Ultimate 2025 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: November 3, 2025

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 2025 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 2025

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

Week 1

Cadillac Farmers Market 2nd Annual Holiday Market

Cadillac Farmers Market 2nd Annual Holiday Market

When:

• (ongoing) November 15, 16, 2025; 12-4 pm
• November 22, 23, 2025; 12-4 pm
• November 29, 30, 2025; 12-4 pm
• December 6, 7, 2025; 12-4 pm

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!

MORE FUN things to do in Cadillac!

• 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.

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• Costs for 2025: Any Day passes (including holidays) for standard vehicles start at $32.50 for advance purchase. Weekday passes (Monday-Thursday, excluding holidays) for standard vehicles start at $28 when purchased in advance.  Limo and party bus passes are available at $70 for advance purchase.

• 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.

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

• Kerstmarkt- 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.

• 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!" 

Visits with Santa - The Village of Rochester Hills

Visits with Santa - The Village of Rochester Hills

When: Every Friday to Sunday, November 21-December 24, 2025. Check their website for dates, times, and more info.

• Visits with Santa - The Village of Rochester Hills - 104 N. Adams Road, Rochester Hills, MI. 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

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

When: November 22 - December 21, 2025- 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: 2025 TBD
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.

• 33rd 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!

• The Big Bright Light Show, Rochester, Michigan
• The display will be lit every evening (5 pm - Midnight), November 24, 2025 - January 18, 2026. Most stores are open Monday - Saturday, until 9 pm.
• So come enjoy the Magical Downtown Rochester Christmas Lights 2025-2026.
• These incredible Drive Through Lights in Michigan runs along Main Street in Rochester, Michigan  
• Oh, and here are 7 FUN Rochester Christmas Events To Do In One Day!

Detroit's Eastern Market: Holiday Market 2025

Detroit's Eastern Market: Holiday Market 2025

In addition to their Saturday Market that operates year-round, there will be four additional markets in 2025:

• Tuesday, November 25, 2025; 9 am – 3 pm
• Sunday, November 30, 2025; 10 am – 4 pm
• Sunday, December 7, 2025; 10 am – 4 pm
• Sunday, December 14, 2025; 10 am – 4 pm
• Sunday, December 21, 2025; 10 am – 4 pm

Tuesday Market will focus primarily on food vendors for Thanksgiving dinner planning.

Sunday Markets will feature Michigan-made gifts, including clothing, art, jewelry, beauty products, and more.

Christmas tree vendors will be in the parking lot outside Sheds 5 and 6, seven days a week starting around Thanksgiving.

It is free and open to all ages.

• 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.

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

• Annual Bear Lake Sparkle in the Park promises to be a must see! Over 80,000 lights! 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

• 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.  
• 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 28, 2025!
• 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 28 to December 30, 2025. 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 28 to December 30, 2025. 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.

11 AM – 5 PM: Visit Santa Claus and his Elf on the Fest Platz stage near the Cass River Bar and Grill. Photos encouraged.

1 – 4 PM: Enjoy strolling musical performances by carolers featuring classic Christmas carols and new favorites. Tips encouraged if you enjoy the show!  No carolers on Dec. 21st.

2025 Strolling Performances:

Saturday, November 29 – Fenton Lakes Chorus
Sunday, November 30 – Riot Act Quartet
Saturday, December 6 – Fenton Lakes Chorus
Sunday, December 7 – Notorious Quartet
Saturday, December 13 – Fenton Lakes Chorus
Sunday, December 14 – Toast Quartet
Saturday, December 20 – Fenton Lakes Chorus
Sunday, December 21 – Toast Quartet

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.

Cosmic Christmas at the Longway Planetarium in Flint 

Cosmic Christmas at the Longway Planetarium in Flint 

When: Begins November 29-January 2, 2026. Select days and times. See their website for details. 

