Unusual Holiday Happenings in Milwaukee
You can get a Christmas tree lighting anywhere. But the lighting of a 40-foot humpback whale skeleton? Only in Milwaukee! A must-see tradition, the Milwaukee Public Museum's "Lighting of the Whale" signals the start of the holiday season in the city. The giant lever is flipped Nov. 27, and this famous spectacle will illuminate over the museum's grand staircase all holiday season.
The holidays are also kickstarted Nov. 27 at the Harley-Davidson Museum's "Rev up the Holidays." Enjoy the Rockin' Tree Lighting, including photos with Santa, a bonfire and hot drinks.
The Brew City lives up to its reputation with a unique beer-themed Christmas tree. Warm up with a tasty Bavarian lager at the Milwaukee Ale House and see the unique "Beer" tree, constructed entirely of beer kegs.
The centerpiece of Brady Street's Holly Days featuring Festivus is the unadorned, unglamorous Festivus pole-by far not your typical Christmas tree. From Dec. 11-13, participate in a Festivus for the rest of us with Seinfeld-inspired events at five Brady Street establishments. Spread holiday cheer at the ever-popular "Airing of Grievances." Or test your physical and mental stamina with the "Feats of Strength" and "Festivus/Seinfeld Trivia." Highly-coveted Festivus poles will be awarded as prizes!
Dreaming of a "White Christmas?" The song debuted in the movie, "Holiday Inn," and a rare screening of the 1942 film will be presented at the Charles Allis Museum on Dec. 9. Bundle up and take a horse-drawn carriage ride between the Charles Allis Museum and Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum on Dec. 18. Enjoy the music of carolers, hors de' oeuvres and a cash bar at their "A Very Vintage Holiday Open House" celebration.
Sliding down a chimney, or a waterslide? Santa won't only be in the typical places this season. It may be chilly outside, but grab your swimsuit and come to Paradise Landing Waterpark at the Hilton Milwaukee City Center to "Swim with Santa." Don't splash the jolly fellow in red or you'll be on his naughty list!
It doesn't matter if you're on Santa's naughty or nice list at the Biker Claus' Wish List Party at the Harley-Davidson Museum. Work with Harley experts to create your own motorcycle holiday wish list Dec. 10 and 17 at Motor Bar & Restaurant. Enjoy happy hour specials and enter your list in a raffle to win cool prizes.
Call it fun or call it crazy-Milwaukee's annual Polar Bear Plunge is an unusual New Year's Day tradition. Cuddle up in a blanket and watch, or bring your swimsuit and jump right into the icy waters of Lake Michigan. A refreshing way to start 2010!
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