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Michigan in wintertime is nothing short of a snowy wonderland, and when the festive season rolls around, it transforms into a dazzling display of holiday cheer. If you’re not sure where to begin, don’t worry! I have put together an amazing list of places to see Christmas lights in Michigan. From the quaint charm of small-town festivals to the grandeur of drive-through light displays, there’s a spectacle for everyone to enjoy.
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In 2023, we are bringing you an exclusive guide to the best places across the Great Lake State to witness the magic of Christmas lights and holiday displays. Whether you’re looking to admire meticulously decorated homes, immerse yourself in community celebrations, or take a mesmerizing drive through twinkling lights, Michigan has it all. So grab your hot cocoa, bundle up, and get ready to explore the sparkling beauty of Michigan’s Christmas lights and holiday displays with us!
Map of Christmas Lights in Michigan
Places to See Christmas Lights in Michigan – Southwest
Christmas Lite Show at LMCU (Fifth Third) Ballpark in Grand Rapids
4500 River Dr. NE, Comstock Park, MI 49321
You’re in for a treat because Michigan’s biggest Christmas light show is back in action! The Christmas Lite Show is all about spreading holiday cheer with over 40 animated displays that stretch for nearly two miles.
2024 marks the 27th year of this fantastic drive-through light show, and it’s better than ever. Whether young or just young at heart, you’re in for a magical time. Picture this: nearly two miles of Christmas magic featuring over a million twinkling lights, animated displays, and even lighted tunnels. And here’s the real kicker – the Winter Wonder Walk. It’s a chance to get up close and personal with all that Christmas enchantment. Walk through the lights, snap photos, and soak in the festive spirit. Plus, guess who might make a special appearance? Santa and his reindeer! You won’t want to miss it.
Hip Grandma tip: Check the website for special times when you can walk through or ride a bike through the show.
Binder Park Zoo Lights Before Christmas
7400 Division Dr, Battle Creek, MI 49014
Binder Park Zoo‘s ZooLights runs December 18–23 from 5–8 PM, featuring festively lighted pathways, animal encounters, free carousel rides, and seasonal activities. Santa will appear nightly, and during the “Dinner with Santa” event, which requires pre-registration at www.binderparkzoo.org.
ZooLights admission is $4 for members, $5 for non-members, and free for kids under 2. Highlights include holiday stories by Grandma Claus, a Disney Holiday Sing-Along with Princess Elsa on December 22, and a new festival of trees. Stay updated on Facebook for more announcements!
My grandkids love this fantastic zoo, and it’s even better at Christmas!
Spring Lake Sparkle in Spring Lake
Spring Lake, Mi
Over 120,000 colorful lights will illuminate Savidge Street in Spring Lake from November 26 through January 3, creating a festive holiday atmosphere. Businesses will stay open late on Fridays and Saturdays, with food trucks and special restaurant openings. Visit Santa Wednesday through Sunday at the 5 Star Realty office, enjoy live broadcasts from WGHN’s North Pole radio station, and attend free holiday concerts at Seven Steps Up. Don’t miss the pop-up Christmas shop at 113 W Savidge St for unique gifts. Bring your loved ones and experience the magic of Spring Lake Holiday “Sparkle”!
Veenstra Christmas Lights
2187 132nd, Hopkins, MI 49328
Catch the holiday vibes as you drive by the Veenstra Christmas Lights. This private property showcases Christmas with more than 7,700 lights that groove to the beat of festive tunes on your car radio. This dazzling show keeps the holiday spirit alive from Wednesday November 27th through Sunday January 5th. The show will run each night from 5:30pm to 11pm.
The Colors of Christmas in Newaygo
7683 S. Croton Hardy Drive, Newaygo, MI 49337
Discover the Colors of Christmas Wonderland at Croton Township Campground in Newaygo, MI. The campground is lit with vibrant lights and enchanting displays, and you can drive or hike through this magical wonderland! The display is open from the day after Thanksgiving until January 1st.
Hip Grandma Tip: If it’s in your holiday budget, you can donate, supporting the Newaygo County Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect.
Gilmore Car Museum
6865 Hickory Road, Hickory Corners, MI 49060
The Winter Wonderland Holiday Experience at Gilmore Car Museum, presented by DeNooyer Automotive Family, returns for its third year with expanded light displays across the 90-acre campus. Drive through dazzling lights set to festive music, then step inside the museum for interactive holiday fun. Enjoy ornament decorating, s’mores by the fire, a charming Christmas village, and the Great Elf Hunt. This unique event blends outdoor magic with indoor nostalgia, creating a joyful holiday experience for all ages! Check Gilmore Car Museum’s event calendar for open days this December.
