Fun Things to Do in Michigan This December

December in Michigan transforms the state into a winter wonderland, offering everything from festive light displays to outdoor adventures. Whether you love holiday traditions or snowy escapades, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a roundup of fun activities and events to check out this December in the Great Lakes State.

1. Visit Christmas Markets & Holiday Festivals

Michigan is home to several charming holiday markets where you can find unique gifts, festive food, and holiday cheer.

• Frankenmuth Christmas Market: Known as “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth is magical in December. Don’t miss Bronner’s, the world’s largest Christmas store.
• Kris Kringle Market (Rochester): Shop local vendors while enjoying holiday treats and live entertainment.
• Detroit's Noel Night: Experience a night of holiday performances, shopping, and cultural activities in Midtown Detroit.

2. Tour Spectacular Holiday Light Displays

Get into the holiday spirit with dazzling light displays across the state.

• Wayne County Lightfest (Westland): Drive through four miles of incredible light displays.
• Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo: Stroll through the zoo as it comes alive with over five million LED lights.
• Lakeshore Holiday Lights (Grand Haven): See a stunning synchronized light show along the lakeshore.

3. Go Ice Skating Outdoors

Outdoor rinks offer a quintessential winter experience.

• Campus Martius Park (Detroit): Skate under the giant Christmas tree in downtown Detroit.
• Rosa Parks Circle (Grand Rapids): A popular spot for ice skating in the heart of Grand Rapids.
• Millennium Park (Portage): Enjoy a family-friendly skating experience surrounded by nature.

4. Explore Michigan’s Winter Sports

For adventure seekers, Michigan’s snowy landscape offers plenty of outdoor activities.

• Skiing & Snowboarding: Head to resorts like Boyne Mountain, Crystal Mountain, or Nub’s Nob.
• Snowshoeing & Cross-Country Skiing: Explore trails at Pictured Rocks or Porcupine Mountains.
• Sledding & Tubing: Check out hills like Cannonsburg Ski Area or Kensington Metropark for fun-filled tubing runs.

5. Take a Holiday Train Ride

Holiday train rides are a magical way to experience the season.

• The Polar Express (Owosso): Ride the Steam Railroading Institute’s train, inspired by the famous book and movie.
• North Pole Express (Coopersville): Enjoy a festive ride with Santa and his elves through the Michigan countryside.

6. Visit Charming Small Towns

Michigan’s small towns embrace the holiday spirit with decorations, events, and cozy charm.

• Charlevoix: Known for its scenic beauty and holiday festivities.
• Holland: Explore the European-style kerstdorp (Christmas village) and downtown shopping.
• Petoskey: Stroll through its quaint downtown and enjoy festive window displays.

7. Attend a Holiday Show or Concert

Catch a festive performance to celebrate the season.

• The Nutcracker Ballet: Various performances across Michigan, including shows by the Detroit and Grand Rapids ballet companies.
• Holiday Pops Concerts: Enjoy seasonal music performed by local orchestras in Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Lansing.
• Christmas Carriage Rides (Traverse City): Take a cozy carriage ride through downtown Traverse City, complete with holiday lights and cheer.

8. Take a Winter Brewery or Winery Tour

Warm up with a visit to one of Michigan’s many craft breweries or wineries.

• Traverse City Wine Trail: Sip on locally made wine while enjoying the winter landscape.
• Brewery Tours (Kalamazoo & Grand Rapids): Explore Michigan’s vibrant craft beer scene with stops at renowned breweries like Bell’s and Founders.

9. Enjoy a Cozy Cabin Getaway

Escape the hustle and bustle with a relaxing winter retreat.

• Upper Peninsula: Book a cabin near Tahquamenon Falls or Houghton to enjoy snowy serenity.
• Northern Lower Peninsula: Explore cozy stays in areas like Torch Lake or Boyne City.
• Mackinac Island: While most of the island closes for the season, a few spots stay open for a truly peaceful winter experience.

10. Experience Zoo Lights & Animal Encounters

Many Michigan zoos offer special winter programs and light displays.

• Binder Park Zoo (Battle Creek): Visit for Wild Winter Weekends.
• Potter Park Zoo (Lansing): Stroll through their Wonderland of Lights event.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re looking for festive fun, outdoor adventures, or cozy relaxation, December in Michigan has something to offer everyone. Bundle up, gather your loved ones, and make the most of the season with these unforgettable experiences.

From all of us at Rainbow Motor Sales, we wish you a joyful and safe holiday season! ??