Christmas Archives - Mrs. Weber's Neighborhood

This Magical Christmas House in Brighton Keeps My Kids Believing

December 14, 2020 update: This house is no longer accepting letters this season.

One of our favorite Christmas traditions of the past several years has been visiting a magical Christmas house in Brighton Michigan.

We bundle up in our pajamas, grab a thermos of hot cocoa and a baggie of cookies and mosey around town admiring all the amazing tinkling lights along the way.

Eventually we find ourselves in the gated community of Hilton Pointe in Brighton. Just seeing these houses without lights is quite a sight as the homes on the street are mansions, according to my kids.

The most magical house of all is tucked at the end of the street. Believe me when I say it’s hard to miss the 40,000+ lights decorating the lawn and the parade-worthy statues outside, including a Santa, train with a Christmas countdown, a snowman and more. It truly is a sight to behold.

The most magical part, however, is that this house has a secret in with the North Pole! My kids suspect the mailbox is actually a portal directly to Santa’s desk. I honestly think they may be right.

Children are encouraged to drop their letter to Santa in the mailbox {with a return address} with the chance of getting a response right on Santa’s custom letterhead.

Even the envelope the letter comes in is charming. We have loved collecting them each year. I love that Santa always mentions siblings too. I have a feeling it’s one of the reasons my oldest is still hanging onto Christmas magic, and for that I am grateful.

Special mail can be dropped off between December 1-15 each year.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Because the house is located in a gated community, the hours are 6:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. daily ONLY. You cannot access the home during the daytime.

The address:
3382 Hilton Pointe Ct., Brighton, MI

From the bottom of my heart, thank you to Santa and all the elves that make this house possible. It’s such a season-maker for our family, and many others! Thank you for blessing our community with such a magical place.

Have so much fun if you visit!

Find more ideas for things to do this season at this post.

Visit Meadow Brook Hall’s Holiday Walk For A Taste of Christmas Past

Shared by Mrs. Weber Leave a Comment

The post below is sponsored by Meadow Brook Hall & Gardens. I received complimentary passes in exchange for a review.

It’s no secret that Michigan is home to some very exquisite homes thanks to automobile money. Meadow Brook Hall & Gardens in Rochester, Michigan is no exception.

My mom and I recently had a date together to visit this amazing home during Meadow Brook Hall’s Holiday Walk, and enjoyed learning and getting inspired along the way. We did the tour about 10 years ago, and this one was very different than we remembered. They decorate it differently every year, so it’s worth an annual visit for sure!

This massive 88,000 square-foot home is a sight to behold, especially during the holiday season, where decor graces every corner. Docents are available in most rooms too, and are a wealth of knowledge about the nuances of the home and the family history.

The home was once refuge from Detroit city life for Matilda Dodge Wilson {widow of John Francis Dodge} and her second husband, lumber baron, Alfred C. Wilson.

It took three years to build {1926-1929} and features Tudor revival style architecture. Currently, it’s the fourth largest historic mansion in the United States.

Although its design was inspired by a European trip, all of the building materials — including several styles of beautiful wood — were sourced in North America {with the exception of the wood in John’s study}. Just thinking of how much this home would be to build these days is mind-blowing. It truly is a national treasure!

Maltilda didn’t miss a single detail when building her home. Her presence is felt in every room, with unique carvings and one-of-a-kind door knobs, doors, and surprises in every room. {The hidden staircase in the middle of the home was especially neat to see!}

For the holiday season, event designers have come in and decorated the home, including its 64 trees, which range from traditional to themed trees.

A few of our favorites were the living poinsettia tree, which was breathtakingly beautiful with its 150 live plants!

The upside-down tree in Danny’s cottage in the woods, was definitely a fan favorite as well due to its uniqueness.

There are trees in nearly all of the 110 rooms of the home, and all are uniquely magical!

In addition to the tour, there are two cute gift shops on the premises that are worth checking out.