Merry Mile at the Calhoun County Fairgrounds
720 Fair St., Marshall, MI 49068
The Merry Mile is perfect if you’re looking for a new family holiday tradition! Cruise through a one-mile display of lights from the cozy comfort of your car on Thursdays-Sundays from 6-9pm. We like to pack some Christmas cookies and hot cocoa to get into the mood. Take a look at the Merry Mile website for a list of special events that happen throughout the season.
There’s no place like Michigan during this delightful time of year, and attractions like the Merry Mile add to the winter charm around the holidays. And while you’re visiting Marshall, plan a stop in the historic downtown. The town puts great effort into its beautiful holiday lights, and you may get a little Christmas shopping done while you’re there!
Gull Meadow Farms in Richland
8544 Gull Road, Richland, MI 49083
You’ve gotta swing by Gull Meadow Farms to experience a ‘Walk Through the Lights.’ This Southwest Michigan event transforms the farm’s greenhouses into a themed winter wonderland with heated interiors. Enjoy two choreographed light shows, giant outdoor displays, photo props, and a visit with the goats. While some areas are outdoors, the greenhouses provide a cozy retreat, making it a perfect family tradition!
Take note! Wednesday and Thursday evenings include a special twist – an interaction with the Grinch himself as you make your way through the greenhouses. This “Hint of Whoville” is a must-do! If you or someone you’re exploring with travels a tad bit slower than the usual crowd, check out “Stroll through the Ligths Night on Tuesday, December 10. This special evening is reserved for those who have special accessibility considerations. Check out more details at the Gull Meadow Farms website.
Fredrick Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
1000 E Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49525
In 2024, celebrate 30 years of holiday joy at Fredrick Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park with the University of Michigan Health-West: Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibition! Explore 46 unique displays showcasing global holiday traditions through stunning Christmas trees, winter plantings, and the beloved Railway Garden. Enjoy 350,000 sparkling lights, wintertime walks, and cultural exhibits blending fact and folklore. Indoors and out, it’s a festive experience not to be missed!
Check the Meijer Gardens event calendar for dates and times of special holiday activities. Sing along with The Original Dickens Carolers as they roam the BISSELL and Gunberg Corridors, included with admission. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus in the Welcome Center on December 3, 10, and 17, and pet Santa’s reindeer in Michigan’s Farm Garden on select Saturdays. Don’t miss World Beat & Cultural Performances in the Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory on select Tuesdays, offering spirited global music for all at no extra cost.
Chase Family Christmas Lights Display
276 E. Kenwood Rd, Twin Lake, MI
The Chase Family knows how to celebrate the season! If you’re in the Twin Lake area, fit this fantastic light display into your holiday schedule. This display is on private property, and donations are welcome to support our American veterans.
The Chase Family creates a unique walk-through display that includes approximately 40,000 lights. On the weekends, you can visit with Santa and the Grinch after you walk through the fantastic display. Be sure to snap some selfies at the marked selfie spots, and bring the littles for a fun train ride through the lights. If your kids and grandkids are like mine, they’ll love this fun extra touch!
Hip Grandma Tip: Check the Chase Family Christmas Lights Facebook page for parking information before you come.
Lansing Holiday Light Show at Cottonwood Campground
5339 N Aurelius Rd, Lansing, MI 48911
Have you been to the Lansing Holiday Light Show at Cottonwood Campground? This year marks its third season as Lansing’s only drive-through light show! Enjoy a ½-mile route filled with dazzling, larger-than-life holiday displays synced to music on your car radio. Open evenings at 5 PM on select dates from November 15 to December 30, 2024. Tickets are available online or at the door on select days. Bundle up, pack a snack, and experience this festive family tradition—get your tickets today!
Ludington Area Festival of Lights
Mason County Fairgrounds – US 10 at N. Meyers Road exit
Experience the magic of the Ludington Area Festival of Lights at the Mason County Fairgrounds, a spectacular drive-thru event running from Thanksgiving through December’s end. This 30-minute journey features a stunning 26-foot Santa, Candy Cane Land, life-sized snow globes, and over 600 feet of glowing tunnels formed by 200 arches.
