LAKE LIFE SHEBOYGAN
DON’T JUST SHOP FOR THE HOLIDAYS, EXPREINCE THEM AT THE BLUE!
WELCOME TO OUR HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
The Holiday Season is a time of excitement, festivity, and memory making. Here at Blue Harbor Resort, we’re excited to share this special time of year with our guests, and unveil both new and returning ways to celebrate.
Our beautiful lakeside resort transforms into a winter wonderland, where you can enjoy the winter views from the warmth of our merry and bright resort
This year, we’re introducing a variety of ways for our guests to indulge in the spirit of the season; from our holiday gift card sale, to our decked out holiday bar in On The Rocks Bar & Grill
And that’s not all, we’re welcoming Santa back for Breakfast with Santa Saturdays during December leading up to Christmas.
December 7th the Run Santa Run 5k is taking off starting and ending right here at The Blue. We have holiday activities lined up for guests that are sure to spread the holiday spirit to visitors of all ages
There are endless experiences and unique gifts to shop for at Blue Harbor; from lakeside dining experiences and Door County Coffee, to freshly baked sweet treats and your favorite lake life inspired treasures from The Boutique. You can easily take a piece of the Truly Blue feeling home with you.
Spread the joy this holiday season with all of this and more
Happy holidays!
“As the Holiday Season weaves its magic, we often find ourselves wishing we could spend more time with those we love. Here along the shores of Lake Michigan, we truly understand that feeling of gathering everyone together round a bonfire beneath the stars and simply letting the memories make themselves. So if you ’ re looking for a timeless gift for your family this year, consider a trip to Blue Harbor Resort where the only thing we overlook is the lake.”
-Delaine Reichert, General Manager
DECK THE HALLS
It’s safe to say that Santa has helpers at Blue Harbor! We’ve been busy preparing the lobby and halls for Santa to return to the resort for Breakfast with Santa this year There’s even some friendly competition among resort employees Each department has been responsible for a gingerbread house to decorate and display. Keep an eye on social media to see what we do!
TrulyBlue
GIFT SET IDEAS TO BRING BACK FROM YOUR STAY AT BLUE HARBOR RESORT
Story & Photography By Em von der Ruhr
We’ve created six truly unique gift set ideas to satisfy all your holiday shopping needs this year! From those who love adventure and embracing their inner child, to those who are looking to take it easy as we enter the new year and pamper themselves in their favorite ways.
Memories make the best gift!
When it comes to the holidays, we love curating gift set ideas to help inspire the perfect gift for the important people in our lives Whether you’ve got an adventure enthusiast in the family, someone who you think deserves a self-care day this holiday season, or a way to thank your favorite holiday party host, we’ve got just the suggestion for you!
Our first gift idea is truly for everyone: a gift card to Blue Harbor Resort! With 179 hotel rooms and 39 villas to choose from, you and your family can pick the perfect space and accommodations for your specific needs Whether you’re booking a stay during the holiday festivities, looking for a warm waterpark retreat during the colder months, or a summer vacation with Lake Michigan views in the Malibu of the Midwest, Blue Harbor Resort is your destination Celebrating something special during your trip? Add on one of our amenity packages!
Those seeking fun and adventure in 2025 won’t want to miss out on Breaker Bay Waterpark! Our Riptide Surf Simulator allows guests to surf (or learn to surf) in a balmy 84 degrees year round! Overnight guests of the resort receive waterpark wristbands at check-in that grant them access to the waterpark for the occupancy of the room during their stay Nothing is sweeter during the cold months than a warm escape without having to travel far.
If you’re feeling the winter blues, we also offer day passes to the waterpark available only on Sundays
Don’t worry if someone forgot their towel or swimsuit, stop by The Boutique or Pier Fun Arcade (located in the waterpark) to stock up on any of your waterpark fun needs Surprising the kids? Sign them up for the B a Kid Fun Pass or B a Kid VIK package and they automatically get access to more kid fun both inside and outside of the waterpark. The fun has just begun!
