There is no shortage of holiday cheer in Milwaukee, especially downtown. These five family-friendly events are also FREE! It’s just one of the many reasons that I love living in Milwaukee.

1. Annual Pfister Tree Lighting – November 29

   Thanksgiving weekend is no longer just for this one holiday, it’s essentially the start of the Christmas madness. Stop in at the historic and stately Pfister Hotel to see their massive tree illuminate. Have a glass of their famous “glog” mulled wine by the fireplace in the lobby and soak it all in.

2. Christkindlmarket Milwaukee at the Fiserv Forum Plaza – Nov. 15-Dec. 24 

   Admission is free, but be prepare to shell out for food, drink and holiday trinkets. This traditional German holiday market has unique gifts and collectibles and thankfully, a heated, indoor beer garden.

3. Cocoa with the Clauses at Cathedral Square Park – Dec. 14, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m.

   Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, snap a photo and sip cocoa. While you’re there, drop a letter in Santa’s mailbox. Santa and his special helpers (The USPS) will send each child a personalized reply in the mail – no postage necessary.

4. Ride the Jingle Bus - Nov. 16-Dec. 30

   Pick up the bus at 161 W. Wisconsin Ave. and pay $2 to see the light displays at three downtown parks and up and down Wisconsin Ave. Milwaukee Downtown’s Public Service Ambassadors narrate the 40-minute tour.

5. Slice of Ice at Red Arrow Park from December-March (weather dependent)

   Try your hand at ice skating, even if you haven’t done it in ages. The small rink is encircled by a railing, so you can hold on the whole way around.

   If you have little ones, stop in a BMO Harris Bank downtown on Water St. to see their Super Duper Holiday Display from Dec. 1-Jan. 2. The main lobby is transformed with life-sized superhero figures.

For more information about these opportunities and more visit milwaukeeholidaylights.com 

Here’s our very own awkward family photo from Cocoa with with the Clauses last year in Cathedral Square Park.