25+ Must-Experience November Events & Festivals in Michigan This Year
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November in Michigan is a month of togetherness, of music, storytelling, good food, and glowing lights, reminding us what makes our state so special. From Ironwood to Detroit and everywhere in between, November’s lineup of festivals and celebrations sets the perfect tone for the holiday season ahead.
So bundle up, make your plans, and experience the joy of Michigan’s most heartwarming events as fall fades into the holiday season.
Michigan Bright Water Storytelling Festival | Howell
November 1, 2025
The Michigan Storytelling Festival in downtown Howell celebrates the art of story with a full day of workshops, open mics, and performances. Held at the historic Howell Opera House and nearby venues, the 2025 event features sessions on stage presence, improv, and turning anecdotes into captivating tales.
Enjoy drop-in storytelling at local cafés, hands-on learning with master tellers, and the evening “Serendipity” concert featuring Sufian Zhemukhov and Roshanda Womack—an inspiring celebration of creativity and connection through story.
Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) | Alpena
November 1, 2025
Celebrate life, love, and remembrance at Northern Michigan’s only Día de los Muertos Celebration, returning for its 2nd annual event in downtown Alpena. From 4–9 p.m., the alley behind Mango’s Tequila Bar transforms into a vibrant festival filled with live mariachi music, colorful ofrendas, and a Catrina Costume Contest.
Guests can enjoy face painting, food and drink specials, and a joyful evening honoring tradition and community. It’s a heartfelt night where culture, color, and celebration come together under the Northern Michigan sky.
Horseback Riding at Silver Lake State Park | Mears
November 1-30, 2025
This November, riders have a rare chance to experience Lake Michigan like never before—on horseback along the shoreline of Silver Lake State Park. For just $10 per horse per day, and with only 125 spots available daily, equestrians can explore a designated trail that winds across the dunes and along the lake’s edge.
You’ll need to bring your own horse and register in advance, but the reward is unforgettable: quiet dunes, crashing waves, and the beauty of the lakeshore before winter sets in. This unique experience is drawing riders from across Michigan and beyond. It’s peaceful, wild, and pure West Michigan magic.
Hockeytown Centennial FanFest | Detroit
November 6-9, 2025
Hockeytown Centennial FanFest hits the ice this November at MotorCity Casino Hotel, celebrating 100 years of Red Wings history in true Detroit style. Fans can relive a century of unforgettable moments through interactive exhibits, historic memorabilia, and cutting-edge displays.
With 50+ Red Wings legends like Sergei Fedorov, Nick Lidstrom, and Chris Chelios making appearances, plus autograph sessions, family fun, and exclusive merch, this four-day event is a dream come true for every generation of Red Wings fans.
41 North Film Festival | Houghton
November 6-9, 2025
The 41 North Film Festival brings independent cinema to life in the Keweenaw, showcasing award-winning films from around the world and right here in Michigan.
Hosted at Michigan Tech, this free festival invites students and the community to experience powerful storytelling that sparks conversation and connection. With thought-provoking topics and a celebration of the art of cinema, it’s where creativity meets conversation on Michigan’s northern edge.
Iceman Cometh Challenge | Traverse City
November 7-8, 2025
Every November, northern Michigan embraces its wild side when the Bell’s Iceman Cometh Challenge rolls into town. This legendary 30-mile point-to-point mountain bike race from Kalkaska to Traverse City draws more than 5,000 riders, and more than double that in cheering fans, for what’s become the can’t-miss event of the season.
The trails are fast, the finish line is electric, and the afterparty? Pure Traverse City energy.
The excitement kicks off Friday with the Ice Cycle Expo at the Grand Traverse Resort in Acme, where pros, amateurs, and families alike gear up for race day. Between the Meijer Slush Cup for beginners and the Sno-Cone races for kids 10 and under, it’s a full weekend celebrating the northern Michigan spirit — equal parts grit, community, and good beer.
