Night of Lights
Visitors gather to kick off the holiday season with a community tree lighting accompanied by music, hot chocolate, and Santa. Guests then light lanterns and follow Santa on a caroling stroll through Downtown Waukesha to Riverfront Street. The evening concludes at Riverfront Plaza with the Walk of Lights illumination ceremony, holiday ornament giveaways, treats, and a chance to meet Santa.
What to Expect
Holiday tree lighting, downtown lantern stroll with Santa, and light ceremony.
Event Details
Food & Drink
Hot chocolate is offered at the tree lighting, with treats and goodies after the ceremony.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and community holiday-season outings
Vibe
Festive and communal
Energy Level
Moderate
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
High
Location
Know Before You Go
- Hours: 5:30 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.; tree lighting at 5:30 p.m.; lantern stroll following tree lighting; Walk of Lights lighting ceremony at 6:15 P.M.
- Parking: Free 2-hour parking is available around Downtown Waukesha, at the South Street Parking Ramp and the Transit Center Parking Ramp. South Street is closest to the tree lighting; the Transit Center ramp is closest to the Walk of Lights, where the event concludes.
Tips & Advice
- Park at the South Street ramp for the closest access to the tree lighting, or use the Transit Center ramp near the Walk of Lights finale.
- Bring a lantern for the stroll, which follows the tree lighting through downtown with Santa and caroling.
- Allow for the event order to change as the evening approaches; the schedule may be adjusted.
- Stay for the finale at Riverfront Plaza to collect a holiday ornament, enjoy treats and meet Santa.
Special Events & Promotions
- Santa will be at the tree lighting and available to meet after the Walk of Lights ceremony.
- Holiday ornaments are given away after the Walk of Lights ceremony.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during the evening?
It begins with a community tree lighting with music, hot chocolate and Santa, followed by a lantern stroll and caroling downtown. The evening ends with the Walk of Lights illumination, ornament giveaways, treats and a chance to meet Santa.
Where can I park near the tree lighting and the Walk of Lights?
Free two-hour parking is available around Downtown Waukesha. The South Street Parking Ramp is closest to the tree lighting, while the Transit Center Parking Ramp is closest to the Walk of Lights.
Can I bring a lantern for the stroll?
The event invites visitors to light their lanterns and follow Santa on the stroll.
Is there food or drink during the event?
Hot chocolate is served at the tree lighting, and treats and goodies are offered after the Walk of Lights ceremony.
Can I volunteer to help with the event?
Yes. Volunteers are being sought to help make the event a success.
More Christmas Events near Waukesha
Always check the official website for the most current information.
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