Plan your festive adventure in Royal Oak with our ultimate event guide. Whether you're a local or a tourist, our guide opens the door to Royal Oak's holiday delights.
Popular Events: Experience the enchanting Rochester Big Bright Light Show, where streets are illuminated with millions of sparkling lights, creating a magical atmosphere for all. The Santacon Bar Crawl promises a lively night, blending holiday cheer with spirited festivities across local bars. And don't forget, Margaret Cho's standout performance adds a unique twist to your holiday season. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Royal Oak
- Rochester Big Bright Light Show (Rochester)
- Santacon Bar Crawl
- Margaret Cho
- Hip-Prov Charity Fundraiser
- Wild Lights – Detroit Zoo
- The Rink
- Jolly Days Carriage Rides
- Santa at the Museum
- Ice Menorah Lighting
- Festive Christmas Open House at the Historic Orson Starr House
See these and even more events listed below!
Royal Oak Holiday Light Displays
Rochester Big Bright Light Show
What to Expect:
Synchronized holiday light display on historic downtown buildings.
Description:
Downtown Rochester is adorned with over 1.5 million Christmas lights, creating a spectacular holiday display every evening from 5 p.m. to midnight.
Where: Rochester | More Info: Rochester Big Bright Light Show
Wild Lights – Detroit Zoo
What to Expect:
Holiday light display in a zoo setting
Description:
Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo features millions of twinkling LED lights illuminating buildings, trees, sculptures, and a walk-through light tunnel. The event includes immersive displays, an interactive wishing tree, and seasonal treats.
Where: Royal Oak | More Info: Wild Lights – Detroit Zoo
Canterbury Tree Lighting
What to Expect:
Synchronized light and sound show on a 45-foot Christmas tree.
Description:
Canterbury Village's Tree Lighting event features a 45-foot, music-synchronized Christmas tree, live carolers, and beloved holiday characters like Santa and the Grinch. Stores are open for holiday shopping, and hot cocoa and warm cider are available near outdoor fire pits.
Where: Lake Orion | More Info: Canterbury Tree Lighting
Orion Lighted Christmas Parade
What to Expect:
Nostalgic "Storybook Christmas" theme with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Description:
The Orion Lighted Christmas Parade is a festive event in Downtown Lake Orion, featuring a nostalgic "Storybook Christmas" theme. Participants and businesses are encouraged to light up the night, creating a spectacular holiday display. The parade includes the iconic appearance of Santa and Mrs. Claus, along with complimentary professional photos and special gifts from Santa.
Where: Lake Orion | More Info: Orion Lighted Christmas Parade
Meadow Brook Hall Holiday Walk
What to Expect:
Historic mansion decorated with over 50 magnificent trees and thousands of lights.
Description:
Explore the historic mansion at Meadow Brook Hall, featuring over 50 magnificent trees, hundreds of feet of garland, and thousands of twinkling lights. This self-guided indoor tour offers a glimpse into the Dodge and Wilson families' winter traditions.
Where: Rochester | More Info: Meadow Brook Hall Holiday Walk
Tree Lighting Festival
What to Expect:
Community tree lighting with festive activities.
Description:
The Wixom Tree Lighting Festival at the Community Center features Santa, Christmas carols, pictures with Santa, crafts, horse and carriage rides, and much more.
Where: Wixom | More Info: Tree Lighting Festival
Tree Lighting
What to Expect:
Holiday tree lighting with Santa Claus visit.
Description:
The Tree Lighting Ceremony in Walled Lake features the holiday tree lighting and a visit from Santa Claus, with festivities starting at the city library and including caroling, light refreshments, and crafts.
Where: Walled Lake | More Info: Tree Lighting
Royal Oak Holiday Markets and Shopping
Holiday Market
What to Expect:
Unique artisan gifts and local food offerings.