Although we pride ourselves on being a family-friendly resort and having our impressive 54,000 square foot waterpark, we also like to cater to our guests arriving as a couple and searching for a more luxurious experience.
Dining in The Beacon Restaurant with lakeside views, a curated menu, and Broken Earth Wine in On the Rocks Bar & Grill is our suggestion for the perfect romantic getaway or date night. Beyond just these two restaurants, we also have Shoreline Café complete with a bakery on site, a snack and drink bar in Breaker Bay waterpark, and an outdoor pool bar during the summer months (did we mention you can see the lake too?).
Our menu includes a couple of holiday and winter staples this season, including bourbon braised short rib, creamy risottos, and you can’t forget about the apple pie! Our very own Great Lakes Bakes baker has been busy working on all your favorite holiday treats.
This next gift we’ve picked out is for the host or hostess of the season, or perhaps the year Inspired by cozy, homey accents and practical serving pieces, this gift is just what you’ve been looking for to say thank you to the amazing and generous hosts in your life.
The Boutique in Blue Harbor is the shopping destination for those in your life who are always hosting the function around the holidays. Not only do they host it, but they make it a wonderful and enjoyable time by going out of their way to clean and decorate their home, serving creative and delightful dishes and drinks.
Pick up a comforting Milkhouse Candle (on sale for the weekend of Black Friday in the Boutique!) to spread the comfort and cheer Our selection of home goods ranges from cute and decorative like these festive home accents, to practical and stylistic touches like serving trays, charcuterie boards, coasters, and more. The perfect hosting piece awaits!
We all have at least one friend and/or family member each who works tirelessly, year round, with minimal breaks for themselves. Sometimes the best way to express how much you care for someone is by encouraging them to slow down and take care of themselves. We’ve hand selected the items in this self care gift keeping just these people in mind!
Whether you’re sending this loved one straight through the doors of Reflections Spa for a day of pampering, or picking out self care treats yourself for them to enjoy in the comfort of their own home, we’ve got you covered.
Keep your summer skin glowy and soft year round with Blue Harbor’s signature Citrus Coast soap and lotion. Farmhouse Fresh products are also available for purchase in Reflections Spa, like the Firm-Tastic Eyes instant lift and de-puff cream, or the Hyaluronic Booster hydration cream Farmhouse Fresh creates organic skincare products that are sure to keep even the busiest of workers feeling spoiled this winter.
Perhaps in a similar vein, this gift is for all the coffee fanatics in your life who just have to have that cup (or two or three) of freshly brewed coffee straight-away in the morning.
Shoreline Café recently became a proud partner with Door County Coffee Co., bringing a taste of Door County to Sheboygan (with only half the drive!) Not only does Shoreline serve Door County Coffee daily, but there are several different brews to choose from, including classic coffees like the Black and Tan brew and some special seasonal flavored coffees Bags of the featured flavors of coffee grounds are available for purchase inside of Shoreline Café, as well as The Boutique.
Can’t decide on what flavors of Door County Coffee to choose? The official Door County 12 Days of Coffee Advent Calendar is for sale in Shoreline Café and The Boutique And while you’re at it, nothing goes better with a gift of coffee than a mug to drink it out of. A Door County Coffee or Blue Harbor Resort mug is the perfect tuck in to finish this gift off!
Stocking Stocking Stuffers Stuffers
Add a unique and personalized touch to your stocking stuffers!
Door County Coffee Milkhouse Candles Citrus Coast Soaps
Coffee lovers and friends of coffee lovers, you won’t want to miss out on this stocking stuffer! Shop endless Door County Coffee flavors in Shoreline Café, as well as matching Door County Coffee Co. mugs. Trust us when we say there’s a flavor for everyonewhether your coffee tastes are classic or niche.
