Parades, Tree Lightings, and More!
Northern Michigan transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with charming towns hosting festive parades, tree lightings, and magical celebrations. From lantern-lit hikes to dazzling floats and appearances by Santa himself, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking to make family memories or simply soak in the holiday spirit, this guide covers all the must-see events happening across Northern Michigan this year.
Traverse City Light Parade, Santa Arrival, and Tree Lighting
📅 November 23
Start the season in Traverse City with a dazzling light parade and tree lighting. Santa joins the mayor to illuminate the holiday tree at Cass and Front Street, followed by a parade filled with glowing floats and festive music. Afterward, visit Santa at his house in Rotary Square.
Walloon Lake Village Lighting
📅 November 27
Experience the annual village lighting with live reindeer, the Petoskey Steel Drum Band, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Holly Jolly Boyne
📅 November 29
Boyne City lights up with a festive parade leading to the tree lighting in Sunset Park. Downtown businesses offer refreshments and holiday shopping.
Glen Arbor Tree Lighting & Holiday Market
📅 November 29–30
Kick off with a tree lighting Friday night, then explore the artisan holiday market. Don’t miss Santa and Mrs. Claus at the M22 Wine Patio on Saturday.
Charlevoix Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting
📅 November 29
Enjoy cocoa in the park, craft activities, and a parade leading to the tree lighting. Snap a photo with Santa while soaking up the small-town charm.
Christmas in Indian River
📅 November 29
Celebrate with a craft show, parade, and tree lighting. Santa makes a special appearance to delight kids and adults alike.
Bolenz Jewelry Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting in Alpena
📅 November 29
Downtown Alpena hosts its annual holiday parade, culminating with Santa’s arrival and the lighting of the city tree at Culligan Plaza.
Christmas in the Park in Cadillac
📅 November 29
Gather at Cadillac Commons for carols, hot cocoa, and appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Celebrate the Season in Suttons Bay
📅 November 30
Enjoy store specials, a free movie, centerpiece-making, and a festive tree lighting in this charming village.
Harbor Springs Christmas Tree Lighting
📅 November 30
Celebrate 109 years of tradition with a chili dinner, Main Street tree lighting, and a mailbox for Santa at the Lyric Theatre.
East Tawas Christmas Parade and Lighting
📅 November 30
Enjoy a parade themed “Miracle on Newman Street,” followed by cookies, cocoa, and visits with Santa.
Pahl’s Country Store Santa Experience
📅 November 30–December 22
Meet Santa at his cozy cabin in Buckley for marshmallow roasting, hot cocoa, and festive fun. Open Fridays through Sundays.
Bellaire Light Up the Night & Soup Cook-Off
📅 December 7
Join in the fun with a soup cook-off, crafts, a warming station, and a festive parade featuring Santa and Buddy the Elf.
Cheboygan Tree Lighting and Parade of Lights
📅 December 7
Festival Square comes alive with a tree lighting and Parade of Lights along Main Street.
Christmas in Roscommon Village
📅 December 7
Packed with family-friendly events like Breakfast with Santa, cookie walks, wagon rides, and an Electric Light Parade.
Oscoda Northern Lights Parade
📅 December 7
This year’s theme is “Deck the Halls.” Parade participants vie for creative awards while lighting up the night.
Thompsonville Tree Lighting
📅 December 7
Celebrate at the Library Holiday Open House with carols, treats, and a tree lighting ceremony.
Holiday Lights Hike in Leelanau
📅 December 6–7
Take a magical lantern-lit hike through Leelanau State Park, ending at the Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum.
The Nutcracker in Traverse City
📅 December 7–8
Enjoy a classic holiday tradition performed by the Northwest Michigan Ballet Theatre at the TC Central High School Auditorium.
Manistee Victorian Sleighbell Parade
📅 December 7
Step back in time with Victorian-dressed participants, horse-drawn carriages, and events like a Cookie Crawl and roasted chestnuts.
Christmas in Mackinaw City
📅 December 13–14
Friday features a parade and tree lighting, while Saturday offers family-friendly activities and shopping along snow-dusted streets.
The Enchanted Trail in Harbor Springs
📅 December 13–February 22
Walk a magical 2-mile trail filled with sparkling light displays at The Highlands, perfect for all ages.
Beulah’s Christmas Magic
📅 December 14
Parades, activities, and a light show at Lucky Dog’s Courtyard make Beulah a festive holiday destination.
West Branch Christmas Light Parade
📅 December 14
Themed “Snow Globe Christmas,” the light parade down Houghton Avenue ends with Santa’s grand entrance.
Downtown Petoskey Holiday Parade
📅 December 14
Enjoy a display of creatively decorated floats and watch local organizations come together to spread holiday cheer.
Colonial Christmas at Fort Michilimackinac
📅 December 14
Explore 17th and 18th-century holiday traditions with lantern-lit paths, storytelling, and historic games at the fort.
Northern Michigan’s holiday celebrations are brimming with charm, tradition, and festive fun. From parades to tree lightings, every event promises to brighten your season. Bundle up, bring your loved ones, and experience the magic of the holidays!
