Immerse yourself in the joy of holiday shopping in Beaver Dam, where our local retailers offer one-of-a-kind selection of gifts. From charming boutiques to specialty stores, find the perfect presents for your loved ones in an atmosphere filled with festive cheer. After a day of shopping, be sure to make plans to walk through Beaver Dam’s enchanting Rotary Lights display at Swan Park. Illuminate your nights with the twinkling brilliance of our festive decorations, turning our park into a winter wonderland.
Make this holiday season unforgettable for your family with a host of fun and festive activities. From ice skating to art making, Beaver Dam offers a range of holiday adventures on December 6th that will bring smiles to faces of all ages. Create lasting memories with your loved ones as you embrace the spirit of the season – be sure to attend our annual holiday parade – a must-see event featuring fun floats, marching bands, and, of course, Santa & Mrs. Claus (and more!) Bring the whole family and share in the joy of the season as the parade winds its way through the heart of downtown Beaver Dam.
Indulge your artistic side at our Holiday Gift Gallery at the Dodge County Center for the Arts, where local artisans showcase their masterpieces. Find unique and handcrafted treasures that make for truly special gifts. Support the local arts scene and bring home something extraordinary for your loved ones. Discover the joy of holiday shopping at our eclectic mix of unique retailers. From charming antique shops to contemporary boutiques, Beaver Dam has something for every taste. Find the perfect holiday gifts and support local businesses while enjoying the festive spirit that fills the air.
This holiday season, make Beaver Dam your go-to destination for a festive experience like no other. From unique shopping events and promotions to amazing lights and family-friendly adventures, there’s something for everyone in our charming town. Embrace the magic, create memories, and celebrate the heart of the holidays in Beaver Dam!
Holiday Shopping Events
DCCA Holiday Gift Gallery
Event Dates: Wednesday, November 5, 2025 – January 10, 2026
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit at the Dodge County Center for the Arts‘ Holiday Gift Gallery, where creativity and community converge. This enchanting market showcases an array of unique, one-of-a-kind gifts meticulously crafted by talented local artists. Wander through the vibrant stalls adorned with handmade treasures, from intricate ceramics to captivating paintings. The spirit of giving is made even more delightful with the complimentary gift wrap station, where each purchase becomes a beautifully wrapped masterpiece. As you peruse the market, take a moment to savor the warmth of the season with a complimentary cup of hot cocoa. The Holiday Gift Gallery is not just a shopping experience; it’s a celebration of local artistry, community, and the joy of finding that perfect, heartfelt gift for your loved ones.
Holiday Hustle Shopping Event
The Holiday Hustle Shopping Event is brought to you by this generous sponsor: Powersports Company
Event Dates: November 10 – 23
From Monday, November 10 – Sunday, November 23, support your favorite local retailers and restaurants during the Holiday Hustle Shopping Event and snag a FREE holiday gift just for shopping small!
Here’s how it works:
Spend $25 or more at any participating Beaver Dam business.
Bring your receipt:
– Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM–4:30 PM | The Beaver Dam Chamber and Visitor Center, 127 S. Spring St.
– Saturday, November 22, 10AM-4PM, The Nancy Zieman Sewing Studio & Quilt Shop , 120 Front St.
– Sunday, November 23, 10AM-5PM, Brehm’s Wondercreek Nursery, N7127 S Crystal Lake Rd.
Redeem your receipt for your choice of gift from Beth and Daisy Boutique or Earthshine Candles
One $25+ receipt = one gift
Qualifying receipts must be dated Nov. 10–23
Bonus! Every qualifying receipt of $25+ also enters you to win:
• $25 gift cards from participating businesses
• A $100 Chamber Check to spend locally
Winners will be announced Tuesday, November 25 on Facebook. We will also notify winners via email/phone call.
When you shop local, you’re not just crossing names off your list—you’re investing in your community, supporting local jobs, and finding unique treasures you can’t order online.
Skip the shipping delays. Shop early. Shop local. Unwrap a little holiday magic in Beaver Dam!
