The holiday season is a magical time in Metro Detroit, filled with festive lights, cheerful music, and family-friendly activities. As a born and raised Metro Detroiter, celebrating Christmas in the area has always been special to me. The region comes alive with ice skating under twinkling lights, visiting Santa in charming settings, and enjoying lavish stage productions that bring holiday cheer to everyone, young and old. Whether you’re looking to start a new family tradition or continue beloved ones, Detroit offers so many ways to embrace the season’s warmth.
From iconic tree-lightings in the heart of Downtown to dazzling light displays stretching along scenic drives, the city and its neighboring communities know how to celebrate. There’s a reason I always say your own Detroit holiday traditions should start here.
I’ve gathered more than 10 of my favorite, most festive events and activities that will make your season bright. Feel free to create your very own Detroit-area Christmas bucket list from these recommendations. Let’s dive in!
1. Attend the Detroit Tree Lighting at Campus Martius Park
The holiday season in Detroit officially kicks off every year with the Detroit Tree Lighting at Campus Martius Park. This year, the 21st annual ceremony takes place from 4 to 9 p.m. on Friday, November 22, 2024. Imagine a crisp evening in Downtown Detroit, hot cocoa in hand, as the towering, Michigan-grown Norway Spruce lights up the skyline. Last year’s tree stood at a majestic 64 feet and sparkled with over 25,000 multi-color lights.
The event is more than just flipping a switch. You’ll find live music and star performances both on stage and on the ice rink. In previous years, we’ve been treated to appearances by Olympic-level talent like figure skater Nathan Chen and ice dancing legends Meryl Davis and Charlie White. You can expect holiday markets, food trucks serving seasonal treats, and even a visit from Santa himself. It’s the kind of grand affair that sets the tone for the entire Christmas season in Detroit.
Insider tip: Arrive early to snag a good viewing spot and explore the surrounding shops and restaurants. Also, dress warmly—Detroit nights can get chilly in late November!
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2. Holiday Ice Skating at Campus Martius Park
Once the tree is lit, the fun continues at the ice rink at Campus Martius Park. This outdoor skating rink, presented by Visit Detroit, is open daily through March 3. There’s something magical about gliding on the ice while surrounded by the city’s festive lights and energetic downtown vibe. Whether you’re a seasoned skater or it’s your first time on the ice, the rink staff is helpful, and you can rent skates right on-site.
I love to warm up afterward with a hot beverage from a nearby café. It’s a perfect date night activity or a fun family outing. The rink’s location makes it easy to combine skating with a trip to a downtown restaurant or a bit of holiday shopping nearby.
3. Detroit Winter Markets at Campus Martius Park and Cadillac Square
Once you’ve enjoyed the ice and admired the tree, hop over to Cadillac Square to explore the Downtown Detroit Markets. Running throughout the holiday season, these markets feature dozens of local vendors selling unique gifts, artisanal crafts, gourmet treats, and more. It’s the perfect spot to find that special holiday present you won’t see anywhere else.
While you shop, the kids can explore family-friendly activities, and everyone can appreciate the festive backdrop of lights, music, and seasonal décor. Plus, you’ll be supporting small businesses—always a great thing to do this time of year.
4. Enjoy a Holiday Show at the Fox Theatre
The historic Fox Theatre, one of Detroit’s architectural gems, hosts a lineup of holiday-themed stage productions each season. Dressing up to see a show here is a cherished tradition. Past holiday programs have included everything from Christmas concerts to special musicals and ice shows. The Fox’s ornate interior and warm holiday décor provide a grand backdrop to any performance. It’s also located within walking distance of other downtown attractions, making it easy to create a full night out—dinner, show, and maybe a post-show stroll.
5. Visit Santa’s House in Downtown Birmingham
If your holiday isn’t complete without a heart-to-heart chat with Santa Claus, Birmingham’s Santa House should be on your list. Starting from Thanksgiving and running through Christmas, Santa sets up shop in a charming little cottage in downtown Birmingham on weekends. Children can share their wish lists, snap photos, and soak in the small-town holiday atmosphere. The area around Santa’s House often features festive window displays and hot chocolate stops, making it a perfect family outing.
Insider tip: Check Birmingham’s official city website for Santa’s hours to avoid disappointment if you drop by on the wrong day.
6. Holiday Concerts at Orchestra Hall
Orchestra Hall in Midtown Detroit is home to the renowned Detroit Symphony Orchestra. During the holidays, the DSO offers special seasonal programs—think traditional Christmas carols performed by a world-class orchestra or a live orchestral screening of a Christmas classic like “Home Alone.” The sound quality and musical talent here are top-notch, and the hall’s festive atmosphere adds an extra layer of magic. Whether you’re a classical music aficionado or just love holiday tunes, this experience is guaranteed to warm your heart.
7. Wayne County Lightfest
If you’re in the mood for a cozy drive, look no further than the Wayne County Lightfest, the Midwest’s longest drive-through light display. Located along Hines Drive in Westland, this 4.5-mile route is lined with over 100,000 twinkling lights and more than 45 themed displays. Pile into the car, put on your favorite holiday playlist, and marvel at the glowing spectacles. The Lightfest runs from late November through New Year’s Eve (except Christmas Day).
This tradition has been a personal favorite since I was a kid. There’s something old-fashioned and comforting about slowly cruising through a wonderland of lights, sipping on hot cocoa from a thermos, and pointing out your favorite scenes along the way.
