20 Memorable Holiday Experiences in Michigan
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Hearty chicken dinners. Brilliant tree lightings. Steaming cups of hot chocolate held in gloved hands on a peaceful stroll surrounded by holiday lights. Thrilling train rides that transport riders to magical wonderlands. Many activities usher in the holiday season in Michigan, and everyone has their favorite signs that winter has arrived and beloved holiday traditions.
We asked members of the Day Trips in Michigan Facebook group to share their favorite Michigan holiday experiences in the Great Lakes State. Responses ranged from memories of beloved Michigan holiday hotspots and local community traditions to exciting outdoor adventures and bustling holiday markets. Based on those responses, we’ve created a winter bucket list with some of our readers’ favorite activities.
Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village
Dearborn
The sounds of carolers, the smell of roasting chestnuts, and the warmth of a blazing bonfire are just a few of the sights and sounds visitors can find during this annual holiday celebration at Greenfield Village.
For two decades and counting, Holiday Nights has been one of Michigan’s premier holiday events, and for good reason. Visitors don’t have to go far to find holiday fun because there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Tickets go fast, so make reservations sooner rather than later!
Throughout December, visitors of all ages can enjoy horse-drawn carriages or vintage Model Ts, food and beverage vendors, on-site craftsmen displaying their skills and selling their wares, a holiday greens and tree market, live music, decorated homes and shops, holiday vignettes presented in period attire, free ice skating and skating rental, and much more.
RELATED: Learn more about the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village
Rafting the Manistee River
For all the lights and displays and fun indoor activities, for some Michiganders, wintertime means getting outside. And there’s no better way to experience winter’s thrills and chills (or find a slice of serenity in the wilderness) than rafting the Manistee River.
The Manistee River is Michigan’s fourth-longest river and renowned for its trout fishery. As the river winds through snow-covered forests, the landscape transforms into a quiet corridor of frosted pines, ice-fringed banks, and soft winter light reflecting off the water. The Manistee’s steady, gentle current makes it an ideal cold-weather route, allowing rafters to relax into the rhythm of the river while spotting wildlife against the snowy backdrop — bald eagles perched on treetops, deer moving along the shoreline, or otters slipping in and out of the water.
Make no mistake – rafting in the winter can be a chilly experience, and winter gear is essential. But if you’re willing to bundle up and make the journey, the rewards can be priceless. Whether enjoyed as a guided outing or a self-planned adventure, winter rafting on the Manistee River is both refreshing and quietly dramatic, showcasing Michigan’s natural beauty in its most tranquil season.
RELATED: Learn about winter rafting on the Jordan River in northern Michigan.
America’s Thanksgiving Parade
Detroit
For many Detroiters (and Michiganders for that matter), Thanksgiving Day means enjoying time with friends and family and watching Detroit Lions football. But before the meals and the football, Detroit rings in the holiday with its annual Thanksgiving Parade on Woodward Avenue.
The festive parade, known as America’s Thanksgiving Parade, is one of the city’s most cherished holiday traditions and one of the oldest parades in the country. Each year, the festivities turn the parade route into a colorful array of massive character balloons, carefully crafted floats, and live music with marching bands from across the state performing along with dancers and specialty performers.
The chill of winter doesn’t keep crowds away either. It’s common for families to line the route before sunrise, sipping hot chocolate as they stake out their favorite viewing spots. Others opt to watch the festivities on TV, but there’s no question the parade radiates Detroit pride and community spirit and evokes the magic of the holiday season.
Enlighten/Christmas Displays at Meijer Gardens
Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids offers no shortage of activities during the holidays. But there’s no question that Enlighten at Frederick Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park offers a chance to enjoy one of the city’s most famous landmarks in a fun new way.
From late November to early January, visitors can come and experience a dazzling display of light and color that weaves through the park’s famous sculptures on a one-mile illuminated pathway. The displays offer a captivating blend of light, nature, and art, complete with musical installations and interactive exhibits.
