Door County Christmas week: A complete family guide

Door County, Wisconsin transforms into a cozy winter wonderland during Christmas week (December 22-31), offering a unique blend of outdoor beauty, small-town charm, and festive celebrations. Unlike the bustling summer season, winter visitors enjoy peaceful landscapes, crackling fireplaces, and the peninsula's signature fish boils without the crowds. The highlight is Sister Bay's famous New Year's Eve Cherry Drop, where a giant sparkling cherry descends at midnight—Door County's playful tribute to its cherry-growing heritage.

This guide covers everything families need for planning a memorable Christmas week visit, from holiday events to cozy restaurants and budget-friendly activities. One important note: many attractions operate on reduced winter hours, and Christmas Day sees widespread closures, so plan that day carefully.

Light up the final days of December

Door County's Christmas week calendar centers on two signature events that bookend the holiday period. A Glimpse of Christmas Past (December 26-27, 3-6 PM) at Heritage Village in Sturgeon Bay invites families to tour six historic buildings decorated by local nonprofits in period-appropriate style. Enjoy free admission, cookies, and hot chocolate while voting for your favorite display through donations. Contact the Door County Historical Society at 920-421-2332 for details.

The Sister Bay New Year's Eve Cherry Drop draws the biggest crowds of the week. Festivities begin at 8 PM with fireworks at the Sports Complex, followed by ice skating and bonfires. The FM 106.9 The Lodge broadcast starts at 10:30 PM, building to the midnight cherry drop at the corner of Bay Shore Drive and Mill Road. A free shuttle bus runs 5 PM to 2 AM throughout Sister Bay. On New Year's Day, Egg Harbor hosts its beloved quirky parade at 1 PM—anyone can join with costumes, pets, decorated vehicles, or construction equipment.

The Door County Christmas Movie Trail runs through December 31, offering a free self-guided tour of 16 filming locations from "A Cherry Pie Christmas." Check in at 10 locations using the mobile-based system to earn an exclusive coffee mug; 14 locations unlocks a limited-edition Door County Coffee. Sign up at DoorCounty.com/movie.

For live holiday entertainment, Northern Sky Theater presents "Home for the Holidays 2025" at the Gould Theater in Fish Creek from December 27-31 at 4 PM, featuring intimate seasonal songs and holiday humor in their stunning wooded theater. The Landmark Resort in Egg Harbor hosts a New Year's Eve celebration with a 3-course dinner (5-10 PM), live music, and cocktails until midnight.

State parks offer winter magic for all skill levels

Door County's five state parks remain open year-round, though Rock Island is inaccessible in winter (the Karfi Ferry closes in October). A Wisconsin State Park vehicle pass costs $13 daily or $28 annually for Wisconsin plates ($16/$38 for out-of-state). Cross-country skiers ages 16+ need an additional trail pass ($5/day or $25/annual).

Peninsula State Park in Fish Creek is the winter centerpiece, featuring 16 miles of groomed cross-country skiing trails, 6 miles of snowshoe trails, and the 60-foot Eagle Tower with its accessible 850-foot ramp offering panoramic Green Bay views. Families love Hill 17 for sledding (bring your own equipment; no toboggans). The Eagle Trail (2.1 miles, difficult) showcases spectacular 150-foot Niagara Escarpment cliffs, while the Sunset Trail offers an easy 0.6-mile graveled option suitable for all ages.

Newport State Park near Ellison Bay holds special distinction as Wisconsin's only wilderness state park and first International Dark Sky Park. The 18-20 miles of groomed cross-country trails and potential for Northern Lights viewing make it worth the drive north. The park's 30+ miles of hiking trails include the wheelchair-accessible Fern Trail (1.2 miles).

Cave Point County Park deserves special mention—it's free (unlike state parks) and features the peninsula's most dramatic winter scenery. When temperatures drop, Lake Michigan waves create spectacular ice formations on the dolomite cliffs. Wear sturdy boots or microspikes, as conditions are slippery, and stay several feet from cliff edges.