Where: Longway Planetarium in Flint 

• The Spring Lake Sparkle Festival 2025 is such a fun chance to meet Santa, grab some eats and enjoy a drink at Santa’s Workshop.
• 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. 

2025 Gilmore Car Museum's Winter Wonderland - A Holiday Lights Spectacular! Lights and Cars 

2025 Gilmore Car Museum's Winter Wonderland - A Holiday Lights Spectacular! Lights and Cars 

When: November 29, 2025-January 4, 2026, Select Days.  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.  

2025 Breakfast with Santa and the Grinch! at Olde World Canterbury Village! Family Fun and Food Event

2025 Breakfast with Santa and the Grinch! at Olde World Canterbury Village! Family Fun and Food Event

Olde World Canterbury Village. Come have breakfast with a beloved Christmas Character! This year, Canterbury Village holiday breakfast is back in the elegant majesty of the King Richard ballroom, in CANTERBURY CASTLE! The ballroom will be decorated for Christmas with lots of awesome photo opportunities! Choose to have a yummy breakfast with either Santa Claus or The Grinch! Buffet style breakfast menu. Make your reservations early!! Seating times are at 9:30 AM and 11:30 AM.

Where: 2359 Joslyn Court, Orion twp., MI 48360

Breakfast With THE GRINCH Dates:

• Friday, November 29, 2025
• Saturday, November 30, 2025
• Sunday, December 8, 2025

Breakfast With SANTA Dates:

• Sunday, December 1, 2025
• Sunday, December 22, 2025

• Holiday Stroll at Olde World Canterbury Village – Open 6 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! 
  

• New This Year: Themed Nights & Extra Fun! See their website for details.
• Gilmore Car Museum's Winter Wonderland - A Holiday Lights Spectacular
• 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. 
• Are pets allowed? No.

• “Home for the Holidays at Ford House” at The Ford House (Edsel and Eleanor), Thursdays through Sundays from November 30 — December 21 from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.  

• “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.

• 12 Days of Christmas Sale, December 1 – 12, 2025, 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: 10 am – 7 pm
• Friday – Saturday: 10 am – 8 pm

The 2025 theme is “CHRISTMAS STORIES” and will take place on Monday, December 1, 2025 at 7pm in downtown Marshall.

More Fun Things to do in Marshall, MI

Horse-Drawn Winter Hayrides

When: First Week in December, 2025. Call to schedule

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

December is the perfect time for a lovely horse-drawn hayride in Michigan! Their lovely Belgian horses, Beau and Knox, will lead the way.  This family-friendly ride is perfect for all ages!  The ride is about 40 minute in the Boardman River Valley.  The trip will start and end at the main lodge and loops around some private property, seasonal roadways and along the Boardman River. 

This is a lovely Northern Michigan getaway! 

Make your reservations now! Please call 231-947-9529 to reserve a ride for your group.

Kerstmarkt Dutch Winterfest, Holland, MI | Food, Ice Skating, Theater Productions & Christmas Market

Kerstmarkt Dutch Winterfest, Holland, MI | Food, Ice Skating, Theater Productions & Christmas Market

When: December 2-7, 2025. 9 am - 6:00 pm

Where: Various spots in Holland, such as GDK Pocket Park, Windows on the Waterfront, 8th Street, Tuylp Hotel

• Experience a delightful outdoor European-style market with holiday items, delicious food and artisan demonstrations in Holland, Michigan.  “Kerstmarkt” in the Dutch language means “Christmas market” Kerstmarkt.
• There will be a parade of lights, ice skating, holiday haus tour, a production of Peter and the Starcatcher at Holland Community Theatre and more!
• This lovely November Michigan festival occurs around Thanksgiving and Christmas so it's a perfect getaway with friends and family while they visit!!
• Check out our list of fabulous Michigan Christmas Markets!

• Alden B. Dow Home & Studio Holiday Tours, Midland Michigan, December 2025 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.
• 2025 - 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!