ENJOY if you visit!

HOLIDAY WALK INFORMATION

The holiday walk runs daily through December 23, 2019.

Holiday Walk tickets are $20 for adults, $7.50 for children ages 6-12, children age 5 and under are free {though I wouldn’t recommend this for the younger crowd or those unable to walk}. On Mondays and Wednesdays, seniors age 62 and older receive $5 off admission. Tickets for the final weekend of events featuring Santa and his reindeer on Dec. 21-23 are $22.50 for adults and seniors, $10 for children ages 6-12, children age 5 and under are free. Tickets can be purchased onsite in the Holiday Shop. Tours are self-guided and reservations are not required.

Children can participate in “Cleo’s Ornament Adventure,” inspired by the Dodge-Wilson’s beloved pet St. Bernard, Cleo. Children can participate in a special scavenger hunt while touring the mansion, then collect a prize at Candy Cane Cottage.

The mansion is open daily from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. and until 8 p.m. on select evenings.

LOCATION

Meadow Brook Hall is located at 350 Estate Drive in Rochester.

Learn more by checking out the website for special events and more, Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube, and Instagram.

TIP: A few restaurants ideas if you visit the area: Patti Finnegan’s Pub & Grille right near the property, or Clubhouse BFD in Rochester Hills, which is close to M-59. There are plenty of additional restaurants too!

GIVEAWAY

I’m excited to giveaway two tickets for a lucky winner to enjoy. Make sure to visit my Instagram to enter. Best of luck!

Where are your favorite places to see beautiful Christmas decor?

8 Things To Do With Kids in Downtown Detroit This Holiday Season {+ Giveaway}

Shared by Mrs. Weber 10 Comments

The post below is sponsored by the Downtown Detroit Partnership. All opinions expressed belong to me.

As you all may know, downtown Detroit is becoming quite a destination for families, especially during the holiday season. We recently had a day downtown and had a blast making memories together.

Below you will find things to do with kids in downtown Detroit this holiday season. As you go about planning fun in the weeks ahead, make sure to add these ideas to those bucket lists.

8 Things To Do With Kids in Downtown Detroit This Holiday Season

Enjoy snacks, hot beverages and game in Cadillac Lodge

As one of my readers pointed out, the Cadillac Lodge in Detroit’s Cadillac Park looks like a “Hallmark movie,” and she’s not wrong. This amazing pop-up feels like you are stepping into the living room set of an HGTV show!

During our visit, we enjoyed several games of checkers, dice, and tic tac toe. The kids LOVED it. We didn’t get there in time to grab a giant Jenga game, but that looked like a blast too!

It was very busy when we arrived when they opened, so we rushed to find seats. There were lots of photographers there for family photos, which was such a great idea! Definitely try to go mid-week or an off time to get a prime spot. The outdoors area was super cute too.

While there, we enjoyed hot delicious adult drinks, cider and donuts for the kids and s’mores. So fun!

PRO TIP: There are portable bathrooms in the back!

Check out the cute shops called the Detroit Markets

These cute glass huts in front of Cadillac Lodge are the perfect excuse to shop small this holiday season! This list highlights all of the vendors, all of which are Detroit-based and woman- and/or minority-owned.

Shoppers can find bath and body care, clothing, treats, and more.

Visit Detroit’s Christmas Tree

Stop by Campus Martius Park for a photo in front of Detroit’s Christmas tree, sponsored by DTE Foundation. It’s HUGE, and photos don’t do its majestic beauty justice. The tree has 19,000 lights on it, making it extra gorgeous at night, too!

Go ice skating at the Frankenmuth Ice Rink

For the first time this year, The Rink at Campus Martius will be known as The Frankenmuth Rink at Campus Martius Park, with Frankenmuth {yes, as in the city}, serving as the lead sponsor.

You can find the hours of operation for the Rink here. It’s $10/adults, $8/kids {12 and under} and skate rental is $5.

