The Christmas season presents several opportunities within Jefferson County to have some fun and create some wonderful memories along the way. From holiday fairs, meet & greets with Santa, light parades, dazzling tree lighting ceremonies and so much more, there is sure to be something for EVERYONE from kids to adults. Get your holiday shopping done LOCALLY during Shop Small events and a huge variety of craft and holiday fairs.

FORT ATKINSON

THE FIRESIDE GIFT SHOPS’ HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE 

When: Tuesday, November 14, 2:00 – 7:00 PM
Where: The Fireside, 1131 Janesville Avenue, Fort Atkinson

Throughout the event there will be 20% Off almost everything plus dip sampling, treats and punch to enjoy, door prizes, and more! Let the Christmas shopping begin at The Fireside!

MAGIC ON THE SOLAR PATH

When: Sunday, November 5 – Friday, January 5, 2024
Where: Fort Atkinson bike path between the Rotary Pavilion and Lions Park

Click here to download application to sponsor a lights display. Sponsored by Fort Atkinson Beautification Council

LIGHT SHOW 

When: Friday, December 1, 3:00 – 6:30PM
Where: On the bike path between Rotary Pavilion and Lions Park

Come and enjoy the light show along the pike bath! Bring the kids to get a professional picture with Santa and Mrs. Claus, taken by Ryan Ebert Photography! Enjoy live animals, Christmas carolers, hot chocolate and cookies! Come in your pajamas and drop your letter off to be sent directly to Santa and his elves! Treats and photography proceeds will go toward the expansion of the Fort Atkinson Beautification Council Holiday Light Show along the bike path.

FORT ATKINSON HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE & MARKET

When: Saturday, December 2, 9:00AM – 3:00PM
Where: Shop downtown businesses for a chance to win “Santa’s Bag” and enjoy multiple vendors at a variety of locations.

Celebrate the holidays at multiple indoor market locations featuring art vendors, handmade crafts, fresh produce, coffee, jams, soaps, honey, and so much more! Shoppers will enjoy refreshments, in-store specials, strolling carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides, trolley rides, and more while finding gifts for everyone on their list.

Also, stop at local restaurants, shops, other businesses, and holiday market locations on December 1 and 2 and be on the lookout for the traveling red boxes! Each time you place a completed entry form into one of the red boxes you’ll be entering to win Chamber Bucks!

FORT ATKINSON’S 27^TH ANNUAL LIGHTED PARADE 

When: Sunday, December 3, 4:30PM
Where: Downtown Fort Atkinson

This year the Chamber  announces a permanent date change to the Holiday Parade. Starting in 2023, the Holiday Parade will be switching from the second Saturday in November to the first Sunday in December.

The new date of the 27th Annual Lighted Holiday Parade is Sunday, December 3rd at 4:30PM. This new date coincides with the Holiday Market weekend and Holiday Open House & Market 2023.

HOARD HISTORICAL MUSEUM HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

When: Saturday, December 9, 1:00 – 4:00 PM
Where: Hoard Historical Museum, 401 Whitewater Ave., Fort Atkinson

Holiday Fun for the Whole Family! Each year the museum is decorated for the holiday season. There are three historic trees on display and artifacts from Fort Atkinson’s holiday past. Annual activities include decorating gingerbread crafts, enjoying the annual Gingerbread House contest, and listening to holiday music.

JOHNSON CREEK

JOHNSON CREEK FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY HOLIDAY FAIR

When:  Saturday, November 25, 9:00AM – 3:00PM
Where:  Johnson Creek High School/Middle School gym & cafeteria, 455 Aztalan St., Johnson Creek

Dozens of crafters, artisans & authors will make your visit to our Holiday Fair worthwhile & entertaining.

CHRISTMAS IN THE VILLAGE 

When: Saturday, November 24, 2:00 – 6:00 PM & Sunday, November 25, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM 
Where: Johnson Creek Historical Museum, 110 Aztalan St., Johnson Creek

This Holiday Event begins with an Ole fashion Christmas Tree Lot, Evergreen Swags, and Handmade Crafts for sale. Visit with Santa, Horse & Wagon rides, Reindeer Games, Decorated Gingerbread House Contest, Holiday Ride in the Johnson Creek Fire Department Fire Truck. Free Cocoa, Cider and Cookies.

