There’s something special about the holiday season in Kenosha — the lights glow a little brighter, the lakefront feels a little cozier, and our small businesses shine in a way only locals understand. From festive storefronts and family traditions to community events that bring everyone together, the people behind our shops, cafés, studios, and boutiques play a huge part in what makes this time of year feel magical.
In this series of holiday interviews, we sat down with a handful of Kenosha’s small business owners to hear how they celebrate the season — from their favorite local traditions to the ways they spread joy through their work. Their stories show exactly why supporting local isn’t just a purchase… it’s being part of something bigger.
Let’s spread some holiday cheer and get to know Nick Chiappetta of Chiappetta Shoes!
Nick and his brother Tony are 4th generation operators of Chiappetta Shoes. For over a century, the Chiappetta family has been at the forefront of expert shoe fitting and high-quality craftsmanship, blending old-school techniques with modern innovation.
What are your favorite local holiday traditions or events in Kenosha?
The Annual Mayor’s Turkey Run. Let’s be honest, I don’t run, although I do have comfortable running shoes. My family and I have been participating in the 5k for 10 years now. You don’t feel as bad having 3 servings for Thanksgiving if you walked a 5K in the morning.
Picking out the family Christmas Tree the Friday after Thanksgiving. It’s one of the traditions we did growing up, and I do now with my wife and children. It is one of my favorite things we do every year.
What role does your business play in making Kenosha a festive destination?
Our role is to be a cornerstone of Kenosha's holiday experience by making gift-giving simple and joyous. For nearly 105 years, we have offered a great selection of high quality footwear, cozy socks, and unique accessories and gifts, ensuring every customer finds that perfect item.
Beyond our products, we contribute to the festive atmosphere with:
Unparalleled Service: We pride ourselves on offering the best customer service around, turning a shopping trip into a delightful and stress-free holiday tradition.
Team Event: We have an annual Ugly Sweater Day/Week.
Private Shopping Experiences: We offer private, after-hours events where local businesses can host their holiday parties, providing their teams with an exclusive, fun, and personal shopping environment right here in Kenosha.
By blending quality products, personalized service, and unique events, we aim to be a necessary, festive stop for anyone celebrating the holidays in Kenosha.
Can you share a story about how your business has positively impacted someone’s holiday or a favorite holiday memory connected to your business?
Last year a father came in on Christmas Eve looking for an UGG Tasman slipper in Chestnut for his daughter. He had been a loyal customer for over a long time, and I was sure that we had none left. (It is a highly sought-after style and color that we are almost certainly sold out of by early December). I told him he was a few weeks late for that product and that I was more than likely sold out but went to the stockroom to double check anyways. Sure enough, there was one pair left in the exact color and size he needed for his daughter. He came in a few days after Christmas and thanked me personally for helping make his daughter’s Christmas and next year he will not wait until the very last minute. It really cemented for us that we aren't just selling shoes or gifts; we are selling memories. That small, simple gift was able to positively impact his daughter’s holiday, and that's the kind of legacy we're proud to carry on.
What do you love most about interacting with the community during the holidays?
We donate to local organizations during the holidays to help where we can. I love helping our customers during this time of the year. It is the most wonderful time of the year and people are in good spirits and festive.
What do your customers seem to love most about your business during the holidays?
Our gift selection and service we provide to help them find a particular item for their loved ones. Also, we decorate the sales floor for Christmas, and our customers seemed to enjoy the atmosphere we provide.
How do you thank your customers for their support during the holiday season?
We thank customers every single time they step through our doors. We let them know that every single time they support us, we are deeply appreciative and thankful for the opportunity to serve them. Our family would not have been able to continue this business for nearly 105 years without the steadfast help of our customers and community. Stressing that the business's survival is owed to the customers and community.
What do you think surprises out-of-towners most about Kenosha during the holidays? How can the community support Kenosha businesses like yours this holiday season?
What genuinely surprises out-of-town visitors is the robust small business culture here in Kenosha. While most communities are now dominated by big box stores, our county is exceptional, filled with amazing locally owned shops offering great products and personalized service.
The most direct way the community can support us is by shopping locally. Every dollar spent with businesses like ours stays right here in Kenosha. This money supports our local employees and family, and it directly contributes to the community's tax base—it’s a direct investment in the place we all call home.
What’s the best holiday gift you’ve ever received?
I’m hard to purchase for and I generally do not ask for much. My family is enough for me on the holidays. BUT, I will say that hands down, the best holiday gift I get is a fresh supply of boxer briefs! Every year, it’s a necessary, highly anticipated gift. All the fellas and dads know that new 'under-roonies' are the essential foundation we need to get through the entire next year.
Is there a holiday tradition from your childhood you still celebrate today? What’s your favorite holiday treat or dessert?
Christmas day early afternoon Aglio e Olio with Anchovy pasta. My grandmother made it every Christmas Day for a snack before Christmas dinner. I still make it to this day and it is the only time I ever eat anchovies all year.
What’s your favorite holiday movie or TV special?
That is a tough question.
1. Christmas Vacation
2. It’s a Wonderful Life
3. Home Alone/Home Alone 2 (My kids call it Kevin 1 and Kevin 2 and I have already watched both about a dozen times already)
4. Original Rudolph
Real tree or artificial tree — which do you prefer and why?
Definitely a real tree! I've never had an artificial one; there's just something special about the whole experience of picking out our own Christmas tree. It’s also a perfect opportunity to practice what we preach and shop local. We proudly rotate our purchase each year between two fantastic local businesses, Jerry Smith’s Green Acres and Gretzinger’s Christmas Tree Lot. Both families are wonderful customers of ours, and it’s important to us to support those who support our business.
Ugly sweater fan or avoid them at all costs?
Fan, absolutely! I think the uglier the better. We even host our own annual Ugly Sweater Day/Week at the shop because 'Ain’t no party like an Ugly Sweater party!' It's a great way to break the ice and bring some festive, comfortable fun into the store.
Have you ever had a holiday mishap or funny story you can share?
I wish I had a wild story, but honestly, the holidays are a time for peace, quiet, and my best behavior! There are simply too many family members present, and I've learned over the years that crossing my wife or mother during Christmas is a rookie mistake. My biggest holiday mishap would be letting them catch me eating Santa’s cookies, and I go to great lengths to avoid that.
Eggnog, yes or no and why?
No on the Eggnog. I’m not opposed to a cocktail but the flavor and texture of it does not do it for me.
Naughty or nice?
Nicely Naughty. You have to have a balance of nice and a tad of mischief.
Address: 4820 75th Street, Kenosha, WI 53142
Website: chiappettashoes.com
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