2024 Holiday Season Events Happening throughout Michigan
Michigan's winter beauty morphs into a mystical place around the holidays. The winter holiday charm lasts until early January, with sparkling Christmas decorations and festive activities such as parades, concerts, Christmas trees, and holiday shopping. The state's charm shows through, making it a popular destination for visitors wishing to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit.
Some of Michigan's Most Exciting Holiday Season Events this Year
In 2024, the following is a selection of some of the best holiday season events happening throughout Michigan:
America's Thanksgiving Parade – Detroit
This annual spectacle on November 28 is a Michigan tradition. America's Thanksgiving Day Parade features themed floats, high school marching bands, and larger-than-life balloons parading down Woodward Avenue. It's a must-see for families starting the holiday season with a classic parade experience.
Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village – Dearborn
Step back in time at Greenfield Village , where people adorn historic homes and shops with lights and holiday decorations. Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village is an immersive experience that includes horse-drawn carriage rides, carolers, and live performances, creating a charming, nostalgic atmosphere. Running from December 5 through December 28 this event is perfect for those who love history paired with festive fun.
Wayne County Lightfest – Westland
This dazzling drive-through display stretches over four miles of Hines Park, with 100,000 twinkling lights and nearly 50 animated displays. The Wayne County Lightfest is running Wednesday – Sunday from Thursday, November 21 through December 24 from 6pm to 10pm. It's the longest drive-through light show in the Midwest, making it an iconic Michigan holiday attraction.
Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo – Royal Oak
Choose from 30 Nights of Magic from November 23 to January 5, the Detroit Zoo transforms into a winter wonderland with Wild Lights , a display featuring over five million LED lights and larger-than-life animal sculptures. You and your family can enjoy hot chocolate and seasonal treats while walking through these impressive displays. Please be sure to click this link for the designated nights for the light shows between November 23 and January 5.
Christmas at Crossroads Holiday Magic – Flint
Head to Crossroads Village in Flint, Michigan for a historic Christmas celebration with 34 restored buildings from the 1800s. Ride the Huckleberry Railroad, visit with Santa, and watch holiday plays. This event runs through December and is perfect for families seeking a cozy, small-town holiday vibe.
Frankenmuth Christkindlmarkt - Frankenmuth
Known as " Michigan's Little Bavaria ," Frankenmuth comes alive each Winter with its authentic Christkindlmarkt, a traditional German Christmas market. Running weekends November through the first week in January , this open-air market offers a selection of handmade gifts, delicious treats like bratwurst and mulled wine, and live entertainment. Visitors can browse beautifully crafted ornaments, cozy winter apparel, and artisan goods while enjoying traditional German holiday music. The market, alongside the town's world-famous Bronner's Christmas Wonderland , the world's largest Christmas store—makes Frankenmuth an ideal holiday destination.
Holiday Nights of Lights - Grand Rapids Public Museum
The Grand Rapids Public Museum presents its Holiday Nights of Lights event throughout December. This spectacular light show combines animated LED displays with holiday music in a scenic riverfront setting. Each display is carefully curated to create a festive journey through the history and spirit of the season. The event also includes carousel rides, food trucks, and family-friendly activities, offering an experience both entertaining and educational for visitors of all ages.
Christmas at the Castle - Charlevoix
Castle Farms , a historic stone castle in Charlevoix , is transformed into a winter wonderland for its annual Christmas event. Visitors can wander through themed rooms with holiday decor, Santa's workshop December 14 and 15, and intricate model train displays. The outdoor space offers fire pits, festive light displays, and visits from Santa Claus himself. It's an enchanting way to spend a day in a truly magical setting.
Skiing with Santa - Boyne Mountain Resort
For a fun and active holiday experience, head to Boyne Mountain Resort , where you can ski with Santa December 16 through 25! This family-friendly event allows skiers and snowboarders to hit the slopes alongside Santa himself. Thanks to holiday music, festive decor, and plenty of snowy activities, it's an unforgettable way to celebrate the season in true Michigan style. Click here to find out about other Christmas activities happening at the resort in December.
Holland Kerstmarkt - Holland
Holland's annual Kerstmarkt is an outdoor holiday market featuring local artisans, fresh greenery, and homemade treats. Inspired by Dutch tradition, this European-style market is a great place to find handcrafted gifts while sipping hot cocoa. Along with unique holiday shopping, you can enjoy the sights of the charming town of Holland , decorated for the season. The event runs November 23 through December 21.
Enchanted Christmas at Leu Gardens – Orlando (Select nights from December 1, 2024 – January 7, 2025)
Orlando's Leu Gardens transforms into an illuminated wonderland during the holiday season. Enchanted Christmas at Leu Gardens offers a nighttime stroll through the gardens, filled with sparkling lights, holiday decorations, and themed displays. The serene and magical atmosphere makes it an excellent spot for family outings and date nights.
Clean Cars for the Holidays: EL Car Wash Holiday Specials
As you enjoy the holidays while jumping from one event to the next, keeping your car clean may become more difficult. EL Car Wash has got you covered if you are looking for a quick drive-thru car wash or a car wash with free vacuum cleaners. Thanks to their unlimited car wash membership , you can get a fast car wash anytime throughout the holidays and throughout the new year. El Car Wash has been the largest and best premium express car wash in Florida for years and has recently come to Michigan . We are the Official Car Wash of the Detroit Lions ! You can now count on our car washes in Michigan to keep your vehicles sparkling clean every day for less than $1 per day.
El Car Wash also offers special holiday promotions and freebies such as vacuums, mat cleaners, dash wipes, air fresheners, and glass cleaners. An El Car Wash monthly car wash subscription is also an excellent gift idea! In addition to the best deal on a car wash available, members also have access to a long list of FREEBIES, including FREE vacuums, mat cleaners, air fresheners, dash wipes and more! Stop by a nearby El Car Wash today and give us a try!
