December 1 – 31, during mall hours: Santa at the Fox River Mall, Fox River Mall – Macy’s Wing (4301 West Wisconsin Avenue, Appleton). Families can visit and take pictures with Santa in the Macy’s wing of the Fox River Mall throughout the month of December.
December 1 – 31, various times: Timber Rattlers Holiday Lights – A Walk-Through Eventsconsin Timber Rattlers Ballpark (2400 N Casaloma Dr, Appleton). This is a walk-through light display featuring one million lights and music shows synchronized every twenty minutes, which runs nightly through the holiday season.
December 4, 7:00 pm: Sister’s Christmas Catechism, Fox Cities Performing Arts Center (400 W College Ave, Appleton). This is a holiday mystery comedy show where “Sister” investigates the fate of the Magi’s gold.
December 5, 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm: Grinch Night at the BFK, Building For Kids Children’s Museum (100 W College Ave, Appleton). A special, after-hours holiday event where families can enjoy pizza, Grinch-themed activities, storytimes, and a meet-and-greet with the Grinch.
December 5, 7:30 pm: Christmas on The Avenue, Fox Cities Performing Arts Center (400 W College Ave, Appleton). A holiday tradition featuring popular local musicians from The Avenue’s playlist, hosted by Jamie Kent and Bascom Hill.
December 6, 7:30 am: 2025 Jolly Jog (formerly the Santa Shuffle), Dunkin’ Donuts (4295 College Ave, Grand Chute). Participants are invited to wear Santa suits for a festive 1-mile or 3-mile walk/run starting at Dunkin’ Donuts in Grand Chute.
December 6, 9:00 am – 2:00 pm: Holiday Cookie/Craft/Vendor Fair, St James United Methodist Church, 100 W Capitol Dr (corner of Oneida St & Capitol Dr), Appleton. A homemade Holiday Cookie assortment is available for a baker’s dozen (13) at $10, alongside hand-crafted items from St James and local vendors, fresh cinnamon rolls, and a lunch option of homemade soups with a sandwich starting at 10:30 AM until supplies lastth a Salvation Army Red Kettle available on site for donations that will be matched by Ken’s Sports.
December 6, 9:30 am – 12:00 pm: Winter Craft Open House, Bubolz Nature Preserve (4815 N. Lyndale Dr, Appleton). A morning of nature-themed winter and holiday crafts geared for all agesth adult supervision required for all attendees.
December 6, 10:00 am – 1:00 pm: Central Wisconsin Cultural Center Holiday Event, Central Wisconsin Cultural Center (138 N 2nd Stsconsin Rapids). This family-friendly event features a holiday story time starting at 10:30 am, followed by photos and activities for children.
December 12, 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm: Grinch Night at the BFK, Building For Kids Children’s Museum (100 W College Ave, Appleton). A special, after-hours holiday event where families can enjoy pizza, Grinch-themed activities, storytimes, and a meet-and-greet with the Grinch.
December 13, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm: Pictures With Santa!, Town Center Park (1850 W Grand Chute Blvd, Grand Chute). A joyful morning hosted by Grand Chute Parks & Recreation offering photo opportunities with Santa, crafts, and warm beverages.
December 20, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm: Holiday Gift and Craft Show at the Fox Cities Expo, Fox Cities Exhibition Center (355 W Lawrence St, Appleton). Shop from vendors offering a diverse selection of vintage and handmade goods, including carvings, jewelry, holiday decorations, and folk art.
December 26, various times: Olympic Trials at the BFK, Building For Kids Children’s Museum (100 W College Ave, Appleton). The museum hosts a day of special, themed activities centered around the fun and games of Olympic trials.
December 27, various times: Renaissance Faire at the BFK, Building For Kids Children’s Museum (100 W College Ave, Appleton). A day of special interactive stations where children can experience a Renaissance faire with leatherworking, weaving, armor displays, and a wizard workshop.
December 28, various times: Clay Day at the BFK, Building For Kids Children’s Museum (100 W College Ave, Appleton). The museum offers a full day of unique activities and projects centered on clay, providing creative exploration opportunities.
December 29, various times: Kid’s Dance Party at the BFK, Building For Kids Children’s Museum (100 W College Ave, Appleton). A special event day dedicated to movement and music, giving kids a chance to enjoy a festive dance party.
December 30, various times: Summer Back in December at the BFK, Building For Kids Children’s Museum (100 W College Ave, Appleton). This themed day brings back popular summer activities and games for a fun, warm-weather feel during the cold winter month.
December 31, various times: BFK New Year, Building For Kids Children’s Museum (100 W College Ave, Appleton). The museum hosts a special New Year’s Eve celebration with activities designed for younger children.
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