Holiday Events

Santa’s Mailbox

Place a child’s letter to Santa in Santa’s Mailbox. Be sure to include a return address because Santa and his extra special helpers will ensure each child receives a personalized reply. Holiday spirit delivers the letters. No postage required!

Sponsored by Educators Credit Union With support from Serving Older Adults and National Association of Letter Carriers – Pioneer Branch 2

Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival Kickoff Extravaganza

We’re brightening spirits with more than a half million holiday highlights, and we invite you to celebrate with us when we switch them on. Other highlights of the evening will include live music, dance routines, fireworks, a visit from the Clauses, free goodies and more. Then take a free Jingle Bus tour of the scenes sprinkled throughout the rest of Downtown. Pre-show entertainment begins at 5:30pm.

Cocoa with the Clauses

Weather permitting

Santa and Mrs. Claus return for this annual cocoa klatch. The free outdoor event is a chance for kids to share their wish lists and for moms and dads to grab a keepsake photo. Elves and other holiday characters will also be there! Plus, complimentary cookies and hot cocoa will be provided.

Cool Fool Kite Festival

Gather the family for a New Year's Day tradition! Experience the free festival with giant kites, "The Quiet Snow & Ice Carvers," and plenty of free parking! Bring your own kite or purchase one at Gift of Wings.

A Very Deadly Constructivists Holiday

Your alternative holiday programming tradition: freshly ruined holiday songs, theatrical mayhem, and an ever-rising body count.

The Rush Tribute Project

Pay homage to one of the most enduring and influential bands in rock music.

Ben Rector Christmas Tour

A singer and songwriter, join Rector for a Christmas-inspired folk-rock setlist.

The Moth in Milwaukee GrandSLAM Championship

The ultimate storytelling championship, inviting winners from The Moth’s open-mic StorySLAMs back to the stage to battle for the crown.

The MeatEater Christmas Tour

Get ready for a hunt-filled holiday celebration as The MeatEater Christmas Tour heads to Milwaukee! Whether you’re a hunter, angler, or lover of wild places, come out for a night of laughs and holiday cheer.

Chris Isaak – On Tour for The Holidays

An evening with multiplatinum-selling and Grammy-nominated musician and actor Chris Isaak whose hits span 40 years.

Christmas with Chris Tomlin

An intimate evening of Christmas worship centered around celebrating the Savior and experiencing the sights and sounds of the season together with friends and family.

Gregg Allman: The Music of My Soul

A screening of the full-length feature documentary that offers a profound portrait of Gregg Allman, co-founder and frontman of The Allman Brothers Band.

A Celebration of Tom Petty Featuring: The Driveway Thriftdwellers

With special guests: Joseph Huber, Brett Newski, Laura Bomber, and Derek Pritzl.

Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets

Rediscover the magic of Harry Potter™ in the latest installment of the Harry Potter™ Film Concert Series. Projected in high-definition and accompanied by a live performance by the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra.

Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis

Immerse yourself in the spirit of the season as dazzling multimedia effects create a mesmerizing backdrop for a catalog of Christmas classics played by 15 musicians on more than 20 instruments.

Brett Eldredge: Glow 10 Year Anniversary Tour

A beloved holiday artist, Brett Eldredge celebrates the ten-year anniversary of Glow, his first Christmas album.

Love Actually in Concert

Fall in love with the holidays all over again at Love Actually In Concert. As the beloved film plays in its entirety on a full-size screen, a live orchestra performs the soundtrack live.

Bluey’s Big Play Date

When Dad feels like a little bit of time out, Bluey and Bingo have other plans! Join them as they pull out all of the games and cleverness at their disposal to get Dad off that bean bag.

Cirque Dreams Holidaze

An annual tradition that wraps a Broadway-style production around awe-inspiring contemporary circus arts. Guests of all ages will be on the edge of their seats as a cast of holiday characters comes to life, captivating audiences while defying gravity.

Jerry Seinfeld

Known for finding humor in everyday life, Jerry Seinfeld brings his latest stand-up routine to the Miller High Life Theatre.

