Christmas Markets Wisconsin 2025: 50 Best Festive Events and Holiday Markets
Visiting Wisconsin during the holiday season is a tradition that thousands of people look forward to each year.
Christmas markets pop up all over the state, bringing together local shops, food stands, and festive decorations.
You’ll spot these markets in small towns and bigger cities, each one with its own twist. It’s a chance to shop for gifts, try seasonal treats, and soak up the holiday spirit.
These events pull you into local customs and make it easy to join in the festivities.
Table of Contents
- 1 Find the Best Accommodations
- 2 1) Old World Christmas Market at The Osthoff Resort
- 3 2) German Christmas Market of Oconomowoc
- 4 3) Door County Christmas Market
- 5 4) Christkindlmarket Paoli
- 6 5) New Glarus Christmas Market
- 7 6) Sister Bay Christmas Market
- 8 7) Paoli European-Style Christmas Market
- 9 8) Milwaukee Holiday Markets
- 10 9) Door County Nordic Foods Market
- 11 Kris Kringle Tips
- 12 10) Holiday shopping at Old World Market
Find the Best Accommodations
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1) Old World Christmas Market at The Osthoff Resort
The Old World Christmas Market at The Osthoff Resort runs from December 5 to December 14, 2025.
You can visit daily between 10 AM and 5 PM in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. This event feels like a traditional European market, but with a Wisconsin twist.
Vendors from the region and even some international sellers set up shop for ten days. You’ll find handmade gifts, holiday decorations, and specialty foods.
The market sits inside a large heated tent, so you can browse comfortably even if it’s freezing outside.
Admission is $7 for adults, but kids 14 and under get in free. Parking is available near the resort, though it can fill up.
The Osthoff Resort’s address is 101 Osthoff Avenue, Elkhart Lake, WI 53020. If you want to stay nearby, Booking.com has options in Elkhart Lake.
You’ll find more details on the Old World Christmas Market official page.
| Dates | Times | Location Address | Cost | Where to Stay Nearby | Website Address |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 5-14, 2025 | 10AM-5PM | 101 Osthoff Avenue, Elkhart Lake, WI | $7/adult, free for children 14 and under | Elkhart Lake hotels on Booking.com | Old World Christmas Market |
2) German Christmas Market of Oconomowoc
If you’re around Wisconsin during Thanksgiving weekend in 2025, check out the German Christmas Market in Oconomowoc.
The market runs from November 26th to November 30th, right at Main Street and Wisconsin Avenue.
You’ll find authentic European food, drinks, and live polka music. Artisan vendors bring holiday goods and unique gifts.
It’s free to wander the market, but if you want to get into the main Wintergarten Tent, there’s a $3 wristband fee.
Music, shopping, and food pull in all ages, and families seem to love the vibe.
If you’re staying overnight, downtown Oconomowoc has hotels like Staybridge Suites and Hilton Garden Inn. Booking.com makes it easy to find a spot.
Here’s what you’ll need for planning:
| Dates | Times | Location Address | Cost | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 26-30, 2025 | Wed 5pm-10pm, other days vary | Main St & Wisconsin Ave, Oconomowoc, WI | Free, $3 for tent | Staybridge Suites, Hilton Garden Inn | German Christmas Market Oconomowoc |
3) Door County Christmas Market
The Door County Christmas Market happens over three weekends in late 2025.
You can visit from November 28 to 30, December 5 to 7, and December 12 to 14 in Sister Bay, Wisconsin. Vendors sell handmade items, food, and holiday drinks at the Sister Bay Historical Society grounds.
Locals and visitors come for the European-style stalls, local crafts, and festive music. The warm atmosphere draws a crowd looking for that authentic holiday feeling.
The market opens during the day, and you can easily stroll between stalls. There’s no admission fee.
If you’re planning to stay overnight, Sister Bay has hotels and inns on Booking.com.
