Christmas Events in Northern Michigan 2025: A Complete Guide to Holiday Magic Across the Mitten

Northern Michigan transforms into a winter wonderland every December, with snow-dusted streets, Victorian storefronts aglow, and small towns overflowing with festive cheer. From tree lightings to holiday markets, Christmas concerts to sleigh rides, Northern Michigan offers one of the most enchanting and family-friendly Christmas seasons in the country.

This exhaustive 2025 guide covers the best Christmas events throughout the region—from Traverse City to Petoskey, Boyne City to the Upper Peninsula. Whether you're planning a seasonal road trip or looking for a cozy town to celebrate, here's everything you need to know to experience the magic of Christmas in Northern Michigan.

Traverse City Christmas Events 2025

Traverse City Tree Lighting and Santa Parade

Date: December 6, 2025
Location: Downtown Traverse City
This beloved event includes a holiday parade, community caroling, and the official tree lighting in downtown Traverse City. Expect hot cocoa stands, costumed characters, and a visit from Santa Claus.

Downtown Holiday Open House

Date: December 6, 2025 (same day as parade)
Highlights: Extended shopping hours, holiday music, in-store giveaways

Christkindlmarkt at The Village at Grand Traverse Commons

Dates: December 13–15, 2025
Experience: This European-style market features artisan gifts, mulled wine, and traditional German fare. Great for unique gifts and festive atmosphere.

Festival of Trains

Dates: November 29, 2025 – January 4, 2026
Location: History Center of Traverse City
A massive indoor model train display with Christmas themes—perfect for children and train enthusiasts.

Petoskey Holiday Celebrations

Petoskey Holiday Open House & Tree Lighting

Date: December 7, 2025
Location: Downtown Petoskey

One of the most charming events of the season, this evening features Victorian carolers, roasted chestnuts, and the lighting of the town's Christmas tree.

Holiday Parade & Santa's Arrival

Date: December 14, 2025
Children can meet Santa in Pennsylvania Park following a festive holiday parade through town.

Stafford’s Downtown Gingerbread Walk

All December 2025
Participating shops display gingerbread creations. Families can vote on their favorites.

Boyne City & Boyne Falls Festivities

Holly Jolly Boyne

Date: December 13, 2025
Location: Downtown Boyne City
Enjoy an old-fashioned small-town celebration with wagon rides, tree lighting, and holiday treats. Businesses host open houses with carolers and cider.

Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark Holiday Weekend

Date: December 20–22, 2025
Location: Boyne Mountain Resort
Families can enjoy themed poolside activities, visits from Santa, and live entertainment in a warm, resort setting.

Charlevoix Holiday Happenings

Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting Ceremony

Date: December 6, 2025
Location: East Park, Downtown Charlevoix

Festivities include a holiday market, food trucks, and performances by local school choirs.

Circle of Lights Display

Dates: Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day
Description: Stroll through thousands of lights in East Park overlooking Lake Charlevoix.

Harbor Springs Christmas Magic

Christmas Tree Lighting & Open House

Date: December 6, 2025
Highlights: Santa arrives by fire truck, carolers perform downtown, and businesses serve cookies and cocoa.

Lyric Theatre Holiday Film Series

All December
Classic Christmas movies for all ages, from "It’s a Wonderful Life" to "Elf."

Upper Peninsula & Mackinac Region Events

Christmas in Paradise Festival (Paradise, MI)

Date: December 14, 2025
Location: Whitefish Township Community Center
Craft fair, chili cook-off, live music, and Santa’s arrival by snowmobile.

Christmas at the Soo (Sault Ste. Marie)

Month-long event
Highlights include light displays along Portage Ave, a Christmas craft village, and tours of the Valley Camp ship decorated for the season.

Hessel Holiday Market

Dates: December 7–8, 2025
Location: Les Cheneaux Culinary School
High-end holiday shopping with gourmet food and artisan goods.

Note: While Mackinac Island closes for the season, the nearby St. Ignace hosts holiday events with lighted parades and winter fireworks.

Best Christmas Light Displays in Northern Michigan

• Blissfest Holiday Lights Drive-Thru (Harbor Springs)

• Light Up the Soo (Sault Ste. Marie)

• Downtown Traverse City Lighting Walk

• East Park Circle of Lights (Charlevoix)

Family-Friendly Holiday Activities

• Sleigh rides and horse-drawn wagon rides (Boyne Highlands, Petoskey Farms)

• Letters to Santa stations in most downtowns

• Holiday movie nights in historic theaters

• Breakfast with Santa events across towns

Shopping: Northern Michigan Holiday Markets 2025

Market Name	Location	Dates	Highlights
Traverse City Christkindlmarkt	Grand Traverse Commons	Dec 13–15	German food, artisan goods
Petoskey Holiday Craft Fair	Petoskey Middle School	Dec 8	Handmade gifts, local vendors
Hessel Holiday Market	Les Cheneaux	Dec 7–8	Gourmet holiday fare, crafts
Harbor Springs Yuletide Bazaar	Holy Childhood Parish Hall	Dec 6	Regional artisans

Travel Tips for December in Northern Michigan

• Driving Conditions: Be prepared for snow. Many areas are accessible by major highways, but weather can be unpredictable.

• Where to Stay: Book early for popular weekends. Many resorts and inns offer Christmas packages.

• Dining: Make reservations ahead of time—holiday weekends fill quickly.

• Pack Smart: Winter boots, insulated layers, gloves, and hand warmers are essential.

FAQs: Christmas in Northern Michigan

What towns in Northern Michigan have the best Christmas celebrations?
Traverse City, Petoskey, Charlevoix, Boyne City, and Harbor Springs consistently offer the most extensive event calendars and light displays.

Are there Christmas events on Mackinac Island in December 2025?
Mackinac Island closes for the winter season. However, nearby St. Ignace and mainland towns offer holiday events.

Is December a good time to visit Northern Michigan?
Absolutely. While it is off-season for some attractions, December offers festive ambiance, snow sports, and intimate town celebrations.

Can I take kids to these events?
Yes. Most events cater to families and offer kid-friendly attractions like Santa visits, sleigh rides, and Christmas crafts.

Final Thoughts

Northern Michigan's Christmas season in 2025 promises a nostalgic blend of snowy landscapes, warm small-town charm, and festive community traditions. Whether you're exploring holiday markets, sipping cocoa during a parade, or taking in the lights on a crisp December night, the region offers an unforgettable way to celebrate the holidays.

Bookmark this guide, plan your weekend getaways early, and experience a Michigan Christmas like no other.

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