Winter Wonders: 10 Michigan Holiday Traditions To Experience Before New Year’s

Happy Holidays!

As a Michigan transplant, I am always trying to find things to do, especially when it is cold outside.

There is something special about Christmastime in Michigan. This year, I decided to make a Michigan Christmas Bucket List that I need to accomplish before the end of the year.

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Since I want to be on the nice list this year, I decided to share it with you as well.

What are you adding to the Ultimate Michigan Christmas Bucket List?

⬇️ READ BELOW: West Michigan Christmas Light Displays to Light Up Your Holiday Season in 2024 ⬇️

Visit the Bavarian Village of Frankenmuth

When it comes to Christmas, every Michiganders has to experience Frankenmuth once.

Frankenmuth, also known as Michigan’s “Little Bavaria,” is a must-see during Christmas. The city's streets are lined with festive lights, plus the famous Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland is the world’s largest Christmas store!

⬇️ SEE BELOW: What You Can Expect When You Visit Bronner's Christmas Wonderland in Frankenmuth, Michigan ⬇️

Attend the Detroit Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony

Do not sleep in Detroit during the Christmas season. That city knows how to celebrate the holidays.

Detroit’s Christmas tree lighting ceremony in Cadillac Square is a huge event every year. It features performances, ice skating, and a stunning tree that towers over downtown.

Take a Sleigh Ride in the Upper Peninsula

As someone who has never been up north, this is my mission whenever it is not snowing.

The U.P. offers some of the most scenic winter landscapes in the state. A horse-drawn sleigh ride is a magical way to enjoy Michigan’s winter wonderland.

Explore the Mackinac Island Winter Wonderland

From what I have heard, Mackinac Island's true magic happens during the Christmas season.

Mackinac Island is a quiet, snow-covered paradise during the holidays. With no cars allowed, the island is an enchanting place for a Christmas getaway.

A recommendation that I was given is to take a ferry to the island in winter, tour the island’s historic sites, and enjoy Christmas shopping in the charming boutiques.

Drive Through the Christmas Lite Show in Grand Rapids

This annual light display is one of Michigan's largest and features a spectacular drive-through light show.

From taking a Winter Wonder Walk to having a true Santa Experience or taking a trip on the Memory Lane Train, there are plenty of things to experience at the Christmas Lite Show.

Tickets are available now for the 2024 season.

⬇️ READ BELOW: 10 Christmas Towns In Michigan To Get You In The Holiday Spirit ⬇️

Go Ice Fishing on Lake Michigan or a Local Lake

Now while humbly, I will pass on this bucket list adventure, I know plenty of Michiganders will love an ice fishing experience during the holiday season.

Ice fishing is a beloved Michigan tradition during the winter months, especially in the northern part of the state.

Do not forget to bundle up to keep you cozy while you fish!

Attend the Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village

Every year, the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn transforms Greenfield Village into a holiday wonderland during its "Holiday Nights" event, complete with carolers, horse-drawn carriage rides, and historic homes lit up in festive cheer.

The best part is there is so much more to do and see besides Greenfield Village. The tickets are on sale now for the entire experience.

Take a Holiday Brewery Tour

You would not be having a true Michigan Christmas if you did not have a few holiday brews.

Michigan is known for its craft beer scene, and many breweries offer special holiday brews and festive events in December.

Take a holiday brewery tour in cities like Grand Rapids (Beer City USA) or Traverse City, sampling different seasonal beers like spiced ales, porters, and stouts.

Stay in a Cozy Michigan Cabin or Lodge

This has been added to my personal Michigan Christmas bucket list.

There’s nothing better than spending the holidays in a cozy cabin or lodge, especially in the woods or by the lake.

If you can, book a stay in a cabin, complete with a fireplace, snow-covered trees, and nearby winter activities. Try somewhere in the U.P. for the best snowy Christmasy vibes.

I think I knocked this bucket list out of the park! This bucket list is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the Christmas season in Michigan!