Participating Locations:
Animart
Art on the Town WI: The Studio
The Bank ESports
Blue Hawaii
Beth & Daisy
Brehm’s Wondercreek Nursery
Chippy’s Popcorn
Copper Squared
Dodge County Center for the Arts
The Dove Apothecary
Earthshine Candle Factory Outlet Store
The Glass Cellar
Habitat for Humanity Restore
Let’s Go Play
McKinstry’s Home Furnishings
Nancy Zieman Sewing Studio & Quilt Shop
Rosalee Book Boutique
Get Caught Shopping Small
Get Caught Shopping Small is brought to you by this generous sponsor: Vintage Parts
Event Date: Saturday, November 29, 2025
Celebrate Small Business Saturday in Beaver Dam! Chamber elves will try and “catch” you shopping on Small Business Saturday, November 29, 10:00 am – 3:00 pm. Shop at any participating business for your chance to win prizes just for SHOPPING LOCALLY!
Chamber elves will be going into participating businesses looking for shoppers. If YOU are one of the shoppers who is “caught,” you’ll be handed an immediate prize.
Participating Locations:
Animart
Art on the Town WI: The Studio
The Bank ESports
Blue Hawaii
Beth & Daisy
Brehm’s Wondercreek Nursery
Chippy’s Popcorn
Copper Squared
Dodge County Center for the Arts
The Dove Apothecary
Earthshine Candle Factory Outlet Store
The Glass Cellar
Great Harvest Bakery & Cafe
Habitat for Humanity Restore
Let’s Go Play
McKinstry’s Home Furnishings
Nancy Zieman Sewing Studio & Quilt Shop
Rosalee Book Boutique
Cocoa Walk & Shop Event
Event Date: Saturday, December 13, 2025
10 am – 4 pm (hours of operation for businesses may vary)
For the LOVE OF CHOCOLATE! Bring your sweetheart or just your sweet tooth to enjoy delicious samples of hot cocoa and chocolate treats while shopping small for the holidays in downtown Beaver Dam discovering new businesses and new sights.
Enjoy shopping and sampling! Shopping doesn’t get sweeter than this! This is a free sampling event while supplies last!
Participating Locations:
Active Outfitters
Animart
Art on the Town WI: The Studio
The Bank ESports
Blue Hawaii
Beth & Daisy
Chippy’s Popcorn
Copper Squared
Design Plus
Dunkin Donuts
Dodge County Center for the Arts
The Dove Apothecary
Earthshine Candle Factory Outlet Store
The Glass Cellar
Great Harvest Bakery & Cafe
Habitat for Humanity Restore
Julie R Dance & Skate
Let’s Go Play
McKinstry’s Home Furnishings
Nancy Zieman Sewing Studio & Quilt Shop
Rosalee Book Boutique
Spartan Flooring
Indulge in the joy of the season by exploring the diverse array of local businesses waiting to be discovered in Beaver Dam. From charming dress shops and artisanal boutiques to cozy bookstores and eclectic resale and thrift shops, you’ll uncover a treasure trove of unique finds for everyone on your list. Dive into creativity with art-making supplies, yarn for the crafters in your life, quilting and sewing fabric and supplies, or exquisite home décor and furnishings that tell a story. Savor the flavors of the community with visits to ethnic restaurants, cafés, and bakeries. And for those who love the classic flair of Western wear, find the perfect ensemble at a nearby boutique.
This year, we’ve pulled together a Beaver Dam Holiday Gift Guide to remind you just how many amazing gifts you can find right here at home. From cozy, creative, and delicious to fun, thoughtful, and totally unexpected—our local shops truly have it all. Use the guide as inspiration as you explore, discover, and check off your holiday shopping list with finds that feel personal and meaningful.
When you choose to shop local, you’re doing more than picking out a perfect gift—you’re supporting a neighbor, strengthening a dream, and investing in the community we all love. Each purchase helps our small businesses thrive, keeps dollars circulating in Beaver Dam, and ensures that the heart and character of our town continue to shine.
Let this holiday season be a celebration of local flavors, creativity, and the vibrant tapestry of small businesses that make Beaver Dam special.
Happy holidays—and happy exploring! 🎁✨
Click HERE to visit our “Shop” webpage to find a local business.
The Hap-Hap-Happiest Holiday Crawl in Beaver Dam!
