WISCONSIN — Here's what's happening in Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay and beyond this weekend:
Milwaukee
Frosty Free Week 2024
Saturday, Dec. 28 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 29 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Milwaukee County Zoo, 10001 W. Bluemound Road, Milwaukee
The Milwaukee County Zoo is offering free admission during the day this weekend. Visit the animals in wintry weather. If you want to extend your day, you can also purchase tickets to Wild Lights, which runs Saturday and Sunday from 5:30 to 9 p.m.
An Evening with Peter Billingsley & A Christmas Story
Saturday, Dec. 28 at 7 p.m.
Pabst Theater, 144 E. Wells Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202
Peter Billingsley, who played Ralphie in the 1983 film, is heading to Milwaukee to host a special screening of the classic holiday film. The Pabst Theater will play “A Christmas Story” on the silver screen, followed by a moderated conversation with Billingsley. Doors open for the event on Saturday, Dec. 28 at 6 p.m. You can buy tickets, here.
Madison
Winter Solstice Walk with Kathlean Wolf
Saturday, Dec. 28 from 1:30-3 p.m.
Pheasant Branch Prairie, 4864 Pheasant Branch Rd parking lot
This event is put on by Friends of Urban Nature (FUN) through the Friends of Pheasant Branch Conservancy. There is no need to register, and the family-friendly walk on easy paths walk is free to attend. On the walk, you'll learn more about the solstice. You can find out more information by calling 608-698-0104.
Christmas Spectacular with The DB Orchestra
Saturday, Dec. 28 at 7 p.m.
Cafe CODA, 1224 Williamson St., Madison, WI 53703
If you’re looking to enjoy some holiday music in between Christmas and New Year’s, the DB Orchestra in Madison has you covered. They’ll share classics inspired by Ella Fitzgerald, Chuck Berry, Buddy Rich and more. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased, here.
Green Bay & Fox Cities
Nutcracker- The Ballet
Dec. 27-28 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 29 at 2 p.m.
The Grand Oshkosh, 100 High Ave. Oshkosh, WI 54901
Based on the classic story of the The Nutcracker and the Mouse King, this ballet follows a young girl named Clara. She receives a magical nutcracker as a gift and it comes to life on Christmas Eve. Together, they set out on an adventure to battle the Mouse King. This performance is put on by Valley Academy for the Arts. Ticket prices range from $30 to $35 and can be purchased, here.
Yoga With Kitties
Dec. 28 from 9:30-10:30 a.m.
Safe Haven Pet Sanctuary, 151 North Broadway, Green Bay, WI 54303
Anyone is welcome to attend this yoga class with kitties hosted by Unknown Yogi. The class will feature rescue cats from Safe Haven Pet Sanctuary. All proceeds from the event will benefit the kitties. The class is $15 and you can purchase tickets, here.
Around the Badger State
Christmas Vacation Pop-Up
Saturday, Dec. 28 from noon to 10 p.m.
Sunday, Dec. 29 from noon to 5 p.m.
Cavelier Wine Bar, 407 E. Jackson, Port Washington
Head to a holly, jolly, decked-out Cavelier Wine Bar and enjoy Christmas cheer under the twinkling lights. Sip on seasonal alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, too.
Santa Cruises on Lake Geneva
Dec. 23-30, various times
Winter Harbor at Pier 290/Gage Marine, 1 Liechty Drive, Williams Bay, WI 53191
This 40-minute cruise includes an encounter with Santa himself and a tour of holiday lights on the lake. You’ll also hear your child’s name read from Santa’s “Nice List” as you sneak a peek at the shoreline. It’s $25 for an adult, $13 for a child and free for those 3 and under. Get tickets, here.