Perfect for homebodies, the hosting family, or the cozy season enthusiasts! These handmade candles come in all kinds of scents and sizes, add to home decor, as well as to the feeling of the season. These candles are the perfect addition to anyone’s stocking, providing a sense of comfort and joy well beyond the holidays.
The signature scent of Blue Harbor, Citrus Coast soaps and lotions will transport you to the peaceful shores of Lake Michigan and the warm, sandy beaches of Sheboygan. The citrus scents are perfect for keeping skin soft and smooth during the winter, and its classic citrus scent makes it a staple year round.
Experiential Gifts Blue Harbor
Let’s face it, sometimes picking out the perfect gift for a loved one during the season of gifting is difficult and overwhelming. Finding something they will enjoy, that they don’t already own, and that isn’t the hot new item of the season and therefore probably being gifted by at least three others, is a challenge That’s why we love gifting experiences Here at Blue Harbor Resort, there are endless experiences to share with the family during the holiday season and beyond There’s always something new at The Blue, so we thought we’d compile a short list of suggestions of what a gift card to Blue Harbor can buy you.
Shoreline Café proudly partners with Door County Coffee Co, to bring a taste of Door County to Sheboygan. On top of serving Door County Coffee, you can take your favorite flavors home with you to gift and share with your loved ones this holiday season. Additionally, you can shop for other Door County Coffee Co. products, like cold brew concentrate for mixing holiday cocktails, or their original hot cocoa in four different flavors
Blue Harbor Resort is preparing to undergo renovations in The Boutique and Shoreline Café after the holiday season ends. In preparation for that, we’re having our renovation sale all throughout the holiday season! Whether you’re shopping for a unique piece of Sheboygan, home decor, or fall and winter fashion, you’ll find the perfect gift ideas at The Boutique!
A Day at the Waterpark
Lakeside Dining
Self Care at Reflections Spa
For those of us in search of a balmy escape this time of year, a warm and aquatic oasis awaits at Blue Harbor Resort! Breaker Bay Waterpark is a steady 84 degrees Fahrenheit year round and your destination of warm winter fun in Wisconsin! Guests of the resort gain access to the waterpark for the duration of their stay, so you can enjoy the lazy river, waterslides, hot tub, and the Riptide Surf Simulator. Purchasing a gift card to book a stay at Blue Harbor gets you passes to the waterpark, and can be put towards snacks and beverages at the Rocky Bottom Snack Bar. The fun doesn’t end there- stop into Pier Fun Zone Arcade and Lost Temples Mini Golf inside the waterpark for more family fun.
Did you know Blue Harbor’s The Beacon Restaurant and On The Rocks Bar & Grill are Sheboygan’s only lakeview dining? With prime views of Lake Michigan and an option for outdoor dining during the warmer months, these two restaurants are the destination for delicious dining with a view. From juicy steaks and creamy risottos, to fresh salads and classic pizzas, The Beacon and On The Rocks are the perfect lakeside restaurants to enjoy as a family. Whether you’re in town and looking for a tasty meal and stunning views, or you’re an overnight guest at the resort, you won’t want to miss the Blue Harbor dining experience! Both The Beacon and On The Rocks Bar are located just off the main lobby of the resort.
As much as the hustle and bustle of the holiday season can be exciting, it can be just as overwhelming at times. What better way to treat your friends and family who are hosting the holidays this year with a self-care gift? At Reflections Wellness Spa, you can select your preferred style of relaxation, ranging from touchless experiences like our Crystal Wellness Mat, a traditional massage, skincare services, or even an Infrared Sauna! Sit back and detox from the excessive business of the holidays and reenergize your body, mind, and soul. A gift card to Blue Harbor Resort can buy you your next day of rest and relaxation, as well as some self-care goodies for sale in the spa.
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS Harbor
Coming to Blue Harbor this Holiday Season? Here are all the festive events to be aware of.
Run Santa Run!
