The holiday season is just around the corner, bringing plenty of opportunities to celebrate with friends, family, and neighbors throughout Benzie and Manistee counties. From festive artisan markets and sparkling light displays to beloved Christmas parades and community tree lightings, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the season close to home.
Whether you're looking for a fun family outing, a chance to shop local or a little holiday magic, here are some upcoming events to add to your calendar.
Christmas in Onekama Artisans Market - November 21 & 22
Onekama
Kick off the holiday shopping season at the Christmas in Onekama Artisan Market. Browse handmade goods, shop local vendors, and find gifts for everyone on your list. It's a great opportunity to support local makers while getting a head start on holiday shopping. MORE INFO >>
First Light & Holiday Trail Celebration - November 27
Crystal Mountain
Crystal Mountain welcomes the holiday season with its annual First Light & Holiday Trail Celebration. Santa arrives on a horse-drawn surrey, followed by a festive tree lighting at 5:30 p.m. The evening also includes holiday music, family activities, special shopping offers, and an opportunity to see Santa's reindeer. It's a wonderful way to spend the evening and enjoy the holiday atmosphere at Crystal Mountain, which is always wonderfully aglow this time of year. MORE INFO >>
Holly Berry Arts & Crafts Fair - November 28
Frankfort
The Holly Berry Arts & Crafts Fair is a seasonal favorite for holiday shoppers. Head to Frankfort High School to browse local crafts, discover handmade gifts and enjoy a day of shopping with area artisans and vendors. MORE INFO >>
Sparkle in the Park - November 28 thru December 31:
Bear Lake
For a little holiday magic throughout the season, visit Sparkle in the Park in Bear Lake. This walk-through holiday light display features Christmas lights created by local businesses and residents. It's a festive outing for families, friends and anyone who enjoys taking in the sights of the season. With the display running through the end of December, there's plenty of time to make a visit part of your holiday traditions. MORE INFO >>
Victorian Sleighbell Parade & Old Christmas Weekend - December 3 - 6
Manistee
One of the area's most beloved holiday traditions returns to downtown Manistee for a full weekend of Christmas festivities. The Victorian Sleighbell Parade features horse-drawn carriages, bagpipers, carolers and draft horses pulling a 30-foot Christmas tree. Following the parade, enjoy community caroling, a tree lighting and fireworks. The weekend also includes a craft bazaar, Festival of Trees and additional holiday activities throughout downtown. The parade takes place Saturday, December 5, at 5:30 p.m. MORE INFO >>
Frankfort Community Tree Lighting - December 5
Frankfort
Gather with friends and neighbors at Rotary Park for Frankfort's Community Tree Lighting. This festive gathering offers a chance to enjoy a beloved holiday tradition and celebrate the season together. MORE INFO >>
Christmas Magic - December 12
Beulah
Christmas Magic brings a full day of holiday festivities to downtown Beulah. Enjoy holiday shopping, family activities, face painting, visits with Santa and horse-drawn wagon rides. The celebration wraps up with a lighted Christmas parade, bringing a festive glow to downtown Beulah. With activities throughout the day, Christmas Magic is a wonderful opportunity to gather with family and friends and enjoy one of Benzie County's favorite holiday traditions. MORE INFO >>
Celebrate the Season in Northern Michigan
From the first holiday markets in November to the festive parades and shopping nights in December, Benzie and Manistee counties offer plenty of ways to celebrate the season.
These community events are a great reminder of what makes Northern Michigan special: local traditions, small businesses and neighbors coming together to make the holidays memorable.
Be sure to check event websites and local organizers for the latest schedules and details before heading out. Happy holidays!
Photo courtesy of Manistee Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend
