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Best Christmas in July Markets, Festivals, & Holiday Activities in the U.S. 2026

Discover the best Christmas in July markets, festivals, and holiday activities for 2026. There are boat parades, holiday shopping experiences, Christmas in July concerts, and Santa visits near you.

Best Christmas in July Markets, Festivals, & Holiday Activities in the U.S. 2026

Who says that you have to wait until December for holiday cheer? Christmas in July has grown into a beloved mid-summer tradition, with merry markets, fantastical holiday festivals, and joyful zoo events bringing twinkling lights, seasonal treats, and a dose of Santa in the summer enchantment to towns across the country. Whether you're shopping for early gifts, sipping chilled cocoa in the sunshine, or taking the kids to meet Santa, here's your guide to the best Christmas in July markets, festivals, performances, and holiday activities for summer 2026!

Top Christmas in July Markets 2026

Looking to shop your way into the holiday spirit this summer? Christmas in July markets across the country feature local vendors, handmade crafts, and seasonal finds. They're the perfect place for early holiday shopping or a fun weekend outing.

1. Sugar Plum Christmas in July Boutique Show — Conway, AR 

Set against the humid summer backdrop of central Arkansas, this charming boutique show brings an elevated holiday market straight to the heart of Conway. Shoppers can kick off the weekend at a special Friday night VIP shopping experience featuring signature cocktails, mocktails, and exclusive door prizes. Saturday brings general admission hours where visitors can browse through hundreds of unique gifts and seasonal home decor items displayed by over 25 specialized small businesses.

Insider Tip: Buy the Friday night VIP ticket to enjoy your signature cocktails while shopping and then use your automatic free re-entry on Saturday morning to pick up any heavy custom items you did not want to carry around during the mixer.

2. Ocala Christmas in July — Ocala, FL 

Now in its second year, this massive indoor event brings together more than 175 artists, crafters, and boutique vendors inside the expansive World Equestrian Center. Central Florida shoppers flock to this air conditioned expo hall to escape the intense mid-summer heat while browsing through premium leather goods, handmade pottery, holiday wreaths, and custom jewelry. Families can stroll the carpeted venue to pick up unique home decor and meet a vacationing Summer Santa, making it a premier destination for early holiday planning.

  • Dates: Saturday, July 18th, 2026 and Sunday, July 19th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed (cash discount available at the door; no advanced tickets sold)
  • Street Address: World Equestrian Center (Expo Center 1), 1284 NW 87th Ct Rd, Ocala, FL 34482
  • Kid Friendly: Yes
  • Pet Friendly: (well behaved, leashed pets welcome on the carpeted venue floor)
  • Parking: Free on site
  • Website: https://www.bmgevents.com/july.html

Insider Tip: Plan your visit for Sunday morning if you want shorter lines for vendor booths, but make sure to arrive before 1 PM to secure photos with Summer Santa.

3. Christmas in July at Expo Idaho — Boise, ID

Held inside the spacious Expo Idaho venue, this Christmas in July market in Boise brings together local artisans, unique vendors, holiday decor, and cheerful activities for a full indoor experience that captures the excitement of the season without waiting for December. The air conditioned setting makes it a welcome break from the July heat, and with live music, food and drinks, and a photo op with Santa all included, it's easy to turn a quick browse into a full morning out! Whether you're hunting for one of a kind gifts or are just wanting to soak up some early holiday spirit, this Christmas in July market delivers the full experience without the December crowds.

  • Dates: Saturday, July 11th, 2026 
  • Admission: Free (advance registration recommended) 
  • Street Address: Expo Idaho, 5610 N. Glenwood St, Boise, ID 83714 
  • Kid Friendly: Yes 
  • Pet Friendly: No (service dogs only) 
  • Parking: Free (on site) 
  • Website: https://www.iblevents.com/christmas-in-july

Insider Tip: Free tickets are available online ahead of time. Register in advance to skip the entry line and head straight in when doors open at 10 AM.

4. Durham’s Annual Christmas in July Vendor Market — Durham, NC

Set in the vibrant heart of downtown Durham, this mid-summer market highlights a diverse array of local makers, independent artisans, and small business owners. Shoppers spend the afternoon escaping the humidity inside the lively Comedy Dojo and Event Space, eager to discover unique crafts, specialty products, and holiday themed items. It perfectly captures the progressive, community first energy of the Research Triangle by creating a dedicated space to support neighborhood entrepreneurs and local non-profits.

Insider Tip: Secure your tickets early on Eventbrite, as regional artisan markets in the Triangle area frequently cap attendance to ensure a comfortable shopping flow.

5. Ace Acres Christmas in July — Clemmons, NC

Bringing a lively indoor and outdoor shopping experience to the rolling countryside of the Piedmont Triad, this vibrant summer gathering transforms the Ace Acres Event Venue! Eager shoppers browse through rows of over 60 local makers while sipping on specialty coffee, fresh lemonade, or regional wine from Uwharrie Vineyards. Visitors can soak up the cheerful July atmosphere with live music from American Idol contestant Trace Casanova, a custom trucker hat bar, and delicious food trucks, all while supporting the Cruising for Kids non-profit organization.

Insider Tip: Mark yourself as "Going" on the Facebook event page to automatically receive any last minute notifications regarding venue or parking adjustments.

6. Annual Christmas in July at Uwharrie Vineyards  — Albemarle, NC

Set against the scenic backdrop of sprawling grapevines in Stanly County, this lively two day market brings a sun soaked holiday shopping experience to central North Carolina. Visitors can beat the heat by exploring a modern wine bar serving seasonal wine slushies while browsing through more than 50 indoor and outdoor vendor spaces. The community gathering offers an engaging weekend getaway featuring live music by Trace Casanova, mobile gem mining, local food trucks, and custom jewelry booths, all while helping raise funds for the Cruising for Kids non-profit organization.

Insider Tip: Combine your market visit with a stroll through historic downtown Albemarle to check out the local independent coffee shops and boutiques.

7. 5th Annual Christmas in July — Monroe, NC

Sprawling across the largest flexible event complex in the region, this massive two day celebration brings a bright and sunny holiday experience to the agricultural heart of Union County. Local families and North Carolina shoppers can come together to explore over 80 indoor and outdoor vendors while cooling down with dirty sodas, frozen yogurt, and diverse food truck options ranging from halal to authentic Latin cuisine. This lively Christmas in July event fills the expansive facility with whimsical charm, featuring live music from Trace Casanova, summer photos with Santa, custom bead bars, and permanent jewelry makers.

Insider Tip: Check the vendor lineup on the Facebook discussion page the day before to easily pinpoint the booths you want to visit first.

8. Sunny Day Markets Christmas in July — Kings Mountain, NC

Nestled in the scenic foothills of southwestern North Carolina, this Christmas in July market brings a vibrant summer shopping experience straight to Kings Mountain. Local families and regional visitors flock to the Venue at Turkey Ridge to escape the toasty temperatures while exploring an eclectic vendor market of independent makers, boutique small businesses, and artisan crafters. The inviting weekend destination offers an ideal spot to discover handmade gifts, seasonal home decor, and delicious treats from local food trucks while supporting area entrepreneurs.

Insider Tip: Arrive exactly at the 10 AM opening time to secure your spot at the popular permanent jewelry station and the custom trucker hat bar before the lines build.

9. Christmas in July Outdoor Market — Wilmot, OH 

Sitting among the sweeping hills of Ohio Amish Country, this special edition of the monthly marketplace transforms the Amish Door Village into Santa’s Summer Outdoor Workshop. Visitors can stroll the scenic, sunlit grounds to browse an exceptional variety of handcrafted woodwork, local artisan treats, jewelry, and charming rustic decor. The slow paced countryside setting provides an inviting backdrop where families can enjoy the open air while checking items off their early holiday shopping lists.

