In the Spirit
Decked halls and hung stockings? We got ‘em. Find holiday cheer across Oshkosh at annual events like the Celebration of Lights, the Paine’s Nutcracker in the Castle and Deck the Halls at the Oshkosh Public Museum. If you’re looking for the perfect holiday gift for that special someone (or even yourself), stop by the Outlet Shoppes at Oshkosh or check out downtown’s unique stores and galleries.
Celebration of Lights
Enjoy the magic of the holiday season with more than a half million lights on display in Menominee Park on the shores of Lake Winnebago. Enjoy sculptured scenes, animated light displays, a 100-foot tall decorated tree, live reindeer, Santa’s workshop and children’s activities. Learn more.
Deck the Halls
This annual extravaganza at the Oshkosh Public Museum will feature the historic Sawyer home decorated as only the wealthy could do. Enjoy holiday “dressings” as reported in periodicals and newspapers of the decades from 1880 to 1919 and wonder at the life-size Christmas Village exhibit showcasing toys from the past 80 years. Learn more.
Oshkosh Public Museum
This local history museum is one of the finest local history museums in the Midwest. It explores the Lake Winnebago region and features interactive, family-friendly exhibits and rotating annual exhibitions. The museum’s extensive collections are housed in the Sawyer family mansion, built in the English Tudor Revival style in 1909. The most popular exhibit in the museum is the Apostles Clock, an eight-foot clock completed in 1895. Learn more.
Nutcracker in the Castle
Beloved fairy tale “The Nutcracker” comes alive this holiday season in the Paine “castle.” The story unfolds throughout the home’s elaborately decorated historic rooms. Guided tours are available, and reservations are recommended. When you’re done, enjoy cupcakes and hot cocoa with the Sugar Plum Fairy in an enchanting café. Learn more.
Paine Art Center & Gardens
The Paine Art Center and Gardens is one of the most beautiful estates in Wisconsin. The magnificent mansion and gorgeous gardens were constructed for lumber barons Nathan and Jessie Paine. The Paine’s dream estate is a pleasure to explore. The estate was designed to resemble the gardens of the English countryside. It’s glorious in the fall. The Paine is also home to a gallery that features exhibits throughout the year. Learn more.
Shopping Deals
Oshkosh is a shopper’s paradise and retailers offer special fall deals. Whether you’re shopping for school supplies, hunting gear or looking for some early holiday gifts, you’ll find what you’re looking for in Oshkosh. The Outlet Shoppes at Oshkosh features big-name retailers and fantastic bargains. The Outlet offers apparel, home furnishings, electronics and more and is conveniently located just off Highway 41. Discover an eclectic variety of shops and galleries in downtown Oshkosh. Browse shoe stores, specialty apparel shops, antique stores, booksellers, jewelers and more. Learn more.