Hollywood Hits Michigan: 7 Movies That Will Bring Extra Christmas Magic

As we gear up for the holiday season, I love searching for new and old favorite Christmas movies.

When I moved to Michigan, I did not realize how much Michiganders loved Christmas and how much Hollywood loved using Michigan as its prime Christmas location.

Michigan has long been a backdrop for heartwarming Christmas movies, and the state's diverse landscapes and charming towns have provided the perfect setting for countless holiday classics.

From snowy cities to quaint small towns, here are seven Christmas-themed films that showcase Michigan's holiday spirit.

⬇️ READ BELOW: Michigan's Top 5 Favorite Christmas Movies ⬇️

The Polar Express

It would be terrible of me to not talk about the most classic Christmas movie that has the perfect Grand Rapids, Michigan tie.

Set in Grand Rapids, this beloved animated film is based on the children's book by Grand Rapids native, Chris Van Allsburg.

The story follows a young boy's magical train ride to the North Pole, inspired by the Pere Marquette 1225, a real-life steam locomotive that travels through the area.

Prancer

While I have never watched Prancer, many Michigan residents have brought it to my attention as being a favorite in their household.

Filmed in the picturesque town of Three Oaks, Prancer stars Sam Elliott and Cloris Leachman in a heartwarming story about a young girl who believes she’s found one of Santa’s reindeer.

The Santa Clause

Move aside Mariah Carey, Tim Allen is always taking over Christmas. The one thing that I have learned about Michiganders is that you love some Tim Allen.

This holiday favorite, starring Tim Allen, was partly inspired by the actor's Michigan roots. Allen, who grew up in southeast Michigan and attended Western Michigan University, brings to life the story of a man who unexpectedly becomes Santa Claus.

The Christmas Bunny

Filmed entirely in Michigan, The Christmas Bunny tells the story of a young foster child who finds an injured rabbit on Christmas Eve, bringing hope and healing to her fractured family.

Silver Bells

Set against the winter landscapes of Manistee, Grand Rapids, and Ludington, Silver Bells is a heartwarming tale produced in association with the Salvation Army, capturing the holiday spirit of giving.

Miracle on Christmas

This is another Christmas movie that was set and filmed in Michigan that you may or may not know about.

Set and filmed in Brighton, Miracle on Christmas follows a small-town family who find new hope and faith in the holiday season after meeting a mysterious stranger.

You can watch it for free here.

The Five-Year Engagement

My last suggestion is for those who may not want the typical Holly Jolly Christmas movie.

While not strictly a Christmas movie, this romantic comedy set in Ann Arbor follows a couple whose relationship unfolds amidst the snowy Michigan backdrop, making it a perfect holiday watch for those who love a blend of romance and Christmas cheer.

From the snowy streets of Grand Rapids to the small-town charm of Three Oaks, Michigan is a state that embodies the magic of Christmas in cinema. You can add these movies to your Christmas binge list.