You know how the Hallmark holiday movies go, right? The big-city girl comes home for the holidays, does all the festive, cozy activities of the season, and finds herself in a romantic love story she never saw coming? All of those dreamy coffee shops, ice skating rinks, holiday lights, and Christmas tree farms are straight out of a snowglobe scene, much like all of those in Eau Claire. This season, live out your inner Hallmark holiday character moment with strolls through snowy parks, hand-in-hand with a date at the ice rink, or admiring the magical holiday lights and decor around town. These picture-perfect winter spots in Eau Claire, WI, are perfect for your Hallmark movie moment!
Magical Christmas Tree Farms
Nothing says Hallmark holiday like wandering through a snow-dusted tree farm, hot cocoa in hand, searching for the perfect tree. Eau Claire has several spots that feel straight out of a Christmas movie.
Lowes Creek Tree Farm is a local favorite, with a wide variety of trees all season long, as well as a festive, cozy cabin hangout spot at the farm. Pleasant Valley Tree Farm offers a cozy, family-friendly vibe where you can cut your own tree and maybe snap the perfect holiday photo in the snowy tree fields. And don’t miss Curvue Hideaway & Trees, where wagon rides, tree picking, and decor shopping are at their best.
Bundle up, grab a warm drink, and let the holiday magic of these Eau Claire tree farms transport you straight into your very own Hallmark scene.
Romantic Holiday Light Shows
If Hallmark movies taught us anything, it’s that magical lights = instant romance. Lucky for you, Eau Claire and its nearby towns deliver that sparkle in the holiday season. Start your festive journey at the Christmas Village in Irvine Park in Chippewa Falls, where thousands of twinkling lights and charming holiday displays make it impossible not to feel like the star of your own holiday scene.
Back in Eau Claire, the Lights in the Valley drive-through show lets you snuggle up while cruising past glowing scenes that could have been plucked straight from a snow globe. And just a short drive away, Osseo lights up its park with cheerful holiday displays that capture all the small-town charm and warm fuzzies you’d expect from a Hallmark classic.
Also, gems like Haymarket Plaza and River Prairie dazzle with decorated trees and festive decor perfect for a leisurely stroll or that “bumped-into-your-soulmate-under-the-lights” moment.
Frosty & Snowy Outdoor Escapes
All this talk about real-life snow globes – after a fresh snowfall, you'll realize how magical Eau Claire is in the winter season. Take a leisurely stroll through Phoenix Park, where snow-covered trees and sparkling river views make every step feel like a Hallmark moment. Feeling playful? Head to Boyd Park for outdoor ice skating, or grab a sled at Wheaton Park and let the hills bring out your inner snow-child.
For a quieter, picture-perfect adventure, snowshoe through the serene trails at Beaver Creek Reserve. Whether you’re looking for cozy, active, or just plain magical, Eau Claire’s winter destinations are ready for your holiday scenes. Click here to view our complete guide to winter outdoor recreation in Eau Claire.
Coffee Shops + Cafes
There’s something about a steaming cup of coffee in a cozy cafe that instantly makes you feel like the lead in your own Hallmark movie. Eau Claire has no shortage of perfect spots for frosty days and heartwarming moments.
At Shift, the lattes are as smooth as a slow snowfall, perfect for catching up with friends—or someone unexpectedly charming. Norske Nook mixes small-town charm with delicious, homemade treats, and Acoustic Cafe offers a moody, yet cozy downtown spot to catch up over coffee and brunch.
For more charming coffee shops, head to The Nostalgic Bean for specialty hot drinks and impressive pastry art that perfectly complements the season. And The Nucleus Cafe? It’s bright, welcoming, and ideal for curling up with a book—or someone special—while the snow falls outside like a scene from your favorite Christmas movie.
Discover more coffee shops in Eau Claire to experience this season, or check out our blog highlighting cozy winter coffee drinks in and around Eau Claire.
Winter Markets & Festive Shopping
No Hallmark holiday movie is complete without a charming shopping scene. You know the one where twinkly lights hang overhead, classic Christmas music plays softly, and every little shop feels like a part of a classic holiday village. Eau Claire delivers that cozy magic all season long.
The Local Store transforms into a holiday dream with festive displays, seasonal decor, and gift-worthy finds that make it impossible to leave with just one item. For market lovers, the market at Down to Earth brings together local makers, handcrafted goods, and all the warm, community vibes that feel straight out of a small-town Christmas scene. And the WI Makers Market adds another layer of sparkle with unique vendors, creative gifts, and the perfect excuse to sip something warm while browsing for stocking stuffers.
For our complete holiday shopping guide in Eau Claire, click here!
Holiday Cocktails & Drinks
For a romantic, Hallmark-like date night, go out for some delicious and stunning cocktails this holiday season in Eau Claire.
Snuggle up in the glowing igloos at Dive and Phoenix Taproom, where twinkling lights and frosty windows set the scene for holiday cocktails and cocoa-spiked creations. For peak Scandinavian winter vibes, The Lakely’s Vinterkos experience delivers all the cozy feels with warm drinks, soft lighting, and a perfectly aesthetic atmosphere that feels straight out of a snowy rom-com.
River Bend Winery & Distillery and Infinity Beverages bring the cozy cheer with festive decor, seasonal sips, and that relaxed, fireside energy that completes the cozy vibes. Whether you’re on a holiday date or toasting with friends, these spots serve up the perfect blend of sparkle, spirit, and winter romance. For more places to get festive winter cocktails, check out our blog here.