Fun Fact: This rink rivals the Rockefeller Center one in NYC! The skating surface in Rockefeller Center is 122 feet long and 59 feet wide. The Detroit rink is 120 feet long and 60 feet wide.

PRO TIP: There’s also a bathroom outside the skate rental!

Catch a Holiday Show

There are tons of holiday-inspired shows heading to Detroit, including Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical, Twas A Girls Night Before Christmas: The Musical, Straight No Chaser, and more.

{For the 313 Presents shows, use the code GIFT for buy one get one free tickets through Dec. 4!}

See Santa and Shop at the GM Renaissance Center

For three weeks in December, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays from Dec. 2 through Dec. 20, people can shop for gifts, tasty treats and more by visiting the rotating local pop-up shops in the Renaissance Center.

Additionally, complimentary photos with Santa are also available in the Jefferson Lobby {the main entrance off Jefferson Ave.} from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Saturday through Monday, Dec. 23. Santa’s North Pole will have a whole new snowy look with an all-new sports car “sleigh,” and children will also receive a goody bag.

Grab holiday greenery at Capitol Park

Nab a tree, beautiful outdoor planters, winterberry, and more at Greystone Gardens inside Capitol Park.

I was ecstatic to get a gorgeous plant for my front porch, a succulent for my kitchen island, and cedar swag that gives our living room that fresh tree scent.

Capitol Park is just two blocks away from Campus Martius and definitely worth checking out! In fact, the park is about to undergo a major renovation, including an off-leash dog park, a mister and water table, beverage kiosk and public restrooms. You can view the full plans here. Can’t wait to keep checking out this little gem!

TIP: You will pass Avalon Bakery & Cafe on your way. This spot has my absolute favorite cookies ever — chocolate chip with sea salt. Yum!

Check Out Beacon Park

Beacon Park is a fabulous green space in the city just a few minutes drive from Campus Martius. The park is home to the restaurant Lumen, and also features lots of special events, which include a day with Santa and a NYE Kid’s Countdown party. Visit at night to enjoy the park’s 125,000 lights too!

Parking

Parking is a reason that keeps a lot of families from heading to Detroit. Please don’t let this deter you! There are SO many options.

I suggest setting up the Park Detroit app before you go to make it easier. We visited on a Sunday morning and got FREE parking at the meters. When in doubt, try your best to find street parking before resorting to a lot or parking garage where you need to pay quite a bit. If it’s an especially busy event or time, the ParkWhiz app is extremely helpful and some lots even allow you to book your parking in advance, which saves the stress once you arrive.

Learn More About Detroit

Learn more about what’s coming to downtown Detroit in the months ahead by following Downtown Detroit Partnership on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

Additional options for kid fun around town: Michigan Science Center, DNR Outdoor Adventure Center and Belle Isle Park.

Giveaway

I am excited to be able to giveaway an amazing Detroit family package to one lucky winner. The package includes a $100 gift card gift card to enjoy lunch, hot chocolate, s’mores, and/or snacks at the Artic Zone or Cadillac Lodge and 4 free skating passes for the Frankenmuth Ice Rink.

Giveaway ends on December 11, 2019. Good luck!

25+ Christmas Events in Southeast Michigan {Ann Arbor, Detroit, Flint and Lansing Areas}

Shared by Mrs. Weber 38 Comments

Thank you for reading! For a list for 2020, please see this post. Thank you!

For me, Christmas officially begins with the music…then shopping…then purchasing a peppermint latte…and then I finally start to decorate {generally after Thanksgiving}. After all that, I’m ready to focus on the reason for the season, do some volunteering, and plan some rockin’ family outings.

Lucky for me, there are SO many neat things to do in this area during Christmas, so I am starting to plan ahead since many of these events do sell out. Below, I’ve picked my favorite 25+ Christmas events in southeast Michigan that are sure to get you in the spirit of the season!

