The holiday season has arrived! This festive time of year is filled with toy lists, gingerbread cookies and beautiful light displays that brighten up the night sky. Michigan has several stellar places to experience safe, outdoor holiday light events.
Here are six of the best holiday light displays for the whole family to enjoy!
Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo in Royal Oak is a highly anticipated holiday tradition. More than five million LED lights illuminate animal sculptures, trees and buildings throughout the park. The zoo also features fun activities and entertainment for all ages. Make sure to purchase tickets in advance before they sell out.
Photo courtesy of The Detroit Zoological Society
2. Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village
Holiday Nights in Greenfield Village is one of the country’s premier holiday celebrations for more than 20 years. The 80-acre campus is full of bustling activities including historic tours, bonfires, music, warm food and a fireworks grand finale.
Photo courtesy of KMS Photography
Located at the Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn, this drive-through display stretches over three miles. Nite Lites features a 250 ft light tunnel and real reindeer.
Photo courtesy of John Spink, Nite Lites
No need to get out of the car for this event! Westland hosts the largest drive-through light show in the Midwest with more than 47 massive displays. The Lightfest begins at Hines Drive and Merriman Road in Westland and exits onto Warren Avenue near Telegraph Road in Dearborn Heights.
Photo courtesy of Charter County of Wayne County, Michigan
Downtown Rochester’s buildings are on display with The Big, Bright Light Show. The buildings in downtown Rochester are covered with more than 1.5 million glimmering lights of all colors and you can even spot Santa’s large sleigh on top of one shop.
Photo courtesy of Rochester Downtown Development AuthorityPhoto courtesy of Rochester Downtown Development Authority
Sault Ste. Marie becomes a winter wonderland as hundreds of miles of ice and snow become a playground for snowmobiling, ice fishing, sledding and more. Local businesses, homes and popular attractions are covered in bright lights that can be seen from 210 miles up in the air from the Tower of History.
Photo courtesy of Light up the Soo Community Organization
Either driving or walking, make sure you and the kids are prepared with a survival kit while you check out the lights that includes:
- Hot cocoa
- Snacks
- Cozy blankets
- Light up accessories
- Santa hats or reindeer antlers can add to the fun!
Have a favorite light display? Take a photo and tag us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram!