The Ann Arbor area and beautiful surrounding destinations have you covered for festive fun and annual holiday events! Create new traditions, attend annual parades, meet Santa, and explore things to do this season. Use this event guide to start planning your next holiday adventure.
1. Midnight Madness
December 5
Midnight Madness is downtown Ann Arbor’s shopping extravaganza made up of holiday markets. Celebrate with massive discounts at shops and you may even spot Santa along the way. Find fire pits, s’mores, and plenty of shopping.
2. Chelsea’s Hometown Holiday
December, various dates
Chelsea’s Hometown Holiday brings a month packed with holiday celebrations, creating a winter experience that warms hearts and brings holiday spirit. Attend the annual Holiday Light Parade (December 6, 2025), enjoy gingerbread house displays, and use the bright red mailbox to send letters directly to Santa.
3. Light Up Dexter
December 5
Light Up Dexter brings holiday charm to Monument Park with an official tree lighting across 85 trees. After the lighting, meet Santa and have a cup of warm cocoa at the gazebo. Stay overnight and visit the beautiful Gordan Hall the next day for Christmas at the Mansion. Visit in January for the annual Dexter Ice Fest.
4. Milan Christmas Parade
December 6
The Snow Place like Milan annual Christmas Parade makes for a magical night of community gathering and holiday shopping at main street businesses staying open late.
5. Saline Holiday Parade
December 6
The annual Saline Holiday Parade nearby provides a visit to a true winter wonderland. Folks line the streets for a grand spectacle of nonstop entertainment with over 100 parade participants including dancers and musicians. Join the city in celebrating with this iconic showcase.
6. Manchester’s Christmas in the Village
December 6
Manchester becomes the center for winter festivities with its annual Christmas in the Village. The celebration includes a series of local events, sugary treats, tree lighting, floats, and craft shows. Expect plenty of friendly fun!
7. Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra: Holiday Pops
December 20
The annual Holiday Pops concert performed by the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra (A2SO) is a musical experience to plan on this holiday season. The A2SO performs holiday hits with eclectic arrangements. Special guest vocalist Olivia Van Goor returns for this year’s performance. Buy tickets.
8. Ypsilanti Holiday Markets & Events
Various Dates
Ypsilanti seasonal markets are scheduled!, Shop holiday gifts at vendor markets and festive events like Krampusmrkt: Handmade Holiday Bazaar, a must-visit event with a dark twist. (Artist: Holy Bones Art & Design) Explore Ypsilanti holiday events.
This is just a sample of what our surrounding destinations offer. Explore more area events here!
