Looking for a new way to celebrate the holidays this year? Consider bringing your family to Traverse City, Michigan, to create some unforgettable memories and traditions. Ask your family what their favorite activity of the holidays and you are sure to hear “see the Christmas lights!” as an answer. There is something simply magical about seeing local neighborhoods and events decked out in thousands of Christmas lights that add a little shine to the season. Traverse City offers an array of festive Christmas lights and displays that are sure to brighten your holiday season. Our vacation rentals will keep you close by them so you can spend more time exploring the area and its abundance of holiday lights. Take a look at the best ways to see Christmas lights in Traverse City this holiday season.

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Where to See Christmas Lights in Traverse City

Looking for a festive way to enjoy the Christmas lights in Traverse City? Take a stroll through the local neighborhoods and soak in the beautiful displays put up by the residents. Festive Alleys transforms into Christmas Alley near Central Traverse City, with houses adorned with thousands of twinkling lights, reindeer on rooftops, and illuminated Santas. It’s common to find friendly locals greeting passersby from their garages. Not far from Christmas Alley is Grand Traverse Commons, where a magnificent Christmas tree stands at the center, surrounded by historic hospital buildings. It’s a perfect spot to take a break before continuing your light-viewing adventure. Just a short distance from the Commons, 6th Street boasts charming Victorian homes bedecked with festive lights and decorations. These are just a few of the many neighborhoods that you are able to explore. You will find that Traverse City is a welcoming city that shines bright with all of our Christmas lights on display for the season.

Light Parade and Annual Tree Lighting with Santa Claus

One of the highlights of the holiday season is the Light Parade and Annual Tree Lighting with Santa, which marks the official start of the holiday season in Downtown Traverse City. This enchanting event features the illumination of a magnificent Christmas tree, with the city mayor and Santa himself in attendance. Following the tree lighting, a captivating light parade kicks off, featuring beautifully decorated floats and lively musical performances. The parade winds its way through the city streets, creating a magical atmosphere for all to enjoy. After the parade, don’t miss the chance to visit Santa’s house at Rotary Square, where you can meet Santa and capture a memorable photo with him. This delightful event is free to attend and promises hours of holiday cheer. Make sure to arrive early to secure a prime spot along the parade route, and don’t forget to bring your best light-up accessories to add to the festive atmosphere. This year’s Light Parade and Annual Tree Lighting with Santa takes place on November 23rd with the festivities beginning promptly at 5:30 PM. This is an absolutely free event that is open to the community including our visitors. Traverse City’s Light Parade and Annual Tree Lighting with Santa is a cherished tradition that promises to fill your holiday season with joy and wonder.

Where to See Christmas Lights in Traverse City

Lights Gone Wild

If you find yourself at Traverse City State Park during your visit to Traverse City, make sure to check out Lights Gone Wild in the evening. This breathtaking holiday light display has been in the making for two decades and has become one of the area’s most stunning attractions. Lights Gone Wild is a beautiful tribute to the former Clinch Park Zoo, featuring Christmas light displays that bring shining animal shapes to life at night. This year, Lights Gone Wild is expected to be open in November and December. While a Michigan Recreation Passport has been required in the past, you can easily register at the gates. Don’t miss out on this nostalgic nod to a classic Michigan attraction.

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Get to Booking Here in Traverse City

These are some phenomenal events and ways for you to see all of the beautiful Christmas lights here in Traverse City. You will have a vacation getaway that is second to none when you reserve one of our exclusive vacation rentals here in the area. Our properties or privately owned vacation homes can be found near these holiday events that feature Christmas lights. You can even find a property located in the many neighborhoods that are known for houses to put on stunning displays of Christmas lights out front. You will find it easy to feel right at home like a local and enjoy luxury amenities that hotels and other properties are unable to provide. Make the most of your holiday stay in Traverse City this year and book with us just in time for the holidays. Contact us to book your stay today. Browse our rentals by amenity here.

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