Michigan’s holiday season comes alive with the magic of twinkling lights and festive displays, and one of the best ways to experience the wonder is through its enchanting drive-thru Christmas light displays. From glowing tunnels of lights to larger-than-life holiday scenes, families can stay cozy in their cars while soaking in the festive spirit. Whether you’re looking for a quick evening adventure or a leisurely drive through miles of illuminated beauty, Michigan offers a variety of displays perfect for creating holiday memories. Here’s a look at some of the best drive-thru light shows to brighten your season.
Christmas in the Park
South Haven, Michigan
Visit Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort for a Christmas experience! The park is lit up with beautiful Christmas displays. A shorter drive-thru experience at only ½ mile, it still is worthwhile. Don’t forget to see Santa while you’re there and enjoy some goodies at Mrs. Claus’s Bake Shoppe! Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort is open Friday through Sunday from December 6th to December 22nd and Monday, December 23rd.
Christmas Lite Show
Comstock Park, Michigan
The Grand Rapids area light show is one you don’t want to miss. The show runs annually making 2024 its 27th year in business. In 2024, the show runs from November 22nd to January 4th. In addition to the drive-thru option, there are many other opportunities to explore the lights. The event hosts a one night only Winter Wonder Walk, where you guess it, you walk to the event. Similarly, they have the Reindeer Bike Ride, where kids can bring their bikes and ride along the path to enjoy the lights. The Christmas Lite Show also has a Memory Lane Train that is worth checking out.
Magic of Lights
Clarkston, Michigan
Located at the Pine Knob Music Theater near Detroit, Michigan, the Magic of Lights runs from November 22nd to December 30th. The holiday light display includes digital animations, holiday scenes and characters such as Holiday Barbie, dinosaurs, and more.
Nite Lites
Brooklyn, Michigan
The Nite Lites at Michigan International Speedway runs from November 22nd to January 5th. The venue has more than the standard drive-thru. They host a 5K run/walk on November 16th before the show officially opens for the season. They also offer a Train Ride Thru Show if you want something different than the drive-thru option.
The Colors of Christmas
Newaygo, Michigan
The Colors of Christmas is in Newaygo at the Croton Township Campground. While many of the drive-thru light shows have a car fee, The Colors of Christmas is donation-based and proceeds go to Newaygo County Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect. The Colors of Christmas runs from November 29th to January 1st.
Sparkle in the Park
Bear Lake, Michigan
Sparkle in the Park takes place at Hopkins Park Campground in Northern Michigan. This year’s display starts on November 30th and runs through December 31st. On opening night you can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus as well as enjoy free tailgate food such as chili, cookies and hot chocolate. Enjoy beautifully lit up trees, snowmen cutouts and so much more at Hopkins Park Campground. Sparkle in the Park is free, but donations are greatly appreciated.
Winter Wonderland
Hickory Corners, Michigan
Combine a drive-thru experience with indoor holiday cheer at the Gilmore Car Museum. Winter Wonderland Holiday Experience takes place on the 90-acre campus with holiday lights and displays. Then the magic continues inside with fun things to do like roast s’mores or decorating a holiday ornament and don’t forget to write a letter to Santa! Certain nights will have live holiday music and visits from Santa as well!
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