By Molly Snyder Senior Writer Published Sep 30, 2022 at 12:01 PM

It's official: Deer District will be the site of the City of Milwaukee Christmas Tree, illuminated by We Energies, for the 2022 holiday season. 

“We are continuing a grand tradition with some new partners this year, and I am so pleased that our combined efforts will bring the spirit of the holidays to even more Milwaukee residents,” said Mayor Cavalier Johnson. “Deer District has become a central gathering place in Milwaukee, and the official city Christmas tree will be a great complement to all the activity and excitement there.” 

In addition to the City of Milwaukee Christmas Tree, "Cheer District" will also include a Jack Daniel’s barrel tree, B93.3’s Letters to Santa mailbox and over 30 lit trees throughout the plaza surrounding Fiserv Forum.  

Numerous festivities will also be held in Cheer District throughout the holiday season. The Milwaukee Maker’s Market will take place Dec. 9-11 featuring seasoned crafters, artists, freelance designers, performance artists, small business owners and full-time makers.

The MECCA Sports Bar & Grill will host Breakfast with Santa on Dec. 11 that will include pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, an appearance from Bango, a breakfast buffet featuring build-your-own pancake and omelet stations, and a cookie decorating kit. Ticket information for Breakfast with Santa can be found here.  

“We are thrilled to expand Cheer District this holiday season with more family-friendly activities than ever before,” said Michael Belot, Senior Vice President of Bucks Ventures and Development. “Displaying the City of Milwaukee Christmas Tree in Deer District is an extraordinary honor and truly symbolizes the growth of Deer District and downtown Milwaukee.” 

The City of Milwaukee Christmas Tree is the longest running official tree in the United States other than New York City’s. This year will mark the 109th year of the city’s tree.  

For more information on all upcoming Cheer District events, visit deerdistrict.com.  


Molly Snyder started writing and publishing her work at the age 10, when her community newspaper printed her poem, "The Unicorn.” Since then, she's expanded beyond the subject of mythical creatures and written in many different mediums but, nearest and dearest to her heart, thousands of articles for OnMilwaukee.

Molly is a regular contributor to FOX6 News and numerous radio stations as well as the co-host of "Dandelions: A Podcast For Women.” She's received five Milwaukee Press Club Awards, served as the Pfister Narrator and is the Wisconsin State Fair’s Celebrity Cream Puff Eating Champion of 2019.