For a holiday tradition that is as unique as it is awe-inspiring, make plans to visit the World’s Tallest Glass Tree at Yerkes Observatory in Williams Bay, Wisconsin.
From December 6-8 and December 13-15, this one-of-a-kind art installation will captivate visitors with its beauty, sustainability-focused message, and hands-on opportunities for community involvement.
What is the World’s Tallest Glass Tree?
Standing 36 feet tall, this incredible tree surpasses its counterpart in Murano, Italy, to hold the title of the tallest glass tree in the world.
The tree is constructed entirely from recycled glass bottles collected from Wisconsin and Illinois communities.
Using a mobile glass furnace, the bottles are melted and shaped into molten glass, which is then artistically wrapped around a spinning steel frame.
Visitors have the chance to participate in this process, applying molten glass to the structure and helping bring the masterpiece to life.
The experience culminates in the Star Topping Ceremony, where a hand-blown glass star is placed atop the tree, marking the end of this spectacular creation.
A Celebration of Art, Sustainability, and Community
Last year, over 17 tons of glass were donated, with 3,000 pounds used to construct the tree and the rest sent to local recycling programs.
This year’s event continues to promote environmental responsibility while celebrating the creativity of artists and tradespeople.
Live glass-blowing and woodworking demonstrations, steel sculpting, and a Winter Market offering handmade crafts and treats will ensure visitors of all ages enjoy the festivities. Proceeds from the event will support community programming at Yerkes Observatory.
Plan Your Visit
The event takes place over two weekends:
- December 6-8
- December 13-15
Hours:
- Fridays: 4-7 PM
- Saturdays & Sundays: 12-7 PM
Parking is available at Williams Bay High School, with a heated trolley transporting attendees to the observatory. Tickets can be purchased online or on-site and cost $5 per person, with free entry for children under 9.
For tickets and additional information, visit www.worldstallestglasstree.com.
For even more family-friendly holiday activities, check out our Full Holiday Fun Guide, featuring tree lighting ceremonies, parades, and other celebrations in Milwaukee and beyond.
Planning to stay closer to home? Don’t miss our roundup of Local Tree Lighting Ceremonies happening throughout the area. These events are the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with your family!
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.