For equipment rentals, Nor Door Sport & Cyclery in Fish Creek offers skis for $15/day. The Ridges Sanctuary in Baileys Harbor rents snowshoes and leads guided naturalist hikes. Crossroads at Big Creek in Sturgeon Bay offers free ski and snowshoe rentals on weekends.

Indoor attractions keep families warm

Door County Maritime Museum

Door County Maritime Museum (120 North Madison Avenue, Sturgeon Bay) anchors the indoor attraction scene with interactive exhibits and the 10-story Jim Kress Maritime Lighthouse Tower. Winter hours are 10 AM-5 PM daily, with admission at $17 adults, $8 youth (5-17). Note holiday closures: Christmas Day, New Year's Eve, and New Year's Day; Christmas Eve closes at 2 PM. The "Merry-Time Festival of Trees" displays beautifully decorated Christmas trees throughout the museum during the holiday season.

The Miller Art Museum inside the Sturgeon Bay Library offers free admission year-round (Monday 10 AM-7 PM, Tuesday-Saturday 10 AM-5 PM, closed Sundays). This fine art museum features rotating exhibitions and 20th-century Wisconsin art—a genuine hidden gem for families seeking culture without crowds.

Door County's winery trail makes winter visits special. Door Peninsula Winery in Carlsville (5806 Hwy 42) offers free tastings of 70+ wines, ciders, and meads plus free tours on the hour from 10 AM-4 PM. Winter hours are daily 9 AM-5 PM (closed Christmas Day). The upgraded tour ($18) includes a glass of wine, spirit tasting, logo shot glass, and chocolate-covered cherries. The adjacent Door County Distillery serves spirits tastings at $2 per sample with award-winning Cherry Brandy and Bourbon.

Simon Creek Vineyard & Winery (the county's largest vineyard) opens daily 11 AM-4 PM through winter. Lautenbach's Orchard Country Winery in Fish Creek operates Thursday-Saturday and Monday 10 AM-4 PM.

Craft beer enthusiasts should visit Door County Brewing Co. in Baileys Harbor, which maintains winter hours Thursday-Sunday with live music every Saturday from 3-7 PM. The family-friendly taproom welcomes kids (dogs allowed in the beer garden only). Sister Bay Bowl combines 6 bowling lanes with a beloved supper club—open Sunday-Thursday from 4 PM, Friday-Saturday from 11 AM.

Cherry Lanes Arcade Bar in Sturgeon Bay (127 N. 4th Avenue) offers one of Wisconsin's oldest bowling alleys (since 1929), 4 first-come lanes, 50+ arcade games including pinball, and a full bar and kitchen. This venue works for families with kids and adults seeking evening entertainment.

Fish boils and Swedish pancakes anchor the dining scene

Door County's signature culinary experience—the traditional fish boil—operates year-round and makes a perfect winter activity. The theatrical outdoor cooking culminates in a dramatic "boilover" fireball, followed by a meal of Lake Michigan whitefish, red potatoes, coleslaw, homemade bread, and Door County cherry pie.

White Gull Inn in Fish Creek runs the most famous fish boil (since 1959) every Friday during winter at approximately $27.75 adults, $17 children. Reservations are essential and book up quickly. Their cherry-stuffed French toast won Good Morning America's Best Breakfast Challenge. Christmas Eve hours run 7:30 AM-2:30 PM; the inn closes Christmas Day.

Pelletier's Restaurant in Fish Creek offers multiple boilovers nightly at 5, 6, and 7 PM with walk-up availability more likely than White Gull. Kettle Black Fish Boil operates Friday-Saturday in winter with both traditional fish and a unique Cajun shrimp boil option at 6:30 PM. The Old Post Office Restaurant in Ephraim uniquely debones fish tableside; call 920-854-4034 for winter hours.

Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant in Sister Bay remains open in winter (7 AM-3 PM daily) for its famous Swedish pancakes with lingonberries, though the iconic goats will not be on the sod roof—they return late May through mid-October. Christmas Eve hours run 7 AM-2 PM; closed Christmas Day.