Description:
The Oxford Holiday Market is a charming event featuring unique artisan gifts, delicious food, and holiday music. Visitors can explore handcrafted goods from talented local artisans, including handmade jewelry and festive decorations. The market will be held at the Oxford Community Center, offering tasty lunch options and sweet treats like apple strudel, stollen, and cookies with a delicious cup of tea.
Where: Oxford | More Info: Holiday Market
Gifts & Greens Market
What to Expect:
Unique holiday market with handmade decorations and food items.
Description:
The Gifts & Greens Market is a holiday event where shoppers can find beautiful holiday decorations, delicious food items, and unique handmade gifts. Club members volunteer their time and talents to create these items, making it a great way to support local horticulture and community projects.
Where: Rochester Hills | More Info: Gifts & Greens Market
Royal Oak Holiday Shows and Entertainment
Margaret Cho
What to Expect:
High-energy comedy tour with diverse performances.
Description:
Margaret Cho is a renowned comedian and performer known for her dynamic stage presence and unapologetic humor. Her LIVE & LIVID tour promises an energetic and engaging experience with a diverse range of performances.
Where: Royal Oak | More Info: Margaret Cho
Hip-Prov Charity Fundraiser
What to Expect:
Charity event with nationally recognized comedians.
Description:
Hip-Prov Charity Fundraiser is a unique blend of comedy and charity, featuring nationally recognized comedians performing for a great cause. The event includes a buffet dinner, live auction, silent auction, and 50/50 raffle, all while supporting local families in need.
Where: Royal Oak | More Info: Hip-Prov Charity Fundraiser
Holly Dickens Festival
What to Expect:
Victorian-themed holiday celebration with historical charm.
Description:
The Holly Dickens Festival is a historic celebration in downtown Holly, Michigan, featuring costumed characters, street performers, live music, and local vendors, all inspired by Charles Dickens' "A Christmas Carol."
Where: Holly | More Info: Holly Dickens Festival
Soup & Sweet Stroll
What to Expect:
Enjoy 5 soups and unlimited sweets, including hot chocolate stations and a chocolate fountain, while shopping along Main Street.
Description:
Downtown Oxford restaurants and businesses come together to offer signature soups and sweets, with Santa Claus visits, strolling carolers, and a tree lighting ceremony at Centennial Park.
Where: Oxford | More Info: Soup & Sweet Stroll
The Downtown Trolley “Polar” Express
What to Expect:
Interactive storytelling with hot chocolate and cookies.
Description:
The Downtown Trolley “Polar” Express is a theatrical one-hour excursion where passengers re-live the classic story of The Polar Express. They will be served hot chocolate and cookies, read along with the book, and receive a silver sleigh bell from Santa. Families are encouraged to wear pajamas and enjoy caroling and entertainment on the return trip.
Where: Oxford | More Info: The Downtown Trolley “Polar” Express
Creepy Cheapy Holiday Treat
What to Expect:
Live holiday music with a twist of creepy fun.
Description:
Creepy Cheapy Holiday Treat is a nostalgic and creepy holiday dance party featuring live holiday music from Strangers Unlimited performing iconic holiday hits, along with Deejay Jandro playing throwback dance party jams from the 80s to the 00s. Costumes are encouraged, and the event includes a Christmas cookie eating contest and holiday cocktail specials.
Where: Pontiac | More Info: Creepy Cheapy Holiday Treat
Carols & Beer
What to Expect:
Live carol singing at a local brewery.
Description:
Central Church musicians venture out to Rustic Leaf Brewing Company for festive carol singing, creating a joyful evening of fellowship and music.
Where: Waterford | More Info: Carols & Beer
Royal Oak Other Holiday Activities
Santacon Bar Crawl
What to Expect:
Holiday-themed bar crawl with exclusive drink specials and activities.
Description:
Join thousands of holiday enthusiasts for a festive bar crawl through downtown Royal Oak. Enjoy exclusive drink specials, live DJs, and holiday-themed activities at multiple participating locations. Dress in your best Santa or holiday attire for a fun-filled afternoon and evening of cheer.