Insider Tip: Arrive early to grab breakfast at the on site Amish Door Bakery when it opens at 7 AM, well before the outdoor market vendors open for business at 11 AM.

10. Plano Nutcracker Christmas in July Market — Plano, TX 

This lively indoor market at the Plano Event Center brings a whimsical holiday shopping experience to North Texas to break up the intense summer heatwaves. Suburban Dallas shoppers flock to this air conditioned venue to discover women and children boutique clothing, handmade fashion jewelry, and unique garden decor from local small business owners. It provides a vibrant, organized space where locals can cross off their lists early while sampling gourmet food items in a playful winter wonderland atmosphere.

Insider Tip: Check the online discussion wall for vendor listings before you go, as many boutique creators offer exclusive pre-order options you can pick up directly at their booths.

11. The Christmas in July Holiday Market in Forney — Forney, TX 

Embracing the close knit community spirit on the eastern edge of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, this summer Christmas in July market brings over 130 local vendors straight to Opportunity Central. Families and neighbors gather to beat the Texas heat inside the air conditioned facility while supporting the emergency assistance and crisis response programs of the Forney Legacy Project. The lively environment offers a wonderful weekend destination filled with unique jewelry, boutique fashion, children gifts, seasonal accessories, and gourmet treats.

Insider Tip: Arrive during the morning hours to enter the hourly raffles and giveaways before the peak afternoon crowds arrive.

Top Christmas in July Festivals & Performances 2026

From live music and food to boat parades and charity fundraisers, Christmas in July festivals bring communities together for a midsummer celebration full of holiday cheer. No matter where you are, there's likely a festive event happening near you.

1. Cabot Area Christmas in July — Cabot, AR

The Cabot Area Chamber of Commerce and the Cabot Advertising and Promotion Committee team up every July to turn local storefronts into a community-wide Christmas in July celebration that makes shopping local genuinely fun. Participating businesses open their doors with discounts, giveaways, refreshments, and festive decor, and for every $20 spent at a Chamber member business, shoppers earn an entry into the grand prize drawing. The final drawing takes place on July 28th via a Facebook LIVE on the Chamber page, so the excitement carries past the weekend itself. Keep an eye out for Santa's elves roaming in the shops too! If they catch you shopping, you might walk away with a gift card on the spot.

  • Dates: Friday, July 24th and Saturday, July 25th, 2026 
  • Admission: Free 
  • Street Address: 913 W. Main Street, Cabot, AR 72023 
  • Kid Friendly: Yes 
  • Pet Friendly: Not specified 
  • Parking: Not specified 
  • Website: https://www.cabotcc.org/christmas-in-july/

Insider Tip: Keep your receipts organized as you move from shop to shop. Every $20 counts toward a raffle entry, so staying on top of your spending ensures you don't miss out on any chances at the grand prize.

2. Venice MainStreet's Christmas in July 2026 — Venice, FL

This two day festival transforms historic downtown Venice into a vibrant mid-year shopping and activity hub along the Gulf Coast. Presented by Venice MainStreet, the celebration spans Miami, Tampa, and West Venice avenues with participating shops offering special deals, gift basket raffles, and Santa photos. Families can also participate in a scavenger hunt to track down hidden elves inside local businesses. It is a highly organized community tradition that turns a sunny Florida morning into a full day of exploring the downtown district.

  • Dates: Friday, July 10th, 2026 and Saturday, July 11th, 2026
  • Admission: Free
  • Street Address: 200 West Venice Avenue, Venice, FL 34285
  • Kid Friendly: Yes
  • Pet Friendly: Leashed pets welcome in outdoor downtown areas (individual store policies vary)
  • Parking: Free public parking available at Centennial Park and street side
  • Website: https://www.visitvenicefl.org/event/christmas-in-july-2026/ 

Insider Tip: Pick up the official event flyer at the Centennial Park kiosk to get hints for the elf scavenger hunt.