René Vaca & That Mexican OT

Stand-up comedian Vaca brings his wit and bilingual humor to the stage.

Breakfast with Santa at The Pfister Hotel

Back by popular demand! Enjoy a festive breakfast buffet in The Pfister’s newly renovated Grand Ballroom, with holiday favorites, family-friendly classics, and a kids buffet. Families can visit Santa and his elves, take photos, and each child will receive a special gift.

Santa’s Christmas Cavalcade

See Santa and Mrs. Claus along their festive route riding atop a vintage fire truck. A vocalist will also be on board singing jazzy holiday tunes. Route departs from the Milwaukee Public Market and travels throughout Downtown.

Breakfast with Santa at MOTOR Restaurant

Celebrate the season with a festive family brunch buffet, cookie decorating, letter writing, and photos with the big guy himself.

Breakfast with Santa at Saint Kate

Settle in for a festive morning featuring made-to-order pancakes, classic breakfast favorites, plenty of sweet treats, and a special visit from Santa himself.

3 Rivers Powwow

Celebrate Indigenous cultures through music, movement, and more. Tribal members dressed in beautiful regalia will showcase various powwow dance styles to songs shared by different Wisconsin drum groups. Native artisans will also sell apparel, jewelry, artwork, and other cultural items, and Indigenous food will be available to purchase.

Kohl’s Thank You Thursdays

All visitors will receive free admission during the Museum's final Kohl's Thank You Thursday, thanks to Kohl's Cares. Enjoy holiday decor and interactive stations celebrating the Milwaukee of yesteryear.

Winter Break Fun: Built to Inspire

Build a memorable Winter Break together at the Milwaukee Art Museum! Daily programming offers opportunities to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the iconic Quadracci Pavilion with fun, hands-on experiences, and artmaking for all ages that spark curiosity and creativity.

Milwaukee Bucks

Wed, December 2 | 7pm vs. New York Knicks Fri, December 18 | 7pm vs. Phoenix Suns Sun, December 20 | 7pm vs. Golden State Warriors Wed, December 23 | 7pm vs. Minnesota Timberwolves

MSOE Men’s Hockey

Fri, December 4 | 7pm vs. Marian University Fri, December 11 | 7pm vs. Aurora University

MSOE Women’s Hockey

Fri, November 20 | 7pm vs. Trine University Sat, November 21 | 2pm vs. Trine University Tue, November 24 | 6pm vs. Adrian College Sat, December 5 | 4pm vs. Marian University Fri, January 1 | 7pm vs. UW-Superior

The Commercialists: A Charlie Brown Christmas

Good grief! The Commercialists bring their annual holiday tradition back to the Bradley Symphony Center. Sit right on the stage as you experience a live performance of the Vince Guaraldi Trio’s A Charlie Brown Christmas, complete with bar service. The Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra will not be performing as part of this event.

Hallmarked Homos: Unwrapping What Matters

Our Voice Milwaukee shares a choral concert filled with holiday favorites and amusing takes on Christmas classics, that reflect Milwaukee’s diverse LGBTQIA+ community.

Carols & Classics

Enjoy an evening of peaceful reflection and timeless music with the Florentine Opera, and a special performance by the Milwaukee Children’s Choir.

Jan Serr Summer Paintings

Drawing inspiration from Bradford Beach and Lake Michigan, Serr’s “Summer Paintings” capture the very landscape neighboring Villa Terrace over the last 50 years.

Susan Falkman: From Italy to Milwaukee

Blending ancient hand-carving techniques learned in Greece and Italy with power tools, Falkman transforms natural stone into art.

The Shakers: A World in the Making

The first major traveling exhibition to place extraordinary Shaker objects alongside the contemporary artists and designers they continue to inspire. Organized in partnership with the Vitra Design Museum and the Institute of Contemporary Art in Philadelphia, and featuring rare loans from the Shaker Museum, the exhibition brings together more than 150 historic objects and contemporary installations in a landmark exploration of design, ideas, and how we live.

