Milwaukee doesn’t do dainty in December. Instead, the city rolls out giant, hand-painted ornaments that look borrowed from Paul Bunyan’s holiday stash. The Ornament Trail is back and bigger than ever, with new pieces popping up across more neighborhoods.
Welcome to winter in Milwaukee, where the cold just means the art gets bigger and brighter. Little tiny trinkets? Milwaukee says “Hold my… Christmas tree!”
We’re talking about the Milwaukee Ornament Trail! Picture this, 20 hand painted ornaments, only they’re about 4 feet around and look like they could fit on ol’ Paul Bunyan’s tree!
The woman leading the charge for this year’s installation is the Placemaking and Program Manager at Milwaukee Downtown Bid 21, Daisy Perez.
“This is something that we have been doing for three years now and we’re excited to bring it back for all in Milwaukee to enjoy,” says Perez.
Their team has been excited to grow the trail every year. It started with a strong concept for 2025, they’ve expanded in scope.
Perez explains, “Back when it started, we had 15 larger than life ornaments to can be seen on the trail there. But this year we actually added five new ornaments, which we are super excited about. We got together and we selected our finalists here and then those finalists are the five new ornaments that you’ll be able to see and experience new for this year on the trail.”
That means these massive works of public art are now spread across the city! The expansion goes beyond the traditional footprint in downtown. Now they are inviting families to explore more of Milwaukee’s neighborhoods.
“I think ultimately the goal is to be able to add more. We did start off only on Wisconsin Ave. We then went on to include Water St. and now we do have those pieces over in the Third Ward, and extending out to Davidson Park,” shares Perez.
With so much to see, it’s hard to keep track without a guide, but the Downtown team has you covered. They have created a complimentary activity guide that not only maps out the art but also makes a trip downtown worthwhile for families.
Perz says, “We definitely encourage families to pick up a free ornament trail activity guide and that includes a map, details on each artist’s design, and exclusive coupons for nearby businesses along the route as well.”
It’s a truly free event for the whole family, perfect for a weekend outing. So how long will this magnificent holiday display be around?
“The ornaments will be on display for all to enjoy through January 18 of 2026. And they are a part of the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival,” explains Perez.
So grab the family, find your favorite ornament, and get those Instagram-able selfies, suitable for those holiday letters for the family!
For more information about the whole event check out The Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival.