3. City of Leavenworth Christmas in July Bazaar & Flea Market — Leavenworth, KS

Hosted inside the air conditioned Riverfront Community Center along the Missouri River, this Christmas in July fair in Leavenworth is a cool and unhurried escape from the Kansas summer heat. Vendors fill the space with handmade crafts, jewelry, artwork, toys, beauty products, and gently used finds, making it a relaxed browse-at-your-own-pace kind of morning. Admission is free, and the easy going atmosphere makes it a natural stop for locals and visitors passing through the area.

Insider Tip: Admission is free and the venue is air conditioned, a welcome detail for a July morning in Kansas. Arrive early for the best vendor selection before the space fills up.

4. Wildwood Crest Christmas in July Festival & Boat Parade — Wildwood Crest, NJ

This free Christmas in July festival in Wildwood Crest brings a one of a kind summer evening to the Jersey Shore, with live music, magic shows, face painting, and photo ops with Santa along the shores of Sunset Lake. Then, the real showstopper arrives at 8:45 PM when nearly 40 decorated boats glide through the lake for the annual Christmas in July Boat Parade, turning a warm July night into a merry waterfront celebration. It's a beloved community tradition that draws families out early and keeps them lingering well past sunset.

Insider Tip: Stake out a spot along Sunset Lake before 8:30 PM to get a clear view of the boat parade. Want to be on the water? Email christmasjulyboatparade@gmail.com to register your boat or kayak.

5. Christmas in July Festival — West Jefferson, NC

Tucked into the Blue Ridge Mountains, the Christmas in July Festival in downtown West Jefferson is a two day outdoor celebration that feels like the town's best kept summer secret. Friday evening opens with live music and food vendors at 5 PM, and Saturday expands into a full day of craft vendors, non-profit booths, and more live performances running from 9 AM to 5 PM. This year's edition carries extra meaning as part of the America 250 celebrations, making it one of the most spirited outdoor Christmas festivals in the North Carolina mountains.

  • Dates: Friday, July 3rd, 2026 (5:00 PM - 9:00 PM) and Saturday, July 4th, 2026 (9:00 AM - 5:00 PM) 
  • Admission: Free 
  • Street Address: Downtown West Jefferson, NC 28694 
  • Kid Friendly: Yes 
  • Pet Friendly: No (Pets not allowed within festival footprint)
  • Parking: Free public lots and paid lots (often run by local organizations) nearby 
  • Website: https://www.christmasinjulyfestival.com/ 

Insider Tip: The festival spans two days across the July 4th weekend, so lodging in the area books up fast. Plan your stay early if you're coming from out of town and want to catch both days.

6. WCHS's Christmas in July — Wooster, OH

Now in its 10th year, the Wayne County Humane Society's Christmas in July celebration is the organization's biggest fundraiser of the year, bringing the community together for a jolly summer evening at the Wayne County Fairgrounds Event Center. The indoor event runs from 5 to 9 PM and supports the animals and programs at WCHS, making every ticket a direct contribution to the shelter's work in northeast Ohio and the kind of July Christmas celebration that feels good to attend!

  • Dates: Thursday, July 16th, 2026, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM 
  • Admission: Ticketed (check website for pricing) 
  • Street Address: Wayne County Fairgrounds Event Center, 199 Vanover St, Wooster, OH 44691 
  • Kid Friendly: Yes 
  • Pet Friendly: Check with organizers (Venue typically allows service animals only)
  • Parking: Free on-site parking available at the fairgrounds.
  • Website: https://www.wchs.org/event-details/christmas-in-july 

Insider Tip: As the Wayne County Humane Society's biggest event of the year, tickets move quickly. Check the WCHS website early and register in advance to secure your spot.

