Christmas in the Ward Brings an Old-Fashioned Holiday Celebration to the Heart of Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward on Friday, Dec. 6
(Milwaukee, WI): Mark your calendars for Friday, December 6, 2024, as the Historic Third Ward comes alive with the much-anticipated 35th Annual Christmas in the Ward celebration! Join in from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM in Catalano Square for an evening filled with festive activities, delicious food, and heartwarming holiday traditions, all benefiting the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Eastern Wisconsin.
Festive Activities and Food
Kick off your evening with a cookie sale where you can purchase delicious holiday cookies to support a great cause! Food trucks will line the west side of the 100 block of North Broadway, offering a variety of tasty treats from local favorites including Sweetly Baked, Hot Box Pizza, Tots on the Street, Pig Tails, and Flip’s Mini Donuts. Don’t forget to stop by for some mouthwatering kettle corn from T. Best Kettle Corn!
For a cozy experience, head over to Catalano Square where you can roast s’mores with the Friends of Lakeshore Park and interact with live reindeer and costumed characters, including Mrs. Claus!
A Night of Entertainment
The celebration kicks off with a performance by the Milwaukee Police Band at 5:30 PM. The highlight of the evening is the tree lighting ceremony at 6 PM, featuring Santa Claus and Milwaukee dignitaries, along with performances by the Bach Chamber Choir and Renewed Spiritual Gospel.
At 6:30 PM, children can visit Santa in Jolly’s Gingerbread House for a photo opportunity, with a suggested donation of $5 to support Ronald McDonald House Charities.
The festivities continue with a spectacular fireworks display over the Milwaukee River at 7 PM, complemented by the stunning Hoan Bridge Light Show. Enjoy a performance by Skylight Music Theatre from 7:15 PM to 8 PM before wrapping up the night with the 10-minute Light the Hoan Holiday Show at 8:30 PM.
Refreshments and Shopping
Warm up with complimentary hot chocolate, or indulge in Cocoa Cocktails and mulled wine from Café Benelux. Local breweries like The Explorium Brewpub and Wizard Works Brewing will also be on-site serving seasonal brews.
While you’re enjoying the festivities, don’t forget to explore the Historic Third Ward’s shops and restaurants. Many will be offering special holiday fare and promotions, making it the perfect time to shop local and find unique gifts for your loved ones. Follow us on Instagram for a chance to win gift cards to local retailers from November 30 to December 23!
Parking and Accessibility
Parking is available for just $10 in the Historic Third Ward parking structures after 5 PM. Convenient locations can be found at 212 N. Milwaukee Street and 225 E. Chicago Street.
A Memorable Evening!
Christmas in the Ward promises to be a magical evening filled with holiday cheer, community spirit, and unforgettable moments. Don’t miss out on the chance to create cherished memories with family and friends in the heart of Milwaukee.