The Nutcracker Ballet {Various dates and locations} — Cities include Ann Arbor, Brighton, Canton, Chelsea, Clawson, Clinton Township, Detroit, East Lansing, Flint and more.

Weekends, November 16 – January 5 — Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo {Royal Oak} — A million-plus LED lights cover trees, buildings and animal sculptures. Live entertainment, arts, crafts, ice carving and holiday train displays, too. $11 in advance, $19 at the gate, children 2 and under free. $8 for parking.

November 21 – December 31 — Wayne County Lightfest {Westland} — Lightfest features more than 47 giant animated displays and more than one million lights and is the Midwest’s largest light show. The complete route is more than four miles of Hines Dr. Entry is $5 cash fee per vehicle.

November 22 — Silver Bells in the City {Lansing} — The premiere holiday event for the state of Michigan, which includes the lighting of Michigan’s official Christmas tree and a fireworks show over the State Capitol. 5-9 p.m. FREE.

November 22 — Detroit Christmas Tree Lighting in Campus Martius {Detroit} — Such a beautiful event in the heart of downtown. 5 p.m. – Midnight. Free, but expect to pay parking fees.

November 22 – December 28 — 25th Annual Wonderland of Lights at Potter Park Zoo {Lansing} — Potter Park will be transformed into a magical winter wonderland with thousands of holiday lights during the evening. Adults are $7/person, children ages 3-12 are $5 and children 3 and under are free.

November 22 – January 2 — Walk of Trees {Plymouth} — Bundle up the family and stroll through the Kellogg Park Walk of Trees. See 75 trees, each decorated by a local family, club or business. Trees are lit 24 hours from the Saturday after Thanksgiving through Christmas. FREE.

November 23 — Holiday Glow {Brighton} — Enjoy holiday music, local dance performances, hay and train rides, a petting farm, letters to Santa, tasty holiday treats and, of course… a visit from The Big Man Himself. Event is 4 p.m. – 7 p.m. FREE.

November 24 – December 1 — Festival of Trees {Dearborn} — Visit the Ford Community & Performing Arts Center for professionally decorated trees, wreaths and gingerbread houses, kid-friendly fun and Santa to support of the Children’s Hospital of Michigan Foundation. $5/adults, $3 for children, and free for kids 2 and under.

November 25 – January 5 — The Big Bright Light Show {Rochester} — Visit downtown Rochester for one of the area’s most amazing displays of lights! Thousands adorn the buildings along Main Street. Absolutely stunning and FREE.

November 28 — America’s Thanksgiving Day Parade {Detroit} — Rockin’ parade along Woodward Avenue complete with floats, giant balloons, and Santa. Parade starts at 8:45 a.m. at Woodward Ave. and Kirby St. and ends at Campus Martius Park. FREE for general admission. Expect to pay parking fees, so bring cash.

November 29 — Fantasy of Lights Parade {Howell} — The annual Fantasy of Lights on the day after Thanksgiving kicks off the holiday season in Howell. Activities begin at 4pm, followed by the Fantasy 5K at 6 p.m., and the start of the parade at 7 p.m. FREE.

Various dates, November 29 – December 15 — Holly Dickens Festival {Holly} — Visit the charming village that is Holly for shopping, carolers and a meal. {I highly recommend making a date night or girl’s night out reservations at the Holly Hotel for delicious food in a beautiful, historic atmosphere.} FREE.

Various Dates, November 29 – December 29 — Christmas at Crossroads Holiday Magic {Flint} — Bundle up and visit from 4 p.m. – 9 p.m. when thousands of lights sparkle throughout the Village. You’ll find villagers making vintage crafts, shops full of gifts and the Huckleberry Railroad waiting to take you on a festive nighttime ride. Ticket prices for the village/train combo: Adult {ages 13-59} – $19, Senior {60+} – $18, Child {25 months-12} – $16, 2 years and under are free.

