Holidays: Milwaukee Style

Holidays: Milwaukee Style

As the song says, “It’s the most wonderful time of the year!” Just because winter starts in Wisconsin doesn’t mean the party stops. While it may be tempting to grab a cozy blanket and hit the couch, remember, there will be plenty of time for that in January and February (and let’s be realistic: March and probably some of April). There’s so much going on in Milwaukee this month; we’ve curated a few ideas, so grab some friends and start celebrating…Milwaukee style!

If you haven’t driven through West Allis during the holidays, you’re missing out. Homeowners pull out all the stops to create an electrifying display throughout the neighborhood and it’s all for a good cause. The mission raises money for the MACC (Midwest Athletes Against Childhood Cancer) Fund, and they’re well on their way to meeting this year’s goal: $150,000. Candy Cane Lane is open every evening through December 25.

Milwaukee’s Pere Marquette Park lights up the night at its annual Holiday Lights Festival. It’s free and open to the public (and close to home). Get in the holiday spirit and plan an outing with your Eastcastle Place neighbors to add a little sparkle to your December.

Somebody call Webster because a picture of downtown Cedarburg should be next to the word “quaint” in the dictionary. If you’re up for an easy 30-minute drive, head north to Cedarburg.  This sweet little town is a great day trip year-round, but when the holidays approach, Cedarburg shines. From charming décor to crafts to a movie theater playing holiday favorites on rotation, Cedarburg is a hidden gem.

Back here on Milwaukee’s Eastside, tucked away among the stores and restaurants, is a cool club that features live music on weekends and holiday celebrations with a jazzy musical vibe at the Jazz Estate. Check out their December line-up and make a plan to enjoy seriously good music over a delicious cocktail.

No need to miss that summer Saturday morning jaunt to the farmers market. Get your fix while supporting local farmers at the Fondy Winter Farmers Market. Seasonal produce, locally prepared food, fish, meat, gifts, candles, soaps and other crafts are all on the menu. Bring your own bags, wear comfy shoes and come hungry.

When December ends, it’s time to ring in 2023. This guide to New Year’s Eve Live 2023 is a great place to start planning your celebration. But the real excitement starts the next morning at the Polar Plunge. If you’ve never seen groups of people running into Lake Michigan on New Year’s Day, it’s a sight to behold. Dipping in the lake might not be your cup of tea on January 1, but spectating is an exciting time too. Bundle up and head to the lakefront to cheer on the plungers.

There’s something special and cozy about celebrating the holidays here at home. Invite your neighbors over for cocktails and hors d’oeuvres or pretzels and beer. We also have plenty of scheduled holiday celebrations throughout the month here. These include our hot cocoa bar, Christmas caroling, jingle bell mingle, and more.

Whatever your style, getting together to celebrate the season is always a good idea. We’re blessed to live in a community that loves to have fun and spend time together! Stay tuned for information on the upcoming holiday events here at Eastcastle Place senior living community. And from your Eastcastle Place family: Happy Hanukkah, a joyous Kwanzaa, a Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year!