We the People: Milwaukee Stories of Immigration, Citizenship, and Community

For more than 180 years, immigrants have shaped Milwaukee’s economy, neighborhoods, and culture. New generations from Latin America, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa continue to enrich the city through their traditions, languages, and foods, shaping Milwaukee’s future.

Brahms Symphony No. 2

Guest conductor Iván López Reynoso returns to the MSO to conduct Brahms’ second symphony.

Celebrating the Season in Song

Join Florentine Opera at the historic Milwaukee Club for a night of music, cocktails, and easy elegance. It’s the perfect blend of festive cheer and a touch of fancy—without the fuss.

Thanksgiving Brunch at The Studio

Gather with family and friends over a festive brunch menu, featuring fresh, seasonal favorites, handcrafted cocktails, and comforting classics in the inviting atmosphere of Saint Kate.

Thanksgiving Harvest Dinner in The Studio

Enjoy a thoughtfully crafted prix fixe dining experience inspired by the flavors of the season, featuring elevated takes on holiday favorites alongside chef-driven culinary touches.

Christmas Around Milwaukee Bakery Bus Tour

The Christmas Around Milwaukee Bakery Bus will fill your belly with holiday cookies and your heart with good cheer while you make delicious memories. Great for a girls' outing or a family celebration!

Jingle Bus Tours

Weather permitting

Marvel at Downtown’s spectacular sights aboard the convenient Jingle Bus. For $8 per person, visitors can take in the festive panorama while a narrator shares stories about the jolliest attractions and landmarks. Advance ticket purchases are encouraged.

Hoan for the Holidays

Celebrate the magic of the season as Milwaukee's iconic Hoan Bridge lights up the skyline. Sponsored by Miller Lite, enjoy festive holiday light shows December 23–31, plus special New Year's Eve countdown displays to ring in 2027. Free for all to enjoy!

Skywaukee Tour

Explore downtown Milwaukee from indoors! Stroll through the skywalk system and learn about significant Milwaukee landmarks from a new angle – one story up!

MAM After Dark: Sparkle & Shine

End the year in style with a festive, dress-up celebration full of music, cocktails, and holiday sparkle—no hosting required.

Lina Bertucci: Railroad Voices – The Milwaukee Road, 1974 – 1977

The second woman to work in the Milwaukee Road yards, Bertucci photographed her daily toils as an aspiring artist. The collection offers a rare insider’s view of the railroad and its far-reaching impact.

Built to Inspire: The Quadracci Pavilion at 25

A new installation featuring historic construction photography, an architectural model, original films, an audio guide, and opportunities to share your own memories of Milwaukee’s most iconic landmark.

40 Years of Tandem Press

An exhibition featuring selections from editions produced over the years at Tandem Press, featuring the work of notable contemporary artists like Derrick Adams, Jeffrey Gibson, and Mickalene Thomas.

Beneath the Surface: Mining and American Photography

Spanning 180 years of photography, the exhibition highlights the often-unseen mining and drilling that power modern life and traces how generations of photographers have developed new ways to depict the extraction, transportation, and processing of natural resources.

Guided Central Library Architectural Tours

Join a docent-led tour of Central Library. The Docent will share the history of the Milwaukee Public Library and provide insight on architectural points of interest.

Sculpture Milwaukee

Experience world-renowned sculptures throughout Downtown Milwaukee.

Inviting Abundance by Heidi Parkes

Introduced to quilting through a collaborative quilt planned by her grandmother for her birth, Parkes continues the family tradition by combining domestic textiles, heirlooms, and found fabrics with embroidered, stained, dyed, and designed materials.

One Step Ahead of the Wrecking Ball: The Best of David Plowden

From railroads to bridges, steel to agriculture, Plowden’s portraits of industry remain unparallelled in the canon of American photography. Plowden greatly admired the Grohmann’s Museum’s dedication to preserving and showcasing the art of industry, so much so that he gifted over 700 photographs to the permanent collection.

Thursday Nights at MAM

Meet up with friends for an artful evening together! Wander the galleries and ease into the weekend with live music and a bar in Windhover Hall.

