Your Ultimate Guide to Milwaukee's Holiday Markets This December

As winter settles over the city and twinkling lights illuminate downtown streets, Milwaukee transforms into a wonderland of festive shopping experiences. This December 2025, the Cream City is hosting an incredible lineup of holiday markets and special events that celebrate local artisans, traditional European Christmas customs, and the spirit of community that makes Milwaukee special. Whether you're searching for unique handcrafted gifts, savoring seasonal treats, or simply soaking in the holiday atmosphere, these markets offer something magical for everyone.

European-Inspired Christkindl Markets

The tradition of European Christmas markets has found a warm home in Milwaukee, bringing Old World charm and festive traditions to the heart of Wisconsin.

Right here in Menomonee Falls, the fourth annual Falls Christkindl Market transforms downtown into a European-inspired holiday destination on Saturday, December 13th, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Centennial Plaza and the historic downtown district come alive with the sights, sounds, and flavors of a traditional German Christmas celebration. Visitors can take a horse-drawn carriage ride, visit live reindeer, and capture magical photos inside Santa's Workshop. The market features both indoor and outdoor vendors showcasing their unique wares, and some of Wisconsin's best German bands fill the air with traditional music. Don't miss the chance to sample authentic German cuisine including brats, stollen, and other seasonal specialties, and pick up a 2025 commemorative mug filled with warming Glühwein (mulled wine). The Falls Christkindl Market offers free admission and takes place at N88W16688 Main St. in Menomonee Falls. For more details, visit christmasinthefalls.com/christkindl-market.

Located at Harts Mills Lots in Wauwatosa, the Tosa Christkindl Markt is expected to run from early through late December and brings authentic German-style celebration to the Milwaukee area. (2025 dates are pending official confirmation, but the event is expected to return annually.) As you stroll through wooden vendor chalets imported from Belgium, you'll be transported to a European village square filled with the aromas of hot Glühwein and traditional German fare like grilled sausages, roasted nuts, and warm pretzels. The atmosphere comes alive with live polka bands and the competitive Stein-Holding Contest held on Friday and Saturday evenings. Admission and parking are completely free. You can find the market at 7735 Harwood Ave. in Wauwatosa. For the complete schedule, visit tosaholidaymarket.com.

Local Makers Markets & Art Sales

Supporting local artisans and small businesses is at the heart of Milwaukee's creative community.

The Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design's (MIAD) annual Holiday Sale gives art lovers and gift seekers the chance to purchase one-of-a-kind art and design works while supporting emerging artists. The sale runs Thursday, December 4th (Preview Night, 6-9 p.m.), Friday, December 5th (5-9 p.m.), and Saturday, December 6th (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) at MIAD's campus at 273 E. Erie St. Browse through sculptures, paintings, prints, jewelry, ceramics, stickers, and much more. Visit miad.edu for more information.

Now celebrating its 16th year, Hover Craft has established itself as Milwaukee's favorite handmade holiday shopping extravaganza. On Sunday, December 7th, 2025 from noon to 6 p.m., the historic Pritzlaff Building welcomes more than 120 artists, crafters, makers, and designers. This market features perfectly unique and handmade gifts for everyone on your list, from sophisticated home goods and jewelry to quirky art and accessories. While you shop, enjoy coffee and tea from Colectivo Coffee. Organizers recommend purchasing tickets in advance through hovercraftmke.com.

The Milwaukee Makers Market presents its Holiday Showcase at Discovery World Pavilion on Sunday, December 21st, 2025 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This beloved institution brings together over 50 local crafters, artists, and small business owners offering an incredible array of handcrafted products, including jewelry, pottery, original artwork, baked goods, and textiles. Admission is completely free. Learn more at milwaukeemakersmarket.com.

Specialty & Evening Markets

These markets offer unique experiences, often focusing on specific communities or niches.

The Sauced Night Market returns to Pilot Project Brewing on Friday, December 5th and Saturday, December 6th, 2025 from 5-10 p.m., transforming the brewery into a vibrant evening marketplace. This popular event brings together over 40 local vendors offering an eclectic mix of products, from small-batch hot sauce and handmade ceramics to cozy blankets and art pieces. While you browse, enjoy festive beverages courtesy of Drink Wisconsinbly. The night market is free to attend.

The Blackity Black Holiday Market, launched by HYFIN to amplify Black businesses and culture, provides a vital platform for Black entrepreneurs while creating a welcoming space for community connection. This annual event, typically held at Turner Hall, features goods from local Black-owned businesses, including fashion, beauty products, home goods, artwork, and jewelry. (2025 dates are pending official confirmation, but the event is expected to return annually.) For specific December dates, check Visit Milwaukee's Holiday Markets page.

Downtown Holiday Experiences

Milwaukee's downtown district comes alive with holiday spirit, offering celebrations in the heart of the city.

On Friday, December 5th, 2025 from 5-8:30 p.m., Historic Third Ward's Catalano Square transforms into a holiday wonderland for Christmas in the Ward. This beloved neighborhood tradition features the community gathered under the beautifully decorated Christmas tree for an evening of festive activities. Enjoy live entertainment, sample delicious offerings from food trucks, and explore the Third Ward's unique boutiques that stay open late. Families can snap photos with Santa and his reindeer.