For fine dining, CHOP Steakhouse in Sister Bay offers certified Angus beef with lake views (reservations at 920-854-2700). Chives in Baileys Harbor earned James Beard Award semifinalist status for its farm-to-table menu. Nightingale Supper Club in Sturgeon Bay has served classic Wisconsin supper club fare since 1913—expect prime rib, Friday fish fry, and live entertainment.

Restaurants open Christmas Day are limited: The English Inn (Fish Creek, noon-7 PM) and Waterfront Mary's (Sturgeon Bay, 11 AM-close) are the most reliable options. Husby's in Sister Bay opens at 6 PM.

Lodging: romantic B&Bs to family resorts

Accommodations during Christmas week typically run 15-30% higher than regular winter rates. Book 2-3 months ahead for holiday stays, and expect 2-3 night minimums at many properties.

The Landmark Resort in Egg Harbor is Door County's largest property with 294 suites, making it ideal for families and groups. Amenities include 3 outdoor pools (seasonal), 1 indoor pool (24/7), 4 hot tubs, fitness center, and nature trails. One to three-bedroom condos with full kitchens range from $275-$450+ per night during the holidays.

For romance, White Lace Inn in Sturgeon Bay has been named one of America's Ten Most Romantic Inns three times. The 18 guest rooms across four Victorian homes feature oversize whirlpools and fireplaces at $225-$400 per night. Blacksmith Inn on the Shore in Baileys Harbor offers adults-only lakeside rooms with harbor views, in-room whirlpools, and fireplaces.

Glidden Lodge Beach Resort on Lake Michigan provides condominium-style accommodations with waterfront views, full kitchens, gas-log fireplaces, private beach, indoor pool, and proximity to Cave Point. Their "Stay 3 Nights, Get 4th Free" winter special represents excellent value at $200-$400 per night.

For budget-conscious families, AmericInn by Wyndham Sturgeon Bay offers an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna, and complimentary breakfast at $150-$220 per night. Holiday Music Motel in Sturgeon Bay provides basic accommodations at $120-$200 per night with free parking and WiFi.

Several properties offer holiday packages: Sand Bay Beach Resort includes a Christmas-decorated suite, cookie decorating kits, hot chocolate, and a movie library when booking 3+ nights. Hillside Waterfront Hotel in Ephraim (a filming location for "A Cherry Pie Christmas") includes champagne, local gifts, and a $50 Door County gift certificate.

Pet-friendly options include Country House Resort, Edgewater Resort, Door County Cottages, and properties from DC Cabin Collective (all dog-friendly waterfront cabins).

Shopping districts offer local artisan treasures

Fish Creek serves as the shopping hub with Founder's Square (15+ shops), Liberty Square (award-winning complex), and downtown boutiques. Highlights include On Deck Clothing for year-round nautical-inspired apparel, The Ginger House for international homewares and custom Door County toile pajamas, and Hide Side Corner Store for leather goods and fine art.

Sturgeon Bay's 3rd Avenue Historic District maintains the most consistent winter hours, with candy stores, the Door County Marketplace, and antique shops. Sister Bay features Al Johnson's Butik for Scandinavian clogs and specialty foods, plus SKÄL for Nordic-inspired goods.

For Door County's famous cherry products, Cherry De-Lite/Country Ovens in Forestville offers free factory tours (viewing window and video) plus free samples of dried cherries, cranberries, chocolate-covered cherries, and cherry salsa. Open year-round; call 920-856-6767. Seaquist Orchards in Sister Bay sells what many consider the county's best cherry pie, along with a large children's playscape.

Renard's Cheese provides free samples of their award-winning cheddars and 50+ specialty varieties, plus fudge, olive oils, and an outdoor playset for kids—making it a perfect multi-generational stop.

Main Street Antiques in Egg Harbor spans 19,000 square feet across 4 buildings for serious antiquing. 'Tis the Season nearby offers year-round Christmas shopping.

