Christmas in the County: Sturgeon Bay Parade, Ellison Bay Tree Lighting

Earlier this week, volunteers put the Ellison Bay tree in place and decorated it in preparation for the Nov. 18 tree lighting. Submitted.

This weekend, Nov. 16–18, kicks off the holiday season in Door County. Festivities start in Sturgeon Bay with the Christmas by the Bay celebration, and Ellison Bay closes out the weekend with a community tree lighting. In the weeks ahead, the Pulse will highlight holiday celebrations taking place throughout the peninsula.

Christmas by the Bay

Friday, Nov. 16–Sunday, Nov. 18

The weekend starts with live holiday music performed by Hervy Hodges, Josh Gregory and Michael Raye Nov. 16, 6 pm, at Community Foundation Square, 222 N. Third Ave, Sturgeon Bay. At 7 pm, Mayor Thad Birmingham will lead the tree lighting ceremony countdown. From 6 to 8 pm, free horse-drawn wagon rides will be available. The pick-up location is Door County Eye Associates. During Friday evening’s festivities, stroll throughout Sturgeon Bay to enjoy several holiday open houses in stores for special deals, snacks and beverages. Listen to the Sturgeon Bay High School City Rhythm Show Choir spread holiday cheer along Third Avenue Friday evening.

Saturday, Nov. 17, begins with the holiday parade at 10 am. Line up along the streets of Sturgeon Bay to cheer on the floats as they pass by; Santa will even ride in the parade in his sleigh. Santa will then head to the Door County Historical Museum to meet kids of all ages and to take photos from 11 am to 2 pm. After getting your picture taken with Santa, hop on a Door County Trolley for a free ride around town or a horse-drawn wagon ride. The pick-up location is Door County Eye Associates.

The weekend comes to a close with breakfast with Santa at Stone Harbor Resort on Sunday, Nov. 18, 9–11 am. Reservations are required for breakfast; call 920.746.0700.

All are welcome to join the family-friendly holiday festivities. For more information, call 920.743.6246 or visit sturgeonbay.net.

Ellison Bay Christmas Tree Lighting

Sunday, Nov. 18

Gather around the Ellison Bay Christmas tree at 5 pm for a candlelit evening of song, inspiration and fellowship. The lighting, sponsored by the Ellison Bay Service Club, will be followed by a community chili supper at the Mink River Basin. Everyone is invited. For more information, find the Ellison Bay Service Club on Facebook.