Ultimate 2024 Guide of December Michigan Calendar of Events, Festivals | Best Christmas Lights, Parades, Reindeer Farms, Home Tours | Christmas Trains and Towns, Christmas Markets, Best Things to Do in Michigan in Winter! 

Article:  December Michigan Events and Things to Do This Winter! Best Michigan Christmas Towns, Festivals, Arts Fairs, Trains and Markets! FUN things to do this weekend!

• Author: Sherry Trautman
• Publisher: Travel-MI | Date Modified: October 23, 2024

Thanks so much for visiting! Chris and I are REAL people, not AI bots! We live in mid-Michigan so as locals, we love inspiring you with lots of things to do! As AI is taking over and hiding sites like ours, we appreciate you!

The ULTIMATE SOURCE of 2024 December Michigan events and things to do for families, couples and friends this summer! Grab our Boredom Zapping Ideas for fun in Michigan and add them to your events calendar. 

+Best Southwest Michigan events monthly calendar. See what's happening in Michigan today! Music festivals and fun activities with kids.

Destinations: Detroit, Traverse City, Frankenmuth, Ann Arbor, Kalamazoo, Petoskey, Charlevoix, Houghton Lake, Midland, South Haven, St. Joseph, Grand Rapids, Battle Creek, Upper Peninsula and more!  

December Michigan events are full swing! Cosmic light shows, steam trains, Christmas lights and visiting Santa are just a few of December events to look forward to!

Join us on Instagram where I've posted all of our December Michigan adventures!  We hope you enjoy our December Michigan fun things to do!

Plan your December Michigan trip, winter getaway or winter vacation around our inspiring festivals and events! 

• While we make every effort to verify our listed events, please visit the event website, Facebook page or call them prior to your visit to check dates/times, make reservations, buy tickets and ask questions. Our list is for ideas only and we are not responsible for event changes or cancelations or updates.  

Jump To December Weekly Events

Want to see Incredible Michigan Christmas Lights?

THE BEST December Michigan Events 2024

Traveling Michigan in December is absolutely stunning as our nights are cool but our days are sunny and still perfect for exploring!

Week 1

• Nite Lites at the Michigan International Speedway - Drive Through Christmas Lights Show and Train! 
• How much is the light show at Michigan International Speedway? 
• Cost: The Drive Through is $35 per car and the train is $17.25 per person.

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• Costs for 2024: Tickets online $18 per carload, at the gate $22.50-$27.50

• Magic of Lights - Drive Through Christmas Lights Experience! This holiday season will be even brighter, merrier and more colorful as Magic of Lights returns and transforms Pine Knob Music Theatre’s parking area into a vibrant drive-through holiday-themed light display.

• 1001 Winter Wonders - SO COOL!!  This  interactive exhibit features a free indoor, wintery pathway that takes you past dozen of sparkly trees, stunning igloos and even a life-sized gingerbread house. Family adventures await you at the exhibit and you can have 
• FREE photos with Santa at his "cabin!" 

Heck, anyone will love seeing live reindeer and visiting with Santa Claus! 

When: November 16 - December 22, 2024- Saturday's & Sunday's only, Noon - 4pm

Where: (Go Now) 7775 Weiss St, Frankenmuth, MI

• Santa's Reindeer Farm - (Shown Above) Grandpa Tiny's Farm in Frankenmuth, 7775 Weiss St, Frankenmuth, MI.   
• Tickets are only available online so reserve your spot early!!  
• Chris and I went last year and enjoyed seeing Santa and his reindeer!  You can see other cute barnyard animals too! 
• Come see Santa and have your photo taken with the big man himself this Christmas season! Stroll through the farm and see cute barnyard animals! Buy your tickets early! 

When: Beginning Thursday, November 21, 2024 - Monday, January 13, 2025
Boyne City, MI.

• Select dates and times. See their website for details. Advanced reservations required. 

Where: Kiwidinok Tibetan Yak Petting Farm, 1735 S. Wilson Rd., Boyne City, MI 49712

Christmas on the Tibetan Yak Farm at Kiwidinok Tibetan Yak Petting Farm in Boyne City is a heartwarming and festive celebration that brings the holiday spirit! 
 
Nestled in the picturesque farm, this special Christmas event offers a unique opportunity for families and friends to enjoy the magic of the season in a rural setting. As you enter their rustic barn, you'll encounter the friendly Tibetan yaks, alpacas, and other friendly animals that are cutely adorned for the holiday!
 
See twinkling lights and interact with the cute animals inside the barn by feeding them some snacks. Create cherished memories, by petting the animals, sipping hot cocoa, or buying unique yak-inspired gifts in their shop!

• Detroit Zoo: Walk along the wild side at Detroit Zoo's Wild Lights! on select week nights and most Sundays.
•  Hours: Most Fridays and Saturdays, 5pm -10:30pm. Sundays 5pm - 9pm. 
• The Zoo is magical during the winter with sparkly sights and Christmas entertainment! There is fun and activities for zoo goers of all ages. 
• See millions of LED lights twinkling in the trees, buildings, lighted tunnel, and animal figures. Stroll through the Enchanted Trail, an immersive forest of lights and be wowed by the Polar Express 4D Theater! 
• This is an outdoor event and limited to the front half of the Zoo. 
• There will be no access to animal habitats during your Wild Lights experience.

• 32nd Annual Wonderland of Lights - Potter Park Zoo!  
• Open Thursday- Sunday, 5pm - 8pm. (closed on Thanksgiving)
• Thousands of colorful lights create an breathtaking holiday display! This November & December in Michigan, take a stroll around the zoo, enjoy holiday music, and be wowed with sparkling lights for a  magical Michigan winter evening. Stop by the Savanna Grill for a bite to eat and grab a goodie!

• Kerstmarkt- November 23, 2024 to December 21, 2024 (Weekends). Located at 8th Street Marketplace: 8th Street and Pine Avenue, Holland - Ottawa, MI 49423.  Experience a delightful outdoor European-style market with holiday items, delicious food and artisan demonstrations in Holland, Michigan.
• Check their website for hours as they vary each day.
•  “Kerstmarkt” in the Dutch language means “Christmas market.” Kerstmarkt is a Christmas event where local artisans and specialty shops sell their wares while shoppers partake in traditional food, drink and live entertainment.

• The Big Bright Light Show, Rochester, MI, November 25 - January 19, 2025.The display will be lit every evening (5 pm - Midnight)   
• Most stores are open Monday - Saturday, until 9 pm. Magical Downtown Rochester Christmas Lights 2024-2025
• See The Big Bright Light Show! - Incredible Drive Through Lights in Michigan!  This show is spectacular! Starts at 5:00 p.m. 308 1/2 Main Street, Rochester, Michigan  
• Oh, and here are 7 FUN Rochester Christmas Events To Do In One Day!

• Metro Health Christmas & Holiday Traditions is such a great experience! Chris and I have attended several years and love wandering inside and outside of Frederik Meijer Gardens!
• Be wowed with the glow of over 350,000 colorful lights, virtual visits from Santa, rooftop reindeer and 46 international trees and displays.

• Tis the Season Weekends at Frankenmuth Riverplace Shops - Saturdays, November 26, December 3, 10, and 17, and Sundays, November 27, December 4, 11, and 18, 2024. 

• Experience the magic of the holiday season at River Place Shops – activities include strolling carol performances and a meet-and-greet opportunity with Santa Claus and his North Pole team. Free and open to the public. 1 – 4 PM: Visit Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus on the Fest Platz stage near the Cass River Bar and Grill. 1 – 4 PM: Enjoy strolling musical performances by by carolers featuring classic Christmas carols and new favorites.

• Festival of Trees, The annual Festival of Trees is back inside the museum to inspire the holiday spirit beginning. 

• Celebration of Trees - Downtown Marshall will have a special glow and sparkle with the “Celebration of Trees” event, taking place  November 27, 2024 through January 7, 2025. 
• Remember a loved one, recognize a favorite organization, or just spread hope and cheer by sponsoring and decorating a downtown holiday tree.

