Each year Janesville, Wisconsin’s Great Outside draws visitors from around the region to enjoy heart-warming holiday cheer at fun events like the Holiday Light Show, Janesville’s Jolly Jingle and more than 60 others. Janesville’s affordability and convenient location make it simple for you to visit. We are less than 2 hours from Chicago and Milwaukee, and less than an hour from Rockford and Madison, with easy access off of I-39/90. We hope you’ll consider visiting during this special season. Here are a few of our top holiday suggestions that are sure to delight you this holiday season!
1. Take in the Incredible Beauty of Rotary Botanical Gardens’ Holiday Light Show
Awaken your holiday spirit as you stroll through the majestic beauty of this awe-inspiring display that features an incredible 750,000 dazzling lights, holiday shopping, Santa visits, entertainment and other fun activities on select nights. The event runs November 29 – December 1 and December 5 – 8, 12 – 15, 19 – 23 and 26 – 30, 4:30 to 8:30 PM. Tickets will be available online and in Rotary Botanical Garden Cottage Garden Gallery. $10 ages 13 and up, $5 ages 3-12, under age 3 free. (Free Parking & Shuttle).
2. Experience Janesville’s Jolly Jingle Presented by SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital to Warm Your Heart
Ring in the holiday season with this fun family weekend, December 6 – 8, held in various locations in charming downtown Janesville. This merry holiday festival features more than 25 events and activities over 3 days and includes dazzling fireworks, ice skating with Santa, live reindeer, lighted parade, live theater, a holiday market, a tree lighting, family entertainment, kids activities and more. Many activities associated with the Jolly Jingle are free or budget friendly!
3. Enjoy a Performance at the Janesville Performing Arts Center to Grow Your Holiday Spirit
Experience a live performance on the stage of the historic and lovely Janesville Performing Arts Center. Performances of It’s a Wonderful Life will be Friday, December 6 & 20 and Saturday, December 21 at 7:30 PM and Saturday, December 7 and Sunday, December 8 & 22 at 2 PM. Get your tickets in advance for Holiday Harmonies, December 14 at 7:30 PM. Enjoy the music of the holidays performed by the Beloit Janesville Symphony during Holiday Pops on December 15 at 2PM. Check the website for ticket pricing. (Free Parking).
4. Spark Your Cheer When You Attend the Lincoln-Tallman House 2019 Holiday
Tree Show
Bring the family to visit the historic Lincoln-Tallman House dressed in all its Christmas finery. View more than 30 trees, each sponsored by a different business or nonprofit. These beautiful and creatively decorated trees will lift your holiday spirit! It’s a holiday tradition for the entire family. Dates correspond with the Rotary Botanical Gardens Holiday Light Show, November 29 – December 1 and December 5 – 8, 12 – 15, 19 – 23 and 26 – 30. Open Thursday and Friday Noon – 7 PM, Saturday and Sunday Noon – 4 PM. Also open Monday, December 23 & 30, Noon – 7 PM. $10 ages 11+, $5 ages 5-10, ages 4 & under free. (Free Parking).
5. To Bring About Merriment, Shop, Drink, Dine and Explore in Janesville’s Scenic Downtown
Whether you’re in search of unique shopping, live entertainment, fun events, public art, self-guided historic tours, exceptional dining, mixology classes or craft brewed beer, Janesville’s downtown is a great place to visit.
6. Create Fun Holiday Memories with Family and Friends at an Exciting Janesville Jets Game
Come on out to the Janesville Ice Arena and cheer on the Janesville Jets as they deliver what is sure to be exciting hockey action! The Jets are taking fun family entertainment to an all new high with game day promotions, giveaways, contests, and more.
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 two bed & breakfasts located in the heart of our historic districts. For more information, give us a call at (800) 487-2757. Our staff is happy to assist you!