For updates and details, check the official Door County Christmas Market website.
| Dates | Times | Location | Cost | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 28-30, Dec 5-7, Dec 12-14, 2025 | 11:00 AM | 10310 Fieldcrest Rd, Sister Bay, WI 54234 | Free | Hotels in Sister Bay | doorcountychristmasmarket.com |
4) Christkindlmarket Paoli
Christkindlmarket Paoli takes place at Seven Acre Dairy Co., 6858 Paoli Rd, Belleville, WI 53508.
The market gathers local artists, makers, and food producers for a seasonal event from December 12 to 14, 2025.
You’ll find handmade crafts, specialty foods, and holiday decorations. It’s a nice way to support small businesses while enjoying the festive setting.
General entry is free, though admission costs can vary for certain activities. Parking’s available on-site.
If you’re staying overnight, browse Booking.com for hotels and inns in Belleville or Madison.
People love this market for its cozy, traditional holiday atmosphere. You can find more info on the Christkindlmarket Paoli website.
| Dates | Times | Address | Cost | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 12-14, 2025 | Not specified | 6858 Paoli Rd, Belleville, WI 53508 | Free entry | Hotels/Inns on booking.com | https://www.christkindlmarketpaoli.com/ |
5) New Glarus Christmas Market
The New Glarus Christmas Market runs from December 5 to December 7, 2025.
You’ll find it in downtown New Glarus, a place known for its Swiss heritage.
Outdoor stalls sell crafts, ornaments, and holiday food. Booths are decorated in traditional European style, and the whole event takes place outside—so seriously, dress warm.
Admission is free, and there’s parking nearby, but it fills up quickly during busy hours.
Nearby lodging includes the Chalet Landhaus Inn and New Glarus Hotel, both bookable on Booking.com. They’re within walking distance and offer basic comforts.
For updates and info, check the New Glarus Christkindli Market page.
| Dates | Times | Location | Cost | Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 5-7, 2025 | To be Announced | Downtown New Glarus, WI | Free | Chalet Landhaus Inn, New Glarus Hotel | https://www.facebook.com/NewGlarusChristkindliMarket/ |
6) Sister Bay Christmas Market
The Sister Bay Christmas Market, also called Christkindlmarkt Door County, offers a traditional experience in northern Wisconsin.
You’ll find it at the Corner of the Past/Old Anderson House Museum in Sister Bay.
The market runs across three weekends: November 29 to December 1, December 6 to 8, and December 13 to 15.
Local artisans and vendors sell Door County arts, crafts, and food. Expect holiday treats, warm drinks, and handmade gifts at open-air stalls.
Families love wandering the historic grounds and checking out the decorations. Local musicians and festive displays add to the charm.
Hotels like Open Hearth Lodge or Scandinavian Lodge are nearby and can be booked on Booking.com.
Entry is free, and you’ll find free parking on-site.
For more details, visit the event’s official website.
| Dates | Times | Location Address | Cost | Where to Stay | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 29–Dec 1, Dec 6–8, Dec 13–15 | 11 am–varies | 10310 Fieldcrest Rd, Sister Bay, WI 54234 | Free | Open Hearth Lodge, Scandinavian Lodge | https://sisterbayhistory.org/event/christkindlmarkt/ |
7) Paoli European-Style Christmas Market
The Paoli Christmas Market pops up every December in Paoli, Wisconsin. You’ll find it at Seven Acre Dairy, just outside Madison.
The 2025 event is set for December 12 to 14. This market leans into European traditions and brings together local artists, makers, and small businesses.
They sell holiday gifts, crafts, and specialty foods. Food vendors serve up seasonal dishes and warm drinks.
Twinkling lights and simple decor make it festive but not overwhelming. If you’re hunting for unique gifts or want to try something tasty, this market’s a solid pick.
It’s smaller than the big-city markets, but honestly, the quality is there. Travelers like its quieter, small-town vibe.