For the month of December, come see a fun laser light show on the north side of the iconic Lower Harbor Ore Dock!

• Annual Bear Lake Sparkle in the Park promises to be a must see! Over 80,000 lights! Open December 5 to 10 pm nightly. Come see thousands upon thousands of Christmas lights set up in nearly 50 holiday displays at Hopkins Park, Bear Lake from Thanksgiving weekend through New Year's Eve. 
• The beautifully lit displays include angels, Christmas trees, Santa and his reindeer, a salute to troops, snowmen, various animals and several Christmas scenes, all arranged outdoors in Bear Lake's lakeside campground park, just off US 31.

• HollyDazzle at the Michigan Renaissance Festival - 12600 Dixie Hwy. Holly, MI, Nov. 29-30, 2024; Dec. 1, 2024; Dec. 6-8, 2024;
  Dec. 13-15, 2024; Dec. 20-24, 2024; and Dec. 27-31, 2024.

• HollyDazzle is a Magical three-quarter mile outdoor trail featuring more than a dozen lighted Christmas scenes including Santa Claus, Sledding Penguins and Candy Land Castle in a magical winter wonderland walk through at the Michigan Renaissance Festival Village! 

• Get your tickets online! 

• Free Parking! Hollydazzle is an outdoor walk-through event.   

• Country Christmas at Three Cedars Farm, 7897 Six Mile Rd, Northville, MI 48168.  Country Christmas begins on Nov 29, 2024. 
• Get in the Holiday spirit at Three Cedars! They offer Christmas trees, wreaths, hot cocoa, cider, donuts and of course Santa Claus! Photos with Mr. & Mrs Claus, shopping in their Christmas Store, kids outdoor play land, petting farm and train rides.

• Walk of Trees in Plymouth, begins November 29, 2024!
• Enjoy a Christmas walk through the Kellogg Park to see several trees, each decorated by a local family, club or business. 
• It’s free! 
• The Walk of Trees is sparkling with lights 24 hours a day through Christmas.

If you love Michigan Christmas lights and Michigan Christmas home tours, this is it!

• Visit Meadow Brook Hall for Winter Wonder Lights! The Holidays at Meadow Brook Hall are simply dazzling, Chris and I LOVE IT! November 29 to December 30, 2024. Winter Wonder Lights is a self-guided outdoor experience with brightly lit light displays across the grounds of Meadow Brook Hall, located in Rochester on the campus of Oakland University. Come enjoy a lovely evening of lights and music as you explore this National Historic Landmark at its most festive. There will be fun concessions such as glow-in-the-dark cotton candy and hot meals in their outdoor café. Seasonal and specialty drinks, bonfires and more! Learn the FUN Famous History of Matilda Dodge and Meadow Brook Hall!
  

• Meadow Brook Hall's Holiday Walk, November 29 to December 23, 2024. 350 Estate Drive, Rochester, Michigan. It’s the most wonderful time of year! Holiday Walk is a self-guided indoor tour featuring incomparable holiday sights and decorations inside Meadow Brook Hall, the historic mansion and National Historic Landmark located in Rochester on the campus of Oakland University. See more than 50 magnificent trees, flickering fireplaces, and lights galore! Holiday Walk invites you to explore the 110 room estate from the Grand Ballroom to Candy Cane Cottage and visit Santa and his reindeer on Santa Saturdays! Perfect for a special date night or family outing.

Gull Meadow Farms has transformed their greenhouses into beautiful walk-through Christmas experiences, each with a different theme. There are also several staged spots for the perfect picture! Oh, and be sure to pet a few of their cute goat friends along the way. The outdoor space is beautiful with lots of lights and two choreographed light shows to experience this Christmas!

Visit their Facebook event page for frequent updates and more information.

• The Spring Lake Sparkle Festival 2024 is such a fun chance to meet Santa, grab some eats and enjoy a drink at Santa’s Workshop.  November 30, 2024 - December 25, 2024
• Over 400,00 multicolored lights and displays will light up the trees and businesses in Spring Lake's downtown corridor. Come out and enjoy the Holiday Spirit in all its glory!​ Offering meet & greets with Santa, food, drink, & photo-ops. Some businesses will offer extended hours to greet you with Holiday Cheer and special gifts! The lights will shine every night through New Years for your viewing pleasure.
• Since it's the social district, order a yummy cocktail or cocoa and cozy up into the New Year. 
  

• “Home for the Holidays at Ford House” at The Ford House (Edsel and Eleanor), November 30 to December 22, 2024. 1100 Lake Shore Road, Grosse Pointe Shores, MI.  

• “Home for the Holidays at Ford House” is a lovely winter experience, combining the best features from several years of Christmas programming. You can enjoy a sparkling lit evening walk throughout the historic estate with glittering white lights surrounding them. Explore the first floor of the Main Residence and marvel at its understated elegance, a look inspired by Eleanor Ford’s tastes and wishes.

2024 Detroit Zoo: Walk Along the Wild Side at Detroit Zoo's Wild Lights!  Family Friendly, Animal Experience 

December

• December 1, 8, 12, 15, 26, 29, 30-31, 2024; 5 to 9 p.m. 
• December 6-7, 13-14, 16-23, 27-28; 5 to 10:30 p.m.

January

• January 2-5, 2024; 5 to 9 p.m. | 

Where: Detroit Zoo, 8450 W 10 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48067

• The Zoo is magical during the winter with sparkly sights and Christmas entertainment! There is fun and activities for zoo goers of all ages. See millions of LED lights twinkling in the trees, buildings, lighted tunnel, and animal figures. 
• Stroll through the Enchanted Trail, an immersive forest of lights and be wowed by the Polar Express 4D Theater! This is an outdoor event and limited to the front half of the Zoo. There will be no access to animal habitats during your Wild Lights experience.

• 34th Annual Manistee's Victorian Sleighbell Parade & Old Christmas Weekend. . The Victorian Sleighbell Parade is December 2, 2023 at 5:30 pm. An entire weekend of excitement including the Victorian Sleighbell Parade with horse-drawn entries, bagpipers, reindeer and carolers elegantly dressed in Victorian attire. See the draft horses pulling a 30-foot Christmas tree down River Street followed by luminaries, caroling and the lighting of the tree! Manistee’s Old Christmas Weekend is filled with charming, Victorian-inspired events including the Festival of Trees, craft bazaar, 5K race and more!

• 12 Days of Christmas Sale, December 1 – 12, 2024, Frankenmuth River Place Shops, 925 S Main St, Frankenmuth, MI. Get all of your Christmas shopping done while wandering along the beautifully decorated sidewalks in Frankenmuth River Place Shops! December 1st through December 12th. Fun Frankenmuth December events. 
• Sunday – Thursday: 11 am – 6 pm
  Friday – Saturday: 11 am – 8 pm

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If this doesn’t say nostalgic Christmas I don’t know what does!! This is the huckleberry railroad in Flint Michigan! We embarked on this fun journey on Saturday. It was a wonderful time filled with Christmas carol singing and beautiful city and wooded sights! . . . #steamtrain #steamtrains #michigansteamtrain #huckleberryrailroad #christmasfun #oldtime #christmasinmichigan #oldtimevillage @exploreflint #smalltowncharm #smalltownchristmas #travelpuremichigan #crossroadsvillagehuckleberryrailroad #crossroadsvillage #michigan #vintage #nostalgia #nostalgicchristmas #michigan #puremichigan #gogreatlakesbay #flintmichigan #flint #railroad

A post shared by Michigan Travel+Food Adventure (@travelingmichigan) on Dec 2, 2019 at 5:40am PST

• Christmas at Crossroads Holiday Magic 2024, Crossroads Village & Huckleberry Railroad is incredible!  6140 Bray Road, Flint, MI. This incredible Michigan Christmas village in Flint, Michigan features a buffet dinner and several historical buildings to tour including a post office, church and dentist's office! Plus, you can ride the nostalgic Huckleberry Railroad for a true taste of the past! Buy your tickets early for this fall November Michigan train ride and nostalgic village. 