Chosen Heroes: The Jewish Comics Experience

Learn how Jewish creators helped shaped the comic book industry and some of its most enduring stories.

Milwaukee Bucks

Thu, November 19 | 7pm vs. Portland Trail Blazers Wed, November 25 | 7pm vs. Brooklyn Nets Sat, November 28 | 7pm vs. Oklahoma City Thunder Mon, November 30 | 7pm vs. San Antonio Spurs

Milwaukee Wave

Sun, December 13 | 3:05pm vs. Baltimore Blast Fri, December 18 | 6:35pm vs. St. Louis Ambush Thu, December 31 | 3:05pm vs. San Diego Sockers

MSOE Women’s Basketball

Wed, December 2 | 7pm vs. Dominican University Wed, December 9 | 7pm vs. UW-Whitewater Sat, December 12 | 1pm vs. Illinois Tech Sat, December 19 | 1pm vs. Benedictine University

Yoga at the Museum

Begin your Saturday with a calming 60-minute all-levels yoga class amid the serenity of the Quadracci Pavilion and stunning views of Lake Michigan. Registration required.

APFC Fight Night

APFC returns to Milwaukee for another huge night of live MMA, presented by Anthony Pettis! Featuring 15+ professional and amateur fights, top Midwest talent, rising prospects, special guests, and nonstop action.

Kwik Trip Holiday Face-Off presented by Toyota

The sixth annual men’s college hockey tournament will feature the Wisconsin Badgers, UMass, Arizona State, and Northern Michigan. Semifinal games will take place on Dec. 29, followed by the Championship game and third-place games on Dec. 30.

Harlem Globetrotters: Rivalry Tour

The world-famous Harlem Globetrotters™ will visit Milwaukee with a whole new game, a new lineup of rivals, and all-new challenges that raise the stakes at every stop.

Milwaukee Admirals

Sat, November 28 | 6pm vs. Rockford IceHogs Tue, December 1 | 7pm vs. Texas Stars Sat, December 5 | 6pm vs. Manitoba Moose Fri, December 11 | 7pm vs. Rockford IceHogs Mon, December 28 | 6:30pm vs. Rockford IceHogs Wed, December 30 | 6:30pm vs. Chicago Wolves

Marquette University – Men’s Basketball

Sun, November 22 | 12pm vs. Chicago State Tue, December 1 | 6:30pm vs. Wagner Sat, December 5 | 1pm vs. Wisconsin Wed, December 9 | 6:30pm vs. New Hampshire Sat, December 12 | 5:30pm vs. Mississippi State Sat, December 19 | 5:30pm vs. Xavier

Marquette University – Women’s Basketball

Sat, November 21 | 2pm vs. NJIT Sun, December 6 | 2pm vs. Butler Thu, December 10 | 8pm vs. Villanova Sun, December 13 | 2pm vs. Wagner Sun, December 20 | 2pm vs. St. John’s Tue, December 22 | 11am vs. Alabama A&M

UWM Men’s Basketball

Sat, November 21 | 2pm vs. St. Thomas Thu, December 3 | 7pm vs. Wright State Sat, December 12 | 2pm vs. UIC

UWM Women’s Basketball

Mon, November 23 | 6pm vs. Marquette Sun, November 29 | 2pm vs. Toledo Sun, December 13 | 2pm vs. Eastern Kentucky Sun, December 20 | 2pm vs. Viterbo Thu, December 31 | 12pm vs. Purdue Fort Wayne

MSOE Men’s Basketball

Sat, December 12 | 3:15pm vs. Illinois Tech Wed, December 16 | 7pm vs. St. Norbert College Tue, December 22 | TBD vs. Wisconsin Lutheran College

Cocoa & Claus

Enjoy a festive morning with Santa! Cozy up for stories, hot cocoa, family photos, and hands-on holiday fun.

Christmas Eve Brunch in The Studio

Enjoy a leisurely meal featuring brunch favorites, handcrafted cocktails, and the warm, artful atmosphere of Saint Kate.

