Get thrilled for the holidays in Southfield! Our guide will help you find all the best festive events. Whether you're a Southfield local or a first-time visitor, our guide opens the door to holiday delights.
Popular events this season include the mesmerizing Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Lost Christmas Eve, where music and storytelling create a unique festive experience. The Holiday Lighted Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony features a captivating array of holiday lights and a community spirit that brightens the season. And don’t forget Mannheim Steamroller, known for its distinctive blend of classical and modern sounds that adds a magical touch to your holiday celebration. See more details on these and other fun events and activities below!
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Top Holiday Events In and Around Southfield
- Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Lost Christmas Eve (Detroit)
- Mannheim Steamroller (Detroit)
- Wild Lights – Detroit Zoo (Royal Oak)
- Holiday Lighted Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony (Northville)
- Kenny G Holiday Hits Show (Detroit)
- Holly Dickens Festival (Holly)
- Santacon Bar Crawl (Royal Oak)
- Detroit Winter Markets (Detroit)
- Charlie Brown Christmas (Detroit)
- Santacon Bar Crawl (Royal Oak)
See these and even more events listed below!
Southfield Holiday Light Displays
Holiday Lighted Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony
What to Expect:
Annual downtown tradition with bands, dancers, floats, and Santa.
Description:
The Holiday Lighted Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony in Downtown Northville features bands, dancers, floats, and Santa, culminating in a festive tree lighting ceremony in Town Square.
Where: Northville | More Info: Holiday Lighted Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony
Wild Lights – Detroit Zoo
What to Expect:
Synchronized light and sound show in a zoo setting
Description:
Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo features over five million LED lights illuminating trees, buildings, and sculptures. The event includes an Enchanted Trail, an underwater-themed trail, and Toyland with life-sized lighted toy sculptures. Guests can also enjoy seasonal treats and drinks, and experience a 4D movie of "The Polar Express."
Where: Royal Oak | More Info: Wild Lights – Detroit Zoo
Tree Lighting Ceremony
What to Expect:
Community tree lighting with live music and festivities.
Description:
The Southfield Tree Lighting Ceremony is a festive event held at the Donald F. Fracassi Municipal Campus, featuring the lighting of a beautifully decorated tree, live music, and holiday activities.
Where: Southfield | More Info: Tree Lighting Ceremony
Lights Before Christmas
What to Expect:
Holiday celebration in a zoo setting
Description:
The Toledo Zoo Lights Before Christmas features over one million lights, 200+ illuminated animal images, and a revitalized Winter Village. Enjoy rides, ice carvings, live animal encounters, and Santa visits amidst the festive atmosphere.
Where: Toledo | More Info: Lights Before Christmas
Tree Lighting Festival
What to Expect:
Lighting of a giant tree with festive activities.
Description:
The Tree Lighting Festival at the Wixom Community Center features the lighting of a giant tree, live Christmas carols, pictures with Santa, crafts, horse and carriage rides, and food.
Where: Wixom | More Info: Tree Lighting Festival
Tree Lighting
What to Expect:
Community celebration with Santa Claus visit and caroling.
Description:
The Tree Lighting Ceremony in Walled Lake features caroling, light refreshments, and a visit from Santa Claus, creating a joyful holiday atmosphere.
Where: Walled Lake | More Info: Tree Lighting
Southfield Holiday Markets and Shopping
Gifts & Greens Market
What to Expect:
Unique holiday shopping event with beautiful decorations and food.
Description:
The Gifts & Greens Market offers a variety of beautiful holiday decorations and delicious food items, providing a delightful shopping experience.
Where: Rochester Hills | More Info: Gifts & Greens Market
Detroit Winter Markets
What to Expect:
Information session for prospective vendors to learn about participating in the Downtown Detroit Markets.
Description:
The Downtown Detroit Winter Markets Vendor Information Session is a free event hosted by TechTown Detroit, providing prospective vendors with essential information and answers to questions about participating in the Downtown Detroit Markets. This session is designed to help small business owners understand what it takes to be a successful vendor in the markets, which are managed in partnership with Bedrock and the Downtown Detroit Partnership, and funded by the Gilbert Family Foundation.
Where: Detroit | More Info: Detroit Winter Markets
Christmas in Plymouth Mistletoe Market
What to Expect:
Unique Michigan-made treasures and local artisanal goods.
Description:
The Christmas in Plymouth Mistletoe Market offers an exclusive selection of handcrafted gifts, fresh greenery, and delicious baked goods from over 40 local vendors. The event is held under the Gathering Building and includes a new expansion area along Penniman Avenue.