• Open for Drive Through Only nights: December 2, 9, 16, 23 & 24, 2024. 5:00pm-9:00pm
• $10 per vehicle. All ticket sales end at 8:30pm.
• Christmas at Crossroads Village is lovely with costumed villagers, live entertainment, model trains and craft demonstrations, holiday music and, of course, visits with Santa himself. It’s holiday fun for the whole family. Buy your tickets early.  What an awesome December Michigan event!

When:

• December 1, 2024; 2pm - 6pm
• December 7, 8, 2024; 2pm - 6pm 
• December 14-15, 2024; 2pm - 6pm

Where: Cadillac Farmers Market, 117 W Cass St, Cadillac, MI

Live music, shopping, food trucks and fun! Perfect spot to do your Christmas shopping!

Looking forward to pictures with Santa this winter? We have that covered too! Every Sunday you can bring your kids (pets included) to see Santa and get a professional photo taken!

When: December 2, 2024 at 7:00 pm - 9:30 pm

Where: 60th Marshall Christmas Parade, Downtown Marshall. 

• Free
• The 2024 theme is “Sparkling Splendor” to celebrate their 60th Parade! The parade begins on the west Michigan Avenue entrance to the fountain circle, rounding around the fountain and then continuing down Michigan Avenue along the business district, turning south onto Exchange Street and ending after turning west onto Green Street.

• Alden B. Dow Home & Studio Holiday Tours, Midland Michigan, December 2024 check website for tickets and availability.  Alden and Vada Dow made Christmas a joyous and playful, family celebration. This Christmas, tour the home to see the beauty and fun of their zooming scale trains, mechanical toys, shimmering Christmas tree decorations, joyous holiday music and lovely comforts they created for everyone to enjoy. Visit their website for tickets.
• 2024 - Pricing
  Adults - $20.00
  Seniors - $18.00 (adults 60 and over)
  Students - $8.00 (8 years old through traditional college age of 23)

• See America's Tallest Singing Christmas Tree in Muskegon - Did you know the tallest singing Christmas Tree has been an annual event since 1985? Enjoy the voices of the Mona Shores Choir while standing in a beautiful Christmas tree decorated with 25,000 sparkling lights!
  
• Tickets on sale November 1, 2024

• Holiday Market located at From Buds to Blooms, 1515 E. Center Road, Essexville, MI. 

• The 2024 Candlewalk kicks off this year on December 5th, with a Parade of Lights! Santa will arrive into town to receive the key to the city and the official Christmas tree will be lit.  Santa will then visit with kids of all ages in Goggins Hall!
• Enjoy thousands of softly glowing candles flanking the streets of Flushing! Each evening you can enjoy holiday music and performances by local singers, choirs, ice sculptures, "Lionel" train displays, yummy s'mores, delicious refreshments, and horse drawn wagon rides! What a fun way to kick off the Christmas and holiday season!

• Holiday Pops - The Grand Rapids Symphony Pops at the DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI. Hear seasonal favorites including “Joy to the World,” “O Come All Ye Faithful,” John Williams’ selections from the movie Home Alone, a “Christmas Sing-Along,” and the “Hallelujah” Chorus from The Messiah.

• Awesome Grand Rapids December Michigan Events 2024. What is there to do in Grand Rapids in December? Well, this!

• Celebrate Merry Mile at the Calhoun County Fairgrounds - See sparkling Christmas lights from the warmth of your vehicle. Open Thursday-Sunday, Beginning December 5, 2024, 6-9pm, 
• Cost: $10/car. Address: 720 Fair Street, Marshall, MI

• Gilmore Car Museum's Winter Wonderland - A Holiday Lights Spectacular, December 5-8, 12-15, 19-23, 26-29, 2024. 
• Check their website for details. 
• This Holiday Lights Spectacular offers a drive-through and walk-through nighttime holiday lights experience across the spacious 90-acres of the Gilmore Car Museum campus. 
• You can also visit the inside of the museum to meet Santa Claus, explore the Gilmore’s Festival of Trees and galleries filled with hundreds of classic cars. 
• Visit with Santa Claus, reindeer games for the kids, holiday food & beverages, inflatable maze, artwork, live music. Are pets allowed? No.

• Holiday Stroll at Olde World Canterbury Village – Open 5 pm each day:  Make the Holiday Stroll one of your most memorable experience of the holiday season! 

• I went last year with a friend and enjoyed seeing all the Christmas Lights, listening to the Christmas Carols and just soaking up the Christmas cheer.

• Canterbury Village transforms into a winter wonderland as you stroll through the quaint Village glowing with almost a million festive lights.  See a light show choreographed to classic holiday songs, professional carolers, and live Christmas performances. See classic characters like Frosty, Buddy The Elf, The Grinch, Olaf, Jack Frost, Anna and Elsa and more! Enjoy cocktails with firepits. Visit with Santa Claus too! 
  

• Merry Marketplace at Crooked Tree Arts Center, Traverse City, MI. Each week will feature different artists, so come on out!  Looking for one-of-a-kind gifts this holiday season? Visit CTAC to shop hundreds of unique handmade gifts and works of art from artists all over the state.

Experience Frankenmuth, an incredible Michigan Christmas Town!  

• Celebrate the love of Christmas in Frankenmuth this Christmas season!

• Visit their website for dates, tickets and details!
• Where: Reindeer Ranch - 2921 North 6th Street, Kalamazoo, MI 49009. 
• Take guided tours of the Reindeer Ranch farm with their trained tour guides. Learn all about reindeer, visit with a real live reindeer and see the rest of the herd! Tours last 60 minutes.  Santa & Reindeer Tours are a blast too this Christmas season! 
• Visit Michigan Reindeer Farms this season!
  

7 FUN Rochester Christmas Events To Do In ONE DAY!

• 7 FUN Rochester Christmas Events (Michigan) In One Day - Kris Kringle Market, Meadow Brook Hall, Our Favorite Bakehouse, Christmas lights and more!

• Holiday Lights Parade and Drive-By Santa Parade in Berkley, Michigan. The Holiday Lights Parade will go down 12 Mile starting at 5:30 PM, and will end at City Hall for Berkley's annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.

• Enjoy Michigan Live Nativity Scenes this December! Where and when to see live nativities in churches and spots across Michigan. There's even a couple drive thru nativity scenes!
  

• Gymnastics on the Grand returns to DeVos Place for a weekend of competition December 6 - 8, 2024!
• This exciting Michigan gymnastics event attracts 2,000+ gymnasts from all over the country! Gymnastics on the Grand is a top-notch experience in West Michigan!

• Vendor and craft show with music, bake sale and concession stand with proceeds going to the high school band.
• Cost $1

• Frankfort Community Tree Lighting, Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 7:00 PM at the Rotary Park, Frankfort, MI 49635.

• 19th Annual Detroit Urban Craft Fair - December 7-8, 2024, Masonic Temple, Detroit, MI. December 7, 2024: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m and also December 8, 2024: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 
• Michigan's longest-running indie craft fair is returning to the world's largest Masonic Temple. Event features over 100 handmade crafters and indie artists where you can find one-of-a-kind items and meet the people who made them. Masonic Temple, 500 Temple Street, Detroit, MI 48201. Great December Michigan holiday event!
  

• Lighted Parade and Frosty Fireworks in Downtown Linden. December 6, 2024. 

• Christmas In Ida Festival and Parade of Lights (south of Detroit)- Concerts, live entertainment, craft shows, holiday photos, fun run, great food, fireworks and so much more! Check their website for details!

• Visits with Santa - The Village of Rochester Hills - 104 N. Adams Road, Rochester Hills, MI. December 2024, select dates and times, see their website for details.  Free visit, take your own photos! Enjoy the magic of Christmas and start your holiday tradition at the Village of Rochester Hills!