November 29 – December 23 — Meadowbrook Hall Holiday Walk {Rochester} – Visit this amazing historic mansion for a taste of Christmas past. It’s absolutely breath-taking! Visit with adults or with the kids and see Santa during select special events such as Breakfast with Santa. Tickets: $20/adults, $7.50 for children, and kids ages 5 and under are free.

November 29 – January 5 — Holiday Belles House Tour at Ford House {Grosse Pointe Shores} — Visit Ford House to see it authentically decorated as it was during the holiday receptions Mrs. Ford hosted to honor her granddaughters from 1959 through the ‘60s. Tickets are $12/adults, $11/seniors, $8 for children 6-12, and free for children 5 and under.

November 30 — Santaland Parade {Garden City} — This parade is in its 58th year and features more than 50+ floats, and Santa himself of course! The parade kicks off at 10 a.m. FREE.

November 30 – December 22 — Santa’s Magic Forest {Taylor} — Visit Taylor’s Heritage Park to see heart-warming winter village scenes made livelier by moving animatronic figures. Many of the displays were created for the Hudson’s Department Stores. $3/adults, children 3 and under free. Pictures with Santa are $8. Proceeds benefit Fishes & Loaves.

December 3 — Holiday Walk at the Flint Cultural Center {Flint} — Visit the Flint Cultural Center from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. for Holiday Walk, which features Santa, live entertainment, crafts and more. Don’t miss the Tree Lighting at 5:15 p.m. FREE, but a donation to the Food Bank of Eastern Michigan is encouraged.

December 3 — Holiday Tree Lighting and After Glow {Macomb} — Visit the Macomb Township Parks and Recreation for the Annual Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony. This event includes caroling, the arrival of Santa, and concludes with the lighting of the tree. After, step inside for refreshments, children crafts and “carol-o-ke.” FREE.

December 5 — Christmas Open House {Milford} — Take a trip to the quaint village of Milford for the hospitality of the downtown merchants, strolling entertainment and special promotions and refreshments. Santa arrives at 6 p.m. FREE.

Select nights, December 5-28 — Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village in Dearborn {Dearborn} — Take a lantern-lit journey into a living snow globe filled with live music, skating, fireworks and tons of winter wonder, including Santa and his reindeer. Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village is like stepping into a Christmas card from the past. Ticket prices: $30 for adults, $22.50 for youth, ages 5-12, and children age 4 and under are free.

December 6 — Kerrytown District’s Annual KindleFest {Ann Arbor} — Visit the Kerrytown District for an outdoor holiday market featuring local and regional artisans and farmers selling unique holiday gifts, as well as German foods, sweets and beverages. Enjoy live music, fire pits, a heated tent, s’more roasting and a Lantern Parade. FREE.

December 6-8 — Hometown Holiday Parade {Chelsea} — Visit Chelsea for the ceremonial lighting of the giant Christmas tree at Pierce Park, the Chelsea Light Parade, luminaries on Main Street and more. Explore the annual gingerbread house displays, sip on hot chocolate, and enjoy the special events planned. FREE.

December 7 — Christmas in the Ville {Fowlerville} — Visit downtown Fowlerville for a parade, a pet parade, hot air balloons and more. FREE.

December 7 — Holiday Light Parade {Williamston} — The annual Light Parade steps off at 6 p.m., with illuminated floats and vehicles, marching band, animals, and more. After the parade, Santa and Mrs. Claus will help with the lighting of the tree in front of City Hall. FREE.

December 7 — Holiday Hubaloo in Old Town Lansing {Lansing} — Stop into participating Old Town businesses to enjoy treats, crafts, and a whole bunch of holiday cheer. FREE.

December 7 — Noel Night {Detroit} — The annual Noel Night takes place at 75 Midtown Detroit venues, including the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Michigan Science Center, the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, the Detroit Historical Museum, and more, each opening their doors to the public FREE of charge. Additional activities include carriage rides, shopping, crafts and performances by more than 120 area groups.

