If you’re looking for a weekend escape that’s full of lights, cheer and neighborly love, Hayward should be your destination. The small “up north” town transforms itself between Thanksgiving and New Years and works to create a community and family-based event entirely run by volunteers. The whole city gets involved and you never know what you might find. Sip variations on hot chocolate, take a sleigh ride, and watch a festive parade – all things the city provides to add to their Christmas magic. Gather up the family and get ready to explore the best winter town in Wisconsin.

The "A Lure of Lights" festival in Hayward is much more than strings of festive bulbs.
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Hayward's the home of the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame, so the festival name is a bit of a pun.
From Black Friday through late December, the city calendar is chock full of Christmas events to keep you entertained, fed and in the holiday spirit.
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The city is lit for the entire month and every day brings new opportunities to find your holly, jolly.
Enjoy a magical horse drawn sleigh ride through downtown Hayward!
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These are offered for free on Saturday, November 30th and Saturday, December 14th from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m.
A full community event, the "Start Your Engines" parade is just for vehicles that promise to go all out with holiday lights and decor.
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They are lit up and decorated for each year's theme, prepared to entertain those who line the parade route.
There are Christmas games, meet-and-greets with Santa, a 5K run and a Gingerbread house contest.
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Literally every night there is something. Come out for the open S'mores Pit.
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Test your kitchen skills in the Gingerbread House contest.

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One of the tastiest events is the Hot Chocolate Crawl.
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Businesses hand out steaming cups of deliciousness to warm you from the inside out.
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There's the obligatory ugly sweater wearing, so pick one up now!
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Spend your Christmas season playing outside at Shue's Pond.
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These events are weather dependent, so be sure to check the website, linked below, for more information to come.
Stop and say hi to Mrs. Claus.
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All the businesses get in the spirit by trying to outdo each other with window decorations and other themed events.
Folks dress up for the 5K and show off some amazing holiday-themed running outfits.
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This winter wonderland town in Wisconsin is full of fun. For more information about Hayward's "A Lure Of Lights," visit their website here.

Have you ever spent Christmas time in Hayward, the best winter town in Wisconsin? What are your favorite events?

What are your favorite places to visit in winter in Wisconsin? If you’re looking for some suggestions, here are the 10 most enchanting, magical Christmas towns In Wisconsin.

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best winter town in Wisconsin

Elisa Regulski | October 25, 2019

What other places are the most festive towns in Wisconsin?

Cedarburg is one of the most festive towns in Wisconsin. This charming place is home to a magnificent Main Street that’s full of one-of-a-kind boutiques. If you’re looking to enjoy some Christmas magic while getting some shopping done, this is the place to go. If you’re yearning for more places to visit in winter in Wisconsin, drive to Ripon. This beautiful destination will make you feel like you stepped inside Charles Dickens’ most famous work. Strolling carolers are around every corner filling the town with cheer.

What are the best things to do for Christmas in Wisconsin?

The Rotary Botanical Gardens is one of the best places to visit in winter in Wisconsin. Every year, this attraction fills the gardens with spectacular lights. See the grounds like never before! This event will definitely make you feel merry and bright. If you loved this holiday attraction, you’ll also want to visit the Making Spirits Bright Drive-Through Lights Show in Sheboygan. This twinkly event lets you take in the Christmas cheer without ever leaving the comfort of your vehicle. Bring the whole family and enjoy the spectacle!

What kinds of activities can I do in winter in Wisconsin?

When snow covers the ground, there’s no better way to enjoy the season than by going snow tubing on Cascade Mountain. This place has a 900-foot chute, and it’ll make your adrenaline soar. Get ready for a roaring good time! For another fun wintertime event, head to the Merrill Sled Dog Race. This lovely excursion is both adorable and exciting.

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