• Reindeer Visits! The Village of Rochester Hills

• Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village  This Christmas event is one of the top Christmas experiences in the state and country! Tickets go on sale October 30, 2024. Book your spots in early November as they sell out fast! Learn more about visiting Greenfield Village! Time: 6:30-10:00 p.m 
• Mingle with merrymakers amid the smell of roasting chestnuts and warm bonfires.  Enjoy carolers, fiddlers and sleigh bells.  
• See Santa, pet live reindeer, embark on horse-drawn wagons! 
• Main Street is packed with cheer offering holiday goods, food and warm beverages. 
• Historical home tours. What an awesome December Michigan event!

2024 Gilmore Car Museum's Winter Wonderland - A Holiday Lights Spectacular! Lights and Cars 

When: December 5-8, 12-15, 19-23 and 26-29, 2024, Open: 5:00 PM- 9:00 PM 

Where: 6865 W. Hickory Rd., Hickory Corners, MI, 49060

• Check their website for details. This Holiday Lights Spectacular offers a drive-through and walk-through nighttime holiday lights experience across the spacious 90-acres of the Gilmore Car Museum campus. You can also visit the inside of the museum to meet Santa Claus, explore the Gilmore’s Festival of Trees and galleries filled with hundreds of classic cars. Visit with Santa Claus, great elf hunt, games and fun!
• Are pets allowed? No.
• Chris and Sherry visited and love Gilmore Car Museum when we lived in the area.  An amazing collection of cars and displays!  What we really liked was the atmosphere of the old barns. What surprised us was the amazing variety and rarity of the cars.  

“Home for the Holidays at Ford House” at The Ford House | Date Night

When: Friday through Sunday, December 6 - 22, 2024; 5:30 - 8:30 pm 

Public tickets go on sale on Tuesday, November 5, 2024

Where: 1100 Lake Shore Road, Grosse Pointe Shores, MI

• (Edsel and Eleanor), “Home for the Holidays at Ford House” is a lovely winter experience! Enjoy a one-mile walk around the beautiful property filled with shimmering lights. Also, be sure to visit the Main Residence for a self-paced journey to see how Eleanor Ford would have decorated her home for the holidays. Stop by the concessions tent for complimentary hot chocolate! What a lovely family-friendly November Michigan event! Perfect for date night too!

HO HO HO!  It's time to visit the BEST Michigan Christmas Towns and Villages!

Ride trains or horse drawn carriages, see Santa, stroll nostalgic Christmas towns and get into the Christmas spirit!!

More Popular December Michigan Calendar of Events!

• Visit Midland Michigan's Santa House and Ride the Northern Star Train! Hours and Dates. Fun activities for kids!

• Visit Frankenmuth this month! Carriage tours, fudge, Christmas lights, ice skating and so much more! Grab our Frankenmuth Christmas guide! Perfect family-friendly December Michigan activity!  Be sure to visit Bronner's Christmas Wonderland Too! You'll find Christmas gifts for everyone on your list!

• Holiday Open House - Petoskey - December 6, 2024 at 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM. Santa Claus will fly into town to light the giant Christmas tree in Pennsylvania Park and greet children on the streets with a wave and wink! Don't miss the sparkly tree lighting ceremony at 6:00 pm!   In the Downtown Social District, you can carry your adult beverage as you wander from store to store.

• Light up the Bluff in St. Joseph - December 6, 2024 (The Community Tree Lighting ceremony always takes place on the first Friday of December.) The lights will continue through the holiday season.  The St. Joseph High School Choir sings Christmas carols near the tree located at the corner of Broad and Lake Boulevard, St Joseph Michigan at 6 p.m. with the ceremony taking place at 6:30 p.m. See over 1 million lights sparkle along Lake Bluff Park as it is transformed into a winter wonderland through Valentine’s Day.

• This Christmas and holiday season, be sure to visit Michigan Reindeer Farms!  What a cool way to get into the Christmas spirit! Perfect December Michigan event for the whole family! Kids love it!

Come enjoy all things Grinch and Whoville! There will be yummy cookies and hot chocolate, crafts, activities, and a visit from jolly St. Nick. Get into the Grinch mood and wear your favorite Grinch or Whoville apparel.

• Santa will kick off the Hometown Holiday events with the official lighting of the tree at Pierce Park!

Event Schedule:

• 6-6:30pm:  Official lighting of the tree at Pierce Park with Santa, followed by Christmas sing-alongs!

• TV 6 Christmas Craft Show - NMU Superior Dome - Marquette. Friday, December 6, 2024 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Saturday, December 7, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday, December 8, 2024 from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Love Michigan Christmas Markets?  OH MAN, ME TOO!  Check out our Top 20+ Most Festive Michigan Christmas Markets to visit this holiday season!

Kris Kringle Market

Kris Kringle Market and Fun in Downtown Rochester! 

• The Downtown Rochester Kris Kringle Market: On West Fourth St. between Main & Walnut.  Friday, December 6, 2024 from 4:00 – 10:00 p.m.
  Saturday, December 7 from Noon – 10:00 p.m. 
• Chris and I have been to this Michigan Christmas market several times and we love it!  The market was inspired by the 700-year old tradition of the open-air Christmas markets throughout Europe. Come on out to Rochester for one-of-a-kind shopping, specialty foods, fresh greens & wreaths and handcrafted gifts for the holiday.  Incredible Michigan Christmas markets!

• Holly Jolly Days in Downtown Midland features special holiday shopping deals, beautifully-painted holiday window displays, cozy outdoor fireplaces and family festivities.

• Annual Jingle Bell Fun Run Walk on December 5 at 6:30 p.m

• Third annual Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl on Friday, December 6 starting at 7 p.m.

Complimentary horse-drawn carriage rides provided by Town’s End Clydesdales & Carriage will be available:

• Friday, December 6 from 5-9 p.m. 
• Saturday, December 7 from 12-4 p.m. 
• Sunday, December 8 from 12-4 p.m.

• Magic at the Mill at Windmill Island Gardens in Holland, MI. 5:00-9:00 pm

• Friday & Saturday, December 6 & 7, 2024
  Friday & Saturday, December 13 & 14, 2024
  Friday & Saturday, December 20 & 21, 2024

• During the first three weekends in December, Holland's DeZwaan windmill is set aglow for Magic at the Mill. Imagine a hundreds-year-old windmill glittering with lights and surrounded by thousands of LED tulips. Then add in Sinterklaas and a musically synced light show, and you have a seasonal spectacle worthy of Holland, Michigan!  

• Tickets MUST be purchased in advance online.

• Night with Santa at Leaman's Green Applebarn, 2024 TBD. Walk through their lighted orchard, hop on the ya wagon to enjoy a lighted ride through the farm fields and orchard.  Then, warm up next to the fire while roasting marshmallows.  Oh, and be sure to visit Santa Claus!  Tickets must be purchased on their website before visiting!  
• $8 and a canned good (donated to Hidden Harvest) per person. See our cute video of GOATS IN COATS! It's cuteness overload!

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Do you love ❤️ strolling through old timey villages, embarking on exciting steam train rides, singing iconic Christmas carols and indulging in buffet meals? ‍♀️ . Check out the Crossroads Village and Huckleberry Railroad! . We just discovered this awesome village yesterday! I surprised Chris with an evening out. I booked it all and didn’t tell him where we were going! . We road the train, sang the 12 days of Christmas and snacked on hot roasted almonds! Video of the train coming up!! . . . #crossroadsvillagehuckleberryrailroad #crossroadsvillage #michigan #puremichiganders #gogreatlakesbay #exploremichigan #winterinmichigan #travelpuremichigan #steamtrain #steamtrains #oldtime #christmasfun #oldtimevillage #christmasinmichigan #railroad #flint #flintmichigan #puremichigan #smalltown #smalltowncharm #smalltownchristmas #getoutside @exploreflint #datenight

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• Holiday Craft Show, Manton High School, 105 5th St. Manton, MI, 9 am - 2 pm. Browse unique items by local businesses and holiday gifts.

