Must See Holiday Light Shows in Michigan
Must See Holiday Light Shows in Michigan
The holidays are filled with many brightly lit moments, considering the love our Michigan communities share for festive lights. Whether in the Upper Peninsula or nestled into the southeast corner of the state, there are lively opportunities to get out and involved with community celebrations. Here is our curated list of the must-see holiday light shows our state offers.
Big Bright Light Show, Rochester
This is a Michigan favorite holiday tradition for many who love and appreciate the state. The Big Bright Light Show in Rochester is available to the public, free of charge, every night after 5 pm from mid-November to mid-January. This holiday light display is visible from the warmth of your car, the street-side, or a restaurant booth downtown! It is one of the most accessible light displays in lower Michigan, but don’t let that give the impression it lacks enthusiasm. Over 1 million dazzling lights come together to create this impressive community display!
Holiday Stroll, Lake Orion
Canterbury Village is the hotspot for the Holiday Stroll, hosted in Lake Orion. This walking light display showcases nearly a million festive lights to admire at will, and a 7-minute light show choreographed with holiday music. Live holiday performances, caroling experiences, and other interactive opportunities line this brightly lit walking path. There is an admission fee, so plan ahead for this holiday outing.
Boss Family Christmas Display, Charlevoix
This up-north treasure comes with such a heartwarming holiday family tradition. The Boss Family Christmas Display light show has gone on for over 40 years and counting, beginning with a mother seeking to “light up” their neighborhood, writing the name of every child in the area in the display. All the years later, carried on by family, this charming display showcases the quaint yet vibrant family holiday spirit of the north!
The Carters’ Christmas Lights, Marquette
This is an independent light and décor experience at The Carters House in the Upper Peninsula, Marquette. It is not comparable to something you would see at the Detroit Zoo, but it is awe-inspiring and well-organized. Great for all ages, with a tour guide to take the littles up close to the statues and exhibits. If you are in the Upper Peninsula, come the holiday season, it is worth stopping to see this display.
Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo, Detroit
The zoo kicks its light show off in mid-November to start the 40 nights of magical displays. This light show is extended into the first week of January for anyone who appreciates carrying the holiday festivities into the new year. Over 5 million LED lights and 280 sculptures are showcased throughout the zoo for guests to explore.
Wonderland of Lights, Lansing
This annual light show presents stunning displays throughout the zoo, neighborhoods, and participating vendors in the city of Lansing. The admission price for this walking experience is affordable, with takeaways available for children to cherish thereafter.
Glenlore Trails Aurora, Commerce
Glenlore Trails is a unique experience, allowing guests of all ages to explore the illuminated forest during the holiday season. The outdoor path is only a mile long, with interactive exhibits and surprise guests along the way! This light show does have an admission fee, but it is well worth it.
Wayne County Lightfest, Westland
This drive-through light show never disappoints, with some of the loudest displays in Metro Detroit. It has an affordable admission cost to drive through and is hosted from mid-November until early December; it is best to plan ahead.
Herman Holidays, Suttons Bay
This holiday light extravaganza is ideal for those seeking a more integrated experience. Street walking, guest performances with puppies and penguins, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus make up the hands-on portion of this display.
Central Neighborhood, Traverse City
The beautiful neighborhoods of Downtown Traverse City take on a twist with this light display. Historical homes are lined with holiday lights, sleighs are out and packed with gifts, and the streets are lively. If you miss this designated display night, there are other opportunities to get in on the city’s light shows. Light displays, bike riding, new friends, and Christmas caroling are hosted on behalf of the Jubilee House’s outreach for the homeless. Norte sponsors this TC-unique event; more information can be found through their event listings.
Don’t let the runaround of the holidays get the best of the time spent— make sure you are self-caring this season. Whether that is going out to the light shows or simply enjoying your own, taking time to be present is the best gift we can give to ourselves this season.
For all your holiday cosmetics, self-care products, and even stocking stuffers and gifts, check out Northern Self Care & Gifts storefront, open on Saturdays in Traverse City. The 2022 Northern Nail Polish drop has some of the most dazzling hues and toppers inspired by Michigan holiday light shows, such as Magic of Lights and Rochester.