December Delights: Food, Fun, and Shopping Festivities

By: Carolyn Hall | December 4, 2023
Young people with glasses of champagne at Christmas party. Friends celebrate New Year at home

December in Metro Detroit is a time of festive cheer, bright lights, and community gatherings, making it the perfect setting for a range of holiday events. From classic light displays to unique holiday markets, the area is bustling with activities that capture the spirit of the season. If you’re looking to feel extra festive this month, check out these December events…

THE DETROIT ZOO

December 7

8450 West 10 Mile Road, Royal Oak

How do you make a truck your own? We're redefining what it means to drive a pickup. With luxurious comfort, a world-class entertainment system, and a 6-position Multi-Flex Tailgate, Silverado is the change you've been waiting for.

From 6 to 10:00 p.m. on December 7th, guests can head to the Detroit Zoo for two events! Polar Beers attendees can also experience the magic of Wild Lights, the annual zoo celebration that covers the zoo in lights. Polar Beers will have a selection of local craft brews, a complimentary welcome drink, themed photo opportunities, and more. Tickets are available for general admission, designated drivers, VIPs, and VIP-designated drivers. VIP ticket holders gain access to the Polar Beers VIP lounge, with an exclusive menu including a garden salad, pasta bar, soups, desserts, hot chocolate, and more. General admission tickets are $50 and include six 5 oz. drink punches, while VIP tickets are $85 for access to the lounge and food, eight 5 oz. drink punches and an exclusive gift. 

EASTERN MARKET

December 8

2934 Russell Street, Detroit

Tequila fans, this one is for you! In Eastern Market Shed #3, the 7th annual Tequila Festival is returning on December 8th. With over 80 tequilas to choose from, this is a great chance to find a new favorite or enjoy your go-to. General admission tickets allow entry at 7:30 p.m., a commemorative sampling glass, photo booth pictures, and 10 drink sample tickets. VIP tickets also include the commemorative glass and photo booth pictures, but these attendees get early entry starting at 6 p.m. and receive 15 drink sample tickets.

ROYAL OAK FARMERS MARKET

December 9

316 East 11 Mile Road, Royal Oak

Whether you’re looking to enjoy some whiskey, wine, or both, the Whiskey and Wine Festival makes for a great evening out! With general admission tickets, attendees can enter the festival at 7:00 p.m., get 10 sample drink tickets, a commemorative glass, a keepsake photo, coat check, and enjoy live entertainment. The VIP tickets allow early entry at 6:00 p.m., 15 sample drink tickets, and the same amenities. Additional drink sample tickets are available for purchase. Food will also be available for purchase while you’re attending the event. 

CANTERBURY VILLAGE

2325 Joslyn Court, Lake Orion

Canterbury Village offers a quaint and charming holiday experience. Set in a historic, village-like setting, events feature unique shopping opportunities, festive decorations, and a range of activities for all ages. It’s a great spot to find unique gifts while enjoying the holiday ambiance. Some events to keep in mind are the Holiday Stroll, Breakfast with Santa or the Grinch, or the Canterbury Cookie Crawl, to name just a few. These family-friendly activities are a great time to spend time with loved ones and enjoy what the season has to offer. The Cookie Crawl is December 9 through 10th, but the Holiday Stroll and Breakfasts are taking place through December 23rd. 

DETROIT CRAWLS

November 24 – December 30

For an adult-oriented festive experience, the BYOB Christmas Light Trolley offers a unique way to see the city’s holiday lights. Participants can bring their own food and beverages and enjoy a drive to some of Metro Detroit’s most exciting events on the trolleys or Grinchmas buses. It’s a festive and social time, perfect for groups of friends or colleagues looking to celebrate the season together. There are three different routes, depending on which day you purchase tickets for. Routes include stops at Rochester Big Bright Light Show, Detroit Zoo Wild Lights, Campus Martius, Canterbury Village Holiday Stroll, and Beacon Park, so make sure you get tickets for the route with your most anticipated stops. When you purchase tickets for the ride, you’ll also get admission to the places along your route. 

RELATED STORIES