• Reindog Parade 3 pm
• Santa's House open 4-7 pm

• Discover the magic of the holidays during a special Breakfast with Santa and Mrs. Claus at Zehnder's Restaurant. There will be fun stories and even a small gift from Santa!

• Horse drawn wagon rides, jingle bells, live nativity, hot chocolate, hot dogs, drinks, crafts, choir, and more! 

Smetanka Arts & Crafts Shows 

• December 7-8, 2024 at Davison High School
• December 14, 2024 at Oxford  High School 
• December 21-22, 2024 at Birchwood Mall in Port Huron
  

• Frankenmuth Holiday Home Tour, Five houses will be decorated for the season on the tour. Tickets can be purchased at the Frankenmuth Chamber of Commerce, Frankenmuth Historical Museum.
• Contact: Frankenmuth Women’s Club Incredible Michigan Christmas Holiday Home Tours! A Must-Do in 2024!

• Annual “Christmas on the Farm and at Dewey School” Saturday, December 7th, 2024 from 10:00AM to 4:00PM.
• Address: 13494 Waterloo Munith Rd, Grass Lake, MI.  
• This re-creation of the holiday's traditions will include tours of the ten-room farmhouse (where costumed guides recount the activities that might have taken place in each room at Christmas time), the authentic log house, blacksmith, singers and musicians perform traditional holiday melodies, and eight outbuildings. 
• Hand-decorated greens, home-made baked goods, and gift items will be available for purchase. Live music will be among the offerings for this homespun weekend. Full concessions. 

• Whootville Christmas Parade, 🎅 Downtown Saugatuck. The Annual Whootville Christmas Parade starts at 11am! Line up begins at 10:15 pm at Wicks Park on Water Street (Mermaid Restaurant Parking Lot). 
• Everyone is encouraged to wear festive Whootville and/or Christmas attire and join in the parade! 
•  Parade route starts on Water Street at Wicks Park and travels South, turning left onto Butler Street, proceeding north to the Post Office, then left onto Mary Street, left onto Water Street, ending at Wicks Park. Fun December Michigan events in Saugatuck.

• Keepsake Arts and Crafts Shows:
1. December 7, 8, 2024 - Clarkston High School
   
2. December 14, 2024 - Horizons Conference Center, 6200 State St, Saginaw, MI 48603

We've pulled together several fun activities in Downtown Detroit for couples, families with kids, and solo adventurists! 

• 7 Downtown Detroit Christmas Activities and FUN Winter Things To Do

• Winter Wonderland at Cannonsburg Ski Area - 
• The Winter Glowing Forest will run every Friday and Saturday 
• 6800 Cannonsburg Rd, Belmont MI  49306.
• Dog Friendly
• Friday Hours: 6pm-8pm, Saturday Hours: 5pm-8pm
• General admission tickets are online! Kids 2 and under are FREE!

Enjoy walking in a Winter WonderlandWalk on a lighted path in the woods to the sounds of your favorite Christmas music. The Glowing Forest (Winter edition) is fun for all ages! The walk is roughly ½ mile long through the woods with Christmas displays and winter themes. Dates and Hours:

• Midland Nativity Exhibit (see photos and video above)- December TBD.  The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, 1700 W. Sugnet, Midland.  See a self guided tour of over 1,000 Nativity scenes from around the world! Friday, Saturday & Sunday. 
• Free admission. 
• I enjoyed this nativity exhibit!

• North Pole Polar Express Train Ride - IT SELLS OUT VERY QUICKLY (before end of October)- Saturdays and Sundays, November to December. Departing from Owosso, MI. Embark on a nostalgic journey back in time to the Christmas of yesteryear when you climb aboard the North Pole Express, pulled by the world-famous Pere Marquette 1225 steam train! Depart from the Steam Railroading Institute for a four-hour, round trip excursion to the Village of Ashley’s Country Christmas. One of my favorite events in November and December! 
• The North Pole Express for the 2024 season is now SOLD OUT!

• Downtown Marquette Farmers Market, Holiday Market is Saturdays, December 2024 TBD, 10 am -2 pm inside the Marquette Commons.

• Kerrytown District KindleFest, Ann Arbor Farmers Market, 315 Detroit St, Ann Arbor, MI. An Outdoor Holiday Market, December 6, 2024; 5:00-10:00 pm.
• Kerrytown District KindleFest is an Outdoor Holiday Market. KindleFest Market, or Christkindlmarkt as known in Germany, will have several artisans and vendors selling their holiday gifts and hand-made items, tasty food and hot mulled wine, all in a lovely, festive outdoor setting.  
• In Ann Arbor, Kerrytown District retail businesses and restaurants will remain open later into the evening so everyone can join in the festivities.

• Zonta Homewalk, Midland Michigan.  December 7th & 8th, 2024
  Homes, Open 1 - 4 p.m., Rest Stop Open 1 - 5 p.m.

• The Zonta Homewalk features several spectacular homes exquisitely decorated for the holidays open for tours. Midland Michigan Christmas home tours 2024. See Zonta for more info! Incredible Michigan Christmas Holiday Home Tours! Zonta: "Build a better world for women and girls."

• Funds raised by Homewalk support local scholarships and service grants with over $625,000 raised. The scholarships for area women that are for women re-entering the workforce or who are in the workforce going back to school as well as students entering/vocational certification directly from high school.
• Tickets will be available online and through local retailers starting November 1st.

• Christmas in the Village - Sat, December 7, 2024. Craft show, electric light parade and much more! Fun for kids and your family! 
• 606 Lake Street, Roscommon, MI (Near Houghton Lake).  Fun Houghton Lake events for your calendar.

• Merchants Holiday Open House 2024 in Harbor Springs - Saturday, December 7, 2024 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m.  
  Enjoy a fun-filled evening of shopping, and holiday treats, thanks to the downtown merchants. Main and State Streets will be closed to allow the community to stroll between stores in a relaxing evening of tradition. Special music by the Steel Drum Band. Super fun Petoskey and Harbor Springs December events 2024 event. So many fun things to do this weekend!

• Grand Rapids Toy Show, December 7, 2024 ​9am to 3pm 
• Admission cost is $5.00. Kids under 12 FREE. 
• No pets inside the building. 
• Location: 5625 Burlingame Ave SW, Wyoming, MI. Awesome Grand Rapids December Michigan Events 2023. 

• Christmas at Wings, 34th Annual Art and Craft Show December 7 - December 8, 2024. Wings Event Center, Kalamazoo, MI. "Christmas at Wings" is the largest Holiday craft show held in Southwest Michigan. Over 340 craft exhibitors. 
• Free parking. Free admission. Strollers are NOT permitted. Hours: Saturday 9 am-4 pm and Sunday 10 am-4 pm. So many fun things to do this weekend in December Michigan.
• Christmas at Wings will feature a display of products like ceramic, jewelry, digital, photo, fiber, metalwork, sculptures, glass, mixed media, wood, graphics, paintings, food items such as jerky, sauces, breads, nuts, fudge, stained glass and more. A favorite December Michigan event!

• 8th Annual 12 Bars of Christmas Crawl-Grand Rapids. Saturday, December 14 · 12 - 8pm
• Location: The Tin Can206 Cesar E. Chavez Avenue Southwest Grand Rapids, MI 49503
• Put on your best holiday onesies, Santa suits, ugly sweaters, and elf costumes! Fun Grand Rapids December Michigan Events 2024.

