MILWAUKEE — Decades ago, a walk down Wisconsin Avenue in downtown Milwaukee would be filled with department store holiday window displays. 

However with stores like Gimbels and Boston Store now shuttered, the windows sit empty. But one business in Milwaukee is working to carry on these traditions. 

The BMO Harris Holiday Display is now set up along Water Street. For nearly 50 years a large display has been set up inside the bank. This year, though, with COVID-19 precautions in place, the decision was made to move it to a window front display. 

It has proven an opportunity to pay homage to old-fashioned department store style displays. 

“We have had so many people continue to come even though it is outside,” said Jud Snyder with BMO Harris. “That felt important to be safe, socially distant, we have still had the block just lined with people.” 

The display is free to explore and will be open through Jan. 4.