Where: Royal Oak | More Info: Santacon Bar Crawl
The Rink
What to Expect:
Unique outdoor ice skating experience with community events.
Description:
The Rink at Royal Oak is an outdoor skating rink located in Centennial Commons, offering a 60 by 90-foot skating surface with great music, lighting, and special events throughout its season.
Where: Royal Oak | More Info: The Rink
Jolly Days Carriage Rides
What to Expect:
Horse-drawn carriage rides through Downtown Royal Oak.
Description:
Horse-drawn carriage rides through Downtown Royal Oak, offering a scenic tour of the city's holiday decorations and attractions.
Where: Royal Oak | More Info: Jolly Days Carriage Rides
Festive Christmas Open House at the Historic Orson Starr House
What to Expect:
Historic home tour during Christmas season
Description:
Explore the historic Orson Starr House, a Greek Revival home built in 1845, during a special Christmas open house event. Learn about the home's significance and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
Where: Royal Oak | More Info: Festive Christmas Open House at the Historic Orson Starr House
Ice Menorah Lighting
What to Expect:
Interactive menorah lighting with festive activities.
Description:
Join us for the Ice Menorah Lighting in downtown Royal Oak, featuring an Ice Menorah, donut decorating bar, children's activity zone, hot cocoa, latkes, and a grand gelt drop from a fire truck ladder.
Where: Royal Oak | More Info: Ice Menorah Lighting
Santa at the Museum
What to Expect:
Meet Santa in a historic museum setting.
Description:
Santa at the Museum features a beloved holiday tradition where visitors can meet Santa Claus in a historic setting, surrounded by artifacts and exhibits that highlight Royal Oak's rich history.
Where: Royal Oak | More Info: Santa at the Museum
Breakfast with Santa
What to Expect:
Personal visits with Santa and a small gift for each child.
Description:
The Wixom Firefighters Foundation hosts an annual Breakfast with Santa event, offering a pancake breakfast and personal visits with Santa for all children, making it a cherished tradition for Wixom residents.
Where: Wixom | More Info: Breakfast with Santa
Tree Lighting Ceremony
What to Expect:
Community-driven tree lighting ceremony with independent judges selecting the best float.
Description:
The Tree Lighting Ceremony is a festive event where the community comes together to illuminate the courthouse, marking the beginning of the holiday season with a sense of community and tradition.
Where: White Lake | More Info: Tree Lighting Ceremony
Oxford Christmas Parade
What to Expect:
Community-driven holiday celebration with festive floats and community participation.
Description:
The Oxford Christmas Parade is a classic holiday event held in downtown Oxford, featuring festive floats, community participation, and holiday cheer.
Where: Oxford | More Info: Oxford Christmas Parade
Winter Solstice Celebration
What to Expect:
Lantern-lit trail with astronomy and nature activities.
Description:
Celebrate the Winter Solstice with a self-guided, 0.5-mile walk along a lantern-lit trail. Activities include a glowing craft, telescope viewing with the Oakland Astronomy Club, a custom glowing ice carving, and marshmallow roasting. This event is entirely outside and requires masks. It is recommended for families with children aged 3 and above.
Where: West Bloomfield | More Info: Winter Solstice Celebration
Women’s Resin Menorah Making
What to Expect:
Hands-on resin menorah crafting with a professional artist.
Description:
Create your own resin art menorah in a guided session with a professional artist, combining creativity and tradition.
Where: Auburn Hills | More Info: Women’s Resin Menorah Making
Sensory Santa
What to Expect:
Sensory-friendly Santa experience for individuals with autism and special needs.
Description:
Sensory Santa offers a calm and inclusive environment for all ages and abilities, minimizing sensory overload and providing a safe space for everyone. Trained staff and volunteers support individuals with special needs, ensuring each guest receives the support and attention they deserve.
Where: Auburn Hills | More Info: Sensory Santa
Christmas in the Village
What to Expect:
Community holiday celebration with festive activities and shopping.