Step into the magic of the season at Beaver Dam’s first-ever Jingle & Mingle Holiday Crawl on Saturday, December 13 from Noon–5 PM! Gather your festive crew for an afternoon bursting with holiday cheer, spirited specials, unlimited shuttle rides, and the hap-hap-happiest good time this side of Beaver Dam. Your $10 registration includes all-day access to the Holiday Shuttle and a jingle bell necklace—your merry keepsake and your shuttle pass. With a growing list of participating bars, drink specials coming soon, a festive morning kick-off, and prizes for the most spirited costumes, this is your new favorite holiday tradition in the making. Plus, every registration helps support the Dodge County Food Pantry, spreading joy where it’s needed most.
Ready to jingle all the way? Click HERE to learn more and pre-register to secure your spot today!
Holiday Experiences
Santa's Hometown Holiday Adventure
Santa’s Hometown Holiday Adventure brought to you by this generous sponsor: Vintage Parts
Event Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025
Hours Vary
Start your day with an Adventure through Santa’s Hometown! Experience a fun-filled day stacked with activities for the whole family, and maybe meet a few of your favorite characters along the way!
Attendees will enjoy countless adventures including a visit to Santa’s Magical Workshop and special appearances by the Santa, Rudolph, and the Grinch! Schedule of events coming soon!
Round out your day and stay for the magic at our Holiday Parade!
Holiday Parade "Rock'n the Holidays"
The Holiday Parade features are brought to you by these generous sponsors: JB Mechanical and Moraine Park Technical College.
Event Date: Saturday, December 6, 2025 at 5 pm
The Beaver Dam Holiday Parade serves as the spectacular conclusion to Santa’s Hometown Holiday Adventure. Get ready to experience the magic and join us on December 6th as we come together to celebrate the warmth and togetherness that defines this wonderful time of year.
Highlights of the Parade:
1. Santa and Mrs. Claus: No holiday parade would be complete without the star of the show, Santa Claus himself! Watch with wonder as they make their grand entrance via horse and carriage, bringing joy and excitement to parade-goers of all ages. Thank you to Generac for sponsoring the horse and carriage – making sure that Santa and Mrs. Claus ride in style!
3. Marching Band: Feel the beat and rhythm of the season as Beaver Dam’s own talented High School marching band comes together to fill the air with the sounds of joy. Their lively performance will have you tapping your feet and getting into the holiday groove.
3. Spectacular Floats: “Rock’n the Holidays” comes to life in a dazzling display of creativity and imagination with a variety of floats. Local businesses, organizations, community groups, and individuals have put their heart and soul into these eye-catching displays, showcasing the essence of what it means to rock the holidays!
4. Community Spirit: The Beaver Dam Holiday Parade is more than just a procession; it’s a time for our community to come together, celebrate cherished traditions, and create new memories. It’s a time to reflect on the importance of “Rock’n Holidays” and sharing the joy of the season with friends and neighbors.
Join us at the Beaver Dam Rockin’ the Holidays Holiday Parade on December 6th. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, this event promises to be a heartwarming and festive experience that captures the true spirit of the season. Come share in the magic, the merriment, and the memories as we light up the holiday season in our beautiful community. We can’t wait to welcome you home!
The parade will run on the 100 block of Front St., turning right on 100-300 blocks of S Spring Street, turning right at Mill Street and ending at S. Center St. Public restrooms available at The Watermark from 4 pm to 6 pm – stop in and warm up before the parade!
Rotary Lights at Swan Park
Event Dates: Opens November 28, 2025 through January 3, 2026
Experience the Magic of Beaver Dam’s Rotary Light Display in Swan Park
Beaver Dam’s beloved Rotary Light Display returns to Swan Park for the 2025 holiday season, transforming the park into a breathtaking winter wonderland. Sponsored and organized by the Beaver Dam Rotary, this dazzling walk-through display features thousands of sparkling lights, whimsical decorations, and festive cheer for the whole family. Admission is free, and the display is open nightly from Friday, November 28, 2025, through Saturday, January 3, 2026.
