Explore 10 gift ideas that celebrate Wisconsin’s rich history, culture and traditions—and are sure to delight everyone who loves the Badger State!
MADISON, Wis. – Looking for a holiday gift with a Wisconsin connection? WisHistory’s online shop features a curated selection of gifts inspired by the state’s history, pastimes and traditions. Purchases from shop.wisconsinhistory.org support the Society’s mission to collect, preserve and share the stories of Wisconsin and the nation for future generations. From history-inspired treasures to unique Wisconsin-themed gifts, the shop offers something special for everyone who loves the Badger State.
“Wisconsin has its own unique customs and characteristics, and our gift selection reflects that,” said Emily Duval, director of guest services, Wisconsin Historical Society. “Some of our popular items include handmade dream catchers, a buildable model of a Hodag, and the collectable Wisconsin State Capitol ornament. For those looking to give an experience, a Wisconsin Historical Society membership is another great option. A membership gift includes free admission to all WisHistory historic sites and museums statewide, a year subscription to the Wisconsin Magazine of History, a discount on merchandise and ticketed events, plus more great benefits any history lover would appreciate.”
Check out these 10 popular gift ideas from the Wisconsin Historical Society:
Wisconsin Historical Society Membership (Starting at $60)
Give the gift of history with a Wisconsin Historical Society membership. Starting at $60 for a one-year single membership and $125 for a family membership, this experiential gift includes free admission to the Society’s 11 historic sites along with discounts on special events, retail items, and more. When you purchase membership at full price, you can also gift a membership using a 40% discount through Dec. 31. Plus, every new membership includes a fun sticker pack featuring designs inspired by Wisconsin’s rich history and heritage.
Membership information can be found here.
2026 Wisconsin State Capitol Ornament ($20)
Support the State Capitol restoration program with the purchase of a 2026 ornament featuring the Capitol’s rotunda floor, an intricately designed geometric pattern made of varied marbles. This limited-edition ornament, beautifully packaged in a gift box with an accompanying booklet highlighting the featured image, is a cherished state keepsake.
2026 Wisconsin State Capitol Ornament – Wisconsin Historical Society
Hodag Model ($29.95)
The famous Wisconsin Hodag, a mythical and fearsome creature of the Northwoods, is now a 214-piece buildable model sure to intrigue those inspired by this most puzzling hometown hoax. When assembled, the beguiling creature—measuring 3.6 inches long by 2.6 inches tall—will spark laughter, joy and conversation surrounding the uniquely Wisconsin legend.
Hodag Model – 214 Piece Buildable Bricks – Wisconsin Historical Society
Ojibwe Dreamcatcher ($32.95)
Handcrafted by members of the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, each authentic Ojibwe dreamcatcher is a beautiful and unique treasure that comes with a certificate of authenticity. Offered in either “Natural” or “Colorful,” each dreamcatcher also comes with the Dreamcatcher Legend, which tells the tale of Asibikaashi (Spider Woman), who took care of her people by weaving each child a magical web.
Ojibwe Dreamcatcher – Large – Wisconsin Historical Society
Wisconsin Party Know-How Puzzle ($28.95)
This 500-piece puzzle makes the perfect gift for any Wisconsin lover! Made for ages 10 and up, the Wisconsin Party Know-How Puzzle features the most iconic elements of a good Badger State gathering—from cheese and brats to beer and polka. This colorful puzzle is great for family game nights, a gift for your loved one or a hands-on activity to celebrate your Wisconsin pride!
Wisconsin Party Know How 500-Piece Puzzle – Wisconsin Historical Society
Fish Fry Crew Neck Sweatshirt ($39.95)
Show your Wisconsin Fish Fry style with a sweatshirt featuring the slogan, “If it’s Friday Night, It’s Fish Fry in Wisconsin!” The design celebrates this beloved Wisconsin tradition, complete with the classic fish fry sides: coleslaw, potatoes and ryebread. Express your fondness of this beloved midwestern tradition with this custom, green and gold sweatshirt.
Friday Night Fish Fry Sweatshirt – Wisconsin Historical Society
Lure of Wisconsin Ornaments ($29.95)
Celebrate Wisconsin’s fishing heritage with this exclusive trio of ornaments inspired by iconic fishing lures. Featuring designs modeled after a Rapala-style minnow, diving crankbait and a shallow-running baitfish, these hand-designed ornaments make a perfect gift for the angler in your life. Available exclusively at the Wisconsin Historical Society, this unique trio is a great way to celebrate a love of fishing and Wisconsin’s outdoor traditions.
The Lure of Wisconsin Ornament Set – Wisconsin Historical Society
Butter Socks ($12)
If you think butter makes everything better, you’ll love these fun new socks that celebrate Wisconsin’s dairy heritage! Featuring a classic, almost retro stick-of-butter design complete with measurement marks, these socks are perfect for anyone who loves butter! Made from soft, eco-friendly cotton, they’re available in both men’s and women’s sizes.
Butter Socks – Wisconsin Historical Society
Beer Cribbage Board ($65)
Handcrafted in Wisconsin from maple wood and shaped like a frosty mug, this unique cribbage board celebrates the state’s favorite beverage. Designed for two or three players, this three-track board comes with nine wooden pegs packaged in a burlap bag.
Beer Mug Cribbage Board – Wisconsin Historical Society
The Fright Before Christmas: Surviving Krampus and other Yuletide Monsters, Witches and Ghosts ($22)
Discover the folklore of Krampus and his friends. The Belsnickel, Gryla, the Yule Cat and other Yuletide beasties emerge from the pages of this book, which explores the darker side of Christmas traditions and their many guises, from Yule and the Winter Solstice to Saturnalia.
Order gifts no later than Wednesday, Dec. 16 for the best chance of arrival in time for the holidays. Wisconsin Historical Society members receive a 10% discount on applicable items. Shipping is free on orders $75 and up.
About Wisconsin Historical Society
The Wisconsin Historical Society, founded in 1846, ranks as one of the largest, most active and most diversified state historical societies in the nation. As both a state agency and a private membership organization, its mission is to help people connect to the past by collecting, preserving and sharing stories. The Wisconsin Historical Society serves millions of people every year through a wide range of sites, programs and services. For more information, visit wisconsinhistory.org.