GRANDMA’S BAKERY 

When: Saturday, December 9, 9:00 AM – NOON
Where: Johnson Creek Historical Museum, 110 Aztalan St., Johnson Creek

Stop in for an ole fashion bakery at the Johnson Creek Historical Society museum. Get your fresh, home baked cookies for Christmas!

LAKE MILLS

LAKE MILLS ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY

When: Friday, December 1, 5:30 PM
Where: Commons Park, 100 N. Main St., Lake Mills

Classic Christmas is a festival of holiday events, as Christmas Day arrives! The magic begins with the arrival of Santa 5:30 pm in Commons Park. The tree lighting will begin at 5:45 and photos with Santa will follow. Bring your letters to drop off with Santa!

LEGENDARY LAKE MILLS CLASSIC CHRISTMAS & WINTER MARKET

When:  Saturday, December 2, 9:00AM – 3:00PM
Where: Lake Mills Middle School, 318 College St., Lake Mills

There will be 70+ vendors; arts, crafts, bakery, concessions & more! Free Parking and No Admission Fee!

HOLIDAY BAZAAR

When: Friday & Saturday, December 1-2, 8:00AM – 4:00PM
Where: 505 Reed St., Johnson Creek

Hosted by Susie Wares 920-988-3255

CAMBRIDGE

CAMBRIDGE ART & CRAFT FAIR

When: Saturday, November 4, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: Cambridge High School, 403 Blue Jay Way

The Annual Friends of the Cambridge Library Art and Craft Fair offers a festive opportunity to enjoy the quality handmade merchandise of over ninety vendors. It is a great kick-off to the Christmas holiday shopping experience. In addition to the craft and artwork items, we offer a raffle of gifts donated by local friends and business owners including a homemade quilt, a luncheon with a variety of tasty choices, and a bake sale with lots of homemade pastries. $2 Admission fee.

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY IN CAMBRIDGE 

When: Saturday, November 25, hours vary by location
Where: Downtown Cambridge

ShopSmall and join us for Small Business Saturday in Cambridge, Wisconsin! Our Cambridge small businesses are not only a great place to find the perfect gifts and treasures, trusted services, and great food – supporting local businesses also creates jobs and helps ensure our local economies stay strong and vibrant. We look forward to seeing you out and about in Cambridge! Grab your friends and head out to celebrate small businesses and the unique character of Cambridge.

LAKE RIPLEY PARK HOLIDAY LIGHTS DISPLAY

When: Friday, December 1 – Monday, January 1
Where: Lake Ripley Park, N4310 Park Rd., Cambridge

Bring your family and friends through this quaint light display that will be sure to put you in the holiday spirit! Drive through the winter scenery in the comfort of your car. Approximately a half mile of lights and displays will brighten up Ripley Park. Fee: Donations appreciated at park drop box.

CAMBRIDGE CHRISTMAS

When: Thursday, November 30 thru Sunday, December 3
Where: Downtown Cambridge

Discover the wonder of Cambridge Christmas! Join neighbors and friends in a fun-filled weekend in downtown Cambridge, Wisconsin.
Kickoff celebrating the holiday season with family-friendly activities, food & drink, retail specials and more during our annual village-wide event.

• Main Street Cookie Walk
• Caroling, Tree lighting and Hot Chocolate
• Horse Drawn Carriage rides
• Make and Take DIY Crafts
• Visits and photos with Santa
• Elf Shelf shopping for the kids
• Gingerbread House Kits
• Holiday Hunt and Crafts
• Hayrides
• Lefse Demos at the Cambridge Historic Museum
• Singing at the Christmas Tree
• Write Letters for Santa
• Holiday Lights Display at Ripley Park

Check out the full schedule of events here!

CHRISTMAS GALA  

When: Saturday, December 2, 6:00 – 9:00PM
Where: Cambridge Winery, 700 Kenseth Way

Join us for the second annual Christmas Gala at the Cambridge Winery as we celebrate the Cambridge Christmas weekend. This will be an evening filled with music, dancing, Hors D’oeuvres, beverages, and friends. Pre-registration is required for this event.

