Gingerbread houses & elf workshops: Lake Geneva’s top resorts bring the holiday magic

Lake Geneva transforms into a winter wonderland this season, offering families magical holiday experiences from Thanksgiving celebrations to Santa visits and festive activities throughout December.

The Abbey Resort 

The Abbey Resort in Lake Geneva welcomes the holiday season with exciting celebrations for families.

The holiday fun continues after Thanksgiving with an evening 'Tis the Season Family Dance Party on Friday, Nov. 28, from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. at the Sandbar. This celebration offers music, dancing, and holiday cheer in a festive atmosphere with twinkling lights. Families can enjoy upbeat tunes and show off their dance moves together. Santa's Landing at The Abbey takes place on Saturday, Nov. 29,  from 5-7 p.m., marking the official start of the Christmas season, according to the resort's schedule. The outdoor celebration on the Harbor Lawn features bonfires, holiday music, fresh cookies, hot chocolate, cider, and photo opportunities with Santa against a beautiful lakeside backdrop.

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The Abbey Elf Workshop starts on Friday, Dec. 5, offering Christmas games, activities, and crafts for children and families. Guests can stroll down Santa's Lane and participate in different activities at each workshop, with the event details noting that some activities may require fees. Another special morning event, Rise & Shine... Surprise Santa Visit happens on Sunday, Dec. 7, from 9 a.m.-10 a.m. at the Lobby Fireplace. Children can enjoy sweet treats, holiday sing-alongs, twisted balloon creations, and writing letters to Santa before his grand entrance at 10 a.m., as outlined in the resort's programming.

Brunch With Santa offers families multiple opportunities to meet Santa during the Sunday Harborside Champagne Brunch at 240 West. The schedule indicates this special brunch runs on Sundays from Nov. 30 through Dec. 21, plus Christmas Day, from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Guests can share their Christmas wishes with Santa and take memorable photos during breakfast for $50 per adult and $25 for children ages 4-12, according to the resort.

Grand Geneva Resort and Spa

Grand Geneva Resort and Spa hosts its traditional Gingerbread House Competition as part of Christmas in the Country celebrations. The competition information reveals that builders can compete for cash prizes in five age categories, with judges from United Way of Walworth County and Grand Geneva selecting winners. Masterpieces will be displayed from now through Dec. 31,  during the Gingerbread House Walk in the Brissago Foyer upper level, open daily from 8 a.m.-8 p.m. (Entries had to be submitted by Friday, Nov. 14, and visitors are encouraged to donate to United Way of Walworth County while viewing these creative displays, as stated in the event guidelines.)

TimberRidge Lodge Christmas events

TimberRidge Lodge adds to the regional holiday celebrations with its own festive programming. The lodge schedule shows Friday Night Funhouse events every Friday in November, featuring balloon animals and strolling magic performances. Santa Cabana runs throughout December, where children can visit Santa in his specially decorated holiday waterpark cabana, according to the facility's calendar. Timber Ridge also hosts Breakfast with Santa on Sundays in December, giving families another opportunity to create special holiday memories with Saint Nick, as listed in their seasonal offerings.