• Where: NMU Superdome, Escanaba Michigan
• Friday, December 6, 2024; 5 pm - 9 pm
• Saturday, December 7, 2024; 10 am - 6 pm
• Sunday, December 8, 2024; 11 am - 4 pm

• Winter Wonderland, City of Houghton, MI. Friday, December 6, 2024.
• 58 Huron Street. Hot chocolate, cider, wagon rides, Santa and celebrate Christmas along Houghton’s festively decorated waterfront pier 

• 15th Annual Light Up The Night & Soup Cook Off, December 7, 2024. Eat, shop and celebrate in downtown Bellaire, Michigan! From ornament making to a soup cook-off and visits with Santa after the Parade of Lights, there is plenty to do during Light Up the Night in Bellaire. 

• Winter Dog Sledding Adventures, Otter River Sled Dog Training Center and Wilderness Adventures, 35605 River Road, Tapiola, MI located near Houghton in Michigan's Upper Peninsula. They usually have a couple different options. Awesome December Michigan event or activity! Visit their Facebook Page to Book or Learn More!
  

• Learn more about Michigan dogsledding! 

• Dexter Daze Light Parade, TBD 2024 - usually 6PM in downtown Dexter
  

When: December 7, 2024, 6:00 pm

Where: Western High School W Midland Rd, Auburn, MI, 48611

• 8th Annual Parade of Lights in Auburn, MI - December 7, 2024, 6:00 pm. Beginning at the exit of Western High School ending at Auburn United Methodist Church! 
• The 2024 Santa Parade of Lights theme is “DREAMING OF A WHITE CHRISTMAS”

• South Lyon's Holiday Celebration and Lighted Parade, South Lyon, Saturday, December 7, 2024. On the first Saturday in December, groups across South Lyon gather to offer free/low-cost family friendly activities across the community! Enjoy the "Christmas in the Country" Craft Show at South Lyon High School, the popular Holiday Spectacular Lighted Parade and lovely tree lighting ceremony!  So fun!

• Holiday Lighted Parade, Saturday, December 7th, 2024 at 6 pm in Downtown Lake Orion. Come to Lake Orion and line the streets to enjoy the incredible lighted parade that begins at 6:00 pm from the Blanche Sims Elementary School and ends at the Ehman Center. Afterwards, enjoy complimentary professional photos with Santa & Mrs. Claus. Such a fun family friendly Christmas event in Michigan!

• Parade of Lights & Community Christmas Party, December 2024 TBD. Downtown Cheboygan comes alive with a warm glow during this holiday parade and party. Parade of Lights stars at 6 p.m. at Court Street and travel down Main Street to the Festival Square in downtown Cheboygan. Santa Claus will be at Festival Square! Bring your family to watch the beautiful sparkling floats, marching groups, and Santa’s sleigh as they travel down Main Street.

Keepsake Arts and Crafts Shows, Christmas 2024

Keepsake Arts and Crafts Shows, Christmas 2024

• December 7, 8, 2024 - Clarkston High School. Sat. 10 am – 4 pm, Sun. 11 am – 4 pm. 6093 Flemings Lake Road, off Clarkston Road | Clarkston, Michigan  
• December 14, 2024 - Horizons Center, Sat. 9 am – 3:00 pm.
  6200 State Street | Saginaw, Michigan
• December 15, 2024 - Great Hall Midland. 10:00 am – 3:00 pm
  5121 Bay City Rd, Midland, Michigan

When: December 7 and 8, 2024

Where: 305 W. Michigan Ave, Marshall, MI 49068

• Marshall Candlelight Walk, December 7 and 8, 2024. The Annual Marshall Candlelight Walk is a guided walking tour of five lovely historic houses and the exquisite Honolulu House Museum decorated for the holiday season.  Participants travel in groups of 25 to tour each site. Meet the homeowners and family members!  There are two tours each day: 4:30 pm and 6:45 pm. Details and tickets on their website.

• Dow Gardens Christmas Walk, 
• December 7-9 & 14-16, 2024. Times: 5–8 p.m. Stroll the gently-lit pathway, meet Santa’s reindeer (select nights only), and enjoy warm beverages available for purchase. No admission is charged for these FUN old-fashioned evenings of candlelight and music. Photos and info about the Dow Gardens Christmas Walk!
  

When: 2024 Dates:

• Thursday, December 7th at 7:30pm - Opening Night Party
• Friday, December 8th at 7:30pm
• Saturday, December 9th at 1:00pm - Theatre for All Matinee
• Saturday, December 9th at 7:30pm
•  
• Thursday, December 14th at 7:30pm
• Friday, December 15th at 7:30pm
• Saturday, December 16th at 1:00pm
• Saturday, December 16th at 7:30pm

Where: Forest Roberts Theatre, 1401 Presque Isle Ave, Marquette, MI 49855

• Northern Michigan University Theatre & Dance presents: A Christmas Carol, December 7-16, 2024. Original Book by Charles Dickens with a faithful rendition of the Dickens classic. 
• Watch as Ebenezer Scrooge is haunted by the ghosts of Jacob Marley, Christmas Past, Christmas Present, and the Spirit of Christmas Yet to Come. Event is at the Forest Roberts Theatre. 

Merry Marketplace Pop Up Art Market at Crooked Tree Arts Center, Traverse City, MI

When: Merry Marketplace Pop Up Art Market (artist booths) is Saturday, December 7, 2024. 10 AM - 3 PM

Where: Carnegie galleries. Crooked Tree Arts Center, Traverse City, MI

The Arts Center will be transformed into a holiday shopping market with artists' booths, cookies and coffee, holiday theme workshops in the lower classroom, holiday music and cheer! 

Week 2

• 2024 Great Lakes Expo, Premier event for fruit and vegetable growers. December 10-12, 2024. Devos Hall, Grand Rapids, MI. Put this informative Grand Rapids December Michigan event on your 2024 calendar.

• DID YOU KNOW? Per the Great Lakes Expo: Over 1 million acres of vegetables are planted annually in the Great Lakes region! There are 147 Michigan vegetable farms over 250 acres. There are also 279 Michigan orchards over 100 acres! This show has 3,000-4,000 attendees!

• Winter Snow Fun Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting in Marquette. Friday, December 13, 2024
• Location: Third Street & Marquette Commons; Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM. This holiday season, bundle up and come out to enjoy the Winter Snow Fun Holiday Parade! Watch as brightly lit floats, tinsel-strewn trucks and joyful carolers transform Third Street into a holiday scene from the North Pole. 

• The Marquette Post Office will also be collecting letters during the holiday parade to be sure to bring your letters for Santa Claus! The parade will travel South down Third Street towards the Marquette Commons. The tree lighting ceremony will begin at 7 PM. See Santa, sip some hot cocoa and let's ring in the holiday season! 

When: Friday, December 13, 2024

Where: Eastern Market, Shed #3,  2934 Russell St, Detroit, MI 48207

General admission time is 7:30 pm.  Get your tickets early! VIP tickets available too. Come on out for a sampling event featuring over 100 tequilas! Tickets include photo booth, commemorative glasses, drink sample tickets. 

When: 

• Friday, December 13, 2024; 12-8 pm, Artists' Reception, 4-8 pm
• Saturday, December 14, 2024; 10 am-5 pm
• Sunday, December 15, 2024; 12-5 pm

Where: Jackson Road pottery studio and gallery in Ann Arbor, MI

Their lovely gallery and studio will be filled with stunning ceramic art created by their Resident Artists and selected students! Tasty food and drinks will be available!

• SantaCon Bar Crawl 2024 - Downtown Royal Oak, Saturday, December 14, 2024 | 2-7pm.  

• Ann Arbor SantaCon 2024 - 🎅 SantaCon! Come dressed in your best Santa outfits, ugly sweaters, reindeer costume or even a Christmas tree! Saturday, December 14, 2024; starts at 1:00 pm.

When: Throughout December!

Where: Downtown Frankenmuth, MI 48734

Frankenmuth is a fun-filled holiday destination and one of our favorite Michigan vacation spots.

Enjoy a festive celebration in the heart of Michigan's Christmas Capital! Experience a magical holiday atmosphere while shopping holiday-themed vendors with tempting gifts, decorations, and treats.  Make a new holiday tradition this holiday season! 

