Kick off the Holidays in Downtown Lake Geneva
Light Up Lake Geneva - Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony
Friday, Nov. 28 | 4:00PM-5:00PM | Flatiron Park
Join the community for an annual tradition as the City of Lake Geneva and the Downtown Lake Geneva Business Improvement District light up the Christmas tree to kick off the holidays in Lake Geneva. Following the tree lighting, head downtown to vote for your favorite holiday window display, shop local with stores offering late night hours and exciting deals, then stay to dine at one of the many local restaurants for a total family fun experience. READ MORE >
50th Annual Electric Christmas Parade
Saturday, December 6 | Parade kicks off at 5PM | Broad Street, Downtown Lake Geneva
VISIT Lake Geneva is proud to present the 50th Annual Electric Christmas Parade on Saturday, December 6. Join in the fun for a joyful celebration of the season as this colorful, light-filled parade moves down Broad and Main Streets in Downtown Lake Geneva. Spectators of all ages will enjoy magical floats and more creative displays decked out in holiday splendor. READ MORE>
Holiday Traditions and Activities to Get You in the Spirit
7th Annual Parade of Trees at Geneva Lakes Museum
Fri. – Mon. | 11AM-3PM | Nov. 22 thru Jan. 5 | Geneva Lakes Museum
Join the Geneva Lake Museum for their fifth annual Parade of Trees exhibit along "Main Street." Over 40 trees from local businesses and non-profit organizations are decorated and on display throughout the holiday season. Enjoy the spectacular craftsmanship and historic nods to the community as they adorn the museum in their Main Street exhibit. Come see the creativity, vote for your favorite, and check out the local exhibits detailing the rich history of the area. READ MORE>
Gallery 223 Winter Art Exhibit and Holiday Cheer Market
Thur.-Mon. | 10AM-5PM | Nov. 6 thru Dec. 28 | Geneva Lake Arts Foundation-Gallery 223
Gallery 223 is a creative space downtown that houses local artist's work. Their Winter Art Exhibit is such a festive experience and fun for the whole family. See stunning watercolor & oil paintings, photography, pottery, and more as you browse their collections. Enjoy their holiday market for unique artisan gifts and even sign up for a class or two to become an artist yourself. READ MORE>
Gingerbread House Walk at the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa
Daily | 8AM-8PM | Nov. 23 thru Dec. 31 | Grand Geneva Resort & Spa
A Christmas in the Country tradition, the Grand Geneva Gingerbread House Competition showcases the gingerbread house building talent of area residents, both amateur and professional. Judges from United Way of Walworth County and Grand Geneva will award cash prizes for the top three overall winners and prizes in five different age groups. READ MORE>
Get Creative with Holiday Crafts
Various Local Businesses | Multiple Dates and Times | Lake Geneva Region
What better way to get into the holiday spirit than by crafting your own holiday decorations and gifts with family and friends. Many of our local businesses and organizations are offering special crafting events designed to spread some holiday joy! Check out our event calendar for the latest and greatest choices for you and your family to enjoy! READ MORE>
Experience a Holiday Show or Two!
Dancing Horses Holiday Show Extravaganza
Mid- November thru the New Year | Multiple Performance Times | The Dancing Horses
HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Enjoy a brand-new show that celebrates the magic of Christmas with all-new music, effects, horse tricks, acrobatics, and more. Treat yourself and your families to a one-of-a-kind Christmas experience, only at The Dancing Horses Theatre! READ MORE>
A Wonderful Life
Now thru Dec. 28 | Multiple Performances Times | The Fireside Dinner Theatre
Don’t miss this holiday classic! The story of George Bailey and his wonderful life in Bedford Falls has brought hope and inspiration to every heart with its celebration of the goodness in all of us. The Fireside is proud to bring you this stunning, live stage version of Frank Capra’s beloved film. READ MORE>
An Enchanted Winter Candlelight Concert
Thursday, Dec. 4 - ONE NIGHT ONLY | 6:30 - 9:00PM | The Historic Baker House
Let winter romance, candlelight, and soaring music sweep you away! For one magical evening, the incomparable Jeorge Holmes returns to The Baker House to fill our historic mansion with opera favorites, Christmas classics, Broadway treasures, timeless standards, and joyful sing-alongs. A night designed to enchant every sense. READ MORE>
Holiday Music at the Belfry Music Theater
Shows Dec. 3 thru Dec. 20 | Multiple Performances | The Belfry Music Theater
You’ll find great holiday musical shows happening at this historic renovated music and performance theater. Musical tribute acts highlighting Country Christmas classics, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Buddy Holly, and the magic of Christmas in New York are some of the holiday treats coming this way. From acapella Christmas classics to a holiday celebration with Top 40 hit makers you won’t be disappointed! READ MORE>
Holiday Music at Geneva Stage
Shows Dec. 13, 20 and 21 | Multiple Performances | Geneva Stage
