Festive Festivities: Kenosha Prepares for Dual Tree Lighting Celebrations

KENOSHA, Wis. (WRJN) — Kenosha County is set to sparkle this weekend with two major tree lighting ceremonies.

The City of Kenosha will hold its annual “Lightin’ Up” celebration on Friday, Nov. 29, at a new location: Veterans Memorial Park. The event begins at 3:30 p.m., with Mayor David Bogdala and Santa Claus leading the lighting at 4:30 p.m.

Live entertainment, including performances by Ben Mulwana and carolers, will precede the lighting. Following the ceremony, downtown businesses will offer special promotions and family activities. People can enjoy free rides on the Electric Streetcar, including a special “Storytime Streetcar” featuring holiday classics read by Kenosha Public Library staff.

On Saturday, Nov. 30, Kenosha County will host its second annual tree lighting ceremony at Petrifying Springs Park. The festivities start at 11 a.m. with the opening of the Petrifying Springs Biergarten, offering German Glühwein and other refreshments.

County Executive Samantha Kerkman will lead the countdown to light the park’s Christmas tree at 5 p.m. The event will feature live reindeer, ornament decorating, and a performance by local band Would You Kindly?. Families can also enjoy free photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus from 5 to 7 p.m.

There’s a Racine County lighting next week, with Union Grove plugging in Dec. 5.