(Milwaukee, WI):The Milwaukee Public Museum (MPM) is set to transform into a winter wonderland this holiday season, offering a spectacular array of events and attractions for visitors of all ages. MPM invites you to “Deck the Streets and Village,” as the beloved Streets of Old Milwaukee and European Village exhibits are turned into magical holiday landscapes!
DECK THE STREETS AND VILLAGE: A WINTER WONDERLAND
November 16, 2024 – January 26, 2025
Step into a winter wonderland as MPM’s iconic Streets of Old Milwaukee and European Village exhibits get a festive makeover for the holidays. These beloved turn-of-the-century streetscapes come alive with stunning holiday decorations, transforming the historic displays into a charming holiday escape. Wander through the cozy streets of Old Milwaukee, with its Victorian storefronts, and explore the quaint European Village adorned with seasonal cheer. It’s a perfect way to embrace the magic of the season.
COCOA & CANDY CANES: A MEMBER-EXCLUSIVE HOLIDAY CELEBRATION
December 7, 2024, Noon-2 p.m.
For Sustainer+ members, MPM is hosting an exclusive holiday event with a private photo opportunity with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Enjoy hot cocoa, candy canes, and holiday-themed arts and crafts in a festive setting. This special event offers members the chance to make lasting memories with the whole family. Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot early by calling 414-278-6170. Not a Sustainer-level member yet? Upgrade your membership today to take part in this and other exciting member perks.
FLORENTINE OPERA HOLIDAY CONCERT
December 9, 2024, 1 p.m.
Celebrate the season with beautiful music at the Florentine Opera’s Holiday Concert. The Baumgartner Studio Artists of the Florentine Opera return to MPM to perform Christmas hymns and classic holiday songs. The concert takes place in the picturesque Butterfly Vivarium on the first floor and is open to museum visitors as part of the SPARK! annual celebration. Museum admission is free for SPARK! families, so be sure to bring your loved ones for this heartwarming event.
OLD MILWAUKEE MIXER: AN AFTER-HOURS HOLIDAY PARTY
December 12, 2024, 7-9:30 p.m.
Get into the festive spirit at the Old Milwaukee Mixer, a lively after-hours holiday party. Stroll through the Streets of Old Milwaukee exhibit, all decked out for the holidays, and enjoy live music from the Checkmate Barbershop Quartet. This 21+ event is a fun way to experience how Victorians celebrated the season while enjoying delicious food and drinks. Guests can also have a personalized holiday card photo taken as a keepsake. Tickets for this event go on sale for Sustainer+ members on November 1 and to the general public on November 8.
EUROPEAN VILLAGE ALIVE!
December 14, 2024, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Experience the sights, sounds, and scents of the holidays during European Village Alive! This event brings the European Village exhibit to life with special activities and presentations. MPM docents will guide visitors through the history of European holiday traditions, many of which are still celebrated today, such as Christmas trees, wreaths, nativity scenes, and stockings. Discover how these traditions evolved, and enjoy special behind-the-scenes collections items, hands-on activities, and holiday decorations throughout the Village. It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn about the diverse ways people celebrate the season around the world.
HOLIDAYS IN HISTORY TOUR
Saturdays in December (except December 14), 1-2 p.m.
Join MPM’s expert docents for a Holidays in History tour, where you’ll explore the fascinating story of how holiday traditions brought by European immigrants shaped the modern Milwaukee holiday experience. The tour highlights the blending of customs, from Christmas tree decorating to festive foods, and how they became part of the cultural fabric of Milwaukee. The tour is free with museum admission, but space is limited to 25 participants, so be sure to get there early.
WINTER BREAK PROGRAMMING: ANIMAL ADAPTATIONS FOR THE COLD
December 26-30, 2024, 10 a.m. – Noon; 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Looking for a fun, educational activity for the kids during winter break? Stop by the MPM Educators’ tables throughout the museum to learn all about cold-weather animal adaptations. Feel the furs of arctic animals, learn to identify horns, tusks, and antlers, and discover the fascinating differences between mammoths and mastodons. These interactive learning experiences will keep children engaged and entertained while they explore the exhibits.
Whether you’re visiting for a holiday concert, a festive evening party, or just to enjoy the twinkling lights and decorations, the Milwaukee Public Museum offers a truly magical holiday experience. With so many exciting events throughout the season, it’s the perfect place to celebrate with family and friends.
Remember, unless otherwise indicated, all events are included with Museum admission. Don’t miss out on these festive holiday events—plan your visit today!