Christmas Eve Dinner in The Studio

Celebrate the magic of Christmas Eve with a thoughtfully crafted prix fixe dinner. Each course brings together seasonal flavors, refined culinary touches, and the welcoming hospitality of Saint Kate.

Christmas Day Brunch in The Studio

Enjoy signature brunch favorites, festive cocktails, and a relaxed dining experience surrounded by the creativity and warmth of Saint Kate.

Christmas Day Dinner in The Studio

Gather around the table for an afternoon or evening of exceptional cuisine, meaningful conversation, and a festive Christmas celebration.

Christmas Celebration Brunch

Enjoy a spectacular buffet featuring a delicious assortment of fresh seafood, Wisconsin’s finest cheeses, carved meats, omelets made to order, holiday salads and starters, a vast array of mouth-watering entrées, and decadent desserts loved by big and small elves alike. Reservations required.

Holiday Dessert Party at Il Cervo

Add a festive dessert experience to brunch! Enjoy sweet treats and cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus ($20) Dec. 5–6, Santa ($20) Dec. 12–13, or both ($30) Dec. 19–20.

Holidays on The Hop

Enjoy live music and holiday cheer on Downtown’s free streetcar service.

Hover Craft: Handmade Holiday Shopping Extravaganza

Brimming with one-of-a-kind handiwork, get your ticket online today!

Cocoa with the Clauses

Santa and Mrs. Claus return for this annual cocoa klatch. The free outdoor event is a chance for kids to share their wish lists and for moms and dads to grab a keepsake photo. Elves and other holiday characters will also be there. Plus, complimentary cookies and hot cocoa will be provided, thanks to Taste of Home and Educators Credit Union.

European Village Alive!

Explore the wonder of the season while learning about the history of European holiday traditions from Museum docents dressed in period attire, who will be stationed at various homes throughout the delightfully decorated European Village.

Holiday Tea at The Pfister

Enjoy a tableside tea blending of Rishi Tea, your very own Pfister Tea Butler, and a Christmas-inspired menu featuring fresh scones, sandwiches and pastries, and panoramic views. Reservations required.

Christmas Pajama Party

Trade the ugly sweater for your favorite holiday pajamas and celebrate the season at Milwaukee's coziest holiday party.

Holiday Marketplace

Experience and enjoy the holiday ambiance of Saint Kate's ARC Theatre while interacting and connecting with over 75 local artists and vendors. No reservation or purchase is necessary; however, RSVPs are encouraged.

Slice of Ice

Weather permitting

Ice skate in the heart of Downtown at the “Slice of Ice” rink while surrounded by twinkling lights and dazzling décor. Skate rentals are available for adults and children. Ice skating is free with your own skates.

MIAD Holiday Sale

MIAD’s Holiday Sale offers unique holiday gifts – from prints to photography, paintings, ornaments and more – all crafted by students, staff, faculty, and alumni.

Christmas in the Ward

Dash into the holiday season with festivities under the Historic Third Ward’s Christmas tree. This night is packed with live entertainment, food trucks, local shopping, and photo ops alongside Santa and his reindeer.

Christmas Lights & Desserts Bus Tour

Show off your ugly Christmas sweater and spread some holiday cheer on the Christmas Lights & Desserts sing-along! This Santa-approved bus tour is the perfect mix of tasty treats and lighthearted holiday spirit.

Santa Cycle Rampage

Dress in festive attire and join more than 2,000 Santas as they pedal their way through the city.

Thanksgiving at Mason Street Grill

Enjoy an all-American grill for this quintessential holiday. Mason Street Grill’s regular menu will be available along with a Thanksgiving prix fixe menu.

Twilight Tours

Enjoy a self-guided tour of the Mansion at night. Music will fill the space and refreshments will be available for purchase.

Annual Pfister Tree Lighting Ceremony

Santa returns to light The Pfister Hotel’s spectacular lobby tree. Sip warm drinks and nibble on a holiday treat. Non-perishable food items will be collected for Hunger Task Force.

Small Business Saturday

Explore the unique offerings around the Historic Third Ward as you #shopsmall.

