and More

No holiday festival is complete without a visit from Santa Claus, and the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival ensures that families get plenty of opportunities to meet the jolly man himself. On the festival’s final Saturday, children can visit Santa and Mrs. Claus while enjoying free cookies and hot cocoa at Cathedral Square Park. This special event creates lasting memories for families and adds an extra layer of holiday magic to the festival.

In addition to meeting Santa, children can also participate in festive activities such as face painting and craft workshops, ensuring that little ones stay entertained while parents enjoy the lights and other offerings of the event. These family-friendly activities make the festival a must-visit for anyone with children, providing an immersive holiday experience for all ages.

The Jingle Bus Tours: A Guided Tour Through Milwaukee’s Holiday Magic

For those who want to experience the holiday lights in a unique way, the Jingle Bus Tours are a must-do activity during the festival. Running every weekend throughout December, these guided bus tours take visitors on a journey through the city’s most dazzling light displays, all while sharing the stories behind each installation. The tours are a great way for tourists to learn more about Milwaukee’s history, its landmarks, and the holiday traditions that make the city such a festive destination.

As the Jingle Bus makes its way through the city, visitors can enjoy the glittering lights of Red Arrow Park, Zeidler Union Square, and other iconic areas, all while cozying up with a warm drink and listening to stories that highlight the cultural significance of Milwaukee’s holiday celebrations. The tours offer a unique perspective on the event and are a great way to see the lights if you’re short on time or prefer a more relaxing way to take in the sights.

Tree Lighting Ceremonies and Weekend Festivities

Every Friday in December, the festival hosts tree lighting ceremonies in different parts of the city, adding to the growing excitement as the holiday season progresses. These ceremonies bring together the community to celebrate the season’s arrival with speeches, music, and, of course, the lighting of beautifully decorated trees.