Deck the Halls
Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo. Photo courtesy Detroit Zoological Society.
Holiday Fun Across Metro Detroit
By Jenna Abroo
The holiday season always brings cheer and joy to those who celebrate. Festive outings, meals with loved ones, and joyful gatherings fill the coming months. One of the best parts of the season is making cherished memories with family. A great way to do that is by finding fun activities and places to visit that spread holiday cheer. Christmas shopping, visiting light displays, taking the kids to see Santa, and caroling are just a few traditions that help make the season so special.
From Thanksgiving to Hanukkah, Christmas, and New Year’s, the possibilities for events and celebrations are endless. Many Michiganders, including myself, fondly remember seasonal visits to Christmas Wonderland at Bronner’s in Frankenmuth, ice skating at the Warren Community Center, and driving through neighborhoods to admire holiday lights and decorations.
Though the season may feel long, it passes in the blink of an eye. Time off from work, kids home from school, and the short winter days seem to fly by. That’s why it’s important to make the most of this time—investing in memories with family and loved ones. Fortunately, there are countless festive events to enjoy.
The Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak is one of my personal favorites. Tickets are available on the zoo’s official website for dates between November 22, 2025, and January 4, 2026. Wild Lights has been a Detroit Zoo tradition for more than a decade, celebrating its 10-year anniversary in 2022. The event has become a staple for Metro Detroiters seeking holiday fun.
The entire park is transformed into a winter wonderland, featuring millions of LED lights, themed zones like the Enchanted Rainforest and the Field of Lights, more than 500 illuminated animal- and nature-themed displays, and live music and performances on select days. Visitors can also enjoy seasonal treats such as hot cocoa and other sweets. The event offers fun for all ages and supports local animal conservation efforts. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit detroitzoo.org.
The Big Bright Light Show in downtown Rochester is another beloved Metro Detroit tradition. Since 2006, the city of Rochester has showcased beautiful multicolored light displays throughout November, December, and January. The lights stretch along streets and businesses in the heart of downtown.
Originally launched to boost economic activity for local businesses, the Big Bright Light Show has grown over nearly two decades into a spectacle of 1.5 million lights covering four blocks of Main Street. The display attracts more than 1 million visitors each year and has gained numerous sponsors from across Metro Detroit. One of the best parts is that it’s a low-cost way to enjoy the season—grabbing a hot chocolate or coffee while strolling the cheerful streets is a simple pleasure that captures the holiday spirit. The display runs through February 9, 2026. For more information, visit downtownrochestermi.com.
Glenlore Trails in Commerce offers another way to experience the magic of the season. This immersive, interactive light and sound show presents a “dazzling display of light, sound, and wonder.” The mile-long trail includes themed nights like “Aurora: Winter Wizards,” which began November 21. Visitors are guided through an illuminated forest, becoming part of a story in which the Winter Wizards work to push back the gloom that threatens to dim the holiday spirit. Glenlore Trails offers a variety of ticket options, making it a joyful experience for families and groups. The displays run through December 28, 2025. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit glenloretrails.com.
No matter which holidays you celebrate, attending community events and making the most of the season’s cheer is a wonderful way to enjoy the magic of this time of year. From light shows to downtown strolls, there’s truly no better place to be during the most wonderful time of the year than Metro Detroit. May your holiday season be filled with full tables, quality time with family, and safe, festive fun for all.
Happy Holidays and a most Happy New Year to all!
Holiday Events Around Metro Detroit
The following list of events is also located in the Metro Detroit area and provides a great way to enjoy all the merriment and glee the season has to offer:
1. Wayne County Light Fest – November 20 to December 24
2. Magic of Lights at Pine Knob – November 21 to January 3
3. Nite Lites at Michigan International Speedway – November 21 to January 4
4. Holiday Walk at Meadow Brook Hall (indoor display) – November 28 to December 30
5. Winter Wonder Lights at Meadow Brook Hall – November 28 to December 30
6. Holiday Stroll in Canterbury Village – November 28 to December 23
7. Hollydazzle at Michigan Renaissance Festival – November 28 to December 31
8. Michigan Bright Lights – November 14 to December 30
9. Lincoln Park Parks and Recreation, Breakfast with Santa – December 6 and December 13
10. Ice Skating at Campus Martius Park – November 22 to March 1