The holidays come alive at this downtown music and performance venue! From a night with a tribute to the Four Seasons to an evening of Holiday Jazz, and a tribute to the Trans-Siberian Orchestra, you'll find the Christmas spirit alive and well in downtown Lake Geneva. READ MORE>
Holiday Magic Shows at Tristan Crist Magic Theatre
Special Performances Dec. 20 thru Dec. 31 | Times vary | Tristan Crist Magic Theatre
Experience the magic of the holidays at Lake Geneva's magic attraction! Illusionist Tristan Crist presents 90 minutes of incredible entertainment this December 20 through December 31. Become a kid again as the show takes you on a journey into the unknown with new tricks and surprises every year. Join others who have made the show a yearly family holiday tradition and don't forget to pick up a magic kit to put under the tree for hours of fun come Christmas Day. READ MORE>
Be Enchanted by the Holiday Lights
Cruise the Lake on the Santa Cruise
Nov. 21 thru Dec. 30 | Multiple Days & Times | Lake Geneva Cruise Lines
Embark on a magical Christmas boat cruise to Santa’s Hideaway! This 40 minute lake tour cruises by lighted displays, has coloring activities for the children, and concession area to enjoy a hot cocoa and delicious cookies. Begin your magical journey with a walk through the Christmas Tree Festival where kids get to send their wish list directly to Santa. Then, ship off on our Christmas cruise boat, decked out in holiday lights and decorations, for an enchanting tour of holiday lights on the lake. Sneak a peek at the shoreline for Santa Claus himself and hear your child’s name read from his “Nice List!” READ MORE>
Delight in the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa Christmas in the Country Light Display
Nov. 23 thru Dec. 31 | Open Daily | The Grand Geneva Resort & Spa
Every year, the holidays come to life during the annual Christmas in the Country celebration at the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa. Gaze at more than two million Christmas lights, indoors and out, including the family-favorite 12 days of Christmas drive-through light show you can enjoy from the comfort or your car or on a holiday trolley ride tour. The six-week-long picture-perfect holiday celebration welcomes resort guests and the community to share in the festive holiday spirit. READ MORE>
World's Tallest Glass Christmas Tree at Yerkes Observatory
Dec. 5-7 and Dec. 12-14 | Hours Vary | Yerkes Observatory
Witness the building of the World’s Tallest Glass Tree, live glassblowing, steel sculpting and wood working, alongside a Winter Maker Market comprised of local artisans, craftspeople, and custom handmade glassware. Yerkes Observatory will conduct its Space and Spaces Tours inside the Observatory at set times throughout the event. See history in the making kicking off December 6! For all the details about the event, the art, and how to be a part of the magic. READ MORE>
Light Up Lyons
Saturday, Dec. 6 | 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM | Downtown Lyons along the White River Bike Trail
Enjoy some holiday fun at Light Up Lyons! Santa and Mrs. Claus kickoff the event with their arrival at dusk.(4:45 - 5:00). Visit with Santa, decorate some cookies, enjoy S'Mores and cocoa by the fire and some festive live music. READ MORE >
Plan a Visit with Santa
Visit Santa's Workshop with the East Troy Railroad
Weekends Nov. 30 thru Dec. 21 | Multiple Dates | East Troy Railroad Museum
The Santa Special rides will take you from the East Troy Depot to Santa's workshop located at the Elegant Farmer. Here children can visit Santa and take a photo with the jolly elf himself! In addition there will be activities for kids. The trains are heated and bathrooms are available in our East Troy Depot. The total experience is two hours in duration, consisting of 30 minutes on the train to the Elegant Farmer, 1 hour at the Elegant Farmer, and a 30 minute train ride back to the East Troy Depot. On the return trip each child will receive a special holiday book and stuffed animal as a memento of this memory-making event. reservations are required. READ MORE>
Have Brunch with Santa
Various Dates in Nov. and Dec. | Local Hotels & Resorts | Lake Geneva Region
What better way to enjoy the holiday than with a memorable meal with family and friends in a beautiful location as you wait to see the jolly man himself? With a plethora of hotels, restaurants, and venues offering these special dates, check out our event calendar for the latest and greatest choices for you to make a reservation! READ MORE>
Santa's Landing at the Abbey
Saturday, Nov. 29 | 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM | The Abbey Resort & Spa
Everyone is invited to celebrate the beginning of the Christmas season when Santa Claus lands at The Abbey Resort and lights up the Christmas Tree in front of the resort. Enjoy family activities, holiday music, fresh cookies, hot chocolate, and photos with the jolly old elf himself against a lakeside backdrop. READ MORE >
Mix and Mingle with Santa
Sunday, Nov. 30 and Sunday, Dec. 21 | 1:30 - 4:30PM | The Treasury in Delavan
Spend the afternoon with us at this festive and complimentary open house! The venue will be decorated, holiday music classics on our sound system, Santa visiting from 2-4 PM and holiday beverages available for purchase for the whole family! Get your cameras ready and festive attire! Casual attire welcome.
