Tis the Season! Enjoy Green Bay’s Best Holiday Events
Looking for twinkling lights and festive views this holiday season? Some of Green Bay’s holiday events are the most stunning sights found in the least expected places.
By Kira Doman
Green Bay lights up this time of year with festive events and attractions. From Winterfest on Broadway and Garden of Lights at the botanical garden to Festival of Trees and The Polar Express at the National Railroad Museum, here's how to enjoy the spirit of the season.
Winter Garden Party
The flowers may have entered their seasonal slumber, but Green Bay Botanical Garden hasn’t let that stop it from lighting up the garden in other ways. During Garden of Lights, the garden’s 47 acres are lined with themed light displays, providing plenty of options for picture-perfect memories. Be sure to bundle up for the walk!
To the North Pole!
The next stop on the Green Bay lights tour is the National Railroad Museum to walk the Festival of Trees with their multicolored lights and spectacular ornaments. Local businesses and organizations sponsor this event, decorating their trees in surprising ways.
Getting cold? The National Railroad Museum has recreated the classic and beloved Polar Express, complete with the iconic song and dance from the film. The train ride takes passengers on the same journey the children in the film undergo, encountering the illusive and mysterious man with memorable advice, polar bears in the arctic circle, the wondrous aurora borealis and even Santa!
Open-Air Christmas Market
Inspired by the outdoor Christmastime festivals of 16th century Germany, the Broadway District is hosting a Christkindlmarket of our own! Weave through the twinkling lights and festively decorated booths to find one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, or treat yourself to a holiday beverage under the heated tents. Swing by on Saturday, Nov. 26 or on Friday evenings from Nov. 18 through Dec. 16.
Cheers to the Season!
Discover a new favorite beverage during the Winter Wine and Beer Walk, a popular Green Bay tradition. Register for the night of your choice, then (punch card in hand!) choose your own adventure among more than 20 local wineries and breweries. The Winter Wine and Beer Walk dates line up with the Christkindlmarket, so, in between bevvies, stop by and score a new treasure.
Christmas Classics
To see historic pieces of Christmases past, head over to the Neville Public Museum. Many years ago, Green Bay’s storefronts were decorated with hauntingly beautiful dolls, dressed for the holiday season. When this form of adornment fell out of style, the Neville Public Museum acquired the antique dolls and décor, and now brings them out every holiday season for the public to revisit. You can also chat with Bruce the Spruce, the talking Christmas tree, while he’s awake for his short season.
Grin, Laugh and Sing Along
Each year, local theater the Meyer produces a new original comedy musical, and this year: A Frank’s Christmas. Think: A mashup between the Elf on the Shelf and the classic story of the elves and the shoemaker. You’ll want to join in singing the Christmas tunes at this family-friendly show.
Chill Out!
Save the date for Winterfest on Broadway, hosted on Saturday, Jan. 29. During this family-friendly event, local businesses and restaurants line the streets downtown, offering opportunities to fully immerse yourselves in winter activities. Ice sculptures, family-friendly activities and live music can be expected, as well as the warm company of jovial attendees. This is a can’t miss Green Bay holiday event.
Save the Date
Add Green Bay to your holiday plans and discover festive events sure to add joy to the season.