The festivities begin with a Lighting Ceremony on Friday, November 28 at 5:00 PM, officially kicking off the season with thousands of twinkling lights and warm holiday spirit. Throughout the season, visitors can enjoy complimentary hot cocoa on select nights, making each visit a cozy and memorable experience:
Friday, November 28 – Cocoa served from 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM (Lighting Ceremony at 5:00 PM)
Saturday, November 29 – Cocoa served from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Saturday, December 6 – Cocoa served from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM (after the Holiday Parade)
Friday, December 12 – Cocoa served from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Saturday, December 13 – Cocoa served from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Saturday, December 20 – Cocoa served from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
December 27 – Cocoa served from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Wednesday, December 17 is an especially festive evening as Santa Claus makes a special stop at the Rotary Lights from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM. It’s the perfect night to gather the family, sip cocoa, and enjoy the season’s magic together.
Whether you’re starting a new tradition or continuing a cherished one, the Rotary Light Display in Swan Park offers a heartwarming way to celebrate the holidays. Bundle up, bring your loved ones, and take a stroll through one of Beaver Dam’s most magical seasonal experiences. The final night to enjoy the lights will be Saturday, January 3, 2026—don’t miss it!
Holiday Open House at the DCHS
Event Date: Saturday, December 7, 2024 1pm – 6pm
The Dodge County Historical Society & Museum cordially invites you to their annual Holiday Open House on Saturday, December 7 from 1 pm – 6 pm. Enjoy free hot chocolate, coffee, juice and cookies while exploring the museum and learning all about Beaver Dam and surrounding Dodge County area history.
Holiday Open House at the Chamber
Beaver Dam Chamber & Visitor Center Holiday Open House brought to you by this generous sponsor: Old Hickory Golf Club
Event Date: Saturday, December 6, 4pm – 6pm
(Tree Lighting with the Mayor at 4:30pm)
Chamber of Commerce members and their families are invited to join us for a delightful Beaver Dam Chamber & Visitor Center Holiday Open House! Warm up before the Holiday Parade with hot cocoa and festive treats. Let your creativity shine with arts and crafts activities for all ages. The highlight of the evening will be our tree lighting, marking the start of the holiday season. Bring your family and share in the holiday spirit with fellow chamber members.
Beaver Dam Holiday Window Decorating Contest
Calling all Beaver Dam businesses and organizations! Let’s spread the joy of the season by transforming our downtown into a festive wonderland. Join us for the 2024 Holiday Window Decorating Contest with the theme “Rock’n the Holidays!”
Here’s how you can participate:
Decorate or Paint Your Storefront Windows: Use your creativity and choose any medium you like to bring the holiday spirit to your storefront.
Contest Registration: Submit the 2024 Holiday Window Decorating Contest Registration Form no later than Monday, November 22nd. You can drop it off at Church Health Services, 115 N. Center St, Beaver Dam WI, or email it to Bev Beal Loeck at bevb@churchclinic.org.
Important Dates:
📅 Entry Form Due: Monday, November 22nd.
🕔 Windows Must Be Decorated By: 5 p.m. on Monday, December 2nd.
📸 Judging and Photography: Monday Evening, December 2nd, by DBDI.
👀 Viewers’ Favorite Voting: Starts on Tuesday, December 3rd, on the DBDI Facebook Page.
🏆 Winner Announcement: Monday Evening, December 9th.
Get ready to showcase your holiday spirit and make Beaver Dam shine brighter than ever! Let’s make this a festive season to remember! 🎁
Epic Christmas Decorating Contest
The house with the most food items will be crowned the winner and take home the coveted traveling trophy! All food donations will be joyfully delivered to our local food pantry, spreading the warmth and cheer of the holidays. Drive through our two enchanting subdivisions and experience the magic of Christmas while making a difference in the lives of those in need. For those on Zimmerman Drive, please use the West entrance, as the East entrance will be barricaded to ensure smooth, one-way traffic flow.
Don’t miss out on the festive vibes! Grab a cup of hot chocolate, available for purchase, and make this holiday season one to remember. Let’s come together, celebrate, and give back to our community!
The Beaver Dam Area Chamber of Commerce is not the organizer of this event. Please click here for more info or to contact the organizer directly.
Proud Sponsors of our Holiday Events
