MILWAUKEE — Christmas is coming to town, with a mission of giving back.

The Christmas Fantasy House in Milwaukee is opening its door for its 29th year. This year, the annual event is themed “Christmas Spirit,” and the house itself is created with the spirit of giving in mind.

The Christmas Fantasy House donates all of its proceeds to the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Eastern Wisconsin. RMHC Eastern Wisconsin “creates, finds and supports programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children and their families.” The nonprofit focuses on "keeping families together and promote the health and well-being of children." 

“The Ronald McDonald House is such a special place and plays a vital role for families dealing with critical medical situations,” Andy Nunemaker said. “It is an honor to be involved with the Christmas Fantasy House this year. It is such a fun undertaking supporting a worthwhile cause.”

Nunemaker is the owner of the 25,000 square foot, 100-year-old mansion that is turning into a holiday wonderland. The mansion, 3230 E. Kenwood Blvd., overlooks over Lake Michigan, and will be open to the public from Oct. 29 to Nov. 6. It's the former University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee alumni house. 

“We are grateful that Mr. Nunemaker has agreed to open his home for the Christmas Fantasy House this year and thankful for our continued partnership with the dedicated volunteer committee who make this spectacular event possible,” said Ann Petrie, president & CEO of RMHC Eastern Wisconsin. “The proceeds from the event will jump start our season of giving and help us accomplish our mission to keep families together and promote the health and well-being of children.”

Christmas Fantasy House volunteers said 27 area decorators are already working to transform the home into, well, a Christmas fantasy.

In addition to taking in the festive decorations, visitors can shop at a holiday boutique and sweet shoppe, or participate in a silent auction. There will also be raffle baskets for guests to win. Plus, there will be a raffle showcase, “Festival of Trees.” During the showcase, mansion visitors can purchase raffle tickets to win the decorations on a specific tree, or a spirited wreath.

Tickets are available to purchase online, here. Find a location near you to purchase tickets in person, here.

The house is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Oct. 29, Oct. 30, Nov. 5 and Nov. 6. The house is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. from Oct. 31 to Nov. 4. It will be closed Nov. 2. For parking and shuttle information, click here.