Madison Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025
Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Madison and surrounding areas
Madison celebrates the holiday season with Christmas lights twinkling around the State Capitol and along John Nolen Drive for Christmas 2025. Events like Shine On Madison Holiday Celebration, Holiday Fantasy in Lights, and the Madison Ballet's The Nutcracker create memorable things to do and seasonal activities for families. Explore State Street and the Olin Park area for holiday attractions, festive markets, and light shows that highlight local artisans and winter festivities.
Find the best Madison Christmas happenings this year!
Start Here
Christmas Markets
19 eventsRockford's official holiday season kick-off event.
Christmas Lights
16 eventsWeekend-long Holiday Lights Tour with kickoff party
Christmas Shows
9 eventsElectrifying Trans-Siberian Orchestra tribute with dazzling lights.
Christmas Parties
6 eventsSold-out wine walk with 20+ tasting locations and holiday lights.
Other Christmas Activities
18 eventsAnnual illuminated holiday parade with community involvement.
Editor's Picks (6)
-
Stroll on State
(Rockford)
Rockford's official holiday season kick-off event.
-
Fitchburg Holiday Lights Tour & Get Festive with Agora
(Fitchburg)
Weekend-long Holiday Lights Tour with kickoff party
-
Shine On Madison Holiday Celebration
Six-week community holiday celebration boosting downtown businesses.
-
Holiday Fantasy in Lights
Spectacular free holiday light displays in Olin Park.
-
Rockford Festival of Lights
(Rockford)
Over 85 dazzling holiday light displays
-
Columbus Festival of Lights Parade
(Columbus)
Annual illuminated holiday parade with community involvement.
This Week / Coming Up (6)
View Our Interactive Map for More Events Around Madison
Discover thousands of christmas events across the country
Also Near Madison
Madison Christmas FAQ
The Holiday Fantasy in Lights at Olin Park and the Dane County Farmers' Market Holiday Edition are among the biggest annual Christmas events in Madison, drawing locals and visitors alike for festive lights and holiday shopping.
Madison celebrates with community-driven events like the Holiday Fantasy in Lights, which is organized by local electricians and contractors, and the vibrant Dane County Farmers' Market Holiday Edition, highlighting local artisans and seasonal foods.
Neighborhoods near Fitchburg and areas around Olin Park are known for their impressive holiday lights and neighborhood displays, offering both walkable trails and drive-through options.
Local makers and Christmas markets can be found at the Dane County Farmers' Market Holiday Edition, various artisan markets downtown, and seasonal craft fairs held at community centers throughout Madison.
Visiting the free Holiday Fantasy in Lights at Olin Park and exploring neighborhood light displays are budget-friendly ways to enjoy the season. Many markets also offer free admission and affordable local treats.
Families can enjoy the Zoo Lights at Henry Vilas Zoo, which includes carousel rides and Santa visits, as well as the Holiday Fantasy in Lights and family-friendly markets with crafts and seasonal activities.