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Metro Detroit’s Holiday Events Bring Joy and Light

Metro Detroit's festive atmosphere shines bright with holiday cheer and events.

News Summary

As the holiday season unfolds in Metro Detroit, a range of festive events are lighting up the area. From cheerful walking tours at Ford House to breathtaking light displays at Wayne County Lightfest, the region offers delightful options for families and friends to celebrate. Experience the charm of Meadow Brook Hall’s decorated estate, explore the dazzling Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo, and enjoy seasonal performances throughout the city. With over a million lights glowing in Downtown Rochester, there’s no shortage of holiday cheer in Metro Detroit this year.

Metro Detroit’s Festive Events Light Up the Holiday Season

As the holidays roll into Metro Detroit, the city buzzes with excitement, offering a delightful array of events perfect for families, couples, and friends looking to bask in the festive spirit. From enchanting light displays to cozy walking tours, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate this magical time of year.

Whimsical Walking Tours at Ford House

Join the Home for the Holidays event at Ford House, located at 1100 Lake Shore Road in Grosse Pointe Shores. This charming one-mile walking tour runs through December 22 and allows guests to explore how Eleanor Ford decorated her home for the holidays, complete with a self-paced tour of the main residence. And what would a holiday outing be without hot chocolate? Grab a complimentary cup at the concessions tent, and don’t forget to say hello to Santa, who makes nightly appearances outside the Playhouse.

Plan your visit any Friday through Sunday with entry times from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.. Tickets can be conveniently purchased in advance on the Ford House website.

A Luminous Adventure at Wayne County Lightfest

Head over to Wayne County Lightfest at Hines Park, open until December 24, where a five-mile stretch transforms into a dazzling holiday wonderland. Prepare to be awed by 50 animated displays and over 100,000 twinkling lights lighting up the night sky. New this year, Perrin Park invites you to enjoy not just the lights but also five food trucks, a walk-through gift box perfect for photos, and visits with Santa on December 11 and December 18.

Lightfest operates every Wednesday through Sunday, with special openings on December 23 and 24. If you’re looking to give back while enjoying the lights, visit on December 11 for a “one toy night,” where guests can donate a new toy instead of paying the entrance fee.

Holiday Cheer at Meadow Brook Hall

Don’t miss the enchanting Holiday Walk and Winter Wonder Lights show at Meadow Brook Hall, running until December 23 at 350 Estate Dr., Rochester. This self-guided tour takes you through a magnificent 110-room estate, where you can marvel at 50 beautifully decorated Christmas trees and cozy up next to flickering fireplaces.

Santa will be available on Saturdays during the Holiday Walk, and be sure to catch the Winter Wonder Lights show, featuring striking light displays set to music and inviting bonfires to warm your spirit.

Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo

For a wild experience, visit Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo, running through January 5. This dazzling display boasts over 5 million LED lights and live entertainment at 8450 W. 10 Mile, Royal Oak. Kids can meet Santa on select dates leading up to December 23. The experience this year includes interactive sound-and-light attractions that will leave you in awe.

Beacon Park Sparkles with Lights and Joy

Beacon Park in Detroit is lighting up with 125,000 twinkling LED lights under the festive theme “Winter Gold,” shining bright through January 10. Feel free to snap some fun holiday photos with various backdrops available, and enjoy a delightful outdoor dining experience at the Lumen Detroit restaurant.

Theatrical Delights and Local Celebrations

As the season rolls on, catch special holiday performances throughout the area, including classic shows like The Nutcracker and A Christmas Carol. The Detroit Symphony Orchestra brings heartwarming holiday concerts, with “Home for the Holidays” scheduled from December 13-15 at Orchestra Hall.

Participating in beloved traditions like the Detroit Polar Plunge or taking a spin on the Campus Martius ice skating rink will further immerse you in the holiday cheer. New this year is the Kwanzaa kinara lighting, set to take place in Campus Martius on December 26, adding new dimensions to seasonal celebrations.

Finally, be dazzled by over 1 million holiday lights adorning the Downtown Rochester area until January 21, creating a lively atmosphere perfect for evening strolls. For a festive nightcap, local holiday pop-up bars are serving unique themed cocktails to warm your spirits, making Metro Detroit the place to be this holiday season!