Paoli sits just a short drive from Madison. Parking is close, and the indoor space is a lifesaver if it’s freezing.
You can easily find places to stay in Verona or Madison, both less than 25 minutes away. Here’s a quick breakdown of the details:
| Dates | Times | Location Address | Cost | Where to Stay Nearby (Booking.com) | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 12-14, 2025 | Usually afternoons | 6858 Paoli Rd, Belleville, WI 53508 | Free Entry | Verona hotels, Madison hotels | Christkindlmarket Paoli |
8) Milwaukee Holiday Markets
If you’re planning a holiday market trip to Wisconsin in 2025, Milwaukee’s got plenty to offer. These markets run evenings and weekends from late November through December.
Local vendors show up with handmade goods, festive food, and seasonal treats. Holiday events pop up all over the city.
Some markets set up indoors, so you can warm up and shop out of the wind. Others go all out with outdoor stalls and sparkling decorations.
The main Milwaukee Holiday Markets happen on several dates: November 22-24, November 29-December 1, December 5-8, December 12-15, December 19-24, and December 26-30, 2025. Most markets open in the evenings.
Here’s what you need to know:
| Dates | Times | Location Address | Cost | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 22-24, Nov 29-Dec 1, Dec 5-8, Dec 12-15, Dec 19-24, Dec 26-30, 2025 | Evenings | Various Downtown Milwaukee | Free admission, vendor costs vary | Hotels in Milwaukee – booking.com | Milwaukee Holiday Markets |
Most stalls take both cash and cards. Parking is nearby in lots and ramps.
You’ll find plenty of hotels or rentals within walking distance.
9) Door County Nordic Foods Market
Head to the Door County Nordic Foods Market in Sister Bay if you’re craving traditional Nordic dishes like sausages or sweet pastries. Local vendors whip up foods inspired by northern European recipes.
You’ll find a food court where you can grab a hot drink and something fresh from the oven. The market sets up outdoors, so definitely dress for the weather.
Stalls offer breads, cheeses, and other winter favorites. The focus here is all about authentic flavors, not flashy decorations.
The event runs over three weekends starting late November. It’s family-friendly, with local music and holiday decor.
Here’s a look at the details:
| Dates | Times | Location | Cost | Where to Stay Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 28-30, Dec 5-7, 12-14, 2025 | Varies | 10668 N Bay Shore Dr, Sister Bay, WI | Free Entry | Booking.com – Sister Bay | Door County Christmas Market |
Kris Kringle Tips
Dress in warm layers, including a thermal base, insulated jacket, hat, gloves, and waterproof boots. Wisconsin Christmas markets can be cold and windy, so prioritize comfort and warmth—don’t forget thick socks and a scarf!
10) Holiday shopping at Old World Market
The Old World Christmas Market at The Osthoff Resort in Elkhart Lake is a great spot for holiday shopping without leaving Wisconsin. The event runs for ten days in December.
Vendors sell ornaments, gifts, crafts, and food inspired by European traditions. You’ll shop in heated tents, so the cold doesn’t slow you down.
Local and international sellers bring handmade goods, wooden toys, and nutcrackers. You’ll also find German food, pastries, and warm drinks.
Parking’s easy at the resort. Families are welcome, and kids 14 and under get in free with a paid adult.
Admission costs a small fee for adults. Many folks turn it into a getaway, and you’ll find hotels near the Osthoff Resort on Booking.com.
| Dates | Times | Location Address | Cost | Hotels Nearby | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 5-14, 2025 | 10am-5pm | 101 Osthoff Ave, Elkhart Lake, WI 53020 | $7/adult, kids free | Booking.com hotels in Elkhart Lake | Old World Christmas Market page |
Christmas Market Closures
Due to econonic conditions and tariffs, some Christmas Markets may cancel their events due to lack of vendors. If you are aware of a closed market,or find errors on a listing or an image, please reach out on our Contact Us page so that we may update this post.
