As Halloween finally ends and Thanksgiving quickly goes by, many people have already begun to welcome the most exciting holiday of the year: Christmas! If you don’t know how to spend your Christmas this year, take a look at some exciting events happening nearby:
Candlelight Festival: Christmas Carols on Strings
From Bach to the Beatles, get ready to experience Christmas carols in a new, enchanting way at the upcoming Candlelight Festival. Starting as early as November 15th, these unique concerts feature talented and rising local musicians performing classic Christmas carols on string instruments. Held in a setting illuminated by a warm glow of surrounded candlelight, it has garnered over 100 plus cities and three million attendees from around the world. Bringing a magical touch to holiday favorites, it is perfect for families, friends, and couples, offering a peaceful, cozy way to enjoy the music of the season. Check out their website here for more information: Candlelight Festival 2024
Christmas Parade on Michigan Avenue
If you’ve ever wondered what a parade in the middle of winter looks like– AND one that isn’t from Disney World, the annual Christmas Parade on Michigan Avenue is back! A holiday tradition happening every year, it is said to be bigger and better than ever: Coming with even more expanded interactive activities for families and celebrity appearances for kids such as Mickey and Minnie Mouse, festive floats, marching bands, dancers, and an appearance from Santa Claus himself, the streets will be lined with holiday decorations! As you walk down the streets enjoying this event, local businesses will be offering treats and hot cocoa to keep you warm as you watch the holiday spectacle go by. This event is family-friendly and free! Check out their website here for more information: https://www.themagnificentmile.com/lights-festival
Detroit Ice Rink Event
For those willing to go a bit further away from Ann Arbor, the Detroit Ice Rink Event is well worth the trip! Located in downtown Detroit, this seasonal ice rink transforms the city during the holiday season into a winter wonderland. Skaters of all ages and skill levels are welcome to lace up their skates and skate under the city’s holiday lights. This event will include food trucks, hot chocolate stands, and holiday music to set the mood. Perfect for family, friends, and couples, this event welcomes a wonderful way to embrace the winter season. Check out their website here for more information: https://downtowndetroit.org/experience-downtown/things-to-do/the-rink/
Holiday Pops Concert
The Holiday Pops Concert is back for the season! Get ready for a feature of mixed Christmas carols, orchestral classics, and heartwarming sing-alongs, as the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra performs at the historic Hill Auditorium on December 21st. A perfect event for families, music lovers, and those looking to enjoy the holiday season with classy tunes, the concert will symbolize Ann Arbor’s rich tapestry of music! Check out their website here for more information: https://a2so.org/holiday-pops-2024/
Midnight Madness in Downtown Ann Arbor
A Christmas holiday deal is always a must! Head to Downtown Ann Arbor during the Midnight Madness, which will turn into a bustling holiday hub for festive cheer and late-night shopping. With special discounts, exclusive deals, and extended hours, the streets will come alive with holiday lights, carolers and street performers, creating a vibrant and magical shopping experience for every age. Scheduled for early December, come visit to join the community spirit and joy of the season! Check out their website here for more information: https://www.annarbor.org/event/midnight-madness/16577/
