Some of the best holiday shopping can be found in the boutiques and artisan markets sprinkled throughout the Fox Cities. Take Neenah’s Red Door Mercantile. This modern-day general store sells a wide array of merchandise, from home décor and kids’ goods to Wisconsin-themed items and specialty foods. Appleton’s Blue Moon Emporium offers a carefully curated collection of items from local artists, including jewelry, ceramics and clothing.
Love antiquing? More than 150 vendors selling vintage items are tucked into Memories Antique Mall in Little Chute. You’ll also find collectibles, furniture, coins and more. Over in Kaukauna, the expansive Harp Gallery is filled with furniture representing a variety of styles, such as Arts and Crafts, Georgian and Art Deco. The shop also carries art, lighting, china and glass.
Skate at The Plaza
Every winter, The Plaza in downtown Neenah features an ice skating rink modeled after the famous Rink
At Rockefeller Center in New York City. Bring your own skates, or rent a pair, then glide along the ice to celebrate the new season. When the weather is nippy, grab a mug of hot cocoa at Globe Coffee, which lies within The Plaza. You can also purchase a s’mores roasting kit and craft your own sweet treats at one of the outdoor fire pits.
Catch a Show at the Fox Cities PAC
This winter, the Fox Cities Performing Arts Center, based in Appleton, is welcoming these popular productions.
“Mrs. Doubtfire” (Nov. 19–24)
After losing custody of his kids following a divorce, this out-of-work actor transforms himself into a Scottish nanny to stay in his children’s lives.
“Mamma Mia!” (Dec. 17–22)
Told through the music of ABBA, a daughter’s search for her unknown father brings three men from her mother’s past back to a Greek island they all once visited.
Disney’s “The Lion King” (Jan. 8–26, 2025)
This landmark musical tells the story of Simba, a young lion prince destined to be king.