Where: Plymouth | More Info: Christmas in Plymouth Mistletoe Market
Southfield Holiday Shows and Entertainment
A Holiday to Remember
What to Expect:
Family-friendly holiday celebration with Santa visits and horse wagon rides.
Description:
A family-friendly holiday event in Downtown Northville featuring holiday music, Santa visits, and free horse and wagon rides.
Where: Northville | More Info: A Holiday to Remember
Northville Chorale Concert
What to Expect:
Community-driven, non-audition choir with diverse musical experiences.
Description:
The Northville Chorale Concert features a non-audition community choir dedicated to making beautiful music and building community through member performances and educational outreach.
Where: Northville | More Info: Northville Chorale Concert
Bless us All: A City Lights Holiday Show
What to Expect:
Holiday concert featuring a chorus and local quartets.
Description:
The City Lights Chorus presents "Bless us All," a holiday show featuring the ensemble, chapter quartets, and local choruses, celebrating the holiday season with a blend of music and community spirit.
Where: Northville | More Info: Bless us All: A City Lights Holiday Show
Royal Oak Musicale Christmas
What to Expect:
Classical music performances by esteemed artists and ensembles.
Description:
Royal Oak Musicale presents a series of classical music performances featuring renowned artists and ensembles, celebrating the 100th season with free and public events at the First Congregational Church in Royal Oak.
Where: Royal Oak | More Info: Royal Oak Musicale Christmas
Canterbury Holiday Wonderland Walkthrough at Oakland Mall
What to Expect:
Holiday-themed events with live music and shopping.
Description:
Explore the enchanting atmosphere of Canterbury Village during the holiday season, featuring festive events like the Tree Lighting, Holiday Motown Night, and Taylor Swift Holiday Dance Party. Enjoy live music, holiday-themed activities, and shopping at the quaint village.
Where: Troy | More Info: Canterbury Holiday Wonderland Walkthrough at Oakland Mall
Holiday Hoopla
What to Expect:
Interactive brunch with royalty characters.
Description:
Join us for a light refreshment brunch with the Tower Princess and her Not-So-Thief Prince, featuring a special appearance by the Brave Princess. Enjoy festive shows, activities, and meet-and-greet with wintery, whimsical friends. Fees apply for ages 2 and older.
Where: Troy | More Info: Holiday Hoopla
Holly Dickens Festival
What to Expect:
Victorian-themed holiday celebration with historical characters and activities.
Description:
The Holly Dickens Festival is a historic celebration in downtown Holly, Michigan, where the story of "A Christmas Carol" comes to life. Meet characters like Ebenezer Scrooge, enjoy street performers, live music, and local vendors, all set in a Victorian England atmosphere.
Where: Holly | More Info: Holly Dickens Festival
Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Lost Christmas Eve
What to Expect:
Dazzling spectacle with pyrotechnics and lasers.
Description:
Trans-Siberian Orchestra presents "The Lost Christmas Eve," a rock opera celebrating 20 years with an all-new show featuring pyrotechnics, lasers, and powerful storytelling. The story follows a bitter old businessman who finds redemption through a life-altering phone call, resonating deeply over the holiday season.
Where: Detroit | More Info: Trans-Siberian Orchestra: The Lost Christmas Eve
Mannheim Steamroller
What to Expect:
Dazzling multimedia effects complementing classic Christmas music.
Description:
Mannheim Steamroller, led by Grammy Award-winning founder Chip Davis, presents a holiday concert featuring classic Christmas hits and multimedia effects in an intimate setting. The show celebrates over 35 years of their annual Christmas tour, showcasing the distinctive Mannheim sound with 15 musicians playing more than 20 instruments.
Where: Detroit | More Info: Mannheim Steamroller
Kenny G Holiday Hits Show
What to Expect:
World-renowned saxophonist presents jazz-infused holiday music.
Description:
Legendary saxophonist Kenny G performs a special holiday show, blending classic Christmas tunes with his signature jazz style.
Where: Detroit | More Info: Kenny G Holiday Hits Show
Charlie Brown Christmas
What to Expect:
Live stage adaptation of the classic animated special with real actors and Vince Guaraldi's musical score.
Description:
Join Charlie Brown, Snoopy, Lucy, Linus, and the rest of the Peanuts gang as they journey to uncover the true meaning of Christmas. This live stage adaptation of the timeless classic features all your favorite scenes from the original animated special, with more fun, music, and a deeper exploration of the holiday spirit. The show includes an intermission and culminates in a celebration of traditional Christmas songs and carols.