With over 100 illuminated trees and synchronized light shows set to classic holiday music broadcast to your car, every turn offers enchanting displays, from nativity scenes to whimsical animations. Perfect for all ages, this dazzling holiday tradition also supports local non-profits, spreading joy and giving back to the community.
Places to See Christmas Lights in Michigan – Southeast
Light Up Physicians ParkGrand Blvd in Grand Blanc
11400 Grand Blvd, Grand Blanc
Grand Blanc couple Samantha and Kevin Rickard are bringing their popular holiday light and music display, previously called Lights on Grand Blvd to Physicians Park, now called Light Up Physicians Park. This free event will feature expanded displays, including candy canes, tunnels, and arches, all synchronized to music for visitors to enjoy along the walking pathway.
The Rickards, who started their light shows at home in 2017, have partnered with the City of Grand Blanc to create a bigger and better experience in a new location. Visitors are encouraged to bring non-perishable food donations for FISH of Grand Blanc while enjoying the festive lights.
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Magic of Lights Michigan at the Pine Knob Music Center
33 Bob Seger Dr., Clarkston MI 48348
Magic of Lights returns to Pine Knob Music Theatre from November 22 to December 30, 2024, transforming the venue into a dazzling drive-through light display. This enchanting event features over two million LED lights, including displays like Prehistoric Christmas, Winter Wonderland, and the 12 Days of Christmas, plus new additions like MagicVision Selfie Filters and captivating light tunnels.
Tickets, including Santa Saver and Any Day passes, start at $18 and are available online. Guests can also visit the Jolly Holiday Village for a festive walk-through experience.
Hip Grandma Tip: You’ll want Christmas music, holiday snacks, hot cocoa, PJs for the kids, and warm cozy blankets. Also, be sure you have a full tank of gas.
Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland in Frankenmuth
25 Christmas Ln, Frankenmuth, MI 48734
Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland in Frankenmuth is like Christmas magic brought to life! It’s huge – they don’t call it the world’s largest Christmas store for nothing, right? Every time I go there, it’s like stepping into a holiday dream. The lights, the ornaments, the trees – it’s all so dazzling!
All year long, each evening from dusk until midnight, Bronner’s grounds light up with over 100,000 holiday lights and animated decorations. Plan for a crowd throughout the holiday season, but Bronners is indeed a Christmas wonderland. And this brings me to Frankenmuth, home of Bronners…
A Frankenmuth Christmas
635 South Main Street, Frankenmuth, MI 48734
Speaking of Frankenmuth… If you’re in town for Bronner’s, plan a wander through downtown. The whole city of Frankenmuth is lit up at night. I find it nearly impossible to resist the holiday spirit when you’re in Frankenmuth. Check out the Frankenmuth website for a schedule of the many events throughout the season. Celebrate the holiday season in Frankenmuth with spectacular light shows, exciting activities, and family fun.
Dow Gardens in Midland
1809 Eastman Ave, Midland, MI 48640
Celebrate the holidays at Dow Gardens! Dow Gardens with a magical stroll through gently-lit pathways, featuring carolers and the chance to meet Santa’s reindeer from December 5-7. Enjoy Silent Nights from December 13-15 for a peaceful walk among the lights. Warm up with beverages from Travelin’ Tom’s Coffee of Saginaw, available for purchase at the Visitor Center. This free event has no admission charge, with last entry at 7:30 PM.
Christmas Aglow in Clinton Township
40700 Romeo Plank Road, Clinton Township, MI 48038
Join the Clinton Township community for the annual Christmas Aglow event, marking the start of the holiday season. Bring the whole family to visit Santa, enjoy seasonal music, explore the holiday lights trail, and savor light refreshments. This free event encourages attendees to bring non-perishable food donations for the Township’s needy families, with collection barrels at the Clinton Township Gazebo and Civic Center Gym. Most activities are outdoors, so please dress for the weather.
Grosse Pointe Santa Claus Parade and Tree Lighting
Kercheval Ave, Grosse Pointe, MI 48236
Join thousands of holiday revelers at the 49th Annual Grosse Pointe Santa Claus Parade on November 29 (the day after Thanksgiving), which will travel along Kercheval Avenue in Grosse Pointe Farms and Grosse Pointe City. The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. at Lewiston Road, heading over a mile to Cadieux Road, with a Grinch theme this year, inspired by How the Grinch Stole Christmas. The event will be preceded by the Grosse Pointe Lions Club’s 27th Annual Jingle Bell Family Fun 2.2-mile Walk/Run, starting at 9 a.m. Registration begins at 8:15 a.m. on the day of the event. Look out for festive Grinch décor around the community as part of a decorating contest!