Milwaukee Makers Market

Support local crafters, artists, and creators by browsing dozens of booths featuring clothing, visual art, candles, home goods and so much more. This no-charge-to-enter artisan showcase is the perfect opportunity to shop for co-workers, pets, uncles, aunts, and everyone in between.

Storytime with Santa

Discovery World hosts storytime and photos with Santa at 11am, 12pm and 1pm. Between sessions, Santa will stroll the building.

113th Annual City of Milwaukee Christmas Tree Lighting

The 113th annual City of Milwaukee Christmas tree lighting will take place in Deer District. Enjoy live performances, and a visit from Santa and his reindeer. Program begins at 6pm.

Cheer District, presented by the We Energies Foundation

Deck the Streets and Village

Don't miss one final holiday season immersed in the magic of the Streets of Old Milwaukee and European Village, both wrapped in festive cheer! In Streets, enjoy Victorian-era decor adorning streetlamps and buildings as classic carols play in the background. In the Village, look for traditional holiday items from different European heritages throughout nine of the homes.

Deer District Holiday Market

Deer District will tip off the winter season with the return of Deer District Holiday Market, presented by Deer District BID #53. Browse a curated lineup of local vendors, and enjoy holiday-themed photo ops and seasonal food and beverage specials. The market is free to attend and open daily, excluding Nov. 26.

Cheer District, presented by the We Energies Foundation

FEZtival of Trees

Walk through a wonderland of trees decorated by local businesses and organizations, snap a photo with Santa, and enjoy a light show during the week of Thanksgiving. Then place a bid for a chance to win a fully decorated tree to take home.

Friendsgiving at the Bar

Gather at the Bar at Saint Kate for an evening of expertly crafted cocktails, seasonal flavors, and effortless conversation in Milwaukee's most stylish lobby lounge.

Friendsgiving Party

Bring your crew, toast to old memories and new traditions, and spend the night where elevated drinks, great music, and Milwaukee's skyline come together for the ultimate pre-Thanksgiving celebration.

Milwaukee Turkey Trot

Guests will enjoy an array of fresh seafood on sculpted ice, a harvest of fresh salads and starters, an artisan Wisconsin cheese station, and a room full of chefs preparing eggs and succulent carved meats – plus all the traditional trimmings. Reservations required.

New Year’s Day Brunch in The Studio

Welcome the New Year with a leisurely brunch. Enjoy brunch favorites, handcrafted beverages, and the warm, creative atmosphere of Saint Kate as you begin the year surrounded by good food and great company.

New Year’s Day Dinner in The Studio

Continue the New Year celebration with dinner. Settle in for an evening of thoughtfully prepared cuisine, inviting hospitality, and the artistic ambiance of Saint Kate.

Santa’s Mailbox

Place a child’s letter to Santa in Santa’s Mailbox. Be sure to include a return address because Santa and his extra special helpers will ensure each child receives a personalized reply. Holiday spirit delivers the letters. No postage required!

Sponsored by Educators Credit Union with support from Serving Older Adults & National Association of Letter Carriers – Pioneer Branch 2

Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival Kickoff Extravaganza

Enjoy music, dancing, Santa, and a dazzling fireworks display on the brightest night of the year. Admission is free, including cookies, cocoa, and Jingle Bus tours with advanced registration. Pre-show entertainment begins at 5:30pm.

The Ornament Trail

Explore 20 larger-than-life, hand-painted ornaments by locally and nationally renowned artists. Pick up or download a trail guide to enjoy discounts from businesses along the way.

Christmas at Pabst Mansion

Enjoy a family-friendly, self-guided tour of the Pabst Mansion, where each room offers unique holiday magic, from glitz and glamour to trains and festive trees.

New Year’s Eve at Noon

Celebrate New Year’s Eve with music, dancing, face painting, hands-on activities, and a festive noon ball drop for the whole family.

New Year’s Eve Breakfast in The Studio

Start the final day of the year with breakfast. Enjoy your favorite morning classics, handcrafted beverages, and the welcoming atmosphere of Saint Kate as you prepare for the celebrations ahead.

