Brave the snow and venture beyond Detroit and its suburbs for the 2023 holidays to experience new and unique celebrations for Christmas, Hanukkah, and even Krampusnacht 鈥 that鈥檚 right, that Krampus. Here鈥檚 a look at some of the standouts.
Western Michigan
Christkindl Markt
Inspired by traditional European markets, this winter wonderland offers 27 days of holiday lights and decor, a market filled with art and food vendors, live entertainment, gluhwein and other hot drinks, caroling, and visits with Santa. Wednesdays-Sundays through Dec. 23. No cost for admission. Grand Rapids Downtown Market, ; .
Christmas Lite Show
West Michigan鈥檚 largest animated drive-thru light display is back for 鈥淎nother Year of Magic,鈥 this being its 26th annual celebration. Hop in the family car and drive through nearly 2 miles of animated displays and tunnels created with over a million lights. Special events, including train rides, take place on select days, too. Now-Dec. 31. Prices vary by vehicle type. ; .
Menorah Lighting
Jewish congregations in the area host a menorah lighting and other Hanukkah traditions on the first night of the holiday, along with additional candle lightings each night until the last day of Hanukkah, when the whole menorah is fully lit. More details to be released closer to the event. Dec. 7-14. No cost for admission. Bronson Park, Kalamazoo; .
The Capital
Wonderland of Lights
Take a stroll around the Potter Park Zoo to marvel at the spectacular light displays, which are accompanied by holiday music, at the 31st installment of this annual event. Zoo Nights with Lights on Dec. 13 offers the chance to visit with animals, too. Thursdays-Sundays through Dec. 23. Ticket prices will be announced closer to the event. ; .
Krampusnacht
This first-ever event aims to 鈥渃apture the spirit of old world European Krampus celebrations鈥 with a traditional Krampus parade, a costume contest, the Misfit Market, photos with Krampus, games, visits with Santa, and more. Be aware: This event may feature a few scares. Dec. 9. Fees may apply. Old Town neighborhood, Lansing; .
Eastern Michigan
Christmas in Frankenmuth
Michigan鈥檚 Little Bavaria is celebrating Christmas with a driving light tour; a spectacular Christmas tree; mid-Michigan鈥檚 largest open-air holiday market, the Frankenmuth ChristKindlMarket; and an ice rink. Be sure to visit Bronner鈥檚 Christmas Wonderland to see Santa, too. Now-Dec. 25. No cost for admission to Frankenmuth; fees may apply for some activities. Frankenmuth area; .
Christmas in the 鈥橵ille
This all-day Christmas celebration kicks off with a hot-air balloon show and breakfast with St. Nick. As the day progresses, there will be a cookie walk, Christmas story times, holiday crafts, a pet procession, hay and sleigh rides, visits with Santa, and even a parade. Dec. 2. No cost for admission. Downtown Fowlerville area; or .
Linden鈥檚 Holiday Happening
The historic, charming city hosts a parade and fireworks, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, food trucks, live entertainment, and moonlight shopping, among other activities. No cost for admission. Dec. 1. Fees apply for some activities. East Broad Street area, Linden;.
Downriver
Christmas in Ida
Experience the magic of the holiday season at this winter wonderland. On Friday, explore a craft and vendor show, watch the high-flying BMX spectacle, listen to the Jingle Bell Rockout concert, check out ice sculptures, and much more. Saturday night is the parade of lights, which features two hours of illuminated and animated displays. Dec. 1-2. No cost for admission. Ida East Street area, Ida; .
Northern Michigan
Christmas in Mackinaw City
Celebrate the holidays Up North with this annual tradition. It commences with a tree lighting and parade that features carolers, decorated city vehicles, and candy canes from Santa. It happens regardless of the weather, so bundle up. Now-Dec. 31. No cost for admission. Downtown Mackinaw City area; .
Christmas in the Village
The Electric Light Parade puts holiday spirit on full display with lighted floats and other parade entries, and the craft show will help you get started on your holiday shopping with one-of-a-kind handmade items on sale. Other details and events to be announced closer to the event. Dec. 2. Fees vary by activity. Roscommon area; .
Cherry T Ball Drop
Heading Up North for New Year鈥檚 Eve? Ring in 2024 by watching a 600-pound cherry drop from the skies of Traverse City. Gates open at 10:30 p.m. with entertainment leading up to the big countdown. Funds from the event go to support local charities. Dec. 31. $5 donation. At the corner of Park and Front streets, Traverse City; .
This story is from the December 2023听issue of 糖心vlog安卓版. Read more in our digital edition.
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