Top 10 Christmas Markets in Michigan 2025: Best Festive Events and Locations

When you want to dive into the holiday spirit, Michigan’s Christmas markets are a great place to start. These festive gatherings pop up in both small towns and big cities, mixing traditional crafts, sparkling decorations, and plenty of food stalls.

You’ll see everything from classic Christkindlmarkt to more modern holiday markets, each with its own local vibe. Wandering through the stalls, you can shop for unique gifts, snack on treats, and make some pretty great memories with friends or family.

1) Kris Kringle Christmas Market in Ann Arbor

About the Ann Arbor Holiday Market

Step into the Kris Kringle Christmas Market in Ann Arbor and you’re instantly surrounded by a lively holiday scene. The market sets up in the Kerrytown District right downtown, and it’s hard to miss the mix of bright lights, festive decorations, and cheerful music.

Over 60 local vendors set up shop, showing off handmade crafts and seasonal snacks. You’ll spot jewelry, collectibles, vintage finds, and pottery everywhere you look. Glassware is a big deal here, from colorful ornaments to special holiday mugs.

Vendors really put effort into offering something unique, so picking out a one-of-a-kind gift feels easy. The smells of hot pretzels, bratwurst, and roasted nuts drift through the air. You can sip on classic holiday drinks like mulled wine or warm spiced cider.

Kids and groups of friends always find something to do, whether it’s listening to carolers or checking out little entertainment spots. The market sits close to other Ann Arbor attractions, so it’s an easy add-on to a day out in the city.

Essential Visitor Information

Planning your evening at the Kris Kringle Christmas Market? Here’s what you need to know. The market happens on the first Friday in December, drawing visitors from all over Michigan.

Kerrytown turns into a winter wonderland from early evening until night, so you’ve got plenty of time to browse and snack. Entry is always free, making it a solid pick if you’re watching your budget. Vendors sell food, drinks, and plenty of holiday goods. Here’s a quick rundown:

Date	Location	Time	Admission	Website
First Friday in December	Kerrytown District, Ann Arbor, MI	5 PM – 10 PM	Free	Kris Kringle Christmas Market Ann Arbor

The market’s easy to reach, and you’ll find plenty of local flair—handcrafted goods, tasty eats, and a real dose of holiday cheer. If you’re after pottery, jewelry, or vintage treasures, this is the spot.

2) Holland Kerstmarkt

The Holland Kerstmarkt brings a touch of Dutch holiday tradition to Michigan each winter. You’ll find it at the corner of 8th Street and Pine Avenue, where 18 small booths line the street.

Vendors offer handmade crafts, food, and holiday goods, all with a European market vibe. Since 1997, this market has become a staple of the local holiday season. You can visit during three weekends between Thanksgiving and Christmas, and also the Saturday before Thanksgiving.

Along with shopping, you might catch artisans showing off their skills. Warm Dutch foods, like split pea soup, are available if you need a break from the cold. The market sits just outside the Civic Center, so it’s easy to find.

Locals and visitors love the festive setting and authentic style. Some even say it’s one of Michigan’s best holiday events. Want more info? Check out the Holland Kerstmarkt page.

What You Need to Know

Dates	Address	Times	Cost	Website
Weekends from Nov 22-Dec 20, 2025	8th Street & Pine Ave, Holland	9:00 AM – various	Free entry	https://www.holland.org/kerstmarkt/

3) Holiday Light Adventure at Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek

Each winter, Binder Park Zoo in Battle Creek transforms into a glowing holiday event called ZooLights. You can wander winding paths lined with twinkling lights and spot over 80 illuminated animal displays throughout the zoo.

One of the main highlights is a massive 15-foot-tall teddy bear made of lights. There are also 36 Christmas trees decorated with shiny ornaments. These displays are a hit with families and anyone who loves festive decorations.

Besides the lights, you can join hands-on animal shows every night. These sessions introduce you to some of the zoo’s smaller animals and give you a chance to learn a little something new. Looking for a winter activity that’s both fun and educational? This one fits the bill.

Dress warm—lots of the zoo is outdoors. Not every animal is on display during ZooLights, but you’ll still see plenty, and the lighting and activities keep things interesting. Whether you’re planning a family night or just want a casual stroll, it’s an easy way to enjoy the season.

Event Details

Dates	Address	Times	Admission	Website
Nov 29 – Dec 23	7400 Division Dr, Battle Creek, MI	5:00-8:30 PM	$6 general, $5 members	Binder Park Zoo Events

For updates or ticket info, check the Binder Park Zoo events page.

4) Christmas in the Village, Bay City

What to Know About the Celebration

Christmas in the Village brings a small-town holiday vibe to downtown Bay City. The village glows with lights and festive decorations, and local vendors fill booths with homemade crafts and seasonal gifts.

Grab a hot chocolate or a warm pretzel as you wander. Music from local choirs and bands fills the air, setting a cheerful mood.

Kids can visit Santa or join in simple games and crafts. Horse-drawn carriage rides offer a quiet way to see the decorated streets, giving you a close look at the town’s holiday spirit.

All the activities are family-friendly and perfect if you’re after a community celebration that highlights local traditions.

Dates, Location, and Visitor Information

Dates	Address	Time	Admission	Website
December 9-10	111 Center Avenue, Bay City, MI 48708	11 AM – 8 PM	Free Admission	Bay City Holiday Farmers Market

5) Frankenmuth’s German-Inspired Holiday Market

Step into Frankenmuth’s Old World Christmas Market and you’ll find yourself surrounded by German holiday traditions right in Michigan. The market sits at the Frankenmuth Farmers Market pavilion, where traditional designs and a cheerful spirit fill the air.