• 36th Annual Manistee's Victorian Sleighbell Parade & Old Christmas Weekend. . The Victorian Sleighbell Parade is 36th annual Victorian Sleighbell Parade is 5:30 pm December 6, 2025! 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 majestic 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!

• The 2025 Candlewalk kicks off this year on December 4th, with a Parade of Lights at 6:00pm! 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!

• 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!
• Christmas in Ida Parade of Lights: Saturday, December 6, 2025

• Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village  This Christmas event is one of the top Christmas experiences in the state and country! Tickets go on sale November 5, 2025. 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!

• Celebrate Merry Mile at the Calhoun County Fairgrounds - See sparkling Christmas lights from the warmth of your vehicle. Open Thursday-Sunday, December 4-28, 2025 (Thursdays-Sundays) 
• Cost: $10/car. Address: 720 Fair Street, Marshall, MI

Santa Night - Leaman's Green Apple Barn

Santa Night: December 5-6 and 12-13, 2025

Where: Leaman's Green Apple Barn, 7475 N. River Rd, Freeland MI, 48623

View this post on Instagram

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 2025, 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 1, 8, 15, 22, 24, 2025

Hours for Drive Through Only nights: 5:00 pm-9:00 pm
$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!

• 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 2025. What is there to do in Grand Rapids in December? Well, this!

Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting - Marquette

Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting

When: December 5, 2025

Location: Third Street & Marquette Commons

Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

• Lighted Parade and Frosty Fireworks in Downtown Linden. December 5, 2025. Parade is at 7:00pm, Fireworks at 9:30pm

• Holiday Open House - Petoskey - December 5, 2025 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 5, 2025 (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.

Merry & Bright Weekend

When: December 5-7, 2025

Where: St. Joseph, MI

• December 6, 2025: Reindog Parade: 3:00 pm, Santa's House: 4:00 pm
• December 7, 2025: Pearl Harbor Remembrane Day 8:00 am, Santa's House: 1:00 pm

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

• Friday  & Saturday, December 5 & 6, 2025
• Friday & Saturday, December 12 & 13, 2025
• Friday & Saturday, December 19 & 20, 2025 

• 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, December 5-6 and 12-13, 2025. 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!  
• Cost is TBD and a canned good (donated to Hidden Harvest) per person. See our cute video of GOATS IN COATS! It's cuteness overload!

• 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!

• 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!

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

Event Schedule:

• 5-6:30pm:  Official lighting of the tree at Pierce Park with Santa, followed by Christmas sing-alongs!

Kris Kringle Market -Rochester MI

Kris Kringle Market and Fun in Downtown Rochester! 

The Downtown Rochester Kris Kringle Market: On West Fourth St. between Main & Walnut.  

• When: Friday, December 5, 2025- 4:00 – 10:00 p.m.
  Saturday, December 6, 2025 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.

• Jingle Bell Fun Run Walk on December 4, 2025 at 6:30 p.m. This fun, free 1-mile run or walk begins at 6:30 p.m. at the corner of Ashman and Main Streets in Downtown Midland.

• Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl on Friday, December 5, 2025 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.

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

• Gymnastics on the Grand returns to DeVos Place for a weekend of competition December 5 - 7, 2025!
• 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!

• Kerrytown District KindleFest, Ann Arbor Farmers Market, 315 Detroit St, Ann Arbor, MI. An Outdoor Holiday Market, December 5, 2025; 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.

• Where: NMU Superdome, Escanaba Michigan
• Friday, December 5, 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
• Saturday, December 6, 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.
• Sunday, December 7, 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

$3.00 for adults admission

• Winter Wonderland, City of Houghton, MI. Friday, December 5, 2025.
• 58 Huron Street. Hot chocolate, cider, wagon rides, Santa and celebrate Christmas along Houghton’s festively decorated waterfront pier 

• Zonta Homewalk, Midland Michigan.  December 6th & 7th, 2025, Open 1 - 5 p.m.