7. Christmas in July with the Avalon — Marysville, OH

The Avalon Theatre's third annual Christmas in July fundraiser brings a lively summer afternoon to the heart of Marysville, featuring festive events throughout the day. The lineup includes a Christmas tree silent auction, a holiday bake sale, pictures with Summer Santa during the local farmers market, a holiday mimosa bar, and a morning performance by the Avalon Children's Choir. Later, an ugly Hawaiian shirt contest leads into a special evening film screening. Every dollar raised directly supports accessible arts programming for the Union County community.

  • Dates: Saturday, July 25th, 2026
  • Admission: Free daytime activities; ticketed evening film screening (discounts available for members)
  • Street Address: Marysville Uptown Theatre, 121 S Main St, Marysville, OH 43040
  • Kid Friendly: Yes
  • Pet Friendly: Not specified (Indoor historic theater venue)
  • Parking: Free Uptown street and public lot parking available
  • Website: https://www.theavalontheatre.org/christmasinjuly

Insider Tip: Arrive in the morning to catch the children's choir performance at 11:30 AM before browsing the silent auction.

8. Angel Tree Farm's Christmas in July Event — Alburtis, PA

Set on a working farm in the rolling hills of eastern Pennsylvania, Angel Tree Farm's annual Christmas in July fundraiser is one of the most wholesome summer Christmas celebrations in the region. This all day event includes an all you can eat buffet, live music, a bounce house, 20+ vendors, a bake sale, raffles, and a surprise visit from Santa. Best of all, this raises money to help the farm purchase trees and equipment ahead of the holiday season. It's a family forward afternoon where the community genuinely shows up, and every dollar spent goes toward making December a little brighter for everyone involved.

  • Dates: Saturday, July 18th, 2026 
  • Admission: Ticketed
  • Street Address: Angel Tree Farm, 7931 Spring Creek Rd, Alburtis, PA 18011 
  • Kid Friendly: Yes 
  • Pet Friendly: Service-dogs only 
  • Parking: Free grass lot parking available
  • Website: https://www.angeltreefarms.org/christmas-in-july 

Insider Tip: There are raffle items available at this CIJ event, so get there early to put in a bid!

9. Christmas in July at The Texas Pool — Plano, TX

The historic Texas Pool brings a lighthearted twist to a warm afternoon by hosting a lively summer holiday celebration. This afternoon pool party swaps sunscreen for iced hot chocolate and features holiday crafts, festive treats, a Santa photo opportunity, and a water balloon fight. Guests can also swim across the Great State shaped pool to log miles for the facility's summer fitness challenge. It’s a whimsical way for families in the Dallas Fort Worth metroplex to cool off while celebrating the spirit of the season.

  • Dates: Sunday, July 26th, 2026 
  • Admission: Ticketed (free for Texas Pool members and children age 2 and under)
  • Street Address: The Texas Pool, 901 Springbrook Dr, Plano, TX 75075
    Kid Friendly: Yes
  • Pet Friendly: Service dogs only (per standard human swimming pool health regulations)
  • Parking: Free on-site parking lot and adjacent grass parking available
  • Website: https://events.visitplano.com/event/2026-christmas-in-july-at-the-texas-pool

Insider Tip: Bring a gift card to drop into the stocking of your favorite lifeguard as part of the facility's annual tradition.

10. Fallbrook's Christmas in July — Houston, TX

Every Wednesday evening throughout July, Fallbrook Church opens its doors for a free Christmas in July concert series that's equal parts celebration and community impact. The doors open at 6 PM for food trucks, local vendors, family activities, and giveaways before dynamic gospel performances take the stage at 7 PM inside the comfortable indoor sanctuary. Every dollar raised through vendor booths and donations goes directly toward student scholarships, disaster relief, and support for underserved families across Houston, making it one of the most meaningful Christmas in July celebrations in the city. It's a rain or shine event, and registration is required but free!

  • Dates: Every Wednesday in July 2026 
  • Admission: Free (registration required) 
  • Street Address: Fallbrook Church, 12512 Walters Rd, Houston, TX 77014 
  • Kid Friendly: Yes 
  • Pet Friendly: No 
  • Parking: Free (on-site and street parking available) 
  • Website: https://www.fallbrookchurch.org/christmasinjuly

Insider Tip: Fallbrook Church enforces a strict clear bag policy for this indoor concert series. Bring only a clear plastic bag or small clutch to move through security quickly and get inside before the doors fill up.

