The holiday season is coming to Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward with Christmas in the Ward—a beloved event that captures the festive spirit in the heart of the city. On Friday, December 6, Catalano Square will be filled with holiday magic, from twinkling lights and live music to Santa visits and cozy treats. Here’s your family-friendly guide to all the highlights of this can’t-miss celebration.
Event Details at a Glance
- When: Friday, December 6, 2024, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
- Where: Catalano Square, Historic Third Ward
- Presented By: Laffey, Leitner & Goode LLC
- Admission: Free, with select activities suggesting donations
Event Highlights and Schedule
Cookie Sale for a Cause (5:30–8:30 p.m.)
Kick off the evening with holiday cookies from local bakers, with all proceeds going to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Eastern Wisconsin. With bakers like C. Adams Bakery, Colectivo Coffee, and others pitching in, the cookies promise to be just as sweet as the cause they support.
Festive Food Trucks and Warm Beverages (5:30–8:30 p.m.)
Hungry? A lineup of food trucks, including Hot Box Pizza, Tots on the Street, Sweetly Baked, Flip’s Mini Donuts, and Pig Tails, will be parked along North Broadway. Warm up with hot chocolate or indulge in a Cocoa Cocktail from Cafe Benelux. For the adults, mulled wine and local brews from The Explorium Brewpub and Wizard Works Brewing will also be available.
S’mores and More by the Fire
Gather around the cozy fire pits to roast s’mores with Friends of Lakeshore State Park. It’s a perfect way to stay warm and treat yourself to something sweet!
Special Performances and Lighting Ceremony
5:30 p.m. – The Milwaukee Police Band kicks off the evening with lively tunes to set the holiday mood.
6:00 p.m. – The Tree Lighting Ceremony begins! Santa Claus, alongside local dignitaries, will light the holiday tree in a scene that feels straight out of a Hallmark movie. Enjoy music from the Bach Chamber Choir and Renewed Spiritual Gospel Choir as the tree twinkles to life.
6:30–8:30 p.m. – Jolly’s Gingerbread House opens for Santa visits! Kids of all ages can share their Christmas wishes with Santa and pose for a photo for a $5 suggested donation benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities.
7:00 p.m. – Don’t miss the spectacular winter fireworks display over the Milwaukee River, presented by TerraSol. The fireworks are perfectly paired with a light show on the Hoan Bridge for a dazzling display of holiday cheer.
7:15 p.m. – Skylight Music Theatre will perform holiday classics, adding an extra touch of magic to the night with their vocal talent and festive spirit.
8:30 p.m. – Wrap up the festivities with a grand finale light show on the Hoan Bridge, thanks to We Energies. The “Light the Hoan Holiday Show” promises to be a beautiful end to an unforgettable evening.
Activities for Kids (and Kids at Heart)
Live Reindeer and Holiday Characters
Mrs. Claus and her reindeer will be in Catalano Square, adding a bit of North Pole magic. Friendly elves will be on hand to answer kids’ most pressing questions, like whether reindeer really fly!
Costumed Characters
Look out for Jolly & Ginger Gingerbread as they roam the square, ready to pose for pictures and spread holiday cheer. They’ll bring a smile to kids and adults alike.
Holiday Movie Screenings
New this year, Milwaukee Airwaves will be projecting favorite holiday movies on the side of the Broadway Theatre Center. It’s a perfect way to take a break, grab some popcorn, and enjoy holiday classics with the family.
Parking and Tips
Parking is available for $10 at the Historic Third Ward parking structures (212 N. Milwaukee Street and 225 E. Chicago Street) after 5 p.m., and both cash and card payments are accepted. Families are encouraged to dress warmly, as many activities are outdoors. Also, be sure to grab the “Merry Map” to make navigating the event easy!
Shop the Ward: Holiday Shopping and Arts
Extend the holiday cheer by visiting Third Ward shops throughout December. The “Shop the Ward” campaign, running from November 30 to December 23, offers daily gift card giveaways on Instagram to encourage visitors to explore local retailers. You’ll find unique gifts, holiday décor, and an array of artwork at neighborhood galleries and studios.
After Party at Santa Camp
For those looking to keep the festivities going, there’s an after-party at Camp Bar (525 E. Menomonee St.). It’s a chance for parents to unwind with holiday-themed drinks while kids revel in the magical memories of Christmas in the Ward.
Christmas in the Ward promises to be a memorable night filled with joy, music, and the warmth of the holiday season. Whether you’re there for the fireworks, the tree lighting, or a cozy moment with Santa, this event has something for everyone. Gather the family, embrace the magic, and celebrate Christmas in Milwaukee’s Third Ward!