• The Zonta Homewalk features 5 spectacular homes exquisitely decorated for the holidays open for tours. Midland Michigan Christmas home tours 2025. 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 6, 2025. 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 2025 in Harbor Springs - Saturday, Saturday, December 6th 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 2025 event. So many fun things to do this weekend!

• Grand Rapids Toy Show, December 6, 2025 ​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 6 - December 7, 2025. 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!

• 16th Annual Light Up The Night & Soup Cook Off, December 6, 2025. 3pm -7:00pm
• 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. 
• Where: Broad Street, Bellaire, MI 49615

• Dexter Daze Light Parade, December 6, 2025; 6pm-6:30pm in downtown Dexter
  

When: December 6, 2025, 6:00 pm

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

• 9th Annual Parade of Lights in Auburn, MI - December 6, 2025, 6:00 pm. Beginning at Western High School and ending at Auburn Elementary School.
• Santa will be in the Clock Park, cookies and hot chocolate stations!

South Lyon's Holiday Celebration and Lighted Parade

• When: Saturday, December 6, 2025. 

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 in Lake Orion, Michigan

• When: Saturday, December 6th, 2025 at 6 pm
• Where: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!

• Midland Nativity Exhibit (see photos and video above from previous years) 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!

• 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 6, 2025 at 6:00 PM at the Rotary Park, Frankfort, MI 49635.

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

• 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.

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!

See Michigan Live Nativity Scenes This Christmas!

• 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!
  

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!

Parade of Lights & Community Christmas Party

• When: December 6, 2025 at 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
• Where: Downtown Cheboygan! 

Lovely 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.

When: December 6 and 7, 2025, 4:40pm - 8:30pm

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

• Marshall Candlelight Walk. 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.  
• Tour times are: Saturday 4:30pm & 6:45pm and Sunday 4:30pm & 6:45pm.

• Dow Gardens Christmas Walk, 
• When: December 4–6 & 11–13, 2025; TIME: 5–8 PM

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: 2025 Dates: December 4-6 and 11-13, 2025

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

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

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 6, 2025. 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! 

Old Fashioned Hometown Christmas: 2 Christmas Events!

When: December 6, 2025, 12pm-3:00pm

Where: Huron Charter Township, Senior Barn and One Room Schoolluse in Waltz, MI

• Events include cookies with Mrs. Clause, greenery sale, children's crafts, toy train exhibit. 

When: December 7, 2025; 3pm-8pm

Where: Downtown New Boston

• Events include Santa, tree lighting, horse and carriage rides, santa train rides, mini horses, s'mores station, entertainment and lots more!

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

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

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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 6-7, 2025 - Davison High School Christmas Show
• December 13, 2025 - Oxford High School Christmas Show

• Frankenmuth Holiday Home Tour, Several houses will be decorated for the season on the tour. 
• Tickets go on sale November 1, 2025 and can be purchased at Fenton Home Furnishings, Chamber of Commerce and other locations.
• Price: $30 per ticket
  Each ticket includes lunch served at St. John’s Lutheran Church, where guests can also participate in a raffle during the meal.

• 20th Annual Detroit Urban Craft Fair - Masonic Temple, Detroit, MI. December 6, 2025: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m and also December 7, 2025: 11 a.m. to 6 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!
  
• Admission is $5 on Saturday and Sunday. Children 12 and under are free after 1pm

• Annual “Christmas on the Farm and at Dewey School” Saturday Dec 6th & Sunday Dec 7th | 10am - 4pm both days
• 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 6, 7, 2025 - Clarkston High School
   
2. December 13, 2025 - Horizons Conference Center, 6200 State St, Saginaw, MI 48603
3. December 14, 2025 - Great Hall, Midland, MI

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:

Week 2

2025 Great Lakes Expo, Premier event for fruit and vegetable growers.

When: December 9-11, 2025.

Where: Devos Hall, Grand Rapids, MI.

Put this informative Grand Rapids December Michigan event on your 2025 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!