• Grab our Frankenmuth at Christmas Guide for things to do while you visit Michigan's Little Bavaria!

By the way, why not plan a Michigan weekend getaway for the whole family or maybe you need a romantic getaway in Michigan just for two? Use our Frankenmuth Christmas Guide and our Frankenmuth Hotels guide to help plan your mini vacation in Michigan! 

When: December 13, 2024 - February 22, 2025

Where: The Highlands in Harbor Springs, MI

• The Enchanted Trail at The Highlands in Harbor Springs, MI - Snowshoe or Walk December 13, 2024 - February 22, 2025-Select dates and times, book online. Begins at 5:30 PM with time slots until 8:30 PM. 
• This unique winter experience is a magical 1.5 mile roundtrip walk along a beautifully lit winter trail through the woods, where you’ll experience the soft warm glow of lights leading you to a rustic yurt where you can cozy up around a bonfire with s’mores and warm drinks!

When: December 14, 2024; Time:10:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Where: Colonial Michilimackinac parking lot, Mackinaw City, MI

• Antique Snowmobile Bridge Crossing, Mackinaw City, MI. December 14, 2024; Time:10:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Antique and vintage snowmobiles will be driving over the Mackinac Bridge. Snowmobiles, which must be a minimum of 25 years old. Participants will be lining up at the Colonial Michilimackinac parking lot in Mackinaw City. 

You must be there by 10 AM to unload your snowmobile and drive your trailer north to park at the Welcome Center. A school bus will drive everyone south again. The snowmobile drive over the bridge will begin at 11am.

When: December 13 -15 and December 20 - 22, 2024.

Where: (Go Now) DeVos Performance Hall in Grand Rapids

• Grand Rapids Ballet presents The Nutcracker at DeVos Performance  Hall in Grand Rapids with 8 performances December 13 -15 and December 20 - 22, 2024. 
• Get into the holiday spirit as you watch the Grand Rapids Ballet dancers present The Nutcracker! Enjoy Tchaikovsky’s renowned score performed by the Grand Rapids Symphony. 
• Watch Clara as she receives a magical Nutcracker from her uncle, Herr Drosselmeier, which takes her on an adventure through the land of the sweets. Fantastic Christmas event for the whole family!

When: December 14 and 15, 2024, Saturday and Sunday

Where: 5052 M-66 North, Charlevoix, MI

• Santa's Workshop at Castle Farms, 5052 M-66 North, Charlevoix, MI Saturday and Sunday, December 14 and 15, 2024 at pre-scheduled times throughout the day. Build and craft with Santa in his Workshop at Castle Farms! Crafts, hot cocoa and a snack.  Heartwarming and festive celebration.
• Chat with Santa, enjoy a special gift and professional photos with Santa are also included and available for download after the event.

When: Sunday, December 15, 2024; 11:00 AM 3:00 PM

Where: 1145 Fulton Street East, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

• Winter Holiday Market, Complete your holiday shopping list with artisan-made gifts from the Winter Holiday Market. Great place to shop for Christmas gifts in Grand Rapids, Michigan!

When: December 2024 tbd

Where: Bonobo Winery is located at 12011 Center Road, Traverse City, MI 49686

• Santa Claus at Bonobo

My friends, if there was ever a time to sneakily hold hands with your loved one, ice skating is it!  So lace up those skates and find a Michigan Ice Skating Rink near you!  Here are Ice Skating Rinks in Detroit.

Week 3

When: December TBD

Where: Grand Traverse Mall

• Storytime Adventures at Great Lake's Children's Museum (now The Curiosity Place) at the Grand Traverse Mall. 2024 Times are TBD during the move to the Mall. 
• Stories, Songs, Tall Tales and more! You create the story too! Fun Traverse City December Michigan Events 2024.  Check their website for details and updates!

When: December 2024 tbd

Where: 403 N Huron St, Cheboygan, MI

• Adult Cocoa Crawl,  in Downtown Cheboygan!  Visit Downtown Businesses to taste their specialty Hot Cocoas.
• Creative and delicious (21 & over) hot chocolate and cocoa recipes will be featured once again for our second annual Downtown Cheboygan Adult Cocoa Crawl. Relax with friends and enjoy the holiday season. Many of the participating bars and restaurants will have drink specials and live entertainment! There is no particular route to follow, just start wherever you’d like and make your way through Downtown.

When: December 18, 2024, at 5:00 pm - 8:00

Where: 1301 S. Pennsylvania Ave, Lansing, MI 48912

• Zoo Nights, with Lights! (21+) December 18, 2024, at 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Potter Park Zoo. Bundle up and enjoy the final Zoo Nights event! 
• This casual, happy hour-style event will feature holiday music and decór, and a variety of tastes from local restaurants and beverage companies. Take the opportunity to see the zoo after-hours, visit with the animals, and enjoy tasty treats.

When:

• December 20-21, 2024
• December 24-25, 2024
• December 31, 2024

Where: Shanty Creek Bellaire, MI 

Merry Little Christmas Party at Shanty Creek. 

• Events include Storytime with Santa, Breakfast with Santa, Merry Little Christmas Party, December 24th Christmas Eve Dinner Buffet and lots more! See their website for details.
• Lakeview Hotel at Shanty Creek, 5780 Shanty Creek Rd. Bellaire, MI 49615

When: Thursday, December 2024 tbd 

Where: 461 Piquette Avenue, Detroit Michigan

• Miracle on Piquette,  at the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, 461 Piquette Avenue, Detroit Michigan.  Did you know the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant was almost destroyed? 
• Learn how the plant was preserved in 2000, and also escaped a fire that consumed the nearly 100-year-old adjacent Studebaker Plant in 2005. 
• Discover how the birthplace of the Model T was saved in this Speaker Series talk presented by Don LaCombe, automotive historian. Arrive at 5:30 p.m. for social start plus complimentary Happy-Half Hour and light bites. Presentation begins at 6 p.m.

When: December 2024 tbd

Where: 6841 Brown Bridge Road, Traverse City, MI 49696

• Santa Claus is coming to the Ranch! This family event includes horse-drawn winter hayrides with their lovely horses, Beau and Knox. You'll also indulge in a dessert and hot chocolate bar! Visit with Santa in their lodge decorated for Christmas.  Children are encouraged to bring their letters for Santa.  Reservation only, tickets will go on sale November 1st.

When: December 2024 tbd

Where: 12011 Center Road, Traverse City, MI 49686

When: Friday, December 20, 2024 | 7:30pm 

Where: Frauenthal Center, 425 W Western Ave STE 200, Muskegon

Beloved West Michigan conductor John Varineau leads a night of joyful, heartwarming, pure family fun. Imagine the Frauenthal decked with holiday cheer, a full orchestra and two youth choruses.

When: December 21, 2024 and December 22, 2024

• Home for the Holidays at Corson Auditorium

When: December All month 2023

Where: 17985 Armada Center Road, Armada MI

• Blake's Family Christmas -  Enjoy a wagon ride out to their 100+ acre tree farm to find the perfect Christmas tree while sipping hot cider! Don't forget to decorate your home with fresh greenery and homemade decor from Blake's.
• Check for Santa experience dates

When: Mid to End December 2024

Where: 214 N Saint Joseph St, Suttons Bay, MI

• See Holiday Movies at The Bay Theatre! .  See movies like The Polar Express, Little Women, A Christmas Story, Christmas Vacation, Elf, Love Actually and so many more!  
• See their website for dates, times, prices and tickets. 
• Popcorn + Christmas movies = Awesome December Michigan activities and fun with kids, family and friends!

When: Ski Free With Santa! December 25, 2024; 9:00 am - 4:30 pm

Where: Shanty Creek Resort,  5780 Shanty Creek Road, Bellaire, MI 49615

Join Santa on the slopes of Schuss Mtn. and ski for free from 9am-4:30pm. Pay it forward with donations of non-perishable food items, gently-used winter clothing.

