Families are invited to gather at Cathedral Square Park for Cocoa with the Clauses presented by Madison Medical Affiliates. The free event is an opportunity for kids to meet the jolly old elf and share their Christmas wish lists. Families will receive a free keepsake photo and goodie bag, while supplies last. Other free treats and entertainment, including hot cocoa, cookies, popcorn, live music, face painting and more, will round out the event. Santa’s elves and other holiday characters will also be in attendance.

The event, which is a part of the 26th annual Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival presented by Johnson Financial Group, is happening at one of the four downtown parks decked out in more than 500,000 holiday lights. Cathedral Square Park offers a stunning backdrop for family photos, with more than 130 evergreen trees that were decorated by local schools and organizations.

The Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival is coordinated by Milwaukee Downtown, BID #21 and includes themed installations in four parks – “Community Spirit Park” at Cathedral Square Park, sponsored by Madison Medical Affiliates with support from Ideal Property Management; “Santa’s Celebration Square powered by We Energies” at Zeidler Union Square; “¡Felices Fiestas! presented by Generac” at Pere Marquette Park; and “Slice of Ice Lights” at Red Arrow Park. Street decorations also adorn three Downtown thoroughfares, including Wisconsin Avenue, which features an 18-block stretch of silver and gold chandeliers suspended above each intersection. Information is available at www.milwaukeeholidaylights.com.