Trans-Siberian Orchestra - Ghosts of Christmas Eve in Grand Rapids

Trans-Siberian Orchestra - Ghosts of Christmas Eve

When: December 7, 2025; for two shows at 2:30 PM & 7:30 PM. 

Where: Van Andel Arena, 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Paranormal Dinner Experience at The Whitney in Detroit

Paranormal Dinner Experience at The Whitney in Detroit

• December 7, 2025

Where: The Whitney, Detroit

Join Dye Paranormal Investigators as they guide you through the history and legends of The Whitney family and estate. Beginning at 5:00, enjoy a Historical Champagne Tour of the Mansion, a 4-course dinner with selected spirits, followed by the Paranormal expedition through the Mansion, Gardens and Carriage House.

Price: $199 per person and includes Dinner, Selected Spirits, Tours, Tax and Gratuity. Make reservations today! 21+ only.   

2nd Annual Hill Top Holiday Market

Second Annual Hill Top Coffee & Ice Cream Holiday Market!

When: Sunday, December 7, 2025 from 1:00 - 5:00

Where: Hill Top Coffee & Ice Cream, 7117 South Street, Benzonia, MI 49616 

Outdoor holiday market featuring talented local vendors. Support local! Then warm up inside with drinks from the Holiday Drink Menu and delicious treats.

See Santa Claus from 1:00 - 3:00 for fun photo ops! Celebrate the holidays with Hill Top!

2025 Holiday Artisan Market - St. Joseph MI

2025 Holiday Artisan Market - St. Joseph MI

When: Sunday, December 7, 2025 | 11:00am - 4:00pm

Where: 216 Court St. St. Joseph, MI 49085

• 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 2025 season is now SOLD OUT!

• Downtown Marquette Farmers Market, Holiday Market is Saturdays, December 8 - 13, 2025; 3-9 pm inside the Marquette Commons.

• 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.

• 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! 

Christmas on Farmlane at Ella Sharp Museum

When: Saturday, December 13, 2025 – Christmas on Farmlane

Where: Ella Sharp Museum, 3225 4th Street, Jackson, Michigan 49203

Come on out to the Ella Sharp Museum to celebrate the holidays! 

When: December 2025 TBD

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. 

• SantaCon Bar Crawl 2025 - Downtown Royal Oak, Saturday, December 13, 2025 | 2-7pm.  

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!
• Be sure to visit Bronner's in Frankenmuth!

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 12 -14 and December 19 - 21, 2025.

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

• Grand Rapids Ballet presents The Nutcracker at DeVos Performance  Hall in Grand Rapids with several performances December 12 -14 and December 19 - 21, 2025. 
• 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 12-13, 2025

Where: Ranch Rudolph, 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 12, 2025

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: Closed 2025 due to storm damage to the trail. Keep an eye out for next year!

Where: The Highlands in Harbor Springs, MI

• The Enchanted Trail at The Highlands in Harbor Springs, MI - Snowshoe or Walk. 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 13, 2025; Time:10:00 AM to 3:00 PM

Where: Colonial Michilimackinac parking lot, Mackinaw City, MI

• Antique Snowmobile Bridge Crossing, 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. 

When: December 13 and 14, 2025, 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 13 and 14, 2025 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.

Holiday Market at Castle Farms | Charlevoix, MI

When: December 13 and 14, 2025, Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 am - 4:00pm

Where: 5052 M-66 North, Charlevoix, MI

Feel the magic of the season at Castle Farms' Holiday Market! Shop for unique gifts, crafts, holiday decorations, delicious handmade treats, and more!

Snow Ball at Bonobo Winery

Snow Ball

When: December 13, 2025 at 7:00 PM

Where: Bonobo Winery, 12011 Center Road, Traverse City, MI 49686 US

Celebrate winter with wine, food, and fun!

When: December 13, 2025; 6pm - 11pm

Where: Shanty Creek Bellaire, MI 

Merry Little Christmas Party at Shanty Creek. 

