WPR

A Christmas Carol at the Milwaukee Rep
2025-12-20 14:00 - 16:30, 2025-12-19 19:00 - 21:30, 2025-12-18 19:00 - 21:30 (America/Chicago) | Pabst Theater, 144 E Wells St, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 53203, United States
By Charles Dickens
Adapted and Directed by Mark Clements
Milwaukee’s favorite holiday tradition
For decades Wisconsinites have enjoyed A Christmas Carol as their favorite holiday tradition. Now join us as we celebrate our 50th Anniversary production of this Dickens’ classic. Experience the magic of this beloved tale as Ebenezer Scrooge’s heartwarming transformation inspires holiday cheer with the timeless message of peace, hope and joy. With beautiful music, lively dancing, stunning sets and eye-popping special effects, it’s a dazzling Christmas feast with enough theatrical goodies to fill any sized stocking hung by the chimney with care. Rep favorite Matt Daniels returns as Scrooge.

Gifts of the Season - Matinee
2025-12-20 14:00 - 16:00 | Germantown Performing Arts Center, W180 N11501 N. River Lane, Germantown, 53022, United States
Enjoy a memorable holiday concert with all the trimmings – holiday classics, sing-along and selections from Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker with ballet performance by members of the Nancy Dianne Studio of Dance.
Conductor – Alexander Mandl
Program
Leroy Anderson, A Christmas Festival Overture
Peter Tchaikovsky, Selections from The Nutcracker with Ballet performed by dancers from the Nancy Dianne Studio of Dance
Victor Herbert, March of the Toys
Bill Holcombe, Festival Sounds of Hanukkah
Leroy Anderson, Bugler’s Holiday
David Lovrien, Minor Alterations: Christmas Through the Looking Glass
Dan Goeller, Fiesta de Navidad
George Frideric Handel, Hallelujah Chorus, from The Messiah
arr John Finnegan, Christmas Sing-along
arr Bruce Chase, We Wish You a Merry Christmas

The Pigeon Gets a Big Time Holiday Extravaganza!
2025-12-20 13:00 - 14:30, 2025-12-19 19:00 - 20:30 | Todd Wehr Theater, 121 E State St, Milwaukee, 53202, United States
Based on Books & Characters by Mo Willems
Script and Lyrics by Mo Willems & Adam Tobin
Music by Deborah Wicks La Puma
Dramaturgy by Megan Alrutz
Directed by Michelle LoRicco
When Mo Willems’ characters get together for the holidays, it’s bound to be the biggest extravaganza ever! The Unlimited Squirrels deck the halls and Elephant and Piggie come ready to celebrate! But will The Pigeon join in the festivities, or will he run all the way to the North Pole in search of the greatest gift ever? Catchy tunes, silly stories, goofy gifts, audience antics: it’s all in this brand-new musical party that sleighs!

Flute-Cake!: A Melodious Celebration of the Holiday Season Performed by Flute Cocktail
2025-12-20 10:30 - 11:30 | https://www.manitowoclibrary.org/event/flute-cake-melodious-celebration-holiday-season-performed-flute-cocktail-24003, 707 Quay Street, Manitowoc
Flute Cocktail—Manitowoc’s premiere flute choir—will be appearing at Manitowoc Public Library to Make the Season even Bright-er on Saturday, December 20, from 10:30-11:30 AM! The whole family can enjoy some wonderful live music—favorites along the lines of “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer,” “Jingle Bell Rock,” and “Let It Snow.” And seeing as they’ll be performing on the First Floor in proximity to the Enchanted Evergleam Forest, you can expect some additional twinkle amidst the existing sweet shimmer of this festive Saturday morn!

Storytime with Santa at Manitowoc Public Library
2025-12-20 10:00 - 11:00 | Manitowoc Public Library, 707 Quay Street, Manitowoc, Wisconsin, 54220, United States
Santa Claus is coming to town and he’s bringing a festive story to share! Gather the family for a cozy storytime on Saturday, December 20, from 10-11 AM in the Balkansky Community Room filled with festive cheer, then enjoy a special photo-op with The Man in Red himself. While Santa won’t be able to have children sit on his lap this year, he can’t wait to hear from them! Be sure to bring your Letter to Santa and drop it in his special North Pole Mailbox during the event. Need help getting started? Starting December 8, stop by the library and visit our festive Letter to Santa Station. We’ll have all the supplies your Little Ones need to write (or draw!) their holiday wishes before the big day. No registration required—just your holiday spirit, your best smiles, and your letter for Santa!