11. Leavenworth Reindeer Farm's Christmas in July — Leavenworth, WA

Nestled in the Cascade foothills outside the Bavarian themed village of Leavenworth, this Christmas in July experience at the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm is as enchanting in summer as it is in December. Guests join the Reindeer Experience Tour, meet the newest members of Santa's flight team, including baby reindeer, and snap a photo with Santa in his vacation clothes, a detail that makes it genuinely unlike any other July Christmas celebration in Washington. After the tour, it's worth lingering at the historic barn, which houses the largest reindeer themed gift shop in the world, and then grabbing a bite at Blitzen Brew before heading out.

Insider Tip: Tours require advance booking through the website. This experience includes time inside the reindeer enclosure, so wear closed toe shoes and plan for about 30-40 minutes on the farm.

Top Christmas in July Zoo Events 2026

Who says Christmas can't come with sunscreen? Zoos nationwide are celebrating Christmas in July with festive flair, special animal enrichment, and holiday themed fun for the whole family. Check out these events that are sure to be a roaring good time!

1. Summer Santa at Louisville Zoo — Louisville, Kentucky

Part of the engaging character series in central Kentucky, this vibrant daytime celebration brings an authentic holiday vacation experience straight to Louisville. Families gather early to share their early gift wish lists with Santa and Mrs. Claus, who make a rare mid-summer stopover during their seasonal travels. The beautifully landscaped park setting allows children to interact with cinematic characters and explore the extensive animal conservation exhibits during a focused mid-day schedule.

  • Dates: Saturday, July 18th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed (free for zoo members and included with standard general admission tickets)
  • Street Address: Louisville Zoo, 1100 Trevilian Way, Louisville, KY 40213
  • Kid Friendly: Yes
  • Pet Friendly: Not specified
  • Parking: Paid on site zoo parking lot
  • Website: https://louisvillezoo.org/event/summer-santa-2026/

Insider Tip: Head straight to the character pavilion between 10:00 AM and 11:30 AM to meet and greet with your favorite famous figures! The lines double in length during the lunch time rush for this four hour feature event. 

2. Toledo Zoo & Aquarium Christmas in July — Toledo, Ohio

Transforming the zoo grounds after dark, this spectacular Christmas in July evening event brings a brilliant winter light showcase to northwestern Ohio. Visitors escape the mid-summer humidity by strolling through a massive illuminated display on the South Side while sipping frozen hot chocolate and watching live ice carving demonstrations. The expansive property keeps its premium historic indoor spaces, aquarium, and modern museum open late for this two night event, alongside a specialized sensory quiet zone with dedicated support staff.

  • Dates: Friday, July 24th, 2026 and Saturday, July 25th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed (included with general zoo admission and members free)
  • Street Address: Toledo Zoo & Aquarium, 2 Hippo Way, Toledo, OH 43609
  • Kid Friendly: Yes
  • Pet Friendly: Not specified
  • Parking: Paid on site parking lots available
  • Website: https://www.toledozoo.org/events/christmas-in-july

Insider Tip: Save the outdoor concert in the historic amphitheater for Sunday night! While the main animal buildings close early that evening, you can explore the light trail with significantly shorter walking lines and enjoy cheaper concessions.

3. Christmas in July at Akron Zoo — Akron, Ohio

Christmas in July at the Akron Zoo is a specialized after hours family market that brings a dynamic holiday spirit to the rolling hills of northeast Ohio. Neighborhood families beat the July heatwave by participating in active water gun fights, custom snowball arenas, and a playful ugly sweater competition hosted by a live courtyard DJ. This unique summer evening environment provides an interactive space where parents and kids can enjoy themed seasonal treats and explore the outdoor habitats under the cooler twilight sky.