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Walk of Trees in Plymouth
Downtown Plymouth, MI 48170
Bundle up the family and explore the Kellogg Park Walk of Trees in Downtown Plymouth! Stroll among 75 beautifully decorated trees, each crafted by a local family, club, or business. This free and fun tradition runs 24/7 from the Saturday after Thanksgiving through Christmas. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the season—healthy, festive, and a great family tradition in the making!
But that’s not all! Plymouth hosts a number of amazing Christmas events. Check the Christmas in Plymouth website for all the details on the many events that take place in November and December.
Christmas Holiday Magic at Crossroads Village and Huckleberry Railroad
6140 Bray Rd, Flint, MI 48505
Create cherished memories this holiday season at Crossroads Village, where the streets and shops come alive with thousands of sparkling lights. Enjoy an enchanting evening ride on the Huckleberry Railroad and watch skilled Village artisans craft vintage treasures. Find unique gifts for everyone on your list as you soak in the festive atmosphere. A beloved family tradition for over 30 years!
Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo
8450 W 10 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI 48067
Light up your holiday season at Wild Lights, presented by Corewell Health Children’s! For over a decade, this dazzling event has enchanted visitors with whimsical, animal-themed light sculptures that add magic to the festive season. With multiple ticket packages available, you’ll find the perfect fit for your adventure. Choose from 30 nights of holiday magic running on select dates from November 23 to January 5. Don’t miss this spectacular seasonal tradition!
Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village
20900 Oakwood Blvd, Dearborn, MI 48124
Step back in time and experience the magic of Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village, one of the country’s premier holiday celebrations since 2004. Explore over 80 acres filled with the sights, sounds, and smells of the season, from roasting chestnuts and carolers to festive yuletide activities. Stroll down Main Street, ride a historic Model T or horse-drawn wagon, and warm up in historic homes showcasing family traditions. End your evening with a breathtaking fireworks display, making this timeless event a cherished holiday tradition. Members enjoy exclusive early entry at 6 p.m.!
Wayne County Lightfest
7651 Merriman Rd, Westland, MI 48185
The Wayne County Lightfest, a magical five-mile stretch of Hines Park, features nearly 50 animated displays and over 100,000 lights. Open November 21 through December 24, 2024, from 6–10 PM (closed Mondays and Tuesdays except December 23-24), this drive-through experience offers fun for all ages. Admission fees are $5 per car, with special rates for larger vehicles, paid in cash on-site.
On Toy Nights—November 27, December 4, and December 11—donate a new, unwrapped toy for car entry. Pre-purchase tickets at Nankin Mills Interpretive Center starting November 22. For updates on wait times and event details, tune into AM 1640 near the entrance. Call (734) 261-1990 for more information.
Wonderland of Lights at Potter Park Zoo
1301 S Pennsylvania Ave, Lansing, MI 48912
Potter Park Zoo’s Wonderland of Lights returns for its 32nd year, offering a magical holiday experience from November 23 to December 23, Thursday through Sunday evenings. Stroll through sparkling light displays, enjoy festive music, and create lasting memories with loved ones. Santa will make special appearances for photos on Fridays and Saturdays. This enchanting event runs from 5 to 8 p.m. and is the perfect way to celebrate the season.
The Durand Union Station Depot
200 S. Railroad St., Durand, Michigan, 48429
Get ready to dive into the holiday spirit at the Durand Union Station Depot! They’ve gone all out with festive decorations. The sight of 40 stunning, one-of-a-kind trees on display is gorgeous. It’s a fantastic place to soak in the wonders of the season with friends and family.
Canterbury Village Holiday Stroll
Canterbury Village, 2359 Joslyn Ct, Orion Charter Township, MI 48360
Experience the magic of the holidays at Canterbury Village’s Annual Holiday Stroll! This outdoor event transforms the village into a glowing winter wonderland with nearly a million lights, live performances, festive carolers, and enchanting recreations of holiday scenes.