Fee:
• $60 per person includes 3 drink tickets
• $100 per couple includes 6 drink tickets or
• $400 private 4 person table with 2 bottles of wine

Register Here!

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA 

When: Sunday, December 3, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Where: Cambridge Elementary School, 802 W. Water St., Cambridge

Welcome in the holiday season with this special event. Enjoy breakfast, pictures with Santa, holiday music, crafts and more!
All proceeds will be used to purchase Christmas gifts for underprivileged children in the Cambridge area. This event is a collaborative effort between CAP, the Cambridge Fire Department, Dane County Sheriff’s Office and the CHS girls’ basketball team.

Fee: $8 per plate (under 2 years free). Pre-Register Here!

HOLIDAY SIP AND SHOP

When: Saturday, December 9 from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: Cambridge Winery, 700 Kenseth Way, Cambridge

Confirmed Vendors: Click for updated list.

JEFFERSON

JEFFERSON SENIOR CENTER ANNUAL CRAFT FAIR/OPEN HOUSE 

When: Saturday, November 4, 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Where: Jefferson Senior Activity Center, 859 Collins Rd., Jefferson

“Oh, What Fun!” Raffles, good food & homemade desserts!

JEFFERSON HOLIDAY SHOPPING VENDOR EVENT

When: Saturday, November 11, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: Jefferson County Fair Park, 503 N. Jackson Ave., Jefferson

Confirmed Vendors: Click here.

Questions? Email Stacy.

JEFFERSON HOLIDAY PARADE OF LIGHTS 

When: Saturday, December 2, 5:30 – 6:30 PM
Where: Downtown Jefferson.

It keeps on getting darker earlier, but Saturday, December 2nd will be bright as Jefferson hosts its 27th annual Holiday Parade of Lights.

Parade Route
The parade will start at the intersection of Walworth and Main streets and head north through the downtown area, turning east on Racine Street and finally heading south on Center Street to disband.

Safety Measures
The Chamber, the City of Jefferson and the Jefferson Police Department would like citizens to rest assured that public safety and security is of paramount concern, and has always been, a collaborative multi-jurisdictional effort. The Jefferson Police Department has emergency action plans in place and would like to thank its law enforcement partners who have provided additional security assistance including, but not limited to the Wisconsin State Patrol, Jefferson County Sherriff’s Office, and Jefferson County Emergency Communications, to make this a safe and secure event for all. We look forward to celebrating the Parade of Lights with your children, family, and friends at this great event!

Make an Evening of It
Enjoy dining local and a take stroll downtown to enjoy the decorated storefront windows.

Download the parade entry form here

HISTORICAL SOCIETY CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE 

When: Sunday, December 10, 1:00 – 3:00 PM
Where: 317 S. Main St., Jefferson

This event will be sure to bring out your holiday cheer with contests for all ages and tons of decorated Christmas trees!

PALMYRA

ANNUAL TURKEY DINNER

When: Thursday, November 2, 4:30 –7:00 PM
Where: United Methodist Church, 122 N. Fifth St., Palmyra

Sit down meal served family style. 4:00 pm carryout room will start and you will need to come in the church for carryout. Advanced tickets ONLY available for 6 or more carryout meals; otherwise tickets will be sold at the door upon arrival.

Menu: Turkey, dressing, gravy, mashed potatoes, cranberries, coleslaw, carrots, rolls, creamed onions and homemade pumpkin, cherry or apple pie. Cost is $15.

There will also be a Craft and Bake sale.

LIONS CLUB CHRISTMAS PARADE

When: Saturday, December 2, 5:00 PM
Where: Main St., Palmyra

Parade starts at 5pm on Main St. Put a float in and join the fun! Call 262-844-9956 for more info.

TURNER MUSEUM CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING

When: Saturday, December 2, following Christmas parade
Where: Turner Museum, 112 N. Third St., Palmyra

Hot chocolate, cookies, Santa & carols.

CHRISTMAS CONCERT & COOKIE RECEPTION

When: Sunday, December 3, 7:00 PM
Where: Palmyra Methodist Church, 122 N. Fifth St., Palmyra

Join us for a lovely Christmas concert performed by our talented community band.  There will be a coffee and cookie reception   following the concert.  Come and enjoy some cheer.

HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIRS IN THE VILLAGE

When: Saturday, November 18, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Where: United Methodist Church, 122 N. Fifth St., Palmyra

A number of different homemade items will be on sale. We also have area vendors participating in this year’s sale selling a number of items.  Monthly community supper is held at 5:00 p.m.  This month hosted by Mr. P’s Grilled Cheese.

When: Saturday, November 18, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: PE High School, 123 Burr Oak St., Palmyra

When: Saturday, November 18, 9:00 AM – ?
Where: St. Mary Catholic Church, 919 W. Main St., Palmyra

WATERTOWN

THE MARQUARDT HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR

When: Friday, November 3, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: Marquardt Manor, 1045 Hill Street, Watertown

Join us for our annual Holiday Craft Fair! There will be a variety of vendors and crafts-it’s a great time to start Christmas shopping. For every non-perishable canned food item donated during the craft sale, you will have a chance to win door prizes. After you’ve explored the crafts and vendors, make your way to our Bistro for lunch or head to The Crave and savor a mouthwatering fish fry with your loved ones for dinner!

HOLIDAY SHOPPING EVENT AT THE MARKET

When: Saturday, November 4, 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Where:   The Market, 210 South Water St., Watertown

Come out early and check out these great deals from amazing vendors and crafters! Support your local community which getting all your holiday shopping done! There will also be a raffle with $1 tickets to put in for items donated by our vendors! You don’t need to be present to win! Local prize pick up! All the proceeds will go to Watertown Family Aid! Support your local community and local economy!

HOLIDAY CRAFT & BAKE SALE

When: Saturday, November 4, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: Watertown Moose Lodge, 1222 Juneau St., Watertown

Homemade wood crafts, wreaths, towels, bakery, Norwex, Avon, Scentsy, Gnomes, Dog treats, Mary Kay, Color Street, Soaps, Tumblers and so much more!

MBU CRAFT & GIFT FAIR

When: Saturday, November 4, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: Maranatha Baptist University Gymnasium, 745 W. Main St., Watertown

Craft fair featuring 48 vendors, located in the MBU gymnasium. Enjoy a popular fall event that draws a crowd from Watertown and the surrounding communities.

WATERTOWN’S HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING

When: Thursday, November 16, 5:30 PM
Where: Bentzin Familly Town Square, 1 W. Main St., Watertown

• Ceremony begins at 5:30pm
• Treats and refreshments served
• Watertown Carolers will help get us in the holiday spirit
• Decorate a tree voting kicks off
• More details coming soon!

AN OLD FASHIONED CHURCH HOLIDAY BAZAAR AT ST. PAUL’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

When: Saturday, November 18, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM & Sunday, November 19, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Where: St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 413 S. Second St., Watertown

Join us for St. Paul’s Episcopal Church’s Annual Old Fashioned Church Holiday Bazaar!
Our event is unique because all items are made and donated from members and friends for the benefit of St. Paul’s and its ministries.
Our bazaar is our most popular event. Come to see all the wonderful holiday cheer!!

WOUNDED WARRIORS VENDOR EVENT

When: Saturday, November 18, 9:00 AM – 2:30 PM
Where: Watertown Country Club, 1340 N. Water St., Watertown

DOE’S REVENGE CRAFT/BUSINESS FAIR 

When: Saturday, November 18, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Where: Watertown Elk’s Lodge, 117 N. First St., Watertown

Christmas Crafts, Small Business & Elks Open House. Food for sale provided by Ms. Rob Catering. $2 Admission fee

TURNER HALL CRAFT FAIR 

When: Sunday, November 19, 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: Turner Hall, 301 S. Fourth St., Watertown

Join us for one of Watertown’s longest running craft fairs! Two floors of crafts, collectables, and more from some of your favorite local crafters as well as some new ones. Fresh decorated wreaths, snowman crafts, rustic decor, crochet and knit items, jewelry, and soooo much more. FREE ADMISSION, FREE DOOR PRIZE DRAWINGs. Kitchen serving breakfast, lunch, and lots of other goodies.

CHRISTMAS PARADE OF LIGHTS

When: Saturday, November 25, 5:30 PM
Where: Downtown Watertown

Here comes Santa Claus!! Mark your calendar for all the fun and surprises for the whole family in Downtown Watertown during this annual event. If you’re interested in being a part of the parade, fill out the parade entry from here.  Visit Santa in his house after the parade.

