Light the Night Market
Join us for the Light the Night Market SERIES in 2024 with THREE dates including: May 17, July 19 and the holiday edition on November 16!
ABOUT THE EVENT: Join us to kick off the holiday season with an unforgettable evening of free fun and festivities at Light the Night Market: Holiday Edition! Enjoy live music and performances, a treat walk, window scavenger hunt, family-friendly activities, and so much more—all at no cost. This enchanting open-air event will light up Downtown Appleton with dazzling displays, mouthwatering food trucks, captivating arts and crafts vendors, interactive activities, and mesmerizing performers. Presented by Fox Communities Credit Union, the event stretches along College Avenue, and into the charming Houdini Plaza. Don’t miss out on this magical community celebration!
Fun Features at Light the Night Market: holiday Edition
Live Music & Performances
Music is always at the heart of our events Downtown. Find local musicians and entertainment at the stage in Houdini Plaza as well as up and down College Avenue in our music tents. A full schedule of performances will be available soon.
Houdini Plaza Stage Schedule Coming Soon!
Activities & Attractions
Get ready for non-stop fun and entertainment! From balloon animals, face painting and more there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
- Wagon and Train Rides
- Coloring and Letters to Santa with Mrs. Claus
- Visits with Santa Claus
- Snowman Bag Toss Game
- And more coming soon!
Treat Walk
Back by popular demand! Visit select Downtown businesses and sponsors for a free treat while supplies last! Get there early to better guarantee a treat at each location.
- Full List Coming Soon!
Window Walk Scavenger Hunt
The hunt is on! First, visit the Fox Communities Credit Union booth to pick up a brochure to participate.
Once you have your brochure, visit each business listed to find the ornament hidden in their window! Once you find it, locate the letter that is written on the ornament and write it next to the business name. Once you find them all, use the letters to unscramble the hidden holiday phrase and write it in the space provided. Tear off the panel and turn it in at the Fox Communities Credit Union booth in Houdini Plaza by 7 p.m. on Saturday to be entered for a chance to win a variety of prizes!
Avenue of Trees
Enjoy a display of beautifully lit Christmas trees decorated by Downtown businesses displayed outside on the sidewalks of College Avenue during Light Up Appleton! VOTE for your favorite by scanning the QR Code on any of the trees and be entered for a chance to win Downtown Gift Certificates.
Craft Vendors & Sponsor Booths
Explore, shop and create with local vendors including Downtown retailers, artisans, crafters and more!
Full List Coming Soon!
Photo Ops
Capture your time at Light Up Appleton at the following photo ops throughout Houdini Plaza!
Full List Coming Soon!
Don’t forget to tag us in your photos @appletondowntown.org on Facebook or Instagram!
Food & Drinks
Indulge in a variety of food options prepared by local food trucks and Downtown restaurants! Full List Coming Soon!
Event FAQs & Tips
Where can I park?
Parking ramps and metered street parking are available throughout Downtown Appleton. Ramps accept cash and credit cards. Here are the ramp locations:
- Yellow Ramp: Entrances on East Washington Street and East Franklin Street
- Red Ramp: Entrances on South Superior Street and North Appleton Street
- Green Ramp: Entrance on West Washington Street and North Division Street
- Meters can be paid using the Passport Parking App, which is free and easy to use. For more information on paring rates and procedures, visit the City of Appleton Website For more information on parking rates and procedures, visit the City of Appleton or Appleton Downtown, Inc.
Where can I find the restrooms at the event?
Portable toilets will be located in several areas, including Houdini Plaza, the “parklet” space on the north side of College Avenue, to the west of Copper Rock Coffee, and other TBD spots.
Are pets allowed?
Unfortunately, no pets are allowed at the market. Violators may be fined by the City of Appleton, so plan accordingly.
Other questions? Send us a DM on Facebook, or call 920-954-9112 during our business hours.
Event Sponsors
Interested in becoming a sponsor?
Sponsorship for this event offers maximum exposure for your business, while showing your support for the local economy and Downtown Appleton. It is an outstanding opportunity to exercise your mission, raise awareness for your services and strengthen your brand recognition within the community! Contact Meghan Warner, Community Partnership Director, at meghan@appletondowntown.org or call 920-954-9112.