Women in the Arts Festival | East Lansing
November 7-8, 2025
The 40th Annual Women in the Arts Festival returns to Edgewood United Church in East Lansing, celebrating four decades of creativity, community, and empowerment.
This milestone weekend features a vibrant Artist Market, free daytime performances, and an all-star lineup with The Rebel Eves on Friday and Straight Ahead on Saturday. Expect crowd favorites like Lesbo Bingo, a 40th-anniversary photo booth, and both silent and online auctions—all in a space where art, laughter, and sisterhood thrive.
Yuletide Festival | Blissfield
November 7-9, 2025
The Yuletide Festival celebrates 51 years of holiday magic in Blissfield, Michigan, filling the season with festive cheer. Families will find plenty of opportunities to visit Santa — from Breakfast with Santa and Cocoa & Cookies with Santa to seeing Santa’s reindeer at the Historic Depot.
The weekend also features a Yuletide Market, craft show, chili dinner, brunch ‘n bingo, carriage rides, and a tree lighting ceremony — all adding up to one unforgettable hometown celebration of Christmas spirit.
Restaurant Week GR | Grand Rapids
November 7-15, 2025
Restaurant Week GR returns, serving up nine delicious days of culinary creativity across one of America’s top foodie cities — Grand Rapids! Chefs are pulling out all the stops to showcase their signature flavors.
Using the digital dining pass, guests can earn rewards, vote for their favorite restaurants, and even help fund scholarships for local culinary students. It’s the tastiest week (well, nine days) of the year in Grand Rapids!
Downtown Detroit Markets | Detroit
November 12, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Downtown Detroit Markets at Cadillac Square are back, bringing big holiday cheer and even better shopping. This seasonal pop-up village is packed with local makers and small businesses offering one-of-a-kind gifts. Think handmade jewelry, cozy apparel, candles, art, treats, and more.
Shop, snack, and soak in the festive downtown vibe. It’s the perfect spot to check off your gift list while supporting Detroit creatives.
MI Bright Lights | Milford
November 14 – December 30, 2025
Pack the car and turn up the holiday music! MI Bright Lights transforms Camp Dearborn in Milford into a fully synchronized drive-through light show unlike anything else in the area.
Families can cruise through glowing candy canes, twinkling tunnels, and millions of choreographed lights dancing perfectly to festive songs broadcast right through your car radio.
Open daily from 6–10 p.m., this magical experience features dozens of songs on rotation, so no two drives are the same.
Festival of Trees | Midland
November 14-16, 2025
The Festival of Trees transforms the Great Hall Banquet & Convention Center in Midland into a sparkling winter wonderland filled with creativity, community, and holiday cheer. Since 1987, this cherished event has featured beautifully crafted trees, wreaths, and garlands designed by local artisans, florists, and businesses — available to win through a festive raffle.
This heartwarming tradition welcomes thousands each year to celebrate the season, showcase local talent, and support the Great Lakes Bay community.
Grand Rapids Comic Con | Grand Rapids
November 14-16, 2025
Grand Rapids Comic Con returns to DeVos Place for a three-day celebration of comics, pop culture, and all things fandom. Since 2013, this powerhouse convention has brought together artists, writers, and fans for a weekend packed with celebrity guests, fan panels, and immersive experiences.
This year features guest appearances by Amy Jo Johnson (Power Rangers), Billy Zane (Titanic), Christopher Priest (Black Panther), and more. Plus, cosplay contests for kids and adults, a film festival spotlighting indie creators, and an epic NeverEnding Story anniversary display complete with a life-sized Falkor.
From gaming zones to fan-led discussions, it’s a weekend where imagination takes center stage and fandoms of every kind come to life.
Flapjack & Flannel Festival | Traverse City
November 15, 2025
Get ready to channel your inner Northwoods spirit at the Flapjack & Flannel Festival at Timber Ridge Resort in Traverse City — a full day of lumberjack shows, live music, craft drinks, and cozy fall vibes. Featuring entertainment by Drew Hale and Little Dipper, plus the Jack Pine Lumberjack Show, it’s a uniquely Northern Michigan celebration of food, flannel, and fun.
Enjoy local brews, distilleries, and family-friendly activities like dodgeball and playground time, all wrapped in that signature Traverse City charm. Rain or shine, this all-ages festival is where Michigan’s lumberjack heart beats loudest.
Jack Frost Festival: Tree Lighting Ceremony | Ironwood
November 20, 2025
Ironwood’s Jack Frost Festival is a two-month celebration of winter fun in Michigan’s western Upper Peninsula.
Beginning with the Depot Park Christmas Tree-Lighting Ceremony on November 20, 2025, and running through the Norrie Club’s “Light Up the Night” event on January 31, 2026, the festival features art exhibits, concerts, films, snowshoeing, Pro Vintage Snowmobile Racing, the SISU Ski Fest, the Festival of Lights parade, and fireworks—showcasing the heart of U.P. life all season long.
Silver Bells in the City | Lansing
November 21, 2025
Downtown Lansing comes alive with twinkling lights, festive music, and holiday magic during Silver Bells in the City. This beloved tradition draws 40,000+ visitors for an unforgettable night featuring the Electric Light Parade, lighting of the State Christmas tree, Community Sing, Firefly drone light show, and fireworks over the Capitol.
Stroll through the Silver Bells Village to shop local vendors, grab a treat, or pick up this year’s commemorative ornament. Rain or shine, Silver Bells in the City glows bright thanks to the community spirit that makes Lansing shine every holiday season.
Luminary | St. Joseph
November 21, 2025
Downtown St. Joseph shines bright on Friday, November 21. From 5–8 p.m., glowing luminarias will guide visitors through the heart of downtown, where shops and restaurants open their doors for an evening of festive fun.
Sip, stroll, and soak in the small-town magic as St. Joe officially kicks off the holiday season along the lakeshore.
Detroit Tree Lighting | Detroit
November 21, 2025
Downtown Detroit shines brighter than ever at the 22nd Annual Detroit Tree Lighting, presented by the DTE Foundation at Campus Martius Park. This beloved celebration marks the official start of the holiday season as more than a million lights illuminate the city skyline.
Enjoy an evening of live entertainment, figure skating performances, and a special visit from Santa, plus food trucks, holiday shopping, and plenty of festive photo ops. It’s the most magical night of the year in the heart of Detroit!
Aurora at Glenlore Trails | Commerce Township
November 21 – December 30, 2025
Step into a storybook at Glenlore Trails, where the woods come alive with light, sound, and a touch of holiday magic. This year’s adventure, Aurora Winter Wizards, invites you to wander through an illuminated forest while helping the wizards fight back the creeping gloom that’s dimming the holiday spirit.
To level up your journey, purchase an optional magic wand before entering the trail. With a flick and a swirl, you’ll uncover hidden surprises, spark enchantments, and help restore the magic of the season.
Festival of Trees | Rochester
November 21-23, 2025
Downtown Rochester kicks off the holiday season in sparkling style with the Festival of Trees, a dazzling showcase of creativity and community spirit. Dozens of beautifully decorated trees, wreaths, and centerpieces, all designed and donated by Metro Detroit locals, transform the Rochester Community House into a winter wonderland.
The festivities begin with the Cocktail Preview on November 21, where guests enjoy a strolling dinner, drinks, and a silent auction. Then on November 22–23, visitors can stroll through the festive displays for free and soak up all the holiday magic.
Best of all, proceeds benefit The Big, Bright Light Show, making this weekend of wonder one that truly shines for the whole community.
International Wine, Beer, and Food Festival | Grand Rapids
November 21-22, 2025
For over a decade, this Grand Rapids favorite has been one of Michigan’s premier tasting events, and for good reason. With more than 1,000 wines, beers, ciders, and spirits from around the world, it’s a flavorful journey that appeals to every palate.
