The holiday season is the perfect time to experience the magic of live reindeer with your family! Milwaukee and surrounding areas offer several opportunities to see these enchanting animals up close.
From festive tree lighting ceremonies to special holiday events, here’s your guide to where you can spot reindeer this December:
1. Milwaukee Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony
When: Thursday, December 5, 2024, starting at 5 p.m.
Where: “Cheer District” (Deer District)
Details: The 111th Annual City of Milwaukee Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony is packed with holiday cheer—and reindeer! Santa’s companions, Comet, Vixen, and Dancer, will make a special appearance during the festivities. Enjoy live music, a DJ, and performances before the tree lights up at 6 p.m. This free, family-friendly event also features free parking at select locations.
2. Christmas in the Ward
When: Friday, December 6, 2024, 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
Where: Catalano Square, Historic Third Ward
Details:
Celebrate the season in the heart of Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward! Mrs. Claus and her live reindeer will bring North Pole magic to Catalano Square, where kids can meet them and learn more about Santa’s sleigh team. This event also features holiday lights, a tree lighting ceremony, s’mores by the fire, and a dazzling fireworks show over the Milwaukee River.
3. Mid State Insurance Holiday Give Back
When: Date TBA, 2024
Where: 7105 W Mequon Rd, Mequon, WI 53092
Details:
This heartwarming event combines holiday fun with giving back. Families can meet Santa and his reindeer while enjoying hot cocoa, snacks, and crafts. Kids can even collect “reindeer food” to sprinkle on their lawns on Christmas Eve! Admission is free with a donation to the Lakeshore Regional Child Advocacy Center.
4. Christmas on the Corner in Port Washington
When: Saturday, December 7, 2024, 2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Where: Downtown Port Washington
Details:
Experience a Hallmark-style celebration complete with horse-drawn carriage rides, photos with Santa and his reindeer, cookie decorating, and holiday crafts. The event also includes a Christmas parade, tree lighting, and fireworks finale.
5. Schuetze Recreation Center Holiday Event
When: Sunday, December 22, 2024, 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Where: Schuetze Recreation Center, 1120 Baxter Street, Waukesha, WI
Details: Families can meet Santa and one of his reindeer before settling in for a free screening of The Polar Express with complimentary popcorn. Bring chairs or blankets for a cozy evening of holiday fun.
6. The Corners of Brookfield (SOLD OUT)
When: Sunday, December 22, 2024, 12:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Where: Market Square, The Corners of Brookfield
Details: Though this event is sold out, it’s worth mentioning for planning next year! Live reindeer and holiday music take center stage at this festive family event, which includes photos with reindeer, goodie bags, and hot cocoa.
Tips for Enjoying Reindeer Events
- Arrive Early: Many events draw large crowds, so arrive ahead of time to secure parking and get the best views.
- Dress Warmly: These events are often outdoors, so bundle up for Wisconsin’s winter weather.
- Check Event Websites: Times and details can change, so confirm the latest updates before heading out.
Want more holiday fun? Check out our full Holiday Fun Guide with Santa sightings, Christmas Light Displays, and more.
Calie Herbst, Editor-in-Chief of Milwaukee With Kids, has spent over a decade combining her experiences as a parent of three to create a hub for Milwaukee’s family adventures.
Her decade-long teaching career in Milwaukee Public Schools and academic background, including a Master’s in Teaching from Marquette University and dual B.A.s in Sociology and Spanish from the University of Wisconsin – Madison, fuel her passion for inclusive and engaging family content.
Calie is also a recognized voice in local media, contributing to WISN Channel 12 News, WTMJ Wisconsin Morning News, Fox 6’s Real Milwaukee, and B93.3.
Discover more about Calie’s journey and editorial approach on her About Page and Editorial Policy Page.