Enlighten is a one-of-a-kind experience that promises fun for the whole family. Points of interest include the Winter Waterfall Show, a Neuron Sensory Experience, a festive Beer Garden, and Road to Rodin, which highlights the famous works of Auguste Rodin in a new way.
Detroit Zoo Wild Lights
Royal Oak
There are plenty of reasons to visit the Detroit Zoo any time of year. After all, who doesn’t love the sight of polar bears at the Arctic Ring of Life, the colors of the Butterfly Garden, or five different penguin species at the Polk Penguin Conservation Center?
But the holidays are perfect for a visit to the zoo for the annual Wild Lights event. It casts the entire zoo aglow for many magical nights with more than five million LED lights illuminating trees, buildings, and over 280 sculptures.
The fun doesn’t stop there. Wild Lights also offers pop-up performances and music along the lighted trail, photos with Santa, fire pits and warming areas, a camouflage art exhibition, and different themed zones, including the Field of Lights and the Enchanted Rainforest.
Wild Lights starts in late November and continues through early January on select dates. It’s the perfect place for a romantic evening, a night out with the kiddos, or a family get-together. There are different ticket options available, and children younger than 2 are admitted free.
Tree Lighting at Campus Martius Park
Detroit
Campus Martius is the go-to winter spot in Detroit, and its annual tree lighting is a must-see event that ushers in the holiday season in a one-of-a-kind way each year.
At the center of the park is a towering tree, draped in more than 25,000 LED lights and oversized ornaments, and topped with a glowing star that draws the eyes of every visitor. The annual tree lighting is a must-see event that ushers in the holiday season.
As night falls each day, the tree illuminates the park, casting a warm and inviting glow across the surrounding plaza — where shimmering garlands, holiday decorations, and lights strung throughout Downtown Detroit contribute to a festive atmosphere featuring over a million sparkling lights total.
Visitors bundle up to enjoy live music and spectacular ice-skating shows on the park’s rink, with families often grabbing hot drinks, snacks from food trucks, and strolling between booths at the nearby market in Cadillac Square.
Christmas Train at Crossroads Village
Flint
Michigan loves wintertime and offers plenty of railway adventures during the colder months. These journeys make Michiganders feel like they’ve stepped aboard the Polar Express, which has plenty of ties to the Mitten State.
DID YOU KNOW: The author of the beloved children’s book, Michigan native Chris Van Allsburg, has said the Polar Express train is based on the Pere Marquette 1225, an N1, 2-8-4 steam locomotive.
One of Michigan’s most beloved train rides can be found at the Huckleberry Railroad at Crossroads Village. The holiday trains here are available during the Holiday Magic event, which is held on select dates from late November through late December.
The rides take place on an authentic, coal-fired Baldwin steam train, and each ride lasts about 40 minutes. From the village, the narrow-gauge railroad runs along the Mott Lake shoreline and historic Pere Marquette roadbed before returning to the Village. Visitors can enjoy the sight of nearly a dozen original and replica wooden cars, complete with a classic red caboose.
RELATED: Check out Polar Express train rides in Michigan.
Meadowbrook/Downtown Rochester
Every city in Michigan has its own way of celebrating the holidays. But Rochester goes all out in wintertime with multiple light displays to get visitors and residents alike in the holiday spirit.
The Big, Bright Light Show in downtown Rochester is a fun way to kick off the holiday season. There’s something special about a brightly colored city downtown during the holidays that gives off feel-good vibes for anyone who visits. The buildings downtown are covered with more than 1.5 million points of magical holiday light. The show is usually lit every evening (5 p.m. to midnight) from late November through the end of December.
Meadow Brook Hall, on the campus of Oakland University, is a historic mansion that is nearly 100 years old. While it stands as a reminder of America’s wealth during the Gilded Age, during the holidays, it offers unique experiences with two signature events: the Holiday Walk and Winter Wonder Lights
The Holiday Walk invites visitors to step back in time and explore the historic home, adorned in magnificent holiday splendor. Each room of the massive mansion has its own unique theme, much to the delight of every visitor who passes through the home’s doors.