Many shops operate Friday-Sunday only in winter. Call ahead during Christmas week, and note that December 24-25 sees widespread closures.

Activities match every age and budget

For young children, Door County Candle Company lets kids hand-dip candles for $2.50. Renard's Cheese and Seaquist Orchards both feature outdoor playsets alongside their free samples. The Maritime Museum offers interactive exhibits where kids can steer virtual ships. Wilson's Restaurant in Ephraim delights children with model trains that deliver food to tables, plus an outdoor playground with pedal cars.

Teenagers gravitate toward Cherry Lanes Arcade Bar for bowling and 50+ arcade games, Hands on Art Studio for DIY ceramics and fused glass projects, and sledding at Peninsula State Park's Hill 17.

Adults and couples find romance in candlelit fish boil dinners at White Gull Inn, the wine trail (8 wineries, several open in winter), brewery visits, and spa services at venues like Saguaro Day Spa in Sturgeon Bay or Spa at Sacred Grounds in Ephraim.

Free and low-cost activities abound. Cave Point County Park costs nothing and features the peninsula's most spectacular winter scenery. Anderson Dock in Ephraim invites visitors to add their names to a graffiti tradition dating to 1910. Self-guided historic walking tours, the Barn Quilt Driving Tour, and sunrise/sunset viewing along the shores cost nothing. Gallery browsing throughout all villages provides cultural enrichment without purchase pressure.

Crossroads at Big Creek in Sturgeon Bay offers free ski and snowshoe rentals on weekends—the area's best value for winter sports. The state park daily pass ($13) grants access to hundreds of miles of trails across four parks.

Weather preparation ensures comfortable exploration

December in Door County means temperatures averaging 30°F highs and 15°F lows, with wind off Lake Michigan and Green Bay making it feel colder. Snow is likely but not guaranteed; cross-country skiing availability depends on early-season accumulation.

Pack layered synthetic clothing, waterproof boots, microspikes for icy trails (especially at Cave Point), and sunglasses for snow glare. Many attractions move between indoor and outdoor settings, so versatile clothing matters.

Check current trail conditions at DoorCounty.com/winter or the Wisconsin DNR website before planning outdoor activities. Ice on Lake Michigan is never safe to walk on, regardless of appearance.

Practical planning essentials for Christmas week

The Door County Coastal Byway (66-mile National Scenic Byway) loops through all 11 coastal communities on Highways 42 and 57, connecting lighthouses, state parks, and villages. This drive alone provides a comprehensive Door County introduction.

Sister Bay offers the most year-round dining options and hosts the biggest New Year's celebration. Sturgeon Bay has the most consistent winter business hours and practical services. Fish Creek combines great shopping with proximity to Peninsula State Park. Plan your days around these hubs.

For Christmas Day specifically, expect most businesses to close. Stock up on groceries and plan meals at your lodging, or make reservations at The English Inn or Waterfront Mary's well in advance.

Transportation note: Uber is available, especially in Sturgeon Bay, though service is limited compared to urban areas. Having a car is essential for exploring the peninsula.

Conclusion

Door County during Christmas week offers a distinctly different experience from its bustling summer season—quieter, cozier, and equally charming. The peninsula's winter appeal lies in theatrical fish boils by candlelight, ice formations at Cave Point, the playful Cherry Drop countdown, and the warmth of historic inns with crackling fireplaces. While the goats won't be on the roof and some attractions close seasonally, the reduced crowds mean easier access to beloved spots and more intimate encounters with local culture.

The key to a successful Christmas week visit is advance planning: book lodging and fish boil reservations 2-3 months ahead, verify winter hours by calling ahead, and plan for Christmas Day closures. Most visitors find that combining active outdoor days (state parks, Cave Point, scenic drives) with indoor experiences (wineries, museums, galleries) creates the ideal winter itinerary. Sister Bay's New Year's Eve celebration provides a festive finale that captures Door County's quirky, community-centered spirit—a giant cherry descending at midnight perfectly encapsulates why this peninsula has earned such devoted fans.