December in Milwaukee is peak holiday season. The city turns into a mix of twinkling lights, festive markets, seasonal shows, and cozy indoor experiences. Whether you’re a local planning weekend plans or a visitor looking for things to do in Milwaukee this December, you’ll find plenty of holiday events, winter activities, and family-friendly fun across the city.
🎄 Holiday Lights, Tours & Nighttime Magic
Milwaukee in December is all about holiday lights and illuminated experiences.
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Explore the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival, with decorated parks, light installations, and themed displays across downtown.
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Take the Jingle Bus Tour, a 40-minute narrated ride that showcases the city’s main holiday light displays across Cathedral Square, Zeidler Union Square, Pere Marquette Park, and more.
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Enjoy drive-through light events like Winter Glow Experience: A Drive-Thru Holiday Light Show, perfect for staying warm in the car while enjoying synchronized music and lights.
These light experiences are ideal for couples, families, and visitors wanting to see Milwaukee glowing at night.
🎁 Holiday Markets, Fairs & Local Shopping
If you’re into festive markets and local makers, December in Milwaukee delivers plenty of options.
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Stroll holiday markets and fairs featuring handmade gifts, artisan goods, local food, and seasonal drinks across the metro area.
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Visit Deer District holiday market and downtown pop-ups, where you’ll find vendors, food stalls, and festive activations.
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Check out maker fairs and craft shows highlighted by local media as go-to December events in the city.
These markets are perfect if you want to shop local in Milwaukee, find unique gifts, or just soak in the holiday energy.
🏛️ Museums, Family Fun & Indoor Attractions
Cold weather makes December the ideal time to enjoy Milwaukee’s museums and indoor attractions.
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Head to Discovery World, where December features family programming like Storytime with Santa, animal encounters, and holiday break activities.
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Explore the Milwaukee Art Museum or other cultural institutions for special winter exhibitions and kid-friendly programs.
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Take the family to Milwaukee Public Market events such as breakfast with Santa, holiday displays, and guided market tours.
These activities are great options if you’re searching for things to do in Milwaukee with kids in December or need reliable indoor plans.
🎭 Shows, Concerts & Holiday Performances
December is one of the strongest months for live shows in Milwaukee.
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Catch classic productions like “A Christmas Carol” at Milwaukee Repertory Theater, a long-running local tradition praised by critics.
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Browse December lineups for concerts, comedy shows, film screenings, and special events highlighted by local guides and city magazines.
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Look for family-friendly performances, kids’ shows, and Santa-themed events around the city’s theaters and venues.
If you’re into arts, culture, and live entertainment, Milwaukee’s December calendar is packed.
🍽️ Food, Drinks & Cozy Winter Experiences
Beyond events, December is a great month to eat and drink your way through Milwaukee.
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Explore new and upcoming Milwaukee restaurants, highlighted in local dining guides, to try seasonal menus and winter comfort food.
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Join special holiday brewery tours, winter beer releases, and festive bar pop-ups that showcase Milwaukee’s brewing culture.
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Warm up after holiday lights or markets with hot cocktails, local coffee shops, and dessert stops around downtown and the neighborhoods.
This is perfect if you’re searching for Milwaukee December date ideas, nightlife, or food-focused experiences.
🧣 Wrap-Up: Make the Most of December in Milwaukee
From holiday lights and Jingle Bus tours to markets, museums, live shows, and cozy restaurants, Milwaukee in December is full of seasonal experiences. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, family trip, or local staycation, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Milwaukee this December that fit every mood—festive, cultural, or laid-back.
