The holidays are a busy time. Many are working longer hours, shopping more, and finishing the semester at school – the list is long. We all need a break from the action to enjoy the holidays. This time of year offers us a chance to take part in the holiday magic with bright lights, special events, and festive festivals.
The Michigan Festivals and Events Association is “Your source for pure Michigan fun!” Here are a few highlights for the holidays:
Big, Bright Light Show in Rochester
The lights are on nightly, from 5:00 p.m. until Midnight, now through January 4, then weekends only the rest of January 2015. One million lights cover Downtown Rochester in blankets of color. 248-656-0060
The festival features three craft and vendor shows, Santa’s Zoo, ice sculpturing, Children’s Lunch with Santa, national and international entertainment including a headliner pop-music and county music concerts. Other activities include Holiday Hounds on Parade and children’s activities. Evening festivities begin with a spectacular fireworks display, followed by the largest Parade of Lights in the Midwest. Illuminated with thousands of lights, fire trucks, floats, parade balloons, cartoon characters, farm implements, bands and marching groups join in lighted displays that entertain nearly two hours. Runs December 5-7. 734-269-6017
Holly Dickens Festival
Only two more weekends left to catch the 30-year-old tradition in Holly. The Dickens Festival has been delighting “Holly-day” revelers in historic downtown Holly, MI. For many visitors, it has become a cherished tradition. Merry Ole England comes alive in the atmosphere of the turn of the century buildings. Choirs, horse-drawn carriage rides, and roasting chestnuts add to the unique old world experience. Watch as Charles Dickens’ beloved characters – Scrooge, Marley, Tiny Tim and others come to life. Bring the whole family. This free event runs Saturdays 1:00 – 8:00 P.M. and Sundays 1:00 – 5:00 P.M. 248-431-1894
Clarkston Holiday Lights Night
This year, the Independence Township Parks, Recreation & Seniors Department is proud to offer our annual free Holiday Lights Night in Depot Park. Holiday Lights Night will take place on Saturday, December 13 immediately following the annual Holiday Lights Parade in downtown Clarkston, sponsored by Clarkston High School’s Team Rush. Our festivities are ready for you by 6:30, so following the parade, stroll on down to Depot Park for more holiday family fun. 248-625-8223
Rochester Christmas Women’s Luncheon
Held Thursday, December 18, from 1:00 – 3:15 P.M. at the Older Persons’ Commission in the Cattell Auditorium. Enjoy a delicious luncheon, served to you by the attentive OPC Men Waiters. Then the entertainment begins as Betty Jones and Diana Schreiber mesmerize you with the great stage presence and incredibly beautiful harmony as they sing all your Christmas favorites. Tickets are $10.00 248-608-0251
Of course, there are even more events to choose from. Please visit www.MichiganFun.com to see all that the Michigan Festivals and Events Association is involved with in our great state.
Closer to home, visit the Downtown Rochester Website and for more around the state of Michigan, visit the Pure Michigan Website.
Rochester Media does not want you to let the holidays slip by without enjoying them. Take a break from school, work and shopping to celebrate the season with family and friends.
About Michael Dwyer