The holiday season is just around the corner, and La Crosse and our local communities are kicking the festivities off with holiday lights, parades, and craft fairs. Whether you’re planning a family outing or a cozy night drive, there’s no shortage of holiday cheer to enjoy.
Rotary Lights La Crosse
The iconic Rotary Lights at Riverside Park returns for its 31st year, featuring more than 3 million sparkling lights. Opening night is November 28, 2025, with a parade and ceremony to kick things off. Visitors can enjoy a scenic drive-through or a walk through the park, carriage rides, and Santa & reindeer visits through December 23. Rotary Lights is the heart of the holiday season in La Crosse.
La Crosse Center Holiday Fair
Running November 20–23, 2025, the 61st Annual Holiday Fair at the La Crosse Center is the perfect complement to outdoor displays. The fair features local artisans, crafts, and holiday décor, making it a top destination for gift shopping and festive experiences. This indoor event is a great way to warm up while finding unique, hand-crafted treasures for your loved ones.
Downtown La Crosse Holiday Open House
Downtown Mainstreet La Crosse shines early this season with the annual Downtown Holiday Open House on November 14th. Local shops open their doors with festive decorations, holiday deals, and plenty of seasonal spirit. And don’t miss the annual Tree Lighting Ceremony at Grounded Patio Cafe! It’s the perfect way to explore La Crosse’s historic downtown, check off a few gifts, and soak in the charm that makes our city sparkle this time of year.
Community Parades and Local Holiday Lights Displays
Several nearby communities are also kicking off the holiday season:
- Jinglefest in Holmen, WI – Saturday, December 6, 2025, with a vendor fair, holiday light parade, Santa, and outdoor fire pits.
- Twinklefest Parade in Viroqua, WI – Friday, November 28, 6 p.m. on Main Street, featuring dozens of illuminated floats, holiday lights, and local businesses joining the fun.
- Holiday Lights in the Park, Sparta, WI – Take in the sparkle at Evans–Bosshard Park, where the twinkling lights make the season shine in Sparta.
- Rotary Lights in the Park, Richland Center, WI – Celebrating its 15th season, this magical walk- or drive-through display of holiday cheer opens on November 27th.
Light Up Around River City! | Holiday Lights Competition
Around River City wants to see your home sparkle! Submit a photo of your Christmas lights by December 10 for a chance to win a $25 Downtown Mainstreet gift certificate. Enter by snapping a photo and uploading it to AroundRiverCity.com. The winner will be announced December 15 on the website and Facebook. Share your sparkle and help make La Crosse shine this holiday season!
