Wisconsin’s holiday season is steeped in tradition – rooted in heritage, community spirit, and festive cheer. From Milwaukee’s towering city tree to cozy dinner shows in the Dells, the Badger State knows how to celebrate. Here’s a stroll through some of the most cherished Wisconsin traditions.
- Tree Lighting Traditions in Major Cities
Milwaukee City Christmas Tree
Since 1913, Milwaukee has honored the season with a towering pine adorned at City Hall – often called the City Holiday Tree today – after a brief pause between 1995 and 2006.
Wisconsin State Capitol Holiday Tree in Madison
A symbolic state tradition since 1916, the Capitol tree – formerly known as the Christmas Tree – features student‑made ornaments crafted around themed topics (such as science in 2019). Each year, it’s lit in late November, marking the kickoff to holiday celebrations in the capital.
- Cultural Celebration at the Holiday Folk Fair
Each fall in West Allis, the Holiday Folk Fair draws thousands to experience international traditions – including music, dance, food, and craft demonstrations. Held at Wisconsin State Fair Park the weekend before Thanksgiving, it’s one of the country’s largest indoor multicultural holiday festivals.
- Small‑Town Santa & Sleigh Celebrations
Wisconsin’s small towns come alive in December:
- In Baraboo, a horse‑drawn sleigh ride through downtown and a holiday parade bring yuletide charm.
- In North Freedom, families board the cheerful “Santa Express” train ride, complete with Santa, Mrs. Claus, elves – and even gift‑giving aboard the steam locomotive.
- Dells-Style Holiday Festivities
In Wisconsin Dells – popularly known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World” – the holiday season gets a uniquely festive twist.
Tree of Light & Holiday Displays
Downtown Dells shines brightly with the Tree of Light, a massive maple tree strung with thousands of lights, plus 80+ smaller trees dotting the scenic street walkways. The tradition runs through early January, with musical performances and visits by Santa and his reindeer.
Santa Train & Night of Lights
Visitors can enjoy magical train experiences and whimsical light displays at local venues like Mount Olympus Waterpark’s “Night of Lights,” illuminating the parks for the holidays.
- The Star Attraction: Christmas in the Dells Dinner Show
Nothing captures festive spirit in Wisconsin Dells like the Christmas in the Dells Dinner Show at Legacy Dinner Theater. Running from early November through January, it is a multi‑million‑dollar extravaganza featuring:
- Dancing elves, sugar‑plum fairies, angels, reindeer, and a spectacular live nativity – the largest in the region
- A talented cast of singers, dancers, comedians, variety acts, aerial performances, pyrotechnics and laser light effects
- A lavish four‑course Christmas feast – turkey, honey‑glazed ham, creamy mashed potatoes, macaroni & cheese, green beans, cranberry salad, and pumpkin pie – all included in your ticket
TripAdvisor describes it as “stunning,” praising the show’s blend of music, dance, and holiday warmth. As one Dells travel blog puts it:
“Back for the second season… flying sugar plum fairies, dancing elves, and Jolly Ol’ St. Nick himself, with a big band adding to the festive holiday mood”.
Families delight in the snowy indoor moments, Santa meet‑and‑greets, and the unforgettable live nativity. Booking early is key – this show regularly sells out.
- Dinner Theater Beyond the Dells
The tradition of dinner‑theater during the holidays isn’t unique to the Dells. Venues like the Fireside Dinner Theatre in Fort Atkinson host elaborate Christmas revues annually, continuing a widespread Wisconsin tradition of combining festive entertainment with fine dining.
Why This Matters
These traditions – from civic tree lightings in Milwaukee and Madison, to multicultural gatherings, small‑town sleigh rides, and grand dinner‑theater productions – reflect Wisconsin’s blend of urban culture, rural warmth, and theatrical flair. Throughout the season, residents and visitors alike share in these moments: robust traditions for small kids, meaningful community gatherings, nostalgic holiday dinners, and dazzling theatrical productions.
But it’s the Christmas in the Dells Dinner Show that stands out – not only as a festive spectacle, but as a warm-hearted experience many Wisconsinites and their families revisit each year. Paired with the Dells’ cheerful light displays and winter waterpark retreats, it beautifully encapsulates the state’s seasonal spirit-rooted in community, creativity, and celebration.
