Christmastime is upon us, what a perfect opportunity to spend it with friends and family in none other than the city of Milwaukee. There are great ways to celebrate the holiday like watching a ballet performance, or lighting a Christmas tree, or even just walking down Wisconsin Avenue and seeing the decoration on street corners. As we draw near to December 25th, check out these fun activities in Milwaukee to get you into the Christmas spirit!

Cocoa with the Clauses

On Saturday, December 10th join Mr. and Mrs. Claus in Cathedral Square Park (520 E Wells St, Milwaukee, WI) for free Hot Chocolate and Cookies, freshly popped popcorn, face painting and of course Christmas music. Don’t forget to snap a free keepsake photo with Santa!

Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival

Between November 17 - January 1 enjoy a free light show in the various parks of downtown Milwaukee. Bring your camera and snap away at the festive looking parks that will be all lit up for the Christmas season.

Ice Skate in Red Arrow Park

Break out the skates, and go ice skating in Red Arrow Park (920 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI). This is a great way to spend time with friends, and family while gliding around the rink. Red Arrow Park is open for skaters between November 29th and until the ice thaws in the spring. To skate is either $8 for rentals or free with your own skates!

Christmas Ale on Tap at Flannery’s

Everything you love about christmas all in a pint glass. Stop by Flannery’s Bar and Restaurant (425 E Wells St, Milwaukee, WI) for a pint of The Great Lakes Brewing Company’s Christmas Ale!

Milwaukee Ballet’s Production of The NutcrackerWatch the Milwaukee Ballet

Orchestra and The Milwaukee Children’s Choir as they perform a Christmas classic, The Nutcracker at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts (929 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI). With a cast of almost 200 dancers, be a part of Milwaukee’s most popular Christmas tradition! Tickets range from $38 to $110.

Enjoy a Hot Chocolate at Colectivo

Any of the Colectivo destinations provide a “Holiday Cocoa”. Bring friends to any of the shops, purchase a cup and post up in their cozy shops! This is a great way to reminisce on Christmastime, while spending time with people close to you.

Give Back to the Community By Donating

Volunteer Milwaukee is looking for donations of anything from hats, gloves, and winter coats to toys for Children in need. Get in the Christmas spirit by helping out a family in need. Refer to volunteermilwaukee.org for awesome ideas!

Polar Bear Plunge on New Year’s Day

Ring in the New Year by plunging into the freezing waters of Lake Michigan at Bradford Beach (2400 N Lincoln Memorial Dr, Milwaukee, WI). This event is non-sponsored and free to the public. However, you can pick up some gear to commemorate the event!

However you end up celebrating, make sure you're safe and you have fun! Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!