As night falls, Winter Wonder Lights transforms Meadow Brook Hall into a breathtaking outdoor light show. This event features music, seasonal treats, and a magical atmosphere. Visitors’ eyes will light up as the grounds come alive with vibrant lights and holiday magic. Together, the two events offer an unforgettable experience and a perfect blend of holiday festivities and history.
Silver Bells in the City
Lansing
Since 1984, Silver Bells in the City has been one of the surest sights (and sounds) of the holiday season. Visitors and residents alike come by the thousands on the Friday after Thanksgiving to take part in the festivities.
The signature highlight is the Electric Light Parade, a shimmering procession of brightly lit floats, marching bands, costumed performers, and horse-drawn units, all making their way through the city. Santa makes an appearance at the end before the state’s official Christmas tree is lit on the Capitol lawn.
As the tree comes to life in a wash of color, the crowd joins in song before a fireworks display over the Capitol. Apart from the lights, visitors can explore Silver Bells Village, an outdoor market filled with handcrafted gifts, treats, and vendors offering everything from ornaments to warm snacks.
A Visit to Bronners Christmas Wonderland
Frankenmuth
Frankenmuth and the holidays in Michigan go together like peanut butter and jelly. Nowhere is that holiday spirit felt more than at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland – the world’s largest Christmas store.
Bronner’s is a Christmas lover’s dream – 5 acres of store space with everything imaginable that visitors need for an unforgettable holiday season. Everywhere you turn, there are gifts, ornaments, trees, stockings, lights, wreaths, figurines, and so much more.
DID YOU KNOW: The store has more than 50,000 collectibles!
Bronner’s welcomes more than 2 million visitors each year and is open 361 days a year. This Mid-Michigan store has been a beloved destination for more than 70 years, and it’s just about impossible not to walk out of the store with at least one keepsake in hand.
As mesmerizing as the store can be, take care while walking around. Business picks up during the holidays, and you’re likely going to be jostling for space with other visitors.
Visiting Frankenmuth During the Holidays
A visit to Bronner’s is just the tip of the iceberg when visiting Frankenmuth. Michigan’s Little Bavaria in wintertime. From hearty meals to countless shopping opportunities, a day trip to Frankenmuth over an overnight stay can be one of the best parts of the holiday season.
Start at Bavarian Inn Restaurant or Zehnder’s and sink your teeth into one of their famous chicken dinners. For decades, both restaurants have served delicious all-you-can-eat chicken dinners with sides alongside authentic German cuisine. With polka music playing in the background, guests have the perfect atmosphere for an incredible meal.
Once you’ve eaten, peruse the downstairs shops in both restaurants or head outside for more shopping opportunities. A stroll along Main Street reveals numerous small shops that are perfect for finding unique holiday gifts. Visitors and residents can also stop by Frankenmuth’s Christkindlmart during Thanksgiving weekend to shop for handmade gifts and goods.
Frankenmuth’s River Place shops are also a great shopping spot. Visitors can explore more than 40 shops and attractions in this unique, Bavarian-themed shopping center. Shoppers can find everything from candles and popcorn to used books and hot sauces, and more.
Aurora Wonderland at Glenlore Trails
Commerce Township
There’s just something about walking along an illuminated winter trail that brings out the magic of the holidays. The annual Aurora at Glenlore Trails ups the ante by making each visitor a part of the holiday magic.
NOTE: Tickets are required for the Aurora Wonderland
As you journey through the enchanted (and illuminated) forest, you can help the festive winter wizards you meet along the way push back the gloom of winter and keep the holiday spirit (and thousands of lights) shining bright.
Make the journey even more special by purchasing a special magic wand that can reveal hidden magic and surprises along the path.
RELATED: Check out more illuminated winter trails in Michigan
Horse-drawn sleigh rides
“Jingle Bells” famously describes the fun of riding in a one-horse open sleigh, and Michiganders can experience the same joy all over the state. Whether it’s the middle of the afternoon on a sunny day or early evening with the chill of winter in the air, a Michigan sleigh ride can be an unforgettable time.
