Plan a roadtrip to Janesville, Wisconsin to celebrate heartwarming holiday cheer! You’ll find festively fun shopping and dining in Janesville’s vibrant downtown and at favorite holiday events such the Holiday Light Show, Jolly Jingle, and many more.
Our city’s family-friendly atmosphere, affordability, and convenient location make it super simple to plan a visit. Janesville is less than 2 hours from Chicago and Milwaukee, and less than one hour from Rockford and Madison, with easy access off of I-39/90.
Holiday Light Show at Rotary Botanical Gardens
Wander wide-eyed through 20 acres of gardens transformed into a dazzling winter wonderland, illuminated by over 2 million lights and filled with festive displays, hot cocoa, carolers, and holiday cheer.
New for 2025, guests will be invited to linger and celebrate at an indoor Christmas Market, featuring artisan vendors with one-of-a-kind holiday gifts, a limited-edition holiday ornament, holiday food & drink, festive music & entertainment, and visits with Santa.
Jolly Jingle
Welcome the holiday season at Jolly Jingle, a festive weekend held on December 5-7 in Downtown Janesville. This beloved holiday festival features more than 30 free and low cost events and activities over 3 days, and includes dazzling fireworks, a spectacular lighted parade, holiday markets, Santa visits, decorated holiday windows, ice skating, live theater, kids activities, and plenty of shopping and dining.
Holiday Tree Show at the Lincoln-Tallman Museum
Experience the magic of more than 140 trees uniquely decorated by local businesses, organizations, & families inside the beautiful Lincoln-Tallman House during the Holiday Tree Show!
This open-house style tour is perfect for all ages! Bring the kids to enjoy a holiday activity booklet and stuffed-Santa scavenger hunt, featuring hidden Santas throughout the house. Then stroll the beautifully decorated grounds and visit the Carriage House Hospitality Suite, adorned with trees, garlands, and a vintage sleigh. Relax with a festive drink at the bar and take a photo with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
A Show at the Janesville Performing Arts Center
Experience a live performance of A Christmas Story – The Musical by JPAC Kids on the stage at the historic and lovely Janesville Performing Arts Center. All the elements from the beloved motion picture are here, including the family’s temperamental exploding furnace; Scut Farkas, the school bully; the boys’ experiment with a wet tongue on a cold lamppost; the Little Orphan Annie decoder pin; Ralphie’s father winning a lamp shaped like a woman’s leg in a net stocking; Ralphie’s fantasy scenarios and more.
Downtown Dining & Shopping
Savor the flavors of the holiday season with a cozy dinner at one of Janesville’s many restaurants. Explore the local shops and boutiques, where you’ll find unique gifts and treasures perfect for your loved ones, while also supporting small businesses!
Ice Sports at the Woodman’s Center
The newly opened Woodman’s Sports & Convention Center is home to the Janesville Jets, Beloit College Buccaneers, Janesville Youth Hockey, and the Janesville Figure Skating Club. Each organization has a winter schedule packed with hockey games, invitationals, tournaments, and performances.
Step onto the ice yourself on most Saturdays and Sundays during Public Skate times!
Check out our complete calendar of events to learn about the dozens of festive holiday events held in the Janesville area during this merry season. To make the most of your visit, consider staying overnight at one of our comfortable and welcoming lodging facilities which includes options at bed & breakfasts located in the heart of our historic districts. For more information, give us a call at 608-757-3171. Our staff is happy to assist you!