Local vendors pack the stalls with handmade crafts, ornaments, and all kinds of thoughtful gifts. Each booth glows with bright lights, giving the whole place that classic, cozy holiday vibe as you wander through.

Food’s a big deal here too. Try Old World sausages from Willi’s Sausage at 316 S Main St., or just let the smells guide you to something tasty.

Live music drifts through the market, and there’s always some family-friendly entertainment happening. It just feels festive everywhere you turn.

They call Frankenmuth “Christmas Town, USA,” and honestly, that fits. The city pours its heart into the season and makes everyone feel welcome.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices	Website
Nov 24-26, Dec 1-3, 8-10	635 S Main St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734	Varies per day	Free entry	Christmas at Frankenmuth

6) Winter Festival at Campus Martius Park in Detroit

Head to Detroit during the holidays and you can’t miss Campus Martius Park. The place lights up with decorations, and the huge Christmas tree in the center draws everyone in for photos.

The outdoor ice skating rink is a local favorite, giving folks of all ages a classic winter activity. Around the park, vendors sell handmade crafts and hot snacks, so you can shop for gifts or just grab a warm drink as you stroll.

Live performances keep things lively—sometimes you’ll catch carolers, other times it’s local music acts. The open layout means you get a great view of downtown all dressed up in lights.

People gather here to soak up the atmosphere. There’s a real sense of community in the air.

Dates	Address	Times	Prices	Website
November 14, 2024 – January 1, 2025*	Cadillac Square and Campus Martius Park	11am – 8pm	Free	Campus Martius Park Christmas Market

*Dates may change. Check the official site for the latest event info.

7) Glen Arbor Festive Marketplace

The Glen Arbor Holiday Marketplace pops up every November at the Glen Arbor Town Hall. It’s a favorite for holiday shopping and local festivities.

With over 25 vendors, you’ll have plenty of gifts and handmade treasures to check out. People come looking for unique crafts, seasonal decorations, and regional snacks.

The opening night kicks off with a tree lighting and caroling at 6:15 PM. It starts outside, but you can head indoors after to warm up and browse the stalls.

Santa and Mrs. Claus usually hang out at the M22 Wine Patio from 11 AM to 1 PM, so families can snap some festive photos. There’s no entry fee—just show up and enjoy.

Whether you’re grabbing last-minute gifts or just curious about what local makers have created, everyone’s welcome. Here’s a quick look at the details:

Dates	Location	Times	Cost	Website
November 24, 2023	6298 W. Western Ave, Glen Arbor, MI	6:30 PM – 8 PM (Preview)	Free entry	Glen Arbor Holiday Marketplace
November 25, 2023	6298 W. Western Ave, Glen Arbor, MI	10 AM – 4 PM	Free entry	Glen Arbor Holiday Marketplace

8) Redford Theatre Christmas Marketplace in Detroit

The Redford Theatre’s Christmas Marketplace gives you a chance to shop for the holidays in a place packed with history. This Detroit landmark hosts the market every year, and you’ll find gifts and decorations from local artists and craftspeople.

Handmade items and holiday treats fill the tables—perfect for picking up something special for family or friends. As you wander, live music fills the air and brings extra energy to the whole event.

The theater’s classic style and cozy interior just make it feel right for the season. It’s a warm spot to hang out when it’s cold outside.

The marketplace isn’t just about shopping, either. You can catch special holiday movies on the big screen, relax, and get a taste of the theater’s old-school charm.

Food’s always nearby, with snacks, sweets, and hot cocoa ready for kids and adults alike.

When and Where to Visit:

Dates	Address	Times	Entry Fee	Website
Dec 3-17	17360 Lahser Rd, Detroit, MI	10 AM – 5 PM	$5; Free for kids under 12	Redford Theatre Christmas Market

9) Holiday Music Sing-Along at State Theatre, Traverse City

Want something different? Try the holiday sing-along at the State Theatre in Traverse City.

This historic spot has been open since 1949, and it still keeps that old-school charm. It’s a fantastic place for group music events during Christmas.

Sing along with the crowd as classic Christmas songs fill the theater. The seating’s comfy and the sound is great, so you’ll hear every note, no problem.

The team running the event makes sure everyone’s part of the fun. You’re not just an audience member—you’re in it.

It’s not just about singing, though. This event brings people together in a laid-back, festive space, making it easy to feel the holiday spirit.

Key Event Information

Dates	Address	Time	Admission	Website
December 10-23	233 E. Front St., Traverse City, MI 49684	6 PM – 8 PM	Adults: $15, Kids: $8	State Theatre in Traverse City

10) Christmas Market Experience in Downtown Mt. Clemens

What to Know About the Market

If you swing by downtown Mt. Clemens during the holidays, you’ll spot a local market loaded with handmade items and thoughtful gifts. Local artists and makers set up shop here, showing off everything from custom ornaments to unique jewelry.

Honestly, you’ll find stuff you didn’t even know you wanted—whether it’s for your place or to wrap up as a present.

The event brings in special programs like a city open house and a meet-the-artists night. You can chat with the creators and get a peek into how they make their pieces.

The market’s vibe is super welcoming—shoppers, families, and art lovers all fit right in.

Parking’s not a headache. Metered spots in lots and on the street turn free after 6 PM and all weekend.

There’s no entry fee, but the Anton Art Center appreciates small donations if you’re feeling generous.

Event Details Table

Dates	Address	Times	Admission	Website
November 19 – December 23, 2024	125 Macomb Pl, Mt. Clemens, MI	6 PM – 8 PM (Nov 19), 1 PM – 3 PM (Nov 21), Noon – 8 PM (Dec 23)	Free (Donations welcomed)	Anton Art Center Holiday Market