Hometown Holidays Kick-off in Verona

If you’re looking for a fun, family-friendly way to celebrate the start of the holiday season in Verona, look no further than Hometown Holidays. Hosted by the Verona Area Chamber of Commerce, this annual event brings together the community of Verona, Wisconsin for ice skating, hot cocoa, a tree-lighting ceremony, Trolley rides and more.

At Hometown Holidays, you’ll find a mix of free and low-cost activities perfect for all ages. Highlights include:

• Outdoor ice skating (4:00 pm-8:00 pm) at the new rink at Century School Park — only $5 per person for a 30-minute time slot; skate rentals are free thanks to sponsor Verona Vision Care.

• Hot cider, hot cocoa and fire-pits for everyone to warm up at.

• The magical Holiday Express Trolley running between venues (4:00 pm-8:00 pm) — great for kids and families to hop around. V

• Official tree-lighting at 5:00-5:30 pm and community caroling hosted by Resurrection Lutheran Church.

• At the nearby Verona Senior Center between 5:30–7:00 pm: a chili supper, live music by the Second Swing Around Band, a visit with Santa, crafts with the library, and a fun scavenger hunt.

• Plus the Truck of Cocoa & Cider, and even letter-writing to Santa for delivery across town.

Community Spirit

Hometown Holidays captures the warm, small-town charm of Verona: local-sponsored ice rink, shared caroling, a trolley ride around town. It brings neighbors together and sets the tone for holiday joy.

Family-Friendly Fun

With activities for all ages—from tots skating their first laps, to adults warming by the fire pits—it’s ideal for a family outing. And the modest cost makes it accessible.

Kick-Off to the Holiday Season

If you’re in Dane County or the surrounding region, this event is a perfect way to begin the holiday festivities. The tree-lighting ceremony adds that “special moment” when seasons change.

Local Business & Hallmark Feel

Events like this support local business and strengthen ties in the community. Sponsorship from local shops (ice rink sponsors, trolley sponsor) shows Verona businesses are invested in making the season memorable.