Where: Detroit | More Info: Charlie Brown Christmas
Carols & Beer
What to Expect:
Carol singing with local musicians at a brewery.
Description:
Central Church musicians venture out to Rustic Leaf Brewing Company for festive carol singing and perhaps a pint or two.
Where: Waterford | More Info: Carols & Beer
Southfield Other Holiday Activities
Holiday Fun & Santa Visits at the Farm
What to Expect:
Interactive holiday experience with Santa and farm animals.
Description:
Visit Maybury Farm to celebrate the holiday season with Santa in his antique sleigh, enjoy festive crafts, holiday music, and warm up by the bonfire. Share your wish list with Santa and explore the farm animals.
Where: Northville | More Info: Holiday Fun & Santa Visits at the Farm
Petting Farm & Reindeer Visits
What to Expect:
Interactive animal encounters in a farm environment.
Description:
Visit the Petting Farm at Stokoe Farms to interact with a variety of friendly animals, including reindeer, in a natural and educational setting.
Where: Rochester Hills | More Info: Petting Farm & Reindeer Visits
Holiday Tea in the Farmhouse
What to Expect:
Intimate tea hour in a historic farmhouse setting.
Description:
Join us for an informal afternoon tea hour at the 1840s Van Hoosen Farmhouse. Guests will interact with artifacts and documents while enjoying the ambiance of the historic farmhouse. A light snack will be served, and attendees can explore the Rochester community's love for books, stories, and artifacts.
Where: Rochester Hills | More Info: Holiday Tea in the Farmhouse
A Visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus
What to Expect:
Interactive holiday visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus.
Description:
Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Rochester Hills Museum's Van Hoosen Farm for a special holiday visit. Enjoy the festive atmosphere and create lasting memories with the iconic duo.
Where: Rochester Hills | More Info: A Visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus
Old Fashioned Christmas
What to Expect:
Traditional holiday activities in a historic farm setting.
Description:
Old Fashioned Christmas at the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm features traditional holiday activities, including decorated homes, holiday crafts, and festive community events.
Where: Rochester Hills | More Info: Old Fashioned Christmas
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, cardinals, and other wildlife 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
The Rink
What to Expect:
Free skating for Royal Oak residents on Tuesdays.
Description:
The Rink at Royal Oak is an official outdoor skating rink located in Centennial Commons, offering a fun and safe experience for all ages. Enjoy skating, special promotions, and unique events throughout the season.
Where: Royal Oak | More Info: The Rink
Santa’s Mini House
What to Expect:
Santa's Mini House offers a personal visit with Santa Claus in a retail setting.
Description:
Santa's Mini House is a holiday attraction where Mr. Santa Claus visits Downtown Royal Oak every Friday until Christmas, offering a special experience for families and individuals.
Where: Royal Oak | More Info: Santa’s Mini House
Santacon Bar Crawl
What to Expect:
Wristband required for exclusive drink specials and expedited admission.
Description:
Join thousands of holiday enthusiasts for a Santa-themed bar crawl in downtown Royal Oak, featuring over 2000 participants, live DJs, holiday-themed drink specials, and festive activities.
Where: Royal Oak | More Info: Santacon Bar Crawl
Jolly Days Carriage Rides
What to Expect:
Scenic holiday carriage rides through Downtown Royal Oak.
Description:
Horse-drawn carriage rides through Downtown Royal Oak, offering a scenic tour of the area'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 with seasonal decorations.
Description:
Celebrate the holiday season at the Historic Orson Starr House, featuring historic architecture and festive decorations.
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 family-friendly activities.
Description:
Join us for the Ice Menorah Lighting in downtown Royal Oak, featuring an Ice Menorah, Donut Decorating Bar, Children's Activity Zone, and more.
Where: Royal Oak | More Info: Ice Menorah Lighting
Santa at the Museum
What to Expect:
Santa's historic setting interaction.
Description:
Santa at the Museum features a special appearance by Santa Claus, offering photo opportunities and interacting with visitors in a historic setting.
Where: Royal Oak | More Info: Santa at the Museum
Soulful Santa Celebration
What to Expect:
Interactive holiday activities with Black Santa and local vendors.
Description:
The Soulful Santa Celebration is an event hosted by Southfield Parks & Recreation, featuring professional photo opportunities with Black Santa, take-home crafts, cookies, and hot chocolate. Families can shop at the Black-owned Vendor Marketplace, listen to holiday tales, and enjoy festive activities like the Wii Spin 360 Photobooth and a holiday performance by Impulse Dance Academy.
