What’s Happening In Northern Michigan: Spreading Cheer with Holiday Events

Looking for some winter activities? Erin Murphey from West Michigan Tourist Association has details on what family fun you can have.

Mackinaw City Chamber of Commerce- Christmas in the City
Santa Claus is headed to Northern Michigan! Head to Mackinaw City this weekend to check out Christmas in the City, a Mackinaw Tradition since 1882. On Friday, December 9th, you can catch the Christmas Parade of Lights & Annual Tree Lighting starting at 6pm. The parade will process along Central Avenue and visitors will be able to also enjoy cookies & cocoa, a visit with Santa, and carols as you countdown to the lighting of the tree! Then on Saturday, December 10th, enjoy a delicious Breakfast with Santa at Audie’s Restaurant from 9-11:00 am – yum! Both of these great events are sponsored by the Mackinaw City Chamber of Commerce, and additional details can be found on their website.

Shanty Creek Resort- Tannenbaum Blitzen
Shanty Creek Resort in Bellaire is celebrating the holiday season with their annual Tannenbaum Blitzen, on Saturday, December 17th. Guests can view the torchlight parade down the face of Schuss Mountain, and enjoy activities like Christmas caroling, cookie decorating, and even a visit from Santa. Make sure to stay for the fireworks over Schuss Mountain immediately following the event. And for all you skiers and snowboarders – you’ll want to visit Shanty Creek on Christmas Day for their annual Ski Free with Santa – their holiday gift to you.

Traverse City Tourism- CherryT Ball Drop
And finally, New Year’s Eve will be here before you know it and if you’re still making your NYE plans, Traverse City’s got you covered. You can kick off 2023 at the CherryT Ball Drop, where instead of the ball dropping like in New York City, Michigan’s Cherry Capital drops a large cherry ball from the sky as everyone rings in the New Year. There will be a Live DJ onsite for dancing in the streets before the countdown to the Dropping of the Cherry at Midnight! Gates open at 10:30pm and a $5 donation to local charities gets you into the party.