December 7 — Winter Glow {East Lansing} — Enjoy winter-inspired fun in downtown East Lansing, including carriage rides, roasted marshmallows, Santa, a special outdoor holiday farmer’s market, live music, a kid’s winter carnival, roasted chestnuts, luminaries and much more. 2 p.m. – 5p.m. FREE.

December 14 — Polar Express Day {Hartland} — Visit Hartland’s Historic Village for cookie decorating, a Polar Express Bell, holiday crafts, feed magical reindeer feed and more. FREE.

What are your favorite Christmas events?

2019 Tree Lighting Ceremonies and Christmas Parades in Southeast Michigan

Shared by Mrs. Weber 2 Comments

Events that kick off the holiday season are so fun to attend and almost always free. Bundle up and check out yet another blogger collaboration of 2019 Tree Lighting Ceremonies and Christmas Parades in Southeast Michigan.

Visit these bloggers for the location nearest you:
Metro Detroit Mommy – Oakland County: Tree Lighting Ceremonies and Christmas Parades
Ann Arbor With Kids – Washtenaw County: Tree Lighting Ceremonies and Christmas Parades
Redesigning Happiness – Wayne County: Tree Lighting Ceremonies and Christmas Parades

Below you will find my list of Livingston County happenings. Please drop me a note if I’ve missed any!

2019 Tree Lighting Ceremonies and Christmas Parades in Southeast Michigan

Holiday Glow {Nov. 23}

Downtown Brighton

Time 4-7 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Description: Enjoy holiday music, local dance performances, hay and train rides, a petting farm, letters to Santa, tasty holiday treats and a visit Santa.

Fantasy of Lights Parade {Nov. 29}

Downtown Howell

Time: Activities begin at 3 p.m., followed by the Fantasy 5K at 6 p.m., and the parade at 7 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Description: The Fantasy of Lights activities attract more than 30,000 people to enjoy more than 50 illuminated floats, marching bands, vehicles, musical entertainment and animals.

Christmas in the Ville {Dec. 7}

Downtown Fowlerville

Time: Activities start at 8 a.m. and go on all day
Cost: FREE
Description: Visit downtown Fowlerville for a parade, a pet parade, hot air balloons, breakfast with Santa and more.

Light Up The Park {Dec. 7}

Downtown Pinckney

Time: 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Cost: FREE.
Description: Visit downtown Pinckney for Santa ‘lighting the park’ with his magical Christmas snow and stay for Christmas Caroling, a live Nativity scene, tasty treats and more.

Stay tuned for more Christmas list fun, coming soon!

Where are your favorite lighting ceremonies and parades? Drop me a note if I’ve missed any around Livingston County!

Our 2018 Christmas Bucket List

Shared by Mrs. Weber 6 Comments

Each year I gather our family together and create a Christmas bucket list of fun things we’d like to do during the month of December. At ages 4, 6 and 8, I love hearing the fun ideas my kids have, and the reminder that it doesn’t have to cost much to make the season absolutely magical for them.

With the holidays quickly approaching, we’ve come up with some fantastic ways to celebrate, and we’re kicking off many of these this weekend!

Here’s the 2018 Christmas bucket list we put together:

Learn of LOTS of local holiday events at these posts:

We hope your holiday is merry and bright!

What are your bucket list musts during the holidays?

2018 Meals With Santa in Metro Detroit {Organized by County}

Shared by Mrs. Weber 1 Comment

Tis the season to be JOLLY, right?! And who better to celebrate with than with the big guy in red himself — SANTA!

I’ve collaborated with local bloggers again to bring you lots of ideas for kicking off the holidays. Check out everyone’s links to find all the breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner and snacks with Santa from across southeast Michigan.

