Shining a light on the neighborhood’s transformation, the first-time holiday celebration, Westown Gets Lit, takes place on Thursday, Dec. 5 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. on the corner of West Wisconsin Avenue and Old World Third Street.

Presented by various Westown business leaders, the event celebrates a year of unprecedented investments surpassing $206 million in several flagship properties along West Wisconsin Avenue including 310W, The Avenue, Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Wisconsin Center District and HUB640.

During a tree lighting ceremony on the plaza of 310W at 5 p.m., guests can enjoy free activities such as roasting s’mores on open firepits courtesy of GRAEF & NEWaukee, carolers from the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, cookies courtesy of DoubleTree by Hilton, hot cocoa courtesy of Dunkin’ and a special visit from Santa Claus.

As part of the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival, Jingle Bus rides will depart throughout the evening from The Avenue, 161 West Wisconsin Ave. Tickets to ride the Jingle Bus are $2 per person.

"The future is bright for Westown," says Stacie Callies, Executive Director of Westown Association, BID #5. "The neighborhood has evolved into a vibrant place to live, work and play. With new companies and attractions set to open in 2020 and a growing residential population, it’s time to celebrate with what promises to be a new holiday tradition for Westown."

Stacie Callies will emcee the program, with invited speakers including Mayor Tom Barrett, Brad Gordon of 310W/Time Equities, Inc. and Brent Pitcher of GRAEF.