7 Michigan Light Displays that Will Leave a Twinkle in Your Eye
If you need a break from the hectic nature of the holiday season to refresh your spirit, head to one of these seven Michigan light displays to rejuvenate and de-stress – and perhaps even create a new festive tradition!
Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village – Dearborn
Glowing candlelit windows. The scent of roasting chestnuts. The sounds of carolers and sleigh bells. When you explore Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village at The Henry Ford, you’re stepping into a living vintage Christmas card. You’ll find the quaint streets brimming with warm food, hot drinks and charming holiday wares. Holiday Nights is held every weekend in December, and tickets sell out quickly for this popular festive event!
Wayne County Lightfest – Westland
Stretching five magical miles through Hines Park and using over 100,000 lights in nearly 50 holiday-themed displays, the Wayne County Lightfest in Westland is one of the largest and longest drive-through holiday light shows in the Midwest. While four wheels may be the most popular way to see the displays, visitors can also participate in Bike Through the Lights and the Lightfest 8K Fun Run/Walk on the two days leading up to opening weekend. The Lightfest “Lights On” Celebration on November 16 kicks off the event, which is open Wednesday through Sunday nights through Christmas Eve.
Holiday Magic at Crossroads Village – Flint
This authentic turn-of-the-century town has preserved over 34 historical structures including the Huckleberry Railroad, a coal-fired locomotive. During this cheery season, the town warmly embraces the holiday spirit, donning festive decorations, illuminating thousands of lights and hosting a Christmas Dinner Buffet. This joyous celebration begins Thanksgiving weekend and lasts through the end of December, with select dates and seatings for the buffet. If it’s too chilly to stroll, you can opt to drive through the town and enjoy the lively spectacle from the warmth of your vehicle.
Big, Bright Light Show – Rochester
Beginning the week of Thanksgiving and lasting through the first week of January, you can meander the streets of downtown Rochester amid the glow of over one million holiday lights that literally cover the town. Brighten your evenings in this jolly atmosphere while also perusing quaint shops, dining at cozy restaurants and reveling in the spirit of the season.
Nite Lites – Brooklyn
Hosted at the Michigan International Speedway, Nite Lites is one of the largest holiday light displays in Michigan. Drive through this seasonal spectacle – or ride the Nite Lites Express – to see animated, illuminated displays of everything from barns and dinosaurs to marching penguins and a giant Santa sled. Indoors you’ll find reindeer and a lighted carousel, and you can even sit on Santa’s lap – so make sure you bring your wish list!
Christmas Lite Show – Grand Rapids
This Grand Rapids holiday tradition has everything you need to get in the spirit of the season. From Nov. 22 through Dec. 31, you can drive through a brightly lit wonderland with over one million lights packed into 2 miles. If you’d rather sit back and take in the show, buy a ticket for the Memory Lane Train and be whisked off into a world of wonder. Don’t forget to stop into Santa’s House for a visit with the jolly man himself and a free hot cocoa!
Wild Lights – Royal Oak
This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo. Experience the magic of the Detroit Zoo in winter as you take in millions of LED lights aglow on more than 500 displays. The sights and sounds of holiday entertainment and activities will delight guests of all ages. We recommend purchasing your tickets in advance to ensure you can experience this merry event.