While Whitewater often prides itself on our lovely spring, summer, and fall activities/foods, winter can be just as lovely, if not more magical. If your travel plans for the holidays traveled south and you’re now embracing a staycation, we’ve got you covered with these 5 hometown holiday delights to put a sparkle in your Christmas break.

#1: Candlelight Ski/Hike on the Nordic Trail
N9084 Co Rd H. Whitewater

📷: Lapham Peak Unit

Illuminated by candlelight, you’ll ski/hike roughly 2mi under the stars. A perfect romantic outing or magical fun for the family! Price is $5/carload of people or free if you have a state park sticker. **Note, this event (usually booked for late January) is tentative due to COVID. 

#2: Thee BEST Hot Cocoa
SweetSpot Cafe: 226 W Whitewater St. Whitewater

📷: The SweetSpot Cafe

You’ll love this rich and creamy beverage on a cold day. Add any flavor of your choice to spice things up! With multiple choices of milk and milk alternatives, as well as options for making it sweeter or less sweet, this yummy winter beverage will please everyone!

#3: Tour the Neighborhood Lights
Whitewater and surrounding area residences

What is more of a delight than admiring all the Christmas decor and lighting throughout the neighborhoods? Not only are 97 houses (17 in Whitewater!) registered as part of this year’s Deck the House lighting competition, but Whitewater Lake residences are quite festive this year, too! Warm up your car and indulge in a magical drive for a few hours. Vote for your favorite Deck the House contestant by Dec. 20th!

#4: Ice Castles
1221 Geneva National Ave S. Lake Geneva

📷: Ice Castles Instagram Feed

This winter jaw dropper is just a short drive away from Whitewater and these hand-crafted icicles will leave you breathless every year. You’ll love the slides, lights, and fountains so much, you may want to stay! But we know it’ll be chilly, so head back here and cozy up in a room at The Hamilton House B&B or The Fairfield Inn.

#5. Thee BEST Holiday Desserts:
The Bakehouse: 1185 W Main St. Whitewater
Jessica’s: 140 W Main St. Whitewater
Fanatico: 162 W Main St. Whitewater

📷: The Bakehouse

From cakes and pies to cookies and pastries, there’s no shortage of delicious holiday themed desserts to pickup curbside and enjoy at home or back in your hotel room! Spoiler alert: The Bakehouse’s Winterberry Bars are scrumptious.

Happy Holidays! Be safe. Be well. Stay warm.