New Year’s Eve at the Bar

Count down to midnight on New Year’s Eve at the Bar, where cocktails, music, and celebration take center stage. Join friends and fellow revelers for a night filled with festive energy, live entertainment, party surprises, and a champagne toast as the clock strikes twelve.

New Year’s Eve Party at Upper Bar

Ring in the New Year above it all at Upper Bar. Celebrate with handcrafted cocktails, live entertainment, festive fare, and unmatched views of the Milwaukee River as the countdown begins.

New Year’s Eve Dinner in The Studio

Welcome the New Year with an unforgettable prix fixe dinner at The Studio Kitchen & Cocktails. Thoughtfully crafted by our culinary team, this special dining experience brings together seasonal flavors, elevated cuisine, and the artistic ambiance of Saint Kate for a memorable evening of celebration.

New Year’s Eve in Blu

Ring in the New Year high above Milwaukee at Blu. Enjoy stunning skyline views, live music, festive party favors, a bottle of Veuve Clicquot Yellow Label Champagne, and house-made petite desserts.

New Year’s Eve Fireworks

Ring in the new year with a festive fireworks display.

Story Time in the Galleries

Meet in Windhover Hall near the admission desks and walk with the reader to the galleries. Then listen to a story that relates to a work of art before creating a drawing inspired by what you have seen and heard.

Animal Encounters

Meet Discovery World’s animal ambassadors and gain a better understanding of our Great Lakes ecosystem.

Code & Create Day

Scroll down to Code & Create Day to investigate the amazing world of coding and spark your curiosity in algorithms! Dive into the world of coding with fun introductory challenges designed to unleash your inner inventor.

Community Access Day

All guests receive free admission on the third Thursday of every month.

The Greatest Hits of Greatest Hits

Need an encore? Close MPM with some favorite activities from each Greatest Hits celebration! Enjoy building a diorama, dashing with dinos, admiring butterflies, and more.

Wild Kratts®: Creature Power®!

Step into the world of Wild Kratts® in this hands-on exhibit inspired by the hit PBS KIDS series. Explore animal habitats from around the world, discover incredible Creature Powers®, and complete interactive missions through imaginative play.

The Nutcracker: Drosselmeyer’s Imaginarium

A beloved holiday tradition transforms into a magical adventure of wonder and enchantment for audiences of all ages in The Nutcracker.

Black Nativity

A Milwaukee holiday favorite, Black Nativity tells the Christmas story through scripture, poetry, dance, and song from the African American perspective. Each year, the production is reimagined by Black Arts MKE with new themes and creative approaches while maintaining its core spirit of faith, family, and joy.

The Murder of Roger Ackroyd

A one-night-only staged reading: this highly theatrical adaptation of Agatha Christie’s 1926 masterpiece delves deep into the human psyche to create a shockingly modern-feeling whodunnit.

The Unauthorized Hallmark(ish) Parody Musical

A hilarious twist on the classic holiday movies you already know and love! When a move back to a small hometown brings an old flame back into the picture, sparks are bound to fly.

Drop-In Making: Kohl’s Art Studio

Drop in for family art making activities inspired by the Museum’s collection and exhibitions. The studio project changes each month to highlight new mediums and techniques.

Kohl’s Design It! Lab

Bring the whole family to the Kohl’s Design It! Lab to make wonderfully creative projects that you can take home. Projects can take anywhere from 5-20 minutes.

Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!

Experience the wit, wonder, and larger-than-life spirit audiences know and love, wrapped in toe-tapping songs and Seuss-ian spectacle in this presentation by First Stage.

The Girl, The Galaxy, and the Giant Sound Wave

In Danceworks Performance MKE’s futuristic production, a water-covered world becomes the starting point for an adventurous girl’s journey across the galaxy in search of answers.

The Sound of Music

For 65 years, The Sound of Music has been one of our “favorite things.” With its timeless story and irresistibly charming score, this Rodgers & Hammerstein classic isn’t just meant to be enjoyed – it’s meant to be shared with a new generation.

