Holiday Happenings Around Metro Detroit

By: Carolyn Hall | December 17, 2025
Detroit Zoo Wild Lights display - holiday events

Photo courtesy of the Detroit Zoo

As the year winds down and the holiday season starts to settle, Metro Detroit still thrives with a wonderland of twinkling lights, local markets, and festive celebrations. From cherished annual traditions to exciting new experiences, this season’s lineup offers countless ways to make lasting memories with friends and family.

Campus Martius Park

800 Woodward Avenue, Detroit 

Downtown Detroit’s holiday season officially began with the 22nd Annual Detroit Tree Lighting at Campus Martius Park. Now, visitors can enjoy time with family and friends at The Rink, which is open through early March, including New Year’s Eve until 10 p.m. Stop in to Chalet 313, a cozy heated lounge that overlooks the rink, sip on a seasonal beverage, and gaze at the lights surrounding the city. It’s the perfect way to soak in Detroit’s most dazzling time of year.

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family loading backpacks in a blazer

With ample space and advanced safety features, the Blazer ensures every journey is as enjoyable as the destination.

Beacon Park

1901 Grand River Avenue, Detroit

While downtown, stop by Beacon Park to explore Candyland, with large light displays and photo backdrops. Running daily through January 20, you can find a giant gingerbread house, life-size gingerbread men, walkthrough paths, themed decor, and more. Finish your trip off with dining locally, with options like Lumen or Sexy Steak nearby.

Detroit Zoo

8450 West 10 Mile Road, Royal Oak

Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo returns for another season of holiday wonder. More than 500 illuminated animal and nature displays light up the night across themed zones like the Enchanted Rainforest and Field of Lights. This event offers a perfect mix of beauty and family fun, featuring seasonal eats and drinks, fire pits, and pop-up performances. Guests can explore from November 22 through early January, making it an ideal outing for both holiday traditions and new memories amongst millions of lights. Whether it’s a date night or a family stroll, Wild Lights captures the magic of winter with every step.

Detroit Zoo Wild Lights entrance
Photo courtesy of the Detroit Zoo

Glenlore Trails

3860 Newton Road, Commerce Township

Glenlore Trails is another excellent family-friendly experience, with a mile-long path that lights up the night. Displays for Aurora – Winter Wizards are open through December 28th, marking the perfect opportunity to take a stroll and enjoy the sights. Grab some hot cocoa, interact with displays, and enjoy the serenity of the outdoors this holiday season.

From sparkling city lights to festive food, skating, and shopping, the holiday season across Metro Detroit offers something for everyone. Whether you’re sharing cocoa beneath twinkling trees or simply soaking in the joy of the season, these celebrations make it easy to embrace the spirit of togetherness that defines this time of year.

This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was published on November 14, 2023, and was authored by Carolyn Hall.

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