Thunder Bay Resort in Hillman offers a one-of-a-kind experience that includes wildlife viewing and a gourmet meal. The journey starts in a sleigh (or horse-drawn carriage) and whisks visitors through the woods to catch glimpses of Rocky Mountain elk. After the ride, visitors can warm up inside Elk Antler Cabin, where they will enjoy an elegant five-course meal.
CJ’s Stable in Manton invites visitors to explore snowy northern Michigan trails in the comfort of a horse-drawn sleigh. The fresh snowfall on the trails turns CJ’s property into a lovely winter wonderland. CJ’s offers two-seat bobsleds, large group sleigh rides, and vis-à-vis sleighs for small groups.
Guests are allowed to bring their own beverages (no glass) and snacks. CJ’s also provides blankets for the ride and hot chocolate and coffee.
Antler Ridge Farms in Williamsburg has provided rides on old-fashioned sleighs through the countryside since 1982. Visitors are invited to take scenic rides out to the woods for a warming bonfire, complete with tasty hot chocolate and marshmallows. The sleigh is pulled by a mother-son horse team — Dixie and Danny — and leads visitors through the woods on a memorable journey.
Christmas Markets
Shopping can be stressful during the holiday season, but Michigan’s many Christmas markets are some of the best places to find perfect gifts for family and friends. Scores of Michiganders look forward to these markets each year, and they transform their respective cities into festive winter wonderlands.
The ChristKindlMarkt in Frankenmuth is a favorite holiday haunt each December. It’s Mid Michigan’s largest open-air holiday market and is modeled after a traditional German Christmas market. Visitors here can find unique handmade goods and gifts, visit with Santa, and enjoy hot beverages like hot chocolate and spiced wine.
The Holiday Market at Eastern Market in Detroit is a Southeast Michigan staple that has something for everyone in November and December. The market’s stalls offer the freshest meats and produce to get all the trimmings for Christmas dinner, along with Christmas tree vendors and wreath vendors selling essential holiday-themed decor. Vendors are also on hand on select days selling art, jewelry, beauty products, and more.
Christmas Tree Farms
For many Michiganders, one of the surest signs of the holidays is the sight and smell of a real, fresh Christmas tree. Fortunately, those who love having a real tree for Christmas can visit Michigan’s many Christmas tree farms.
Anderson’s Twin Lakes Tree Farm in Newberry is one of the few tree farms in the Upper Peninsula, but it offers both pre-cut and u-cut trees, allowing families to find the perfect tree. Visitors can choose from a variety of evergreen trees, including Blue Spruce, Douglas Fir, and Balsam Fir.
Nickelson’s Christmas Trees looks like something straight from a storybook on the Lake Michigan shoreline. Visitors can choose from pre-cut and u-cut options, and also take part in fun onsite activities like wreath making.
Peacock Road Family Farm in Laingsburg is the perfect place to make lasting memories. Visitors can choose from fresh-cut and u-cut trees, but the experience is about much more than buying a tree. Guests can also enjoy the Santa Experience, wherein they ride a wagon or board a train to see Santa and Mrs Claus at their cabin.
Holiday Lights and Parades
No matter where you are in Michigan, odds are good that there is a holiday light display (or several) nearby. From brightly lit downtowns to meticulously designed private home displays, Michigan winter nights are always aglow in a dazzling array of colors.
From the upper reaches of the UP to the shores of Lake Michigan and Huron and all points in between, Michiganders of all ages can enjoy the comforting light of holiday displays. The festivities are usually kicked up a few notches for community tree lightings, where the occasions are marked by live music and entertainment, good food, and even an appearance by Santa Claus.
Day Trips in Michigan members highlighted some of the following events among their favorite holiday activities:
- Howell Fantasy of Lights
- Northport Tree Lightning
- Fowlerville Christmas Parade (Christmas in the ‘Ville)
- Christmas Through Lowell
- Frankenmuth Community Tree Lighting
- Tree Lighting at Bronson Park in Kalamazoo
Drive-Thru and Drive-Up Light Displays
There are plenty of magnificent walk-through light displays and many illuminated winter trails to wander during wintertime. But there are also many drive-through and drive-up displays that Michiganders can enjoy right from the comfort (and warmth) of their cars.
