Silver Bells in the City
Visitors can watch the Electric Light Parade make its way through the streets with illuminated floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus. The festivities include the lighting of the official state Christmas tree at the Capitol, a community sing, a choreographed drone light show, and a fireworks finale. Guests can also browse local craft vendors and food trucks in the Silver Bells Village or enjoy live music and downtown warming stations.
What to Expect
Lansing holiday celebration with an electric light parade, drone show, and fireworks
Event Details
Duration
5:00-9:00 pm.
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Lansing
Timed Entry
No
Organizer
Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities Authority
Food & Drink
Silver Bells Village offers refreshments from several food trucks.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families and holiday crowds
Vibe
Lively, festive, and bright
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
Free
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Free admission.
- Hours: Event: 5:00PM-9:00 PM; Electric Light Parade: 6:00 pm.
- Parking: Free parking is available at listed State of Michigan lots from 4:00 pm and at the Roosevelt ramp from 5:00 pm. Lansing city ramps and surface lots cost a flat fee of $5.
- Accessibility: Grewal Hall provides a wheelchair-accessible indoor area and sensory room during the event.
Tips & Advice
- Text SilverBells to 78015 before you head downtown to get weather, traffic and emergency alerts for the event.
- If you park in the Roosevelt ramp, the Walnut St. entrance stays closed until about half an hour after the fireworks for safety reasons.
- For a less crowded parade view, head to the end of the route on Capitol Ave. between Washtenaw and Hillsdale.
- Bring comfort items for anyone sensitive to noise, or pick up headphones, earplugs, fidgets or sunglasses at the Mid-Michigan Autism Association booth.
- Dress for the weather, since Silver Bells goes ahead rain or shine and you'll be outdoors downtown in late November.
Special Events & Promotions
- The Silver Bells 5K runs the next morning, Saturday. It's a chip-timed run/walk downtown with a long-sleeve tee, a finisher's medal and a costume contest, and you register separately.
- A Sensory Room is open at Grewal Hall all evening for anyone who needs a break from the crowds, noise and lights.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main attractions?
The Electric Light Parade with lighted floats, marching bands and Santa. After that come the State Christmas tree lighting, a Community Sing, a Firefly drone light show, and fireworks over the Capitol (weather permitting).
What happens if it rains?
Silver Bells goes ahead rain or shine. The fireworks depend on the weather.
Where should I park?
Several State of Michigan surface lots and the Roosevelt ramp are free in the late afternoon and evening. City of Lansing ramps and surface lots charge a flat fee.
Is there help for people with sensory needs?
Yes. Headphones, earplugs, fidgets and sunglasses are free at the Mid-Michigan Autism Association booth in Silver Bells Village while supplies last. Grewal Hall at 224 S. Washington Square has a Sensory Room for anyone who needs a break, and no registration is needed.
Where's a good spot to watch the parade?
The end of the parade route on Capitol Ave. between Washtenaw and Hillsdale is usually less crowded.
More Christmas Events Near Lansing
More Christmas Events near Lansing
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.