  • Dates: Friday, July 24th, 2026 through Sunday, July 26th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed (special after hours event tickets required; check website for launch dates)
  • Street Address: Akron Zoo, 500 Edgewood Ave, Akron, OH 44307
  • Kid Friendly: Yes
  • Pet Friendly: Not specified
  • Parking: On site public parking lot available
  • Website: https://www.akronzoo.org/christmas-july 

Insider Tip: Pack a lightweight, funny holiday shirt or a breathable mesh vest in your bag! Entering the twilight ugly sweater competition gives you an easy shot at winning premium park prizes without overheating during the daytime safari walk.

4. Christmas in July at Lehigh Valley Zoo — Schnecksville, Pennsylvania

Tucked inside the peaceful expanse of the Trexler Nature Preserve, this charming daytime gathering offers a refreshing summer escape in eastern Pennsylvania. Local families and wildlife enthusiasts stroll the tree lined pathways to explore animal habitats while stopping for photos with a vacationing Summer Santa and storybook princesses. The relaxed afternoon experience focuses on community connection, allowing guests to sample artisanal sweets and baked goods while wandering through the mountain scenery.

  • Dates: Saturday, July 25th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed (included with standard general admission tickets and annual zoo memberships)
  • Street Address: Lehigh Valley Zoo, 5150 Game Preserve Rd, Schnecksville, PA 18078
  • Kid Friendly: Yes
  • Pet Friendly: Not specified
  • Parking: Free on site preserve parking available
  • Website: https://www.lvzoo.org/events/#

Insider Tip: Because this zoo is situated directly inside a massive state nature preserve, it’s recommended that you pack your hiking shoes and a picnic. You can validate your zoo ticket and spend the cooler early morning hours trailing the scenic preserve overlooks before the main gates open at 10 AM.

5. Christmas in July at Racine Zoo — Racine, Wisconsin

Set along the breezy shores of Lake Michigan, this engaging lakeside celebration brings a playful winter getaway to southeastern Wisconsin. Families and local residents can explore the beautiful animal exhibits while participating in ornament decorating, bounce houses, cookie frostings, and scenic zoo train rides. This great community gathering offers a fantastic afternoon out where kids can interact with vacationing winter characters, explore creative games, and enjoy special animal interactions.

  • Dates: Saturday, July 18th, 2026
  • Admission: Ticketed (included with general zoo admission)
  • Street Address: Racine Zoological Society, 2131 N Main St, Racine, WI 53402
  • Kid Friendly: Yes
  • Pet Friendly: Not specified
  • Parking: Free on site parking available
  • Website: https://racinezoo.org/christmas-july 

Insider Tip: If you have a local independent business, register for a promotional booth space ahead of time on their portal. The zoo allows local organizations to set up a display table completely free of charge to connect with the weekend crowds.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Christmas in July?

Christmas in July is a mid-summer celebration that features all things festive! These include markets, light displays, Santa visits, concerts, and holiday-themed events held during the warmer months, usually around mid-to-late July.

When are Christmas in July events held?

Most take place on weekends throughout July. Markets and festivals often run for a day or a weekend, while some zoo and attraction events span multiple weeks. Check each listing for exact dates.

Are Christmas in July events free?

Many markets and festivals are free to attend, while zoo events and ticketed attractions may charge admission. Check individual listings for pricing.

Are Christmas in July events kid friendly?

Absolutely! Most events are designed for all ages, with Santa visits, crafts, and family activities. Check individual listings for specifics.

My can I add my event to this guide?

We'd love to feature your Christmas in July event! Simply share your event through our quick submission form and we will get it added to the list!

Celebrate Christmas in July

Christmas in July is the perfect excuse to enjoy a little holiday cheer without the winter chill! From open air markets to festive zoo nights, there's something for everyone this summer. And for those looking to stay active while celebrating Christmas in July, make sure to check out our National Christmas in July Race Guide! 

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