Top 2024 Door County Holiday Events: November & December Guide

As the year comes to a close and the air turns crisp, Door County transforms into a winter wonderland filled with festive cheer, cozy markets, and holiday traditions. Whether you’re planning a peaceful retreat or looking to embrace the local holiday spirit, Door County offers plenty of events that capture the magic of the season. Here’s a guide to the must-see events happening across the county in November and December 2024. 2024 Door County Holiday Events

November 2024 Events

Saturday, November 16: Christmas by the Bay

Kick off the holiday season in Sturgeon Bay with the Annual Christmas by the Bay Parade, starting at 10:00 AM. The parade winds through town from Sawyer Park, across the Michigan Street Bridge, and ends on 3rd Avenue. Santa will also be making an appearance at the Door County Maritime Museum from 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM, so don’t miss your chance to snap a photo and enjoy the Festival of Trees, showcasing beautifully decorated Christmas trees. To add to the festive atmosphere, enjoy the TAP Indoor Winter Market and free Downtown Trolley Loops throughout the day.

Friday, November 22: Tree Lighting & Community Car Cruise

Join the fun with the Unwrapping Community Car Cruise at 5:30 PM, starting from the Door County Fairgrounds and winding through Sturgeon Bay’s holiday-decorated streets. Afterward, head to Community Foundation Square for the Tree Lighting Ceremony at 7:00 PM, featuring live music and hot chocolate from Door County Mobile Bar. Watch as the town’s Christmas tree lights up, setting the tone for the festive season.

Saturday, November 23: Holiday Hop Sip & Shop

Get your holiday shopping started with the Holiday Hop Sip & Shop in downtown Sturgeon Bay from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Browse local shops, take advantage of exclusive holiday deals, and enjoy festive treats. Santa will also be making a meet-and-greet appearance at The Door County Historical Museum from 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM. Hop on the Downtown Trolley Loops for free rides throughout the shopping district.

Thursday, November 28: Northern Door Turkey Trot and Dog Jog

For those looking to stay active before the big Thanksgiving feast, the Northern Door Turkey Trot and Dog Jog is a fun and family-friendly way to start the holiday. Held at the Door County Fitness Studio in Sister Bay, the event starts at 8:30 AM with a 5K run/walk at 9:00 AM. Bring your leashed dogs and support Friends of Gibraltar through t-shirt and sweatshirt sales.

December 2024 Events

Friday, November 29 – Sunday, December 1: Christkindlmarkt & Holly Days

Door County’s Christkindlmarkt returns for three weekends of festive fun, starting on November 29 in Sister Bay. Modeled after European Christmas markets, you can expect to find traditional Nordic foods, fine artisan goods, and live music, perfect for picking up unique gifts while enjoying the holiday spirit. The market runs Friday-Sunday over three weekends: Nov. 29-Dec. 1, Dec. 6-8, and Dec. 13-15.

In Egg Harbor, Holly Days takes place from November 29-30, offering a full weekend of holiday festivities. From a tree lighting ceremony and caroling to horse-drawn wagon rides and children’s activities, Holly Days is a family-friendly event that captures the magic of the season. Don’t miss the Elf Hunt, Breakfast Bingo, and photos with Santa!

Saturday, December 7: Fish Creek Holiday Pop-Up Market – “Gifts from the Heart”

For those looking for a unique holiday shopping experience, visit the Fish Creek Holiday Pop-Up Market at Edgewood Orchard Galleries. Running from 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM, this event, called “Gifts from the Heart,” features artist-made gifts, hot cocoa, and Bloody Marys, making it the perfect place to find handcrafted treasures for loved ones.

Saturday, December 21: Baileys Harbor Winter Market

Held at the Baileys Harbor Town Hall, the Baileys Harbor Winter Market on December 21 is the ideal spot to find homemade and homegrown products from local vendors. It’s a cozy, local event with a warm holiday atmosphere, perfect for last-minute gift shopping.

Tuesday, December 31: Sister Bay New Year’s Eve Celebration & Cherry Drop

End 2024 with a bang at the Annual fm 106.9 the Lodge Cherry Drop™. Starting at 8:00 PM, the village will host a shopping extravaganza, ice skating, bonfires, dining specials, and an early evening fireworks show at the Sports Complex. At 10:30 PM, FM 106.9 The Lodge will begin playing classic tunes to accompany the countdown to midnight. As the clock strikes twelve, Sister Bay drops its giant, sparkling cherry in a quirky Door County tradition known as the Cherry Drop—an event you won’t want to miss!

Plan Your Door County Winter Getaway

With so many festive events taking place in November and December, Door County is the perfect winter retreat. Whether you’re planning a quiet holiday escape or looking to enjoy some local holiday traditions, there’s something for everyone. After enjoying the festivities, relax in one of the area’s cozy vacation rentals. DoCo Vacations offers a variety of winter-ready accommodations, from lakeside cabins like Snug Life to charming village homes near all the action.

Start planning your Door County winter adventure today and experience the magic of the holidays in this beautiful, welcoming community.