There's lots on tap this weekend, Milwaukee parents, most of it having to do with holiday cheer. So get festive and giddy up!

SATURDAY

CHRISTMAS IN THE WARD
If the mall scene is just too much for you – and it's understandable seeing as some place have had their decorations up since July 5 – try the Historic Third Ward for a respite from the holiday shopping hassle. Browse the shops and take part in the usual holiday fare: tree-lightings, caroling and a visit from Santa with live reindeer.
http://www.onmilwaukee.com/events/event-82540.html

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NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM
You deserve a night to yourselves, right? So give yourself the time to partake in more grown-up activities when you drop the kids off at the Milwaukee Public Museum. Junior can spend the night with the dinosaurs, mummies and rainforest creatures through specially planned and well-supervised activities. They can also take in a special-edition IMAX or planetarium show. For a night of peace and quiet, isn't it worth the $38 ($35 for MPM members)? Don't worry, Ben Stiller will be nowhere near Downtown.
http://www.onmilwaukee.com/events/event-83242.html

SANTA, PASS THE BACON
Take the kiddies for breakfast with Santa at Pier Wisconsin. The buffet breakfast is $32.95 for moms and dads and $16.95 for little ones, 12 and under. Book your reservation by calling (414) 765-8610.
http://www.onmilwaukee.com/events/event-82622.html

SUNDAY

LIGHT UP WITH RONALD
The Milwaukee Children's Choir joins Ronald McDonald and all his friends along with Santa Claus as the Ronald McDonald House, 8948 Watertown Plank Rd., celebrates the lighting of its 2007 Christmas tree. Get into the holiday spirit with a round of carols and some tasty treats.
http://www.onmilwaukee.com/events/event-78009.html

ALL WEEKEND

CHRISTMAS MAGIC
Christmas comes to life for the whole family as A.J., the animated illusionist, tells the story of a lonely girl who finds the true meaning of the holiday. Enjoy a festive mix of theatre, dance and comic illusion from the Acadia Theatre Company.
http://www.onmilwaukee.com/events/event-82553.html

DISCOVER GIFT IDEAS
If you haven't been to Discovery World yet, or even if you have already, stop in this weekend for the Artisan and Entrepreneur Holiday Market. Gifts, goodies, demonstrations and it's all free. When you're done shopping, check out the museum.
http://www.onmilwaukee.com/events/event-83104.html

CURIOUS ABOUT GEORGE
Let the loveable little monkey entertain your little monkeys at the Betty Brinn Children's Museum's newest exhibit. The kids can let George teach them all about math, science and take part in engineering-based adventures. http://www.onmilwaukee.com/events/event-82544.html

(DRIVIN') THROUGH A WINTER WONDERLAND
The Country Springs Hotel is transformed into a Christmas wonderland. The annual drive-through display of holiday lights features over a million lights and animated scenes including "The Streets of Bethlehem" with a Nativity Scene inspired by a similar display at the Vatican and a multi-level model railroad.
http://www.thecountrychristmas.com/contact/index.htm

IN THIS CORNER, FROM THE NORTH POLE
Give the kids a thrill at the Humphrey IMAX as "Santa vs. the Snowman" premieres. The movie tells the tale of a lonely snowman that gets jealous of all the attention Santa gets at the North Pole. The sprouts will love the "polar war" that's fought with hot chocolate squirt gins and will ooh-and-ahh at a happy ending. The show runs through Jan. 3.
http://www.mpm.edu/imax/santasnowman/

BAH HUMBUG
Don't be a Scrooge, head to the Pabst Theater for the Milwaukee Rep's annual production of "A Christmas Carol." A Milwaukee tradition for more than 30 years, the show runs through Dec. 23. Get your tickets now:
http://www.onmilwaukee.com/events/event-82537.html

FIRST STAGE HOLIDAY SHOW OPENS
First Stage Milwaukee presents, "Twelve Days – A Milwaukee Christmas," the story of a turn-of-the-century schoolteacher who spent the holidays spreading the spirit of the season to her students and families. In the midst of the First World War, Miss Brown's enthusiasm takes a hit until she discovers a new song that rekindles her passion.
http://www.onmilwaukee.com/events/event-82291.html