Appleton Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Appleton and surrounding areas
Appleton sparkles for the festive season with bright lights and seasonal activities centered around College Avenue and downtown, where Christmas markets and family entertainment set a merry tone. From the Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade to the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers Holiday Lights and New Year's Eve in Paris Celebration, visitors can enjoy many things to do including markets, performances, and neighborhood light displays.
Find the best Appleton Christmas happenings this year!
Start Here
Christmas Markets
17 eventsGerman-style holiday street market with artisan vendors
Christmas Lights
13 eventsWalk-through holiday light display at a baseball stadium
Christmas Shows
5 eventsComedic holiday mystery play with audience participation.
Other Christmas Activities
20 eventsMidwest's largest nighttime Christmas parade
Editor's Picks (6)
-
Downtown Appleton Christmas Parade
Midwest's largest nighttime Christmas parade
-
New Year's Eve in Paris Celebration
Dual New Year's Eve countdowns
-
Wisconsin Timber Rattlers Holiday Lights
Walk-through holiday light display at a baseball stadium
-
Christkindlmarket On Broadway
(Green Bay)
German-style holiday street market with artisan vendors
-
Titletown New Year's Eve
(Green Bay)
New Year's Eve celebration with Lambeau Field projections.
-
Making Spirits Bright Drive-Through Holiday Lights Show
(Sheboygan)
Drive-through holiday lights show benefiting a food bank.
This Week / Coming Up (6)
Christmas Parties Near Appleton
Festive dining experiences, holiday parties, and Christmas-themed food and drink events in Appleton.
New Year's Eve in Paris Celebration
Dual New Year's Eve countdowns
Jingle + Sprinkle
Hands-on cookie decorating for families.
Latest News & Updates
Stay informed about events and activities in Appleton
View Our Interactive Map for More Events Around Appleton
Discover thousands of christmas events across the country
Also Near Appleton
Appleton Christmas FAQ
The biggest annual Christmas events include the Fox Cities Festival of Lights at Darboy Community Park and the Timber Rattlers Holiday Lights walk-through event at Fox Cities Stadium. Both offer festive light displays and family activities throughout the holiday season.
Appleton celebrates with community-focused events like the Fox Cities Festival of Lights, which features local landmarks in its displays, and the Timber Rattlers Holiday Lights, combining sports and holiday cheer. These events highlight Appleton’s blend of local culture and festive spirit.
Neighborhoods such as North Appleton and areas around Rogers Lane and Tallgrass Drive are known for their impressive holiday light displays. These community-driven decorations offer a warm and inviting atmosphere for visitors and residents alike.
Christmas markets and local artisan vendors can be found in downtown Appleton, especially during events like the Light the Night Market, as well as at community centers and seasonal craft fairs throughout the city and nearby areas.
Free or budget-friendly activities include visiting the Fox Cities Festival of Lights, exploring neighborhood light displays, and attending local holiday markets with no admission fees. Many events also offer affordable food and drink options to enjoy the season without overspending.
Family-friendly options include the Fox Cities Festival of Lights with its walkable trails and Santa visits, the Timber Rattlers Holiday Lights with interactive activities like scavenger hunts and letters to Santa, and various holiday markets offering crafts and treats for children.