We’re kicking off the first weekend in December with some holiday cheer That is, holiday cheer-ing! The Run Santa Run 5k is returning to Blue Harbor and kicking off promptly at 9am the morning of Saturday December 7th Get your running shoes ready, choose between running in Santa, Elf, or Penguin gear, and get ready for a 5k like no other!
There are stations for cookies, candy canes, and chocolate kisses for race participants, as well as a post-race party in the lobby of Blue Harbor complete with complimentary hot cocoa, cookies, and a free drink at On The Rocks Bar & Grill! This year, we’re decking out the bar in full holiday style. And by that we mean wrapping paper, ornaments, and garland galore You won’t want to miss it!
Whether you’re a runner or not, this fun and festive race is for everyone, after all, how many 5k’s supply you with sweets while you run?
For those of us who are runners, the grinch leads the race and it’s up to you to try and beat him to the finish line!
Making Spirits Bright Shuttle
Making Spirits Bright is a classic Sheboygan Holiday event that has made a name for itself by being able to give back to the community We highly encourage that guests of the resort get to enjoy this holiday lights display.
We’re giving back this year by providing a complimentary shuttle to and from Making Spirits Bright. From 5pm-9pm starting Friday November 29th to Friday December 27th, guests of the resort can meet the shuttle in the main lobby and be taken through the lights display.
The shuttle is on a first come, first serve basis, so guests are encouraged to keep this in mind when planning when to take the shuttle.
The Blue Harbor Resort shuttle is available only on Friday nights.
Making Spirits Bright is open daily November 29thDecember 31st from 5pm9pm with the exception of Christmas Eve. All the nonprofit asks for the price of admission is a pantry item to donate to the Sheboygan County Food Bank
Here at Blue Harbor, we have our own special Santa helper: Eleanor on the Shore
During your holiday visit to Blue Harbor, make sure the little ones keep an eye out for Eleanor- she’ll be in a new spot each weekend in December leading up to Christmas.
Eleanor likes to stick to populated portions of the main resort, so don’t worry about searching for her in the conference center. Rumor has it that Eleanor has a sweet tooth, enjoys sitting by the fireplace, and admiring the Christmas trees around the main lobby
If you find Eleanor, let us know by snapping a picture and tagging @blueharborresort on Facebook or Instagram We’re always losing track of this mischievous elf, and we’d appreciate any tips on where to search for her After all, we’ve got to make sure she makes it back to the North Pole to help Santa fulfill all of his gift requests. Thankfully, Eleanor helps us out by sharing the wish lists of guests who drop their lists off in our very own Letters to Santa Mailbox!
The Harbor Holiday Bar Breakfast with Santa Saturdays
Let’s get back to the mention of that holiday bar for a moment
The Harbor Holiday Bar is a new seasonal happening at Blue Harbor Resort this year and we are excited to reveal it to our guests and patrons!
Between all the holiday lights and decorations, as well as a special holiday drinks bar available during the month of December only, you’ll be hard pressed to find more festivity than this.
Amid classic festive drinks such as cranberry mimosas, eggnog, and peppermint shnapps, we’ll also be offering different rotational seasonal drinks throughout the month.
Just outside the bar itself, peruse the holiday display of Sheboygan Visual Artists work, which can be purchased through The Boutique in the main lobby
This holiday bar will open the night of December 2nd in pure holly jolly style. Grab your (21+) friends and family, your favorite Christmas sweater, and get ready for the maximum holiday spirit in On The Rocks Bar & Grill!
The holiday season is a time of magic, excitement, and treats- especially when we’re children. At Blue Harbor Resort, we’re passionate about keeping excitement and joy plentiful for the whole family. Which is why we are excited to be hosting Santa Claus himself on Saturday mornings leading up to Christmas
Join us in The Beacon Restaurant from 8am-12pm on December 7th, 14th, or 21st for a special Breakfast with Santa buffet Santa will be taking requests- but don’t forget to write and mail your wish list! We’ve got our own mailbox to the North Pole and an opportunity for the little ones to write and mail their lists during your stay.