Where: Southfield | More Info: Soulful Santa Celebration
Somerset Collection Santa Photo-Visits
What to Expect:
Personalized holiday photo opportunities with Santa.
Description:
At Somerset Collection, Santa Photo-Visits offer a delightful opportunity to capture cherished holiday memories with Santa Claus. The event features photo visits with Santa, available during specific hours, providing a special moment for families to share.
Where: Troy | More Info: Somerset Collection Santa Photo-Visits
Mt. Clemens Christmas Events
What to Expect:
Community-driven holiday celebrations with diverse activities.
Description:
Mt. Clemens Christmas Events feature a variety of activities including holiday markets, light displays, and community gatherings that bring the community together to celebrate the season.
Where: Mt. Clemens | More Info: Mt. Clemens Christmas Events
Santacon Bar Crawl
What to Expect:
Unique holiday-themed bar crawl with exclusive drink specials and activities.
Description:
Join thousands of holiday enthusiasts for a festive bar crawl through Royal Oak's top venues, featuring exclusive drink specials, live music, and holiday-themed activities.
Where: Royal Oak | More Info: Santacon Bar Crawl
Breakfast With Santa
What to Expect:
Free pancake breakfast and personal visits with Santa for all children.
Description:
The Wixom Firefighters Foundation hosts an annual Breakfast With Santa event, offering a free pancake breakfast and personal visits with Santa for all children. Each child receives a small gift, making it a joyful and memorable occasion for everyone.
Where: Wixom | More Info: Breakfast With Santa
Tree Lighting Ceremony
What to Expect:
Illumination of the courthouse to kick off the holiday season.
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 unity and celebration.
Where: White Lake | More Info: Tree Lighting Ceremony
Tree Lighting
What to Expect:
Outdoor holiday activities with Santa and reindeer visits.
Description:
Celebrate the season with various FREE holiday activities including a visit and photo opportunity with Santa, a reindeer visit, crafts, and cookie decorating. This event is held outdoors at Waterford Township Hall, 5200 Civic Center Drive.
Where: Waterford | More Info: Tree Lighting
Holiday Extravaganza
What to Expect:
Community-driven holiday festivities with interactive activities and live entertainment.
Description:
The Holiday Extravaganza is a community celebration in downtown Pontiac, Michigan, featuring a parade, WinterFUN Festival, and various family-friendly activities like live ice carvings, petting farms, and Santa visits.
Where: Waterford | More Info: Holiday Extravaganza
Winter Solstice Celebration
What to Expect:
Lantern-lit nature walk with various activities.
Description:
Celebrate the darkest night of the year with a self-guided, 0.5-mile walk along a lantern-lit trail. Activities include glowing crafts, telescope viewing, custom glowing ice carving, and marshmallow roasting. The event features nature education stops and is suitable for families with children aged 3 and above.
Where: West Bloomfield | More Info: Winter Solstice Celebration
Festive Fun in Nearby Cities!
Discover Holiday events in hundreds of cities worldwide. Check out these nearby locations for more festive fun!
- Oak Park (2 miles)
- Royal Oak (4 miles)
- Ferndale (5 miles)
- Birmingham (5 miles)
- Madison Heights (6 miles)
- Redford (7 miles)
- Farmington Hills (8 miles)
- Dearborn Heights (10 miles)
- Troy (10 miles)
- Livonia (10 miles)
- Hamtramck (10 miles)
- West Bloomfield Township (11 miles)
- Dearborn (11 miles)
- Warren (11 miles)
- Garden City (12 miles)
- Pontiac (12 miles)
- Sterling Heights (12 miles)
- Novi (13 miles)
- Inkster (13 miles)
- Rochester Hills (13 miles)
- Detroit (13 miles)
- Eastpointe (14 miles)
- Westland (14 miles)
- Roseville (15 miles)
- Auburn Hills (15 miles)
- Allen Park (15 miles)
- Lincoln Park (16 miles)
- Windsor (16 miles)
- Taylor (16 miles)
- Shelby (17 miles)
- Saint Clair Shores (17 miles)
- Clinton Township (17 miles)
- Canton (17 miles)
- LaSalle (18 miles)
- Southgate (18 miles)
- Wyandotte (18 miles)
- Romulus (20 miles)
- Tecumseh (20 miles)
- Ann Arbor (30 miles)
- Monroe (40 miles)
- Burton (41 miles)
- Leamington (43 miles)
- Flint (44 miles)