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY IN WATERTOWN

When: Saturday, November 25, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: Downtown Watertown

Support small business this holiday season during this nationally recognized event. Enjoy discounts, demos, giveaways, and more throughout participating stores.

JINGLE BELL ON THE ROCK

When: Saturday, December 2, 12:00 – 7:00 PM
Where: Bentzin Family Town Square & Watertown Public Library, 1 W. Main St., Watertown

Jingle Bell on the Rock is a holiday experience that includes entertainment, delicious food, visits with Santa, holiday vendors, and a lot more! Stay tuned for a full schedule of activities.

Holiday crafter/artisans can apply here.

Watertown Holiday Parade of Homes

When: Sunday, December 3, 1:00 – 5:00 PM
Where: Downtown Watertown

Tour four beautiful homes and a two bonus locations dressed in their holiday best.

Tickets can be purchased in advance mid-November at watertownchamber.com or Piggly Wiggly and Ace Hardware located in Watertown, WI.  Tickets can also be purchased at any of the featured homes on event day. Tickets are $15 in advance and $18 event day.

CPKC HOLIDAY TRAIN – WATERTOWN, WI STOP!

When: Monday, December 4, Arrives at 7:50 PM
Where: Brandt Quirk Park, 800 Carriage Hill Dr., Watertown

The CPKC Holiday Train is BACK IN WATERTOWN on December 4, 2023, arriving at 7:50pm. Entertainment by Tenille Townes and Breland will be 8-8:30pm. The event is free to attend with donations of cash and/or non-perishable food items for the Watertown Food Pantry. The CPKC Holiday Train tours Canada and the United States Nov. 20 through Dec. 19, raising money, food and awareness for the important work that food banks do in their communities. Professional musicians play free concerts from the brightly decorated train’s stage. CPKC makes a donation to the local food shelf at each stop and encourages attendees to also donate.

4^th ANNUAL HOLIDAY CRAFT FAIR

When: Saturday, December 9, 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Where: The Market, 210 S. Water St., Watertown

Huge Sales and Holiday Spirit will collide at our 4th Annual Holiday craft and vendor show! Support your local community which getting all your holiday shopping done! There will also be a raffle with $1 tickets to put in for items donated by our vendors! You don’t need to be present to win! Local prize pick up! All the proceeds will go to Sleep In Heavenly Peace, Portage Chapter.

LOCAL VENDOR EVENT

When: Sunday, December 10, 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where: Ready 2 Dance Studio, 1648 S. Church St., Watertown

WHITEWATER

SHOP SMALL HOLIDAY MARKET

When: Saturday, November 25, 5:30 PM
Where: Cravath Lakefront Park, 341 S. Fremont St., Whitewater

Lovers of all things holidays! Enjoy a Small Business Saturday Shop Small Market at Cravath Lakefront Park to help jumpstart your holiday shopping with unique gifts from local vendors and businesses.

Listen to live music, have a s’more at Blitzen’s Bonfire, let the kiddos write a letter to Santa and do crafts in the Little Elves Workshop & Play Area, eat good food from food trucks, enjoy hot cocoa or mulled wine in the Gumdrop Glögg Garden, and ring in the holiday season with a Santa Meet & Greet. Get your name on the list for a carriage ride around downtown!

This is a free, family-friendly event.

PARADE OF LIGHTS

When: Friday, December 1, 4:00 PM
Where: Main St., Whitewater

Attendees are welcome to join us downtown on Main Street to enjoy a variety of activities before and after the parade. Festivities begin at 4pm. Parade is at 6pm. For up-to-date info click here.

Questions? Send us an email.

JEFFERSON COUNTY –
INCLUDING CAMBRIDGE, FORT ATKINSON, IXONIA, JEFFERSON, JOHNSON CREEK, LAKE MILLS, WATERLOO, WATERTOWN & WHITEWATER

DECK THE HOUSE

When: Monday, November 20 – Sunday, December 3
Where: Throughout Jefferson County

Who’s ready for year 4?! Start (or continue) your planning!! your home today! To see the list of categories click here.