While families can wind through nearby neighborhoods to see lights, drive-up displays usually offer something more spectacular. Many of these drive-thru displays are decked out in thousands of lights and guide vehicles through whimsical wonderlands. The drive-up displays are also a sight to see, with many of them allowing visitors to tune in on the radio to the music synchronized to the lights in front of them.
Ford Rotunda/Ford House
Michiganders of a certain age have fond memories of the famous Ford Rotunda, which drew scores of visitors during the holidays for its dazzling displays. The “Christmas Fantasy” was popular with visitors between 1953 and 1961 before the Rotunda burned down in 1962.
Families arriving inside the Rotunda were greeted by a towering 35- to 40-foot live Christmas tree festooned with thousands of colored lights. Along one wall stretched a display of over 2,000 dolls, later distributed to underprivileged children by charitable groups.
Visitors also delighted in seeing displays depicting “Santa’s Workshop” with elves laboring along a moving toy assembly line, mechanical storybook figures like Hansel and Gretel, Robin Hood, Humpty Dumpty, and more.
While the Rotunda is no more, Michiganders can still visit the Ford House, the historic home of Edsel & Eleanor Ford House in Grosse Pointe Shores. Each winter, the estate hosts its signature celebration, Home for the Holidays at Ford House, where guests embark on a one-mile twilight stroll along the grounds, amid softly glowing lights draped over gardens, trees, and historic buildings. Beyond the walk, there are several special seasonal events, which add to the fun and magic of the holidays.
Midland’s Santa House
Did you know Midland is home to winter’s most magical home? That’s exactly what Michiganders will find when they visit Mid Michigan’s famous Santa House.
Santa Claus arrives in Midland each year on the Tuesday following Thanksgiving and takes up residence at the Santa House.
Located at the corner of M-20 and Main Street in downtown Midland, the Midland Area Santa House is free for kids of all ages to visit and experience the magic of the season. During their visit, they are able to meet Santa and ride the Northern Star Train.
During the 2025 holiday season, Santa will welcome visitors December 2-23, with nightly hours from 6-9 p.m. and additional morning and afternoon sessions on weekends and the week before and leading up to Christmas. Early in December, the Santa House hosts sensory-friendly experiences designed for a calmer, more comfortable visit.
The Northern Star Train runs a 10 to 15-minute loop through downtown Midland. Riders can board the Santa train at the Midland County Courthouse on Main St and enjoy a festive ride through the holiday lights of downtown.
Michigan Skiing
Rocky Mountain border states get plenty of attention in winter for their powder-white slopes. But Michigan can more than hold its own when it comes to skiing. In fact, Michigan has the second-highest number of ski resorts in the U.S., behind only New York.
That means there are plenty of places for Michigan outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy the snow, whether they want to ski, tube, or snowboard. Michigan has more than 40 ski resorts statewide, ranging from comfortable, family-friendly spots to advanced slopes to satisfy even the most diehard adrenaline junkies.
Michigan winters can last a long time, but that means the ski season does too! Depending on location, it typically begins in mid-November and lasts into March or April thanks to a mix of machine-made and natural snow.
Some of Michigan’s award-winning slopes include:
- Mount Bohemia (Keweenaw Peninsula)
- Nub’s Nob (Harbor Springs)
- Crystal Mountain (Thompsonville)
Make Your Michigan Holiday Season Magical This Winter
As the holidays arrive in Michigan, having a memorable experience isn’t just about seeing Christmas lights or participating in holiday traditions. It’s about being with friends and family and enjoying those experiences together.
What makes these experiences memorable is their ability to transform ordinary winter days into something very special. They remind us to pause, appreciate the little things, and the feeling of belonging that comes with gathering in familiar spaces. Michigan’s holiday experiences aren’t just events; they’re foundations for stories families retell year after year.
Tell us what your most memorable Michigan holiday experiences are.