Description:
Join us in Downtown Ortonville for Christmas in the Village, featuring holiday activities, shopping, and a Christmas Parade. Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy caroling, and light the Christmas Tree.
Where: Ortonville | More Info: Christmas in the Village
Holiday Hike
What to Expect:
Brisk winter hike to spot overwintering wildlife.
Description:
Join us for a brisk winter hike at Bloomer Park, where you can search for animal tracks, chickadees, deer, and cardinals that overwinter in Michigan. Wear your festive gear and enjoy the natural beauty of the park. Suitable for all ages, children under 14 must be accompanied by a paid adult. Participants will meet at the Hilltop Shelter in Bloomer Park.
Where: Rochester Hills | More Info: Holiday Hike
Old Fashioned Christmas
What to Expect:
Traditional Norwegian food and heritage skills demonstrations.
Description:
Old Fashioned Christmas is a festive event featuring traditional Norwegian food, family crafts, heritage skills demonstrations, and activities like horse-drawn wagon rides and a yule log hunt. It also includes a visit from Santa and a variety of vendors selling local goods.
Where: Rochester Hills | More Info: Old Fashioned Christmas
Holiday Tea in the Farmhouse
What to Expect:
Intimate tea hour with historical artifacts and documents.
Description:
Join an informal afternoon tea hour at the historic Van Hoosen Farmhouse, where guests can interact with artifacts and documents from the archives while enjoying the ambiance of the 1840s farmhouse. This unique event is limited to 12 people and includes tea and a light snack. Explore the Rochester community's love of books with stories and artifacts from the archives, learning about local women who established the first public library and the Van Hoosen's book collection.
Where: Rochester Hills | More Info: Holiday Tea in the Farmhouse
Visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus
What to Expect:
Personalized interactions with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Description:
Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus for a special holiday visit, complete with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Where: Rochester Hills | More Info: Visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus
Petting Farm & Reindeer Visits
What to Expect:
Interactive farm animal encounters.
Description:
Visit the Stokoe Farms Petting Zoo and Reindeer Visits to interact with a variety of friendly farm animals, including goats, sheep, and reindeer. This interactive experience allows families to connect with nature and create lasting memories.
Where: Rochester Hills | More Info: Petting Farm & Reindeer Visits
Candy Cane Hunt
What to Expect:
Holiday-themed scavenger hunt for kids.
Description:
Candy Cane Hunt is a festive event where participants search for hidden candy canes in a fun and engaging environment, fostering community spirit and holiday cheer.
Where: South Lyon | More Info: Candy Cane Hunt
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- Madison Heights (2 miles)
- Ferndale (2 miles)
- Oak Park (3 miles)
- Southfield (4 miles)
- Birmingham (5 miles)
- Warren (7 miles)
- Troy (8 miles)
- Hamtramck (8 miles)
- Sterling Heights (9 miles)
- Eastpointe (10 miles)
- Roseville (11 miles)
- Redford (11 miles)
- Dearborn (12 miles)
- Rochester Hills (12 miles)
- Farmington Hills (12 miles)
- Detroit (12 miles)
- Dearborn Heights (12 miles)
- Pontiac (13 miles)
- Saint Clair Shores (13 miles)
- Clinton Township (13 miles)
- West Bloomfield Township (13 miles)
- Livonia (14 miles)
- Shelby (14 miles)
- Auburn Hills (14 miles)
- Windsor (15 miles)
- Garden City (15 miles)
- Inkster (16 miles)
- Allen Park (16 miles)
- Lincoln Park (17 miles)
- Novi (17 miles)
- Tecumseh (17 miles)
- Westland (17 miles)
- LaSalle (17 miles)
- Taylor (18 miles)
- Wyandotte (19 miles)
- Southgate (19 miles)
- Canton (21 miles)
- Romulus (23 miles)
- Ann Arbor (34 miles)
- Leamington (41 miles)
- Monroe (42 miles)
- Burton (43 miles)