Shark Week
2025-12-20 09:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-19 09:00 - 17:00, 2025-12-18 09:00 - 17:00 | Cave of the Mounds, 2975 Cave of the Mounds Rd., Blue Mounds, Wisconsin, 53517, United States
Shark Week is an exciting blend of geology and paleontology! Dive into the ancient past and discover the fascinating connection between the cave and the prehistoric oceans that once covered the region. During Shark Week, guests can participate in a fun activity: collecting real fossilized shark teeth throughout the tour. For just $3 per bag, visitors can search for these ancient treasures while exploring the stunning cave formations.
This family-friendly event is perfect for fossil enthusiasts, young adventurers, and anyone eager to learn more about Earth’s prehistoric past. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to connect with history in the heart of one of Wisconsin’s natural wonders!

Ballet Floor Barre at MAM
2025-12-20 08:00 - 09:00 | Milwaukee Art Museum, 700 N. Art Museum Dr, Milwaukee, 53202
Begin your Saturday with a 60-minute class that blends traditional classical ballet barre and floorwork. Feel the ballet burn without the barre through turnout, core engagement, proper alignment, and isolations with low impact. Underneath the Museum’s iconic wings and with stunning views of Lake Michigan, this class is led by Melissa Alexander of Milwaukee Ballet.
Class begins at 8 a.m. Arrive as early as 7 a.m. with your yoga mat to settle into the space before the class starts.
After class, extend your visit to the café and store, which open early, at 9 a.m. Parking is available in the Calatrava underground garage; enjoy a $5 rate when you exit before 10 a.m.
Online in advance, general admission tickets are $20 and Museum Member tickets are $10. At the door, tickets are $25 for general admission and $15 for Members.

Bittersweet Christmas Band
2025-12-19 19:30 - 21:30 | Wil-Mar Neighborhood Center, 504 S. Brearly St., Madison, Wisconsin, 53704, United States
Traditional and Contemporary holiday music. Traditional artists Chris Cooper and Kate Early join forces with singer/songwriters Patty Peace and Susan Urban for a show that presents every possible perspective on the holiday season from the reverent to the ridiculous. Two- to four-part harmonies and masterful instrumentation on guitar, banjo, mountain dulcimer, hand drum and other percussion instruments make the Bittersweet Christmas Band an act not to miss!

Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra: Holiday Pops
2025-12-19 19:30 - 21:30 | Bradley Symphony Center, 212 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, 53203, United States
Milwaukee’s favorite hometown holiday tradition returns! Join your Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra as we deck Allen-Bradley Hall with holiday cheer. Ring in the holidays with Milwaukee Handbell Ensemble, keep your eye out for the Jolly Old Elf himself, and raise your voice during the audience sing-along backed by the full power of the orchestra and Milwaukee Symphony Chorus. Sheer musical magic and cozy holiday memories with family and friends await as we usher in a joyful season of celebration.

The Nutcracker with the Milwaukee Ballet
2025-12-19 19:30 - 21:30 | Marcus Performing Arts Center, 929 N Water Street, Milwaukee, 53202, United States
Adventure into the dreamlike world of Drosselmeyer’s Imaginarium! Hailed as “equal parts smart and magical” (Milwaukee Magazine), this fantastical production invites you to let your imagination run free for the holidays.
As one of Milwaukee’s favorite holiday traditions, The Nutcracker guarantees an enchanting evening of festive fun for all ages. Nearly 200 dancers, including students of Milwaukee Ballet School & Academy, will illuminate the incredible artistic talent found right here in our city.

Handel's Messiah
2025-12-19 19:30 - 21:30 | Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, 201 Lakeshore Dr. East 54806, Ashland
Enjoy the glory of the Christmas season with a free community concert and sing-along. Join us for this seasonal favorite presenting the Christmas portion of The Messiah. A 20-piece orchestra accompanies soloists performing memorable arias; the audience is encouraged to sing the choral portions. A reception with tasty treats follows the concert.

La Crosse Community Theatre: One Christmas Eve at Evergreen Mall
2025-12-19 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-12-18 19:30 - 21:30 | La Crosse Community Theatre, 428 Front Street South, La Crosse, 54601, United States
Enjoy a spectacular show at the La Crosse Community Theatre!
Watch as the La Crosse Community Theatre puts on a performance with a diverse cast of characters—from a lovesick mall Santa to an overeager mall cop, from a pair of brainy misfit teenagers to a pair of battling actors in a production of A Christmas Carol, from a petulant college freshman to a pair of newlyweds—navigate first meetings, second chances, and last-minute choices.
Learn more and purchase tickets here.