Mom Among Chaos: Macomb County Santa Events
Metro Detroit Mommy: Oakland County Santa Events
Ann Arbor With Kids: Washtenaw County Santa Events
Redesigning Happiness: Wayne County Santa Events

Again, I’m covering my neck of the woods here in Livingston County. Please note that many events have not been announced yet, so check back often for additions and give us a shout if we’ve missed something!

November 25: Cookies and Punch With Santa at Carousel Acres {South Lyon}

12749 Nine Mile Rd., South Lyon

Time: 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: $5/person
Description: Visit Carousel Acres Petting Farm for cookies and punch with Santa, Mrs. Claus and Real Reindeer! Advance registration required.

December 1: Breakfast with St. Nick at St. Agnes Catholic Church {Fowlerville}

855 E. Grand River, Fowlerville

Time: 10 a.m. – Noon
Cost: TBD
Description: Visit St. Agnes Catholic Church to have breakfast with St. Nick. Part of the Christmas in the Ville events.

December 1: Donuts With Santa at Village Manor Retirement Center {Howell}

9501 E. Highland Rd., Howell | 810-632-6200

Time: 9-11 a.m.
Cost: FREE
Description: Delicious donut station, pictures with Santa and more.

December 2: Pictures with Mr. & Mrs. Claus at Tony Sacco’s {Hartland}

10051 E. Highland Rd., Howell

Time: 12 p.m. – 2 p.m.
Cost: FREE {unless you choose to eat!}
Description: Santa and Mrs. Claus will be visiting Tony Sacco’s of Hartland to spread some holiday cheer! Parents can bring cameras to capture a FREE picture with Santa. There will also be coloring sheets from the North Pole, holiday music and half off kids pizzas.

December 7: Holiday in the Park Grand Opening {Howell}

Howell City Park, 404 Thompson St.

Time: 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Description: Throughout the season, the City Park will be lit up with 12 different classic holiday movie scenes, as well as Christmas trees decorated by local families. On December 7th, Santa will be there, children can write letters to the North Pole, and enjoy some hot cocoa and cookies.

December 8: Breakfast With Santa at Brighton Community Ed {Brighton}

850 Spencer Rd., Brighton

Time: 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Cost: $14/adults, $9/Children, 2 and under are free.
Description: Santa is making a stop at Brighton Community Ed for breakfast! The meal includes scrambled eggs, sausage, pancakes, fruit and beverage. After you eat, visit with Santa to tell him your Christmas “wish-list”, have your photo taken with him (parents be sure to bring your camera) and pick up your special gift!

December 8, 9, 15, 16: Breakfast With Santa at Howell Nature Center {Howell}

1005 Triangle Lake Rd., Howell | 517-546-0249

Time: 9 a.m or 11 a.m.
Cost: $11 adult, $9 for kids, 2 years and under are free!
Description: Join Santa & Mrs Claus at Howell Nature Center for a delicious pancake breakfast served with all the breakfast trimmings. Enjoy a meet-and-greet with The Clauses and a special photo opportunity too! Crafts and presents are waiting to get you in the holiday spirit, too.

December 8: Jingle Jam at Venture Church {Howell}

8457 E Highland Rd., Howell

Time: 12 p.m. – 3 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Description: Join Santa for free photos, coffee, hot chocolate and a popcorn bar. There will also be cookies and ornaments to decorate, inflatables and more.

December 9: Breakfast With Santa at American Spirit Centre {Brighton}

10590 E. Grand River Ave., Brighton | 810-599-2153

Time: 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Cost: Adults: $9, seniors: $8, children 12 and under: free
Description: Visit the American Spirit Centre for eggs, bacon, French toast, pancakes, an omelette station and more, plus a visit with the big guy himself!

December 15: Pictures with Santa at 2|42 {Brighton}

7526 Grand River Ave., Brighton

Time: 9 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Description: Visit 2|42 for FREE crafts, cookies, cocoa, candy canes, a storybook station, and, of course, pictures with Santa!

What is your favorite event with Santa? Chime in!