Meet beloved characters like The Grinch and Olaf, sing along at the Children’s Caroling Corner, savor hot chocolate and s’mores, and enjoy drinks by the fire. Don’t miss the chance to visit Santa Claus for free professional photos and drop letters in his special North Pole mailbox. It’s a family-friendly celebration guaranteed to spark holiday cheer!
Lights on the Lake
439 Shady Oaks St., Lake Orion, MI 48362
Lights on the Lake in Lake Orion, MI, is a mesmerizing holiday light display featuring around 20,000 LED lights synchronized to festive music through 60,000 computer-controlled channels. Since its start in 2015, this dazzling spectacle has brought joy to the community while supporting meaningful causes through donations.
Rochester Big Bright Light Show
City Hall, 1000 Rochester Hills Dr, Rochester, MI 48307
You are invited to brighten your holidays in Downtown Rochester with The Big, Bright Light Show! The buildings in downtown Rochester will be covered with more than 1 million points of glimmering holiday light.
The display will be lit every evening (5 pm – Midnight) November 25, 2024 – January 19, 2025. Most stores are open Monday – Saturday, until 9 pm.
Holidays Lights at the Farm
4300 Main Park Dr, Shelby Charter Township, MI 48316
Visit Santa at the Wolcott Mill Metropark Farm Center on select dates in December for a festive outdoor experience! Stroll through the farm, enjoy traditional holiday decorations, and marvel at thousands of sparkling lights. Listen to holiday music while visiting resident animals and taking a tractor-drawn wagon ride through the light displays.
This family-friendly event is perfect for all ages and requires pre-registration. Dress warmly for the outdoor program, which lasts about 1.5 hours, and features mostly flat, gravel paths. Tickets are $8 for both adults and children, with kids under 2 free.
Hip Grandma Tip: You’ll likely be in the car for a while. And you might be drinking hot cocoa or hot apple cider. Have a bathroom plan, especially if you’re bringing kids with you.
Nite Lites at Michigan International Speedway
12626 US-12, Brooklyn, MI 49230
If you haven’t been, you must check out Nite Lites at Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, Michigan! Drive through a five-mile-long route, completely decked out in sparkling and vivid lights, creating a winter wonderland.
The Speedway is running from November 22, 2024 – January 5, 2025. This year features a new train ride experience that takes you through the vibrant light show, so no one has to do the driving!
Tickets are available by car or by train seat. The event is open Sunday through Thursday from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., and Friday through Saturday from 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Admission is $35 per car or $17.25 per train seat.
Hip Grandma Tip: Plan a leisurely drive through this attraction – and remember to turn your headlights off!
Fantasy of Lights in Howell
Downtown Howell, MI 48843
Kick off your holiday season at Howell’s Fantasy of Lights, a beloved tradition for nearly 40 years! Enjoy local shopping, dining, and live entertainment, as well as the chance to meet Santa and his reindeer. The event features the unique Fantasy 5K race and one-mile family fun walk, where participants dress in festive costumes and lights to race along the parade route. The highlight of the evening is the Fantasy of Lights Parade, with beautifully illuminated floats, marching bands, first responders, and, of course, Santa himself. Don’t forget to grab a hot chocolate and enjoy the festive atmosphere!
Northville Symphony of Lights
41355 Six Mile Rd, Northville, MI 48168
The Northville Symphony of Lights (formerly Livonia Lights) at Northville Christian School is a must-see holiday tradition, featuring 125,000 lights that dance to festive music. Dedicated to celebrating the true meaning of Christmas, the show is free to the public as a gift to the community.
Visitors can enjoy the synchronized light display from their car by tuning into 87.9FM or take photos up close. Located at 41355 Six Mile Rd, Northville, MI, this popular event has been featured in local news and was named one of Michigan’s top 12 Christmas light displays. With over 400 man-hours and nearly 100 volunteers involved, it’s a family-friendly experience filled with music, joy, and the spirit of Christmas.
Taylor Winterfest Parade and Tree Lighting
Heritage Park, 12111 Pardee Rd, Taylor, MI 48180
Kick off the holiday season at Taylor’s Winterfest on December 2, 2023! The festivities start with the Goodfellows 5K Run in Heritage Park, followed by family-friendly activities at the Sheridan Center starting at 4 p.m., including children’s crafts. The Winterfest Parade kicks off at 5 p.m. from the Taylor Recreation Center, making its way down Pardee Road to Heritage Park. At 6 p.m., enjoy music, a festive tree lighting, and a spectacular fireworks display. All activities are free to attend, making it a perfect outing for families.