It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
2025-12-19 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-12-18 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-12-17 19:30 - 21:30
Experience the magic of Christmas like never before! This uplifting holiday classic comes to life as a high-energy radio play, blending 1940s retro charm with hilarious theatrical hijinks, as five multi-talented actors portray dozens of characters with vintage sound effects, favorite songs and lovable Christmas spirit, right in front of your eyes (and ears). A mix of humor, heart and hope, this enchanting show has captivated audiences across the country and delivers a nostalgic treat that’s gift wrapped for you and your loved ones of all ages.
Adapted by Joe Landry
Based on the story “The Greatest Gift” by Philip Van Doren Stern
Directed by Jonathan Hetler

Dueling Pianos- A Very Merry Christmas Concert
2025-12-19 19:00 - 22:00 | Aspen Sky Winery, Distillery, Event Center, 860 Enterprise Drive, Slinger
🎄🎶 Christmas Dueling Piano Show 🎶🎄
Get ready for a night of holiday magic and musical fun! Join us for a special Dueling Pianos – A Very Merry Concert featuring live entertainment that’ll have you singing along to all your favorite songs and holiday classics. These talented pianists will take your requests and battle it out for the best tunes of the season!
🎅 Date: Friday, December 19th: 7pm-10pm
🎄 Time: Show starts at 7pm, come early to grab a drink and get your seat!
Check In Starts at 6pm
Whether you’re in the mood for classic rock, Top 40, festive carols or holiday hits, bring your friends, grab a drink, and enjoy the ultimate sing-along. Perfect for a night out with family or friends, this is the holiday event you don’t want to miss!
Let’s make this Christmas one to remember!
Seating Options:
General Admission (GA): Includes one chair at a shared GA table.
VIP Table: A full table for up to 10 guests. Perfect for groups who want the best view and experience.

Gleam & Glow: A 60s Holiday Celebration
2025-12-19 18:00 - 20:30 | History Maker Space, 1 S Pinckney St, Madison, Wisconsin, 53703, United States
Swing into the ’60s and get ready to celebrate with a hip holiday twist like no other—the Evergleam aluminum Christmas tree! Slide into your sharpest mid-century threads and step into a scene dripping with vintage vibes at the Wisconsin History Maker Space. This pop-up party is sure to be outta sight, complete with retro decorations, fab drinks and a seasonal historic cocktail, delicious nibbles, groovy tunes and a photo opportunity that’s pure gold for snapping your own piece of holiday history.
COST
Adult: $25
Teen: $15
Senior: $15
Child (5-11): $5
Children under 5: Free
Society members receive a 10% discount
Advanced registration is required
Know Before You Go
General Information:
Gleam & Glow: A 60s Holiday Celebration is an all-ages event.
The event will be taking place in the 1st floor lobby of the building as well as the adjacent History Maker Space Gift Shop.
Refreshments & Appetizers:
Purchase of an event ticket includes one complementary beverage – either alcoholic or non-alcoholic depending on the age of the attendee. Attendees must be a minimum of 21 years old with a valid ID to purchase and consume alcohol.
Additional beverages and drinks will be available for purchase.
Appetizers are included in the ticket price.
Building Access:
Access to the building, and therefore the History Maker Space, is through the South Pinckney Street (one of the streets of the Capitol Square) or the East Washington Avenue building entrances.
WHS personnel will be stationed at the above entrances to check-in guests and orient attendees to the event.
At the conclusion of the event, attendees are able to use any of the doors located off the lobby to exit.
Parking:
It is strongly recommended to not park onsite at the U.S. Bank Plaza Building when arriving for this event. The U.S. Bank Plaza parking garage closes after 6 pm and will not reopen until the following Monday when regular business hours at the U.S. Bank Plaza building resume.
If attendees are interested in dropping off family and/or friends before parking, there is space for temporary pull-in/drop-off outside of the U.S. Bank Plaza building.
Instead of parking at the U.S. Bank Plaza, it is recommended to use public parking options.
Public parking is available within two blocks of the U.S. Bank Plaza building through meters and public garages. The nearest parking garage is the Capitol Square North Garage, located at 218 E. Mifflin Street, and approximately two blocks north of the bank building.
For locations and rates of public parking meters, go to the Parking Meters page on the City of Madison website.
Attendees who are interested in learning more or have questions about the event are encouraged to contact Jenny Pederson at jennifer.pederson@wisconsinhistory.org or (608) 669-5160.