2018 Tree Lighting Ceremonies and Christmas Parades in Southeast Michigan

Shared by Mrs. Weber 4 Comments

Events that kick off the holiday season are so fun to attend and almost always free. Bundle up and check out yet another blogger collaboration of 2018 Tree Lighting Ceremonies and Christmas Parades in Southeast Michigan.

Visit these bloggers for the location nearest you:

Mom Among Chaos – Macomb County: Tree Lighting Ceremonies and Christmas Parades
Metro Detroit Mommy – Oakland County: Tree Lighting Ceremonies and Christmas Parades
Ann Arbor With Kids – Washtenaw County: Tree Lighting Ceremonies and Christmas Parades
Redesigning Happiness – Wayne County: Tree Lighting Ceremonies and Christmas Parades

Below you will find my list of Livingston County happenings. Please drop me a note if I’ve missed any!

Holiday Glow {Nov. 17}

Downtown Brighton

Time 4-7 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Description: Enjoy holiday music, local dance performances, hay and train rides, a petting farm, letters to Santa, tasty holiday treats and a visit Santa.

Fantasy of Lights Parade {Nov. 23}

Downtown Howell

Time: Activities begin at 3 p.m., followed by the Fantasy 5K at 6 p.m., and the parade at 7 p.m.
Cost: FREE
Description: The Fantasy of Lights activities attract more than 30,000 people to enjoy more than 50 illuminated floats, marching bands, vehicles, musical entertainment and animals.

Christmas in the Ville {Dec. 1}

Downtown Fowlerville

Time: Activities start at 8 a.m. and go on all day
Cost: FREE
Description: Visit downtown Fowlerville for a parade, a pet parade, hot air balloons, breakfast with Santa and more.

Light Up The Park {Dec. 8}

Downtown Pinckney

Time: 5 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Cost: FREE.
Description: Visit downtown Pinckney for Santa ‘lighting the park’ with his magical Christmas snow and stay for Christmas Caroling, a live Nativity scene, tasty treats and more.

Stay tuned for more Christmas list fun, coming soon!

Where are your favorite lighting ceremonies and parades? Drop me a note if I’ve missed any around Linvingston County!

Share:

HOLIDAY WALK INFORMATION

LOCATION

GIVEAWAY

Share:

8 Things To Do With Kids in Downtown Detroit This Holiday Season

Enjoy snacks, hot beverages and game in Cadillac Lodge

Check out the cute shops called the Detroit Markets

Visit Detroit’s Christmas Tree

Go ice skating at the Frankenmuth Ice Rink

Catch a Holiday Show

See Santa and Shop at the GM Renaissance Center

Grab holiday greenery at Capitol Park

Check Out Beacon Park

Parking

Learn More About Detroit

Giveaway

Share:

Share:

2019 Tree Lighting Ceremonies and Christmas Parades in Southeast Michigan

Holiday Glow {Nov. 23}

Fantasy of Lights Parade {Nov. 29}

Christmas in the Ville {Dec. 7}

Light Up The Park {Dec. 7}

Share:

Share:

November 25: Cookies and Punch With Santa at Carousel Acres {South Lyon}

December 1: Breakfast with St. Nick at St. Agnes Catholic Church {Fowlerville}

December 1: Donuts With Santa at Village Manor Retirement Center {Howell}

December 2: Pictures with Mr. & Mrs. Claus at Tony Sacco’s {Hartland}

December 7: Holiday in the Park Grand Opening {Howell}

December 8: Breakfast With Santa at Brighton Community Ed {Brighton}

December 8, 9, 15, 16: Breakfast With Santa at Howell Nature Center {Howell}

December 8: Jingle Jam at Venture Church {Howell}

December 9: Breakfast With Santa at American Spirit Centre {Brighton}

Share:

Holiday Glow {Nov. 17}

Fantasy of Lights Parade {Nov. 23}

Christmas in the Ville {Dec. 1}

Light Up The Park {Dec. 8}

Share: