Historic Third Ward Association
Press Release

36th Annual “Christmas in the Ward” Brings Holiday Tree Lighting, Fireworks & More to the Historic Third Ward on Friday, Dec. 5

 

By - Nov 25th, 2025 10:22 am
Christmas in the Ward. Photo courtesy of the Historic Third Ward Association.

Christmas in the Ward. Photo courtesy of the Historic Third Ward Association.

‘Tis the season to celebrate! On Friday, Dec. 5, the Historic Third Ward ushers in the holiday season with its 36th annual Christmas in the Ward event in Catalano Square, 147 N. Broadway. Presented by Nicolet Law, Christmas in the Ward is a community event that welcomes thousands of visitors every year to celebrate the holiday season.

The festive, family-friendly event — which is free and open to the public — is held from 5-8:30 p.m. and features a tree lighting ceremony, fireworks over the river, a visit from Santa and his reindeer, and much more. Activities include:

  • 5-8:30 p.m.:
    • Cookie sale benefiting Ronald McDonald House Charities of Eastern Wisconsin
    • Food trucks line the 100 block of North Broadway
    • S’mores roasting in Catalano Square with Friends of Lakeshore Park
    • Cocoa, cocoa cocktails, wine, mulled wine and beer available in Catalano Square
    • Live reindeer and costumed characters in Catalano Square
  • 6:30-8:30 p.m.: Visit Santa in Jolly’s Gingerbread House. Kids of all ages can visit with Santa and have their picture taken for a suggested $5 donation to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Eastern Wisconsin.
  • 5-6 p.m.: Performances by Milwaukee Police Band and First Stage
  • 6-7 p.m.: Tree lighting ceremony with Santa Claus and Milwaukee dignitaries, emceed by Molly Snyder of OnMilwaukee.com, with performances by Bach Chamber Choir and Renewed Spiritual Gospel Singers
  • 7 p.m.: Fireworks display over the Milwaukee River, followed by performances by Skylight Music Theatre and Marcya Daneille Duo
  • 8:30 p.m.: Christmas in the Ward After Party at Santa Camp (Camp Bar), 525 E. Menomonee St.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.

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