Hip Grandma Tip: The tree is lit throughout the holiday season, so if you miss the lighting ceremony, you can still enjoy the tree all season!
Glenlore Trails Aurora in Commerce Township
3860 Newton Road, Commerce Township, MI 48382
Step into Aurora, a captivating illuminated winter wonderland open from November 15th to December 29th, 2024. This magical night walk features dazzling lights, interactive displays, and a special twist—magic wands that unlock hidden surprises along the trail. Wands area available from $12-$20.
Whether you’re enjoying a fun family outing or a memorable date night, Aurora offers an immersive holiday experience like no other. Don’t miss out on this enchanting adventure!
Places to See Christmas Lights in Michigan – Northeast
Christmas in Bad Axe
750 S. Van Dyke Road, Bad Axe, MI 48413
The Bad Axe Christmas Parade is a cherished holiday tradition in Downtown Bad Axe, bringing festive cheer to locals and visitors alike. The celebration begins with a free screening of Home Alone at the Bad Axe Theatre, followed by activities like ornament decorating, free cookies from Murphy’s Bakery, and a bean soup fundraiser for the food pantry.
Enjoy storybook readings at the Historic Log Cabins and a Tree Lighting Ceremony in front of the Courthouse. The evening continues with S’mores and Hot Cocoa with BA Rotary, food trucks, and warming areas at various local businesses. It’s a perfect event for the whole family to enjoy!
Northern Lights Parade in Oscoda
Downtown Oscoda
Get your warmest coats and fluffiest scarves ready because Oscoda is welcoming Santa Claus in style! After a cup of hot cocoa at the Oscoda Township fire barn, gear up for the Lighted Parade at 6 p.m., making its dazzling way through downtown on US-23. There is no better way to kick off the holiday season than with this fantastic parade in Northeast Michigan!
Cheboygan Parade of Lights
Downtown Cheboygan
There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than at the Downtown Cheboygan Parade of Lights! Cheboygan lights up Main Street and hosts floats decked out in the most amazing lights and the happiest bunch of marchers you’ll ever see.
The parade begins at Court and makes its way North on Main right up to State, and the whole town comes alive! And the cherry on top? Santa and Mrs. Claus come to town, and it’s just magical. Just a heads-up: parking on Main Street takes a little break from 3:00 p.m. until after the parade, but it’s worth it.
Boss Family Christmas Display
9336 Pearl Ave, Charlevoix MI 49720
If you find yourself in Charlevoix, Michigan, during the holiday season, you must check out the Christmas display set up by the Dale and Marilyn Boss family. They have been captivating Michigan residents with their unique displays for years! They’ve been lighting up Charlevoix with their festive spirit since 1978, making it a long-standing tradition in the community.
It’s not just about the lights; it’s about the love and history behind them. Don’t miss out on this gem; it’s a true embodiment of holiday magic in Michigan!
Herman Holidays on Murray Ct in Suttons Bay
10780 E. Murray Ct, Suttons Bay, MI 49682
Herman Holidays on Murray Ct, just a bit south of Suttons Bay. It’s mind-blowing! The hundreds of handmade decorations are a sight to behold, and what’s even cooler? Many of them move! So head over, park the car, and walk through this fantastic light show. While you’re there, stop at the Hot Cocoa stand for a cup of Santa’s favorite brown beverage!
Sparkle in the Park Bear Lake
12376 Virginia Street, Bear Lake, MI, 49614
Sparkle in the Park at Bear Lake offers a dazzling display of thousands of Christmas lights arranged in nearly 50 holiday-themed scenes, including angels, Santa, snowmen, and more. Set in Bear Lake’s lakeside campground park, this enchanting event runs nightly from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve.
While admission is free, donations are welcomed to help support future displays. A collaboration between the Bear Lake Promoters and the Bear Lake Village Council, this event is a perfect way to enjoy the holiday season with family and friends.
Christmas in Charlevoix
Downtown Charlevoix, MI 49720
In Charlevoix, the Boss family’s annual Christmas light display has been a beloved holiday tradition since 1978. What started as a passion project by Marilyn Boss, a talented artist who painted and crafted hundreds of classic Disney characters, has grown into a magical winter wonderland.
