Updated for 2025
Winter in Door County is calm, cozy, and full of ways to enjoy the season. The peninsula slows down, giving you plenty of time for winter activities. Take in snow-covered parks, festive celebrations, and peaceful shorelines. Ski or snowshoe by day, then unwind with local food, wine, and art by night.
This guide shares the best winter activities and holiday events that capture Door County’s charm. From festive markets to quiet trails, you’ll see why winter here is a season worth experiencing.
Winter Magic in Door County
Cold days and soft snow bring a calm beauty to Door County during winter. Parks, trails, and shoreline views have a quieter, more peaceful feel. January through May mark the off-season, offering fewer crowds and more time to explore.
Winter still offers plenty to enjoy. Spend your days skiing, snowshoeing, or hiking scenic trails, then settle in for a relaxing meal or cozy night indoors. The slower pace and open scenery make winter in Door County an inviting time to visit.
Holiday Events and Seasonal Celebrations
The holidays unite families and make Christmas in Door County a season worth celebrating. Each event highlights the community spirit and timeless appeal that make holiday activities here special.
Christkindlmarkt
📅 Nov 28–30, Dec 5–7, & Dec 12–14, 2025
📍 Sister Bay
Door County’s European-style Christmas market features Nordic foods, artisan gifts, and festive music. Enjoy hot mulled cider, handmade goods, and the cozy atmosphere inspired by traditional European markets.
Christmas in the Village
📅 Dec 6, 2025
📍 Ephraim
This family-focused Christmas event includes Santa, horse-drawn wagon rides, and crafts inside the Village Hall. Afterward, end the day at Harborside Park as Santa lights the Christmas tree.
A Cherry Pie Christmas Movie World Premiere
📅 Dec 13, 2025
The world premiere of A Cherry Pie Christmas has officially sold out — and it’s no surprise! Filmed entirely in Door County, this heartwarming holiday movie celebrates the charm, community, and spirit that make our area so special.
If you missed tickets, don’t worry. You can still enjoy the magic of A Cherry Pie Christmas right here in Door County on your next visit. Cozy up in your room at Edgewater, stream the movie, and see the familiar places that make our hometown shine on screen.
Thanksgiving Getaways
📅 Nov 27, 2025
Door County is a peaceful place for Thanksgiving, with local restaurants and markets offering prepared holiday meals. Enjoying the season and relaxing with family before winter begins is an easy way.
Christmas in Door County
📅 Dec 25, 2025
Christmas is a wonderful time for a Door County getaway filled with comfort and tradition. Rent one of our condos with plenty of space to gather, share meals, and make memories together. Many local restaurants and markets offer Christmas dinner for dine-in or easy take-home enjoyment. It’s a relaxing way to celebrate the season while enjoying time with family and friends.
New Year’s Eve Cherry Drop
📅 Dec 31, 2025
📍 Sister Bay
Celebrate the new year with live music, fireworks, and downtown Sister Bay’s famous Cherry Drop countdown. This local tradition honors Door County’s signature cherries in the most festive way.
Outdoor Winter Adventures
Outdoor winter activities in Door County are a great way to enjoy the season’s quiet beauty. The peninsula offers open trails, frozen views, and many ways to stay active.
Downhill Skiing, Snowboarding, & Tubing
Winter Park in Kewaunee County features a small downhill ski hill, ideal for beginners and families. It’s about an hour and a half south of Edgewater Resort, making it a great stop on your way to or from Door County. The park also offers tubing runs, adding a fun and easy way to enjoy a classic winter afternoon together.
For another tubing option, Ariens Hill in Titletown near Lambeau Field offers a quick, exciting ride with great views of the stadium. It’s an easy detour that keeps the winter fun going before you arrive or head home from your Door County getaway.
Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing
Peninsula and Newport State Parks have well-marked trails perfect for cross-country skiing or snowshoeing. Northern Door in Fish Creek offers rentals for easy access to equipment.
Sledding and Ice Skating
Sledding down Hill #17 is a local favorite and fun for all ages. Sister Bay also maintains an ice-skating rink where families can enjoy time outdoors together.
Winter Hiking
Whitefish Dunes and Cave Point County Parks are ideal for hiking and photography. Dress warm and watch the powerful waves of Lake Michigan crash against icy cliffs and shoreline trails.
Dark Sky Viewing
Newport State Park is one of the nation’s designated Dark Sky Parks. Clear nights reveal breathtaking stars and, occasionally, glimpses of the Northern Lights.
Indoor Experiences and Local Flavor
When the weather turns cold, winter in Door County still offers plenty to enjoy indoors. There are many ways to experience local creativity and warm hospitality through art, food, and hands-on fun.
The Clearing Folk School
Located in Ellison Bay, The Clearing offers winter workshops in writing, blacksmithing, and cooking. It’s a peaceful setting to learn something new and connect with local tradition.
Art and Craft Studios
DIY art studios and galleries across the peninsula provide fun indoor activities for all ages. Create something personal or browse local artwork during a cozy winter afternoon.
Tasting Rooms and Markets
Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery & Market stays open year-round for wine, cider, and local foods. Several breweries and distilleries also welcome guests for tastings throughout the colder months.
Door County Candle Co. & Candle Bar
Try something new at Door County Candle Co. & Candle Bar, where you can design your own candle. Choose from more than 50 scents and pour a custom soy creation to take home. It’s a relaxing, hands-on activity that adds warmth to any winter day.
Planning Your Winter Visit
Winter activities make the season special. Peaceful scenery, small-town charm, and extra time to slow down make this season feel refreshing. Spend your days skiing, hiking, or exploring snow-covered parks. Then warm up with local wine, great food, and cozy indoor activities. Holiday events add excitement, while quiet evenings by the fire remind you why this season matters.
Now is the perfect time to start planning your getaway and enjoy the calm of our region. Book your stay and experience winter in Door County at its most peaceful and inviting.
Photo Credit: © Victoria Strelka_ph from Pexels via canva.com, © Suzi Media Production from Getty Images Pro via canva.com, © Studio France with AI via canva.com