After Breakfast with Santa, on Saturday afternoons from 2pm-4pm, Beacon will be serving complimentary hot cocoa to our guests, as well offer a complimentary cookie-decorating station, and a letters to Santa station Santa will be meeting lots of good boys and girls, so he will still need a letter to remind him of your wishes for this Christmas! New
Get ready for a totally tubular entrance into 2025! We’re hosting a rockin’ 80's New Years Eve overnight package this year including the one and only ticket you need to get to our 2024 farewell party in the conference center side of the resort
Start gathering your best 80's apparel and get ready for this special package. 2024 is going out, but in neon, bighaired style!
The party kicks off at 8pm on New Years Eve. Later in the evening, we’ll be serving light appetizers leading up towards midnight Once the clock chimes, the balloon drop will be released, and a complimentary bubbly toast will be passed around!
Amid all the fun, we’re excited to have local Sheboygan band Masters of the Universe performing classic 80's hits! Performing until 12:30am, you’re sure to dance the night away And what better way to kick off the new year than on your toes, surrounded by joy and cheer?
Book your New Years stay now so you don’t miss out on this radical party!
& CHEER SPREADING JOY
Sheboygan’s beloved Holiday Lights Display is a popular holiday attraction and a way to give back during the holiday season.
Every holiday season, we bring out boxes of decorations and ropes of plug-in lights out of our dark basements and garages, lighting up our homes and streets with merry, bright, displays. We bring out our winter traditions, saved especially for the darkest and coldest time of the year to add brightness, comfort, and warmth. Just like many of us do individually in the privacy of our own homes, Making Spirits Bright, a nonprofit annual holiday event in Sheboygan, WI, bands together as a community to create a truly awe-inspiring holiday lights drive-through display. Perhaps you know of other holiday lights display and attractions, but there’s something else about Making Spirits Bright that sets it apart from all other holiday attractions. The price of admission to drive through the 1.1 mile route with 1,120,000 lights is simply a donation for the Sheboygan County Food Bank
It’s not just the total number of lights that have grown since the beginning of Making Spirits Bright, but the total number of donated goods. The classic holiday event began in 2012, and since then, the nonprofit group has been able to donate over one million pounds of food to the Sheboygan County Food Bank It’s all thanks to the tireless group of volunteers at the Sheboygan Rotary Club, and the countless families that have made it a tradition to find a way to give back to the community during the holidays by admiring the joy and cheer of the season The Sheboygan County Food Bank is a nonprofit organization that heavily relies on its volunteers to help feed thousands of people facing hunger within Sheboygan County. They partner with nearly 40 different food emergency partner organizations, supplying on average 6,000 families per month The cost of admission to see Making Spirits Bright has remained a food pantry or hygiene related donation since it’s very beginning 12 years ago.
For those who want to contribute more than pantry items to Making Spirits Bright may also contribute cash donations towards the cause Donations are collected at the entrance to Evergreen Park, before visitors may proceed slowly through the mesmerizing lights display. Upon entering, the volunteers share with you the radio that synchs up with the display lights, enhancing the magical experience with choreographed lights
It’s no wonder Making Spirits Bright is a cherished holiday tradition in Sheboygan county, with their endless loop of giving back and paying it forward. Making Spirits Bright opens for the season on November 29th, 2024until December 31st and is open from 5pm to 9pm, in exception to Christmas Eve
This year, Blue Harbor is offering a complimentary shuttle service to help guests get to see the lights displays. Learn more on our holiday fun page on our website.
blueharborresort.com/lake-life-sheboygan
LAKELIFESHEBOYGAN
blueharbor.com/lake-life-sheboygan marketing@blueharborresort.com @blueharborresort
Photo by Em von der Ruhr