8. Detroit Zoo’s Wild Lights
The Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak transforms into a winter wonderland with its Wild Lights event, running select nights from November 23 to January 5. Millions of LED lights illuminate trees, buildings, and hundreds of sculptures, creating a stunning holiday atmosphere. It typically takes about an hour and a half to walk through the entire display, but I recommend allowing extra time for seasonal treats and hot beverages.
Santa makes an appearance on Fridays and Saturdays until December 23, so kids can share their holiday wishes. Make sure to dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes, as the zoo paths can be lengthy. It’s a unique way to spend an evening—and it supports the zoo’s mission of education and conservation at the same time.
9. Greenfield Village Holiday Nights at The Henry Ford
Few experiences are as immersive as Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village in Dearborn. This beloved event is like stepping into a Christmas card scene from the past. The village’s historic homes and shops are decorated just as they might have been over 100 years ago. Carolers in period attire sing traditional tunes, skilled artisans demonstrate their crafts, and the scent of roasting chestnuts fills the air. Horse-drawn wagons, bonfires, and live reindeer add to the authenticity.
Every year, I find something new to love here—be it the warmth of the lantern-lit paths or the sound of a fiddler playing “Silent Night.” Don’t forget to visit Santa and take a moment to appreciate simpler, slower-paced holiday traditions.
10. Winter Wonder Lights at Meadow Brook Hall
On the grounds of Oakland University, the historic Meadow Brook Hall is famous for its elaborate Holiday Walk tours inside the mansion. But the outdoor Winter Wonder Lights event is equally enchanting. The gardens and surrounding landscapes are transformed with sparkling lights, immersive displays, and interactive illusions.
This is a great romantic evening out or a fun family adventure. Stroll the grounds, watch colorful lights dance on the mansion’s façade, and enjoy seasonal refreshments. There’s a sense of old-world elegance here, coupled with modern creativity that keeps you visually delighted.
More December Must-Sees: Live Performances in Metro Detroit
If you’re a lover of live performances, December in Metro Detroit offers a packed calendar of holiday-themed shows. Music, theater, dance—you name it, we’ve got it. Many of these events are one-night or limited-run engagements, so it’s wise to book tickets early. Highlights this year include:
- Mariah Carey – Merry Christmas One And All (Dec. 1 at Little Caesars Arena): The queen of Christmas pop hits brings her iconic voice and festive spirit to Detroit for one unforgettable show.
- Cirque Dreams Holidaze (Dec. 1-3 at the Fox Theatre): A unique blend of acrobatics, dance, and music that reimagines holiday magic in circus form.
- Million Dollar Quartet Christmas (Dec. 2-3 at the Fisher Theatre): A rock ‘n’ roll spin on the holiday season, featuring timeless tunes and a nostalgic throwback to the legendary jam sessions of Elvis, Cash, Perkins, and Lewis.
- Celtic Woman Christmas Symphony (Dec. 3 at Hollywood Casino at Greektown): Lush Celtic harmonies and symphonic melodies bring age-old carols to life.
- One Sleepy Night – An Original Musical with a Detroit Vibe (Dec. 6-9 at the Garden Theater): Enjoy a fresh, locally flavored holiday musical set right in the city’s heart.
- The Hip Hop Nutcracker (Dec. 9 at the Fisher Theatre): A modern urban twist on Tchaikovsky’s classic that marries classical ballet with hip-hop dance and beats.
- Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet (Dec. 10 at the Fox Theatre): Another Nutcracker rendition, perfect for families and those who cherish holiday ballet traditions.
- Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer – The Musical (Dec. 15-16 at the Fisher Theatre): Bring the kids to see their favorite holiday TV special come to life on stage.
- Holiday Cabaret (through Dec. 17 at the Detroit Public Theatre): A variety show featuring local artists, adding some charm and humor to the season.
- Disney’s Frozen (through Dec. 17 at the Detroit Opera House): Experience the beloved Disney tale in a grand theatrical format. Perfect for fans of all ages.
- Manheim Steamroller Christmas (Dec. 17 at the Fox Theatre): A mesmerizing blend of electronic music and classical arrangements that has become a holiday staple.
- The Illusionist Magic of the Holidays (Dec. 21-23 at the Fox Theatre): Enjoy jaw-dropping illusions and festive magic acts that will leave you in awe.
- Trans-Siberian Orchestra (Dec. 23 at Little Caesars Arena): Epic rock meets classical music in a high-energy show that’s become a December must-see for many families.
With so many festive things to do around Detroit, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s a good problem to have! Start by picking one or two events that resonate most with you—maybe you dream of ice skating under the glowing Downtown Detroit tree, or perhaps you’ve always wanted to see the Zoo under millions of twinkling lights. Then add more activities as time and interest allow. Eventually, you’ll have your own personal set of holiday traditions, something you look forward to each winter.
Metro Detroit truly shines during the holiday season. From the majestic Christmas tree lighting at Campus Martius to the nostalgic charm of Greenfield Village Holiday Nights, there’s a magical experience waiting around every corner. Whether you’re searching for that perfect gift at the winter markets, enjoying a live performance at the Fox Theatre, or simply driving through the Wayne County Lightfest, each event helps cultivate an atmosphere of joy and cheer.
As someone who has spent countless holiday seasons exploring these traditions, I can wholeheartedly say that Metro Detroit’s Christmas celebrations grow more vibrant and varied each year. Take advantage of the unique blend of old-world charm, modern flair, and Midwestern warmth. May your days be merry, your nights bright, and your holiday season filled with the special kind of magic only the Motor City can deliver.
