Ann Arbor Christmas Events & Things to Do 2025

Your complete guide to the best christmas events in Ann Arbor and surrounding areas

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Christmas Markets (30 events) Christmas Lights (15 events) Christmas Shows (14 events) Other Christmas Activities (36 events)

Near its historic downtown, Ann Arbor showcases Christmas 2025 with festive events, Holiday lights, and Santa visits that spotlight local makers and performing arts along Main Street and Kerrytown. Midnight Madness and the Kerrytown District KindleFest bring lively seasonal activities and community shopping opportunities. Enjoy illuminated streets, holiday concerts, and family activities that make Ann Arbor a warm and culturally rich place to celebrate the holidays.

Find the best Ann Arbor Christmas happenings this year!

Ann Arbor Christmas Events

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Christmas Markets

30 events
Midnight Madness • Dec 5

Late-night holiday shopping and cocktail crawl

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Christmas Lights

15 events
LaSalle Holiday Lights Heritage Nights • Nov 1 – Dec 31

Annual holiday light displays

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Christmas Shows

14 events
Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve • Dec 27

Rock opera meets holiday classic with stunning visuals.

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Other Christmas Activities

36 events
Visit with Santa at The Henry Ford • Nov 21 – Dec 7

Visit Santa in the Arctic Alcove near a historic airplane.

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Editor's Picks (6)

  1. LaSalle Holiday Lights Heritage Nights (LaSalle)
    Annual holiday light displays
  2. Midnight Madness
    Late-night holiday shopping and cocktail crawl
  3. Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Ghosts of Christmas Eve (Detroit)
    Rock opera meets holiday classic with stunning visuals.
  4. 21st Annual Detroit Tree Lighting (Detroit)
    Iconic annual tree lighting ceremony
  5. Visit with Santa at The Henry Ford (Dearborn)
    Visit Santa in the Arctic Alcove near a historic airplane.
  6. Birmingham Winter Markt (Birmingham)
    German-themed holiday market with ice sculptures and carriage rides.

This Week / Coming Up (6)

Holiday Sip and Shop Craft Show Mon, Nov 10
MI Bright Lights Drive-Through Holiday Wonderland Fri, Nov 14
Santa Photo Experience at Briarwood Mall Fri, Nov 21
Royal Oak Holidays Fri, Nov 21
Aurora: An Interactive Holiday Night Walk Fri, Nov 21
Holiday Hoopla & Tree Lighting Ceremony Sat, Nov 22

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Ann Arbor Christmas FAQ

What are the biggest annual Christmas events in Ann Arbor?

Key annual events include the Holiday Light Parade and Midnight Madness shopping event downtown, both drawing locals and visitors for festive celebrations and seasonal shopping.

What holiday traditions are unique to Ann Arbor?

Ann Arbor’s unique traditions include community-driven neighborhood light displays and the use of a bright red mailbox downtown for sending letters directly to Santa during the season.

Which neighborhoods are best for Christmas lights in Ann Arbor?

Neighborhoods like Galen Circle and Pamela Avenue are known for their impressive Christmas light displays, offering walkable routes to enjoy festive decorations.

Where can I find Christmas markets and local makers in Ann Arbor?

Local makers and Christmas markets can be found downtown at the Ann Arbor Holiday Market and in nearby Chelsea at the Chelsea Hometown Holiday Market, both featuring artisan vendors and seasonal goods.

What are the best free or budget-friendly holiday activities in Ann Arbor?

Exploring neighborhood light displays, attending free holiday markets, and participating in community events like the Holiday Light Parade offer budget-friendly ways to enjoy the season.

What are good picks for families with kids in Ann Arbor?

Family-friendly options include visiting the Holiday Light Parade, exploring walkable light displays in neighborhoods, and attending markets with crafts and Santa visits designed for children.