The Boys from Baraboo

Step right up for the rise and fall of the Ringling Brothers of Baraboo, Wisconsin, a tale that’s equal parts vaudeville revue and prestige drama.

A Christmas Carol

Milwaukee’s favorite holiday tradition fills The Pabst Theater with enchanting music, dance, costumes, special effects, and Christmas cheer.

Sister’s Christmas Catechism

In this “CSI: Bethlehem” holiday mystery from the creator of Late Nite Catechism, Sister investigates the Magi’s missing gold. Her hilarious nativity retelling features audience casting, so bring your camera—your family may join the show!

Trans-Siberian Orchestra – The Ghosts of Christmas Eve

TSO celebrates its landmark 30th anniversary with a major winter tour featuring a spectacular, reimagined staging of its treasured tale, “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve.”

Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert

Featuring the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, this soul-stirring symphony of sound and spectacle evokes Vienna’s golden age by bringing the music of “Waltz King” Johann Strauss, Jr. to vivid life. With elegant costumes and lush floral arrangements decorating the stage, Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert transports audiences to an era of sumptuous beauty.

JP Coletta’s Rock ‘N’ Roll Piano Man

Trace rock piano from Little Richard, Fats Domino, and Ray Charles to Elton John and Billy Joel. JP Coletta and his band will deliver high-energy renditions of classics, including “Great Balls of Fire” and “Bennie and the Jets.”

A Gift of the Magi

A Milwaukee Premiere presented by The Milwaukee Chamber Theatre In this original musical based on O. Henry's classic tale, two newlyweds—accompanied by live violin and cello—search for the perfect gift for one another.

Big: The Musical

After wishing to be “big,” 12-year-old Josh Baskin wakes up as a 30-year-old in New York City. As he navigates adult work, relationships, and responsibilities, he discovers the challenges of growing up and the magic of childhood. Based on the beloved 1988 film.

Heist

A secretive crew takes on one final, life-changing job. A cinematic crime caper packed with twists, sharp dialogue, surprises, and laughs.

Sabaton

Sweden’s Sabaton is sure to deliver a night of power metal.

A Hundred Ways: Thanksgiving

Gather for Present Music’s annual celebration of gratitude, community, and multiculturalism. Experience a rich tapestry of global sounds within the beauty of this sacred space.

Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas Film with Orchestra

Discover the Magic of the Mean One this holiday season. Starring Jim Carrey as the unforgettable Grinch, enjoy the movie on the big screen while the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra performs James Horner’s iconic score live-to-picture. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with a little Whoville magic.

Jingle Bell Jamboree

Join Festival City Symphony for a free hour of festive, family-friendly music that captures the spirit of the season. Pajamas, teddy bears, and blankets are welcome!

Hometown Holiday Pops

Celebrate the season with Hometown Holiday Pops, Milwaukee’s favorite musical tradition. Your Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra fills Allen-Bradley Hall with festive favorites, joined by an acclaimed guest vocalist, the Milwaukee Handbell Ensemble, the Jolly Old Elf himself, and special magical extras throughout the hall.

Seán Heely’s Celtic Christmas

Kilts and tartan abound as U.S. National Scottish Fiddle Champion Seán Heely and a cast of nationally acclaimed Celtic performers take you on a magical winter tour through the Scottish Highlands and across the rugged Irish coast.

Bingo Loco presents Name That Song

An interactive stage show suited for anyone looking for an incredible night out on the town.

Your Window to the World on New Year’s Eve

Ring in the New Year in style at Blu, The Pfister Hotel's signature cocktail lounge on the 23rd floor. Flexible time slots are available! Live music will add to the celebration. Enjoy special packages, including reserved tables, premium champagne, party favors and a dessert display. VIP packages with stellar views are available.

Candlelight Concerts

Enjoy a live, multisensory concert experience with winter shows saluting the likes of Hans Zimmer, Fleetwood Mac, Michael Jackson, 90s Hip-Hop, Ed Sheeran, Queen, The Beatles, ABBA, Christmas carols on strings, and more.