It’s time for Merry & Bright - a collection of holiday events and activities in Kenosha!
Everyone’s invited! Here’s a sampling of experiences for your whole family to enjoy together in the coming weeks:
The City of Kenosha Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony takes place at Veterans Memorial Park on Friday, November 28. The event starts at 4:30 p.m. with performances, Santa Claus, and more. New this year: a spectacular drone light show will happen before the tree is lit.
This is followed by Lightin' Up Downtown on the same evening. There will be activities and special offers at spaces throughout Downtown Kenosha. Businesses will stay open late, welcoming you to kick off your holiday shopping. Visit with Santa; view real reindeer. Electric Streetcar rides will be free all day.
Speaking of reindeer, you can meet friendly reindeer during Reindeer Barn Tours at Paris Deer Park. The tours are available through December on select days. You must make a reservation in advance. The admission fee includes a tour of their barn, a cup of animal feed, feeding opportunities with the reindeer, and photo opportunities.
We have a blog post about the deer park on our website HERE. One of the co-owners says: “We want to share that feeling of awe when a deer eats right from your hand.” They also want to educate visitors about wildlife care and conservation.
One of my favorite annual events is Christmas at Kemper. November 29 is the Gallery of Trees Opening Night Gala (there’s a fee) at Anderson Arts Center.
Gallery of Trees continues at Anderson Arts Center from November 30 to December 7; closed Dec 1. Those same dates, you can see the 1860s Durkee Mansion at Kemper Center fully decorated for Christmas. This year's theme is A Snowy Winter Fantasy. Durkee Mansion will also be open weekends into January.
There’s no cost for Gallery of Trees or Durkee Mansion; donations are appreciated. Other events will also be held during the season at Kemper Center – including a free holiday concert.
Four museums will have holiday events on various dates: Kenosha History Center, Southport Light Station Museum, Civil War Museum, and Kenosha Public Museum. Check out the fun Holiday Train Display at the Kenosha Public Museum, starting November 28.
Stroll through the free Magic at Muni Holiday Lights Display at the Washington Park Municipal Golf Course. This happens November 29 to December 28, Friday through Sunday evenings.
Holiday markets, Kenosha Symphony Orchestra and Kenosha Pops holiday concerts, a Holiday Gnome Hunt at Pringle Nature Center, the always popular Carthage Christmas Festival, Growing with Bristol's Annual Light Up the Town Event, a holiday variety show at Rhode Center for the Arts, and much more are coming up. There will be many chances for the kids to meet Santa; he’ll be visiting various attractions and shops. Mrs. Claus and even The Grinch will be making appearances as well.