Visitors can enjoy iconic figures, including elves and cartoon characters, as well as newer features like Snoopy driving a Zamboni and giant inflatables like SpongeBob and Minions. Guests are invited to explore the display, enjoy holiday music by the campfire, and admire the 25-foot Christmas tree dedicated to Marilyn and her late husband, Dale. This festive tradition continues to honor their memory and bring joy to the community.
Nights of Lights in Canadian Lakes
9400 Pere Marquette Dr., Canadian Lakes, MI
The Castle in Canadian Lakes, Michigan, will shine brightly this holiday season with over 100,000 LED lights, creating a stunning holiday display. Sponsored by Century 21 White House Realty, this dazzling attraction is a must-see for the season. Visitors to Canadian Lakes can enjoy the festive lights by obtaining a free vehicle pass, which is required for entry.
Please remember that Canadian Lakes is a private residential community. To ensure safety, please adhere to the 25 mph speed limit on all community roads. If there is an event inside the Castle, be sure to respect the privacy of those attending. Visitors are required to obtain a free vehicle pass before visiting.
Hip Grandma Tip: Don’t forget your FREE vehicle pass, which you’ll need to get in.
Places to See Christmas Lights in Michigan – The Upper Peninsula
Light Up the Park
Cole St, Rapid River, MI 49878
Celebrate the season at Rapid River’s “Light Up the Park” event on the second and third Sundays of December from 5-8 p.m. at Masonville Township Park (US-2). Stroll through a stunning light display while supporting the community by bringing non-perishable food items for the canned food drive. Enjoy fresh doughnuts and hot apple cider from Blue Barn Farm as you soak up the festive atmosphere. Admission is free, making it a perfect outing for the whole family!
Lights at the Lake
N3393 S Lake Antoine Rd, Iron mountain, MI 49801
Experience the magic of the season at Lake Antoine Park’s third annual Lights at the Lake in Iron Mountain, Michigan. This beloved community event features nearly 40 campsites beautifully adorned with holiday decorations. Visitors can enjoy the festive displays either by driving or walking through the park from 4 to 10 p.m. daily. Perfect for families, this enchanting event has become a local holiday tradition that’s not to be missed!
Holiday Lasers on the Ore Dock
117 West Washington Street, Marquette, MI 49855
This December, the iconic Ore Dock in downtown Marquette is getting a festive upgrade with a dazzling holiday laser light show! Merging local history with modern technology, the light show will be projected onto the north side of the Ore Dock, overlooking the frozen Lake Superior.
Each week, the display will feature a variety of fun and festive themes, from classic holiday and winter scenes to vibrant, abstract patterns, with Marquette’s city lights in the background. It’s a perfect way to celebrate the season and excite locals and visitors alike!
Carters’ Christmas Lights
1313 N Vandenboom Ave, Marquette, MI 49855
The Carter’s Christmas Lights display isn’t your average light show; it’s a private residence that goes all out to spread the holiday cheer. They’ve been at it since 2013, and let me tell you, they’ve got this festive display down to an art. Ten years in, and they’re still rocking it! If you want a sneak peek of what you’re in for, hit their Facebook page. You’ll find pics of all the festivities from past years.
Extend Your Trip
The best way to get a feel for the festive feel of Pure Michigan is to sample some of the lights from all around the state. And the Christmas season is the perfect time for a Michigan Road Trip. My adult daughter and I always take a weekend to do some shopping and enjoy lights that aren’t right outside of your own backdoor.
Need a Place to Stay in Michigan?
If you’re planning a road trip through Michigan, I highly recommend booking your stays ahead of time, especially in popular areas like Traverse City, Holland, and Saugatuck. Browse hotels and availability here.
Or, if you’re more of a visual planner (like me), browse the map below to see what’s nearby.
Wrapping it all Up
Thank you for taking this little journey with me through Michigan’s festive streets and twinkling woods, all about the magical Christmas lights and heartwarming events happening right here in our snowy state. It’s not just about the sparkling lights; it’s about the tight-knit communities, the laughter, and the hot cocoa in hand as you stroll through these winter wonderlands.
From charming downtown parades to forests lit up like something out of a fairy tale, every corner of Michigan is open for families and friends to make some holiday memories. And hey, amidst all the fun, we’re also taking a quiet moment to remember what Christmas is about: the birth of the Savior and the joy of being surrounded by the people we love. So, grab your favorite winter scarf, round up the gang, and dive into the season’s cheer Michigan-style – you’ll have a blast!
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