A very deadly constructivists holiday
2025-12-18 20:00 - 22:00 | Broadway Theatre Center, Studio Theater, Broadway Theatre Center, 158 N. Broadway, Milwaukee WI, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 53202, United States
From the mind of Jaimelyn Gray, we’re back for the third year of this new kind of Holiday standard. A Very Deadly Constructivists Holiday (2025) is a wickedly sharp, dark-comedy revue that dismantles the season’s sparkle one deadly sin at a time. Guided by the spirit of good ol’ St. Nick, the show careens through seven outrageous sketches, each twisting a familiar holiday chestnut into something hysterically unhinged. Packed with musical parodies, a bit of playful violence, and The Constructivists’ signature bite, the show is a cathartic release for anyone who’s ever found the holidays stressful, ridiculous, or just a little too cheerful. Equal parts sketch comedy, musical parody, and seasonal catharsis, A Very Deadly Constructivists Holiday is a twisted celebration of everything we love—and absolutely hate—about the most wonderful time of the year.
CONTENT DISCLOSURE – This production contains adult subject matter. Viewer discretion strongly advised. We believe in the power of dark art catharsis. As such, every Constructivists production contains provoking words, ideas, and actions. We respect everyone’s boundaries, but also respect those who wish to know as little as possible about this production. General warnings are violence and language.
Created by Jamielyn Gray
Written by Patrick Schmitz with various artists
Directed by Jamielyn Gray
Featuring Autumn N. Green, Becky Cofta, Ekene Ikegwuani, Kellie Wambold, Libby Ladue, Logan Milway, Nate Press, Nicole McCarty, and William Molitor

Milwaukee Jazz Institute Big Band Concert (evening)
2025-12-18 19:30 - 21:30 | Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts, 3270 Mitchell Park Drive, Brookfield, 53045, United States
The MJI Big Band is excited to return to the Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for another holiday performance featuring an all-star lineup of the region’s top jazz artists. Get into the spirit of the season with this uplifting program of soulful and swingin’ big band jazz versions of holiday classics. Hum along, dance in your seats, and celebrate the holidays!

Holiday Movie Fest @ Manitowoc Public Library
2025-12-18 18:00 - 20:00 | Manitowoc Public Library, 707 Quay Street, Manitowoc, Wisconsin, 54220, United States
Get cozy at Manitowoc Public Library during the Holidays! Join us for our Holiday Movie Fest, featuring family favorites and festive classics on the Balkansky Community Room’s big screen.
Schedule:
• December 4, 6-8 PM: “Babes in Toyland (1960s Version), Rated G
• December 13, 11 AM-1 PM: “Scrooge,” Rated G
• December 14, 1-3 PM: “Prancer,” Rated G
• December 18, 6-8 PM: “Miracle on 34th Street” (1990s Version), Rated PG
• December 22, 11 AM-1 PM: “Unaccompanied Minors,” Rated PG
• December 29, 11 AM-1 PM: “Krampus.” Rated PG-13

Virtual Sparkle! The History of Aluminum Trees
2025-12-18 17:00 - 19:00 | Manitowoc Public Library, 707 Quay Street, Manitowoc, Wisconsin, 54220, United States
Aluminum Specialty’s dazzling Evergleam Aluminum Trees are still adding sparkle to the Holidays! Join your guides–aluminum tree enthusiast and champion of all things wonderfully wacky and tacky, Barb Bundy-Jost, and fellow Manitowoc Aluminum Kitsch-Mas Inc. devotee and Collector Extraordinaire, Jordan Kabat—at 5PM on Thursday, December 18, as they take you on a virtual stroll through the Enchanted Evergleam Forest at MPL. You’ll learn the story behind this Manitowoc company’s Atomic Age innovation and design. Insights, rarities, and interesting trivia on the glitzy wonder at every turn! As an added bonus, Evergleam aficionados from around the country will join Barb and Jordan virtually to share their sparkling treasures! A dazzling treat, to be sure! This Virtual Tour through the holiday razzle-dazzle will be livestreamed on Manitowoc Public Library’s Facebook page: www.facebook.com/manitowoclibrary. Prepare to SPARKLE and be amazed!

Milwaukee Jazz Institute Big Band Concert (matinee)
2025-12-18 14:00 - 16:00 | Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts, 3270 Mitchell Park Drive, Brookfield, 53045, United States

Middleton Community Orchestra Holiday Concert
2025-12-17 19:30 - 21:30 | Hamel Music Center, 740 University Avenue, Madison
• Thomas Kasdorf, piano
• Ryan Tani, conductor
Beethoven — Piano Concerto No. 4 in G major, Op. 58
Rimsky-Korsakov — Scheherazade, Op. 35

String Ties Holiday Concert
2025-12-17 19:30 - 21:30 | Pump House Regional Arts Center, 119 King St, La Crosse, Wisconsin, 54601, United States
For over 25 years String Ties has been sharing their love for Bluegrass and acoustic string music. The tight vocal harmonies and masterful playing of their ‘Yule’ show delivers a fresh glow to the heartwarming melodies of the season. It’s the perfect way to cozy up and settle into the holiday spirit.
String Ties consists of Dan Sebranek (Guitar-Vocals), Wayne Beezley (Mandolin-Vocals), Rick Sampson (Banjo-Vocals), Betsy Neil (Fiddle-Vocals), and Dedrick Benz (Bass).
THREE PUMP HOUSE CONCERTS THIS YEAR FOR EXTRA HOLIDAY CHEER!