Whether you’re a casual sipper or a seasoned connoisseur, you’ll find something to love. Plus, enjoy plenty of food pairings and fun along the way.
Blake’s Holiday Extravaganza | Armada
November 22-30, 2025
Blake’s Holiday Extravaganza at Blake’s Orchard & Cider Mill in Armada is where the season’s magic truly begins. Held over two festive weekends, this holiday celebration sparkles with live music, artisan shopping, and the glow of Blake’s annual tree lighting ceremony.
Families can enjoy free kids’ crafts and face painting, cozy up with festive food and drinks, and even book a Santa Experience or igloo dining for an extra-special touch. With Christmas trees, wreaths, and evergreen décor all around, it’s the perfect way to kick off the holidays—Blake’s style.
Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo | Royal Oak
November 22, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo is Detroit’s most enchanting holiday tradition, a nighttime stroll wrapped in twinkling magic. Wander through millions of LED lights and more than 500 glowing animal and nature displays with themed zones like the Enchanted Rainforest and Field of Lights.
Perfect for all ages, Wild Lights runs select evenings from late November through early January. You can add even more fun with experiences like photos with Santa, carousel rides, the 4D Theater, and hot cocoa upgrades.
ENLIGHTEN at Meijer Gardens | Grand Rapids
November 24, 2025 – January 3, 2026
ENLIGHTEN at Meijer Gardens transforms the grounds into a radiant world of art, light, and imagination. Stroll glowing pathways, immerse yourself in interactive light installations, and experience sculptures reimagined through color, music, and motion.
Warm up in the Festive Beer Garden with cocoa, mulled wine, or local brews before exploring sensory experiences, glowing forests, laser-lit waterfalls, and playful light displays. It’s immersive, artistic, and unlike any holiday event in Michigan.
America’s Thanksgiving Parade | Detroit
November 27, 2025
Nothing says Thanksgiving in Michigan like America’s Thanksgiving Parade, a beloved Detroit tradition nearly a century strong. Produced by The Parade Company, this world-class celebration fills Woodward Avenue with larger-than-life balloons, dazzling floats, marching bands, and familiar faces that capture the magic of the holidays.
Free and open to the public, the parade delights thousands in person and millions more watching from home, making it one of the nation’s most iconic Thanksgiving morning traditions.
Fantasy of Lights Parade | Howell
November 28, 2025
Downtown Howell lights up for the Fantasy of Lights Parade, the official kickoff to the holiday season. The fun begins in the afternoon with live reindeer, Santa photos, and family activities, followed by the Fantasy 5K and the main event – a dazzling parade of illuminated floats, marching bands, and festive cheer.
Admission is free, so bundle up, grab some cocoa, and soak in the small-town magic that makes Howell shine.
Home for the Holidays at Ford House | Grosse Pointe Shores
November 30 – December 21, 2025
Step into holiday magic at the historic Ford House, where soft lights, lakefront charm, and elegant details make the season feel timeless. Held Thursdays–Sundays, November 30–December 21, 2025, this one-mile outdoor walking experience guides you through illuminated gardens, historic buildings, and a beautifully decorated Main Residence.
Stroll at your own pace past glowing trees, Josephine’s Playhouse, and the festive Christmas train before entering the Ford family home, styled in Eleanor Ford’s signature understated elegance. Santa makes nightly appearances, and warm drinks are available along the path. It’s the perfect way to slow down and savor the season.
Explore the Best of Michigan in November
As fall fades and the first twinkle of the holidays appears, November in Michigan bridges two beautiful seasons, the cozy calm of autumn and the joyful sparkle of what’s to come.
From film and food festivals to dazzling light displays and community tree lightings, the month is full of reasons to get out and explore. So grab your coat, gather your favorite people, and make the most of Michigan’s November magic.