Wisconsin’s snow-covered countryside and frosty Main Streets paint a holiday scene that harks back to times past.

In Elkhorn, a Christmas card setting is re-created each year, continuing a tradition that began in the 1950s when the town was used as a backdrop for six paintings in Ford Motor Company’s magazine, Ford Times. The artwork was later used on Christmas cards that circulated worldwide. In this "Christmas Card City USA," a tree lighting ceremony kicks off a three-week celebration that includes the annual Christmas parade, sleigh rides, strolling carolers, and holiday plays and concerts at the historic Sprague Theater. (414/723-5788)

A Dickens-inspired Christmas celebration, complete with merchants in Victorian garb, roasted chestnuts, hayrides and carolers, is held in Cambridge. Street lamps wrapped in garland and Victorian homes trimmed for the season are also part of the town’s holiday charm. (608/423-3780)

Holiday cheer abounds in the historic mining town of Mineral Point, where visitors find treasures at Artisan Christmas Walks and shop by the light of luminaries in store windows. Beautiful handcrafted works of art, including folk Santas, nutcrackers and angels, are at Mineral Point, where visitors find treasures at Artisan Christmas Walks and shop by the light of luminaries in store windows.

In North Freedom, Santa leaves his reindeer behind to ride a turn-of-the-century passenger train at the Mid-Continent Railway Museum. Children and adults enjoy the seven-mile trip through the scenic Sauk County countryside aboard this authentic steam train. At the museum, visitors can view historical exhibits of railway equipment. (608/522-4261)

Portraits of long ago come to life during the holiday celebration hosted by the town of Bayfield. The festivities begin with a traditional tree-lighting ceremony and continue as glowing luminaries and decorated storefronts line the town’s Main Street. Weekends feature caroling, a tour of lavishly decorated homes, sleigh rides and a Christmas craft show. Perennial favorites include appearances by jolly Ol’ St. Nick and a Christmas parade with children dressed as ornaments, Christmas trees and gifts. (1-800-447-4094)

The historic Cedar Creek Settlement in Cedarburg holds a variety of holiday events, from holiday music and cooking demonstrations to visits from Santa and craft workshops for children. Wine-tastings, book-signings, a holiday art boutique and woodcarving are among the other activities planned for the settlement’s month-long celebration. (1-800-827-8020 or 414/377-8020)

Riding through snow-covered fields in a horse-drawn sleigh is a wonderful way for people of all ages to experience the magic of the holiday season.