The Christmas season is upon us and one of the best places to travel this winter to see the seasonal festivities is Michigan. With the state’s abundance of stunning lake shores and cozy small towns you’re sure to experience the holiday season at its finest in the Great Lakes state.
Frankenmuth
It’s hard to think about Christmas in Michigan without also thinking about Frankenmuth. “Michigan’s Little Bavaria” as the town likes to call itself is located in southeastern Michigan and prides itself on its 19th-century German inspired kitschy style. A trip to Frankenmuth isn’t complete without a stop at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the largest store in the world specializing in Christmas. Bronner’s includes 27 acres of landscaped grounds with an array of Christmas lights including another 7 acres of buildings and 350 decorated Christmas trees. The Wonderland is open every day of the year except for New Year’s, Easter, Thanksgiving, and ironically…Christmas. Find out more about this unique little Michigan town by visiting their website and planning a visit.
Livonia
The Livonia Lights Christmas display may not live up to Frankenmuth’s standards but it sure isn’t your standard display of Christmas lights. Located near Detroit the the synchronized light show dedicated to celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ features more than 40,000 lights synchronized to music. This year’s display runs from December 1 – December 31 and the hours are from 5:15 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. Sunday – Thursday, and 5:15-11:00 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. To find out more info including driving directions be sure to check out their website.
Jackson
Jackson prides itself on having Michigan’s largest Christmas lights display. Located in the county’s fairgrounds in southern Michigan this light display is one of the holiday’s best experiences you can have in your own car. As you drive throughout the display you’ll witness a variety of creative and animated Christmas light fixtures. Last year the town received over 40,000 visitors to the Christmas light extravaganza and part of the proceeds go to the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans. Check out their website to print off a coupon before your visit.
Battle Creek
About 40 miles west of Jackson, Battle Creek offers up their own delightful Christmas light show called the International Festival of Lights. From November 19-December 31 the city hosts many gorgeous light displays including its most popular, The Twelve Days of Christmas. Other events are held to celebrate the season including ice carving and a gingerbread competition. To learn more about the lights and events make sure to get the details here.
Where is your favorite place to see Christmas lights in Michigan?