When: December Every Saturday 8 am - 12:30 pm through mid-May

Where: Veterans Park Pavilion, 207 N. Lake St., Boyne City, MI 49712

• Boyne City Farmer's Market, Every Saturday 8 am - 12:30 pm through mid-May inside Veterans Park Pavilion. Best year-round market in Northern Michigan (Indoor) market.

When: Sunday, December 17, 2023

Where: Park Place Hotel, Traverse City, MI

• Jingle Bell 5K Run/Walk, Sunday, December 17, 2023, Join the fun with as many as 1000 runners and walkers! Dress up in fun holiday attire! The 5K route weaves through the lighted downtown and surrounding decorated neighborhoods of Traverse City. The run begins at 5:30pm at the Park Place Hotel.  Complimentary hot chocolate and cookies after the run thanks to the Traverse City Track Club!

Home for the Holidays - Big Rapids, MI Event

Home for the Holidays

When: December 20, 2024; 5 – 8 PM

Where: Downtown Big Rapids, MI

A Downtown Big Rapids shopping experience featuring Santa, hot cocoa, chestnuts roasting on an open fire, music, caroling, and more!

Week 4

When: December 21 - December 23, 2023

Where: (Go Now) DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI

• Holiday Pops - The Grand Rapids Symphony Pops Presents University of Michigan Health-West Holiday Pops at DeVos Performance Hall on December 21 - December 23, 2023 as part of the 2023-2024 season. 
• Enjoy the Grand Rapids Symphony, the Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus, the Grand Rapids Youth Chorus, Embellish Handbell Ensemble, and frequent GRS soloist Shayna Steele! DeVos Performance Hall, 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI.
• Awesome Grand Rapids December Michigan Events 2023. What is there to do in Grand Rapids in December? Well, this!

When: Sunday, December 24, 2023

Where: 12500 Crystal Mountain Dr. Thompsonville, Michigan 49683

• Ski with Santa at Crystal Mountain! Sunday, December 24, 2023, See Santa hit the slopes at Crystal Mountain beginning at 10 a.m. 12500 Crystal Mountain Dr. Thompsonville, Michigan 49683

When: December 16-31, 2023 

Where: 3686 W. South Airport Rd., Traverse City, MI, 49684

• Festival of Trains at Creekside Community Hall, December 2023 in Traverse City, from Monday-Saturday 1 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday 1-4, open Christmas Eve 10-4, closed on Christmas Day - New Year’s Eve Open 10-6. 
• This beloved holiday tradition features amazing model train layouts that are truly the best around. You can see the displays  Hosted by the Northern Michigan Railroad Club. 

When: December 23, 2023 at 3:00 pm and 7:30 pm

Where: Little Caesars Arena, 2645 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201

• Trans-Siberian Orchestra, The Ghosts Of Christmas Eve, Thursday, December 23, 2023 at 3:00 pm and 7:30 pm. Little Caesars Arena, 2645 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI, The TSO is such a highly-anticipated Michigan winter concert!

When: December 25, 2023 from 9:00 am - 4:30 pm

Where: 5780 Shanty Creek Rd, Bellaire, MI 49615

• Shanty Creek: Ski Free with Santa!
• It's Shanty Creek's Christmas gift to you...Join Santa on the slopes of Schuss Mountain and
• Pay it forward with donations of non-perishable food items and gently-used winter clothing.

2023 Michigan Christmas Events, Christmas Lights (+Drive Thru) and Things to do this Holiday Season!

When: December 31, 2023

Where: 210 Farmers Alley, Kalamazoo, MI

• New Year’s Fest, New Year’s Fest is an all-ages showcase of performing arts that takes place in Downtown Kalamazoo. The event begins at 6:00 p.m. until 12 a.m. to ring in the New Year.  Enjoy live music, performers, and live entertainment. Performances rotate throughout the night so come on out for a great time! Awesome Kalamazoo December Events 2023. Check out more Michigan New Years Eve Events!

This page is intended to be used as an ideas guide only.  Traveling Michigan is not responsible for changes to event descriptions, event times or details being altered without notice or cancellations. Check each event's website or call the venue for up to date info or tickets prior to your visit.

When: December 31, 2023

Where: Downtown Ludington, Michigan

December 31, 2023: Ring in the New Year in Downtown Ludington, Michigan! This FREE, event begins at 9:00pm on Ludington Avenue. Enjoy music, beer tent with commemorative light-up glasses, fireworks and West Michigan’s largest New Year’s Eve Ball Drop. The lit ball will be dropped at the stroke of midnight! Right afterward will be a jaw-dropping fireworks display over Downtown Ludington, Michigan.

• See More Michigan Christmas Events and 2023 New Years Eve Events!

Jump Back to Event Weeks or To January Events

Best Michigan Ski Hills and Lodges!

Try Michigan Dog Sledding! What a Great Christmas Gift!

Michigan Dog Sledding is a fun experience for family and a very romantic date for couples!  Michigan Dog Sledding and Races: Where to Experience in Upper and Lower Peninsula! (Top Winter Things To Do!)

SANTA Houses in Michigan! Come See Santa!

The Midland Santa House and Northern Star Railroad are Fabulous Christmas Activities in Midland Michigan!

Midland Santa House, Midland MI-located on the corner of Main St. and M-20 in Downtown Midland. The Santa House will be open daily from Nov. 27 to Dec. 23. See Santa free of charge!

Santa arrives at the Tridge, makes his way up Ashman St. and helps the community light the Courthouse for the Holidays. See him at the Santa House!  

Ride the Northern Star train which tours downtown Midland during the Santa House season.  The train departs from the downtown courthouse. Check the link above for the hours. What an awesome December Michigan event! 

Birmingham Santa House, Shain Park, 151 Martin Street, Birmingham, MI. Grab the kids and visit Santa in his quaint "home" under the pavilion in Shain Park.

The Santa House is accessible to all and barrier free.  Throughout the month of December. Check their website for details.

Santa Visits, Bronner's Christmas Wonderland, 25 Christmas Lane, Frankenmuth, MI. Bring your wish list to Bronner's! Check their website for updated hours and dates!

Visit The Best Michigan Christmas Towns!

Do you love visiting the Michigan Christmas towns to get into the holiday spirit?  There won't be any Scrooges left after visiting these charming Hallmark towns!

Take Your Family or Your Loved One On a Winter Sleigh Ride in Michigan!

What a wonderful way to enjoy the outdoors!  Horse drawn sleigh rides in Michigan are so scenic and exciting for everyone!

Best Ways to Celebrate Christmas in Michigan

We love celebrating Christmas in Michigan!  Find the best holiday events, light displays, sleigh rides and Christmas villages!

Best Michigan Christmas Tree Farms

This year, why not get a fresh cut tree? It's time to make some awesome family memories! Grab our interactive map to find the best Michigan Christmas Tree Farms near you! We even have a tree shipping option!

Christmas Flint Trip Idea-SHHH! Surprising Chris with this December Michigan trip! 

Best Michigan Christmas Things to See and Do!

We LOVE Christmas!  Here are a few more Michigan Christmas ideas to brighten your holiday spirit!

Best Downtown Christmas Lights

• We were absolutely blown away by downtown Rochester's stunning lights! What an awesome December Michigan event!

• Crossroads Village, 6140 Bray Road, Flint, MI, Drive through only to see the Christmas lights is December 4, 11, 18 & 24, 2023.
  Hours for Drive Through Only nights: 5:00pm-9:00pm and the cost is
  $10 per vehicle

• Wayne County Light Fest-Drive Through There is a small fee per car.
  

• Fifth Third Christmas Lights Drive-Through, Grand Rapids, MI. Fee per car.

• The Big Bright Light Show, Rochester, Mi, Tuesday, November 20, 2023 – January 21, 2024.  Starting at 5:00pm. Free.

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Travel-mi.com is not directly associated with local events. Information about these events is provided for planning purposes. While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this data, we cannot be held responsible for changes in dates, venues, etc.

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