By Maura Keller | Photo by Peer Canvas
Named “Wisconsin’s Most Underrated City” by House Method, Beloit’s Midwest hospitality and charm, numerous events, historic downtown and cultural attractions make it an ideal locale to spend a full weekend and take in the eclectic shops, cafes, restaurants and boutique hotels. In fact, the city’s beautiful waterfront and revitalized downtown offers a cosmopolitan look and feel — without losing its small-town charm.
For 29 years, the Downtown Beloit Association has organized the Grand Lighted Holiday Parade the day after Thanksgiving. The event boasts an impressive schedule of activities and attracts thousands of local community members and visitors alike. Live music, free hot chocolate, photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and decorative floats are just a few of the highlights enjoyed during the gathering.
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS
GRAND LIGHTED HOLIDAY PARADE
Nov. 26
Enjoy the parade, along with live music, hot chocolate and photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
HOLIDAZZLE IN BELOIT
Dec. 3, 5-9 p.m.
Businesses sparkle and light up downtown Beloit for this award-winning event.
In addition, for the past 17 years, Holidazzle has helped people get in the holiday spirit while checking off some gifts on their shopping list. This unique evening shopping experience in historic Downtown Beloit showcases dazzling holiday window displays, carolers and music. More than 25 shops stay open late to give visitors more time to shop. And there’s even a trolley that visitors can enjoy, making the city look like a scene from a Hallmark Christmas movie.
As the “Most Romantic Main Street” award winner, Beloit is also an ideal holiday respite for couples who are eager to embrace the winter festivities and enjoy a fabulous food scene. The city’s luxurious and unique boutique hotels range from the Ironworks Hotel, which is complete with exposed brick and expansive river views, to Hotel Goodwin, located downtown, which exhibits a mixture of classic charm and modern luxury. Beloit’s only bed & breakfast, 1810 Emerson House, is located in an elegant, residential neighborhood near historic Beloit College.