Holiday Music & Breakfast with Santa
Saturday, Dec. 6 | 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM | Badger High School
An early sighting of Santa Claus is happening at Badger High School. This Music Department fundraiser is the perfect way to kick off a festive weekend in Lake Geneva. Plenty of music and youth activities along with a family breakfast. Come to see Santa but stay for the holiday music and the annual Badger DECA festive Holiday Craft and Vendor Fair that follows! READ MORE>
Home for the Holidays at Old World Wisconsin
Two weekends in December | Dec. 6 and 7 or Dec. 13 and 14 | Old World Wisconsin
Ready for a picturesque Victorian winter full of bustling shops, scenic stops and endless good cheer? Experience it all at Home for the Holidays, where you’ll stroll through a charming 1800s village filled with crackling bonfires, festive greenery and fun-filled craft making. Visit Victorian Santa in his magical toy workshop, greet Jultomten and his giant goat companion, and—for those of you on the naughty list—watch out for an appearance from the winter trickster, Krampus! READ MORE>
Santa Visits Downtown Lake Geneva
Thursdays in December | 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM | Various Locations
Santa is coming to Downtown Lake Geneva every Thursday in December (except Christmas day) from 5-7pm at various locations. Bring a camera, enjoy some hot cocoa, and stay downtown to dine and shop this holiday season! READ MORE>
Holiday Shopping at Its Finest
Lake Geneva is the perfect place to spend a day or even a weekend checking off all of your holiday gift lists! You can find fashion forward clothing, festive home décor, and a treasure trove of unique gifts for all of your loved ones in our downtown shopping district. We'll have a couple favorite holiday craft and vendor fairs this time of year too! From bling and bobbles to bottles filled with holiday spirits Lake Geneva really shines during the holiday season! So, grab your favorite shopping buddies and make a fun holiday trip you won't soon forget.
Christmas in My Hometown Celebration
Saturday, Nov. 29 | 10AM - 5:30PM | Hosted by the Big Foot Recreation District
Spend the Day kicking off the Christmas Season on the West End of Geneva Lake in Walworth! Enjoy a craft and vendor fair, holiday movies, festive music and treats, a visit with Santa, and an old fashioned tree lighting! READ MORE>
Geneva Christmas Market 2025
Saturday, Nov. 29 and Sunday, Nov. 30 | 11AM - 4PM | Lake Geneva House of Music
CRAFT, GIFT, DECOR, & MORE! Join us and celebrate the holiday spirit, small businesses, and locally-made goods! Free entry & free parking! Bar and cafe open all day with seasonal boozy & N.A. drink specials! Family-friendly! READ MORE>
Duesterbeck's Annual Christmas Market
Friday, Dec. 5 11am - 4pm | Saturday, Dec. 6 10am - 4pm | Duesterbeck's Brewing Company
Join us in celebrating the Holiday spirit! Explore a delightful selection of handcrafted gifts, local products, and seasonal home Décor. Savor sensational food and enjoy exceptional beer as you shop! READ MORE>
Badger DECA Holiday Craft Fair
Saturday, Dec. 6 | 9AM - 2PM | Badger High School
Dozens of vendors will be set up at Badger again this year for the Annual Badger DECA Holiday Craft Fair. This annual fundraising event boasts FREE Admission, over 50 unique vendors and crafters, raffles, and more! Santa Breakfast attendees get a FREE raffle ticket for prizes. Come find that perfect present this holiday season while supporting local students. READ MORE>
A German Bluegrass Christmas Market
Saturday, Dec. 6 & Sunday, Dec. 7 | Market opens at 9AM | Music starts at 10AM | Kettle Moraine Ranch
Experience the second annual German Bluegrass Christmas Market at the Kettle Moraine Ranch! Get ready for an epic holiday celebration — with bluegrass all day over two days, some awesome local vendors at our very own Christkindle market, and of course hot toddy’s and glühwein. It’s gonna be a Christmas party you won’t wanna miss! READ MORE>
Christmas Market & Wine Tasting
Sunday, Dec. 14 | 11AM - 4PM | The Bottle Shop
Come celebrate some holiday cheer with us! Local crafters and vendors will be offering some great holiday gift ideas. Fill your stockings and enjoy a complimentary wine tasting too! READ MORE>
For more shopping events and open houses, check out the events calendar!
You won't find a better place to embrace the holiday spirit than Lake Geneva Wisconsin!