• Buffet, live band and lots of fun!!  Book early!

When: December 13, 2025; Show at 7:00, Doors at 6:00

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

The Bay’s festive show returns with David Chown, Miriam Pico, Laurie Sears, and Dominic Fortuna! It will be a fantastic night of music!

Week 3

When: Sunday, December 14, 2025; 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!

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.

When: December 17, 2025, at 5:00 pm - 8:00

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

• Zoo Nights, with Lights! (21+) December 17, 2025, 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: Friday, December 19, 2025 | 7:30pm 

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

Castle Farms Live Nativity Scene

Castle Farms Live Nativity Scene

When: December 20, 2025 at 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm

Where: Castle Farms 5052 M66 North, Charlevoix, MI

FREE ADMISSION! Experience the magic of the season with a lovely live nativity on Saturday, December 20th from 5–7 PM. Featuring vocals by St. Mary’s Youth Choir and adorable animals from Hungry Ducks Farm, this outdoor nativity brings the Christmas story to life with music, atmosphere, and love. 

When: Breakfast With Santa at Shanty Creek Resort! December 20, 2025; 9:00 am - 11:00 am

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

Join Santa for a lovely breakfast at Shanty Creek Resort! 

When: December 20, 2025 and December 21, 2025; 7:30pm-9:30pm

• Home for the Holidays at Corson Auditorium

Guest Conductor Jason Altieri leads the TC Phil and Jeffrey Cobb’s NMC Choruses in a festive program of holiday favorites.

When: Mid-October through mid-May; Saturday, 9 AM to 12:00 PM

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

• Boyne City Farmer's Market, Every Saturday 9 am - 12:00 pm through mid-May inside Veterans Park Pavilion. Best year-round market in Northern Michigan (Indoor) market.

Home for the Holidays - Big Rapids, MI Event

Home for the Holidays

When: December 2025 TBD; 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, 2025, 5:30pm

Where: Park Place Hotel, Traverse City, MI

• Jingle Bell 5K Run/Walk, December 21, 2025, 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!
• Packet pickup begins at 4:30 p.m. at the Park Place Hotel.  

When: December 21, 2025 at 12:00 PM

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

• Santa Claus will be at Bonobo!

When: December 21, 2025 - January 13, 2026; 9:00 am - 2:00 pm 

Where: Blake's Backyard 5590 Van Dyke, Almont, MI

Celebrate the magic of the season with a festive morning the whole family will love! Enjoy a delicious holiday brunch buffet with Santa!

When: Sunday, December 24, 2025

Where: 12500 Crystal Mountain Dr. Thompsonville, Michigan 49683

• Ski with Santa at Crystal Mountain! Sunday, December 24, 2025, See Santa hit the slopes at Crystal Mountain beginning at 10 a.m. until 4:30pm. 12500 Crystal Mountain Dr. Thompsonville, Michigan 49683

When: December 2025 tbd.

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

• Festival of Trains at Creekside Community Hall, December 2025 TBD.
• 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 27, 2025 at 3:00pm, 7:30pm

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

• Trans-Siberian Orchestra, The Ghosts Of Christmas Eve, Thursday, December 27, 2025 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!

2025 Michigan Christmas Events, Christmas Lights (+Drive Thru) and Things to do this Holiday Season!

New Year’s Fest in Kalamazoo

When: December 31, 2025

Where: 210 Farmers Alley, Kalamazoo, MI

• New Year’s Fest is an all-ages showcase of performing arts held in Downtown Kalamazoo. The 2025 New Year's Fest will host performances in 5 indoor performance locations, heated tent, and live music from Bronson Park Stage. Admission buttons are $10 in advance, and $15 in Bronson Park starting at 5:00 p.m.  The Holly Jolly Trolley runs from 6:00-11:00 pm. ​
• 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, 2025

Where: Downtown Ludington, Michigan

December 31, 2025: 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. 

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

• 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

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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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