The holiday season is a magical time in Southeast Michigan, and places like Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and their charming neighboring towns capture that festive spirit beautifully. From twinkling lights along Main Street to artisan markets brimming with handcrafted gifts, the area comes alive with the sights, sounds, and flavors of winter celebration. Whether you’re a local looking to embrace hometown traditions or a visitor ready to explore a cozy Midwest wonderland, you’ll find no shortage of ways to make the season merry and bright.

This year, bundle up and head out to experience everything from beloved community festivals and art fairs, to live performances and sparkling light displays. Ann Arbor offers sophistication with a touch of small-town charm, Ypsilanti infuses creativity and local flair, and the surrounding communities round it all out with family-friendly fun and heartwarming traditions. Here’s your guide to the best holiday events in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, and beyond.

Disability Network Holiday Art Market

Disability Network Washtenaw Monroe Livingston, 3941 Research Park Dr, Ann Arbor
November 15th & December 6th, 1-4 p.m.

Support local artists and find truly unique holiday gifts at the Disability Network Holiday Art Market, held at Disability Network Washtenaw Monroe Livingston on November 15th and December 6th from 1-4 p.m. Now in its third year, the market celebrates the creativity and talent of artists with disabilities. A $5 suggested donation helps support the market and its mission.

Browse an incredible array of handcrafted jewelry, pottery, paintings, textiles, photographs, small sculptures, paper quilling, and more – perfect for gifts or personal keepsakes. The market offers free refreshments, and the December event adds gift wrapping for your purchases. By attending, you’re not only getting a head start on your holiday shopping but also supporting a community of artists and makers whose creativity makes the season brighter.

Dexter Winter Farmers Market

Huron River Methodist Church, 7643 Huron River Dr, Dexter
November 15th, December 6th, & 20th, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Embrace the spirit of the season and shop local at the Dexter Winter Farmers Market, held at Huron River Methodist Church on November 15th, December 6th, and December 20th from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This festive market brings together the best of Dexter’s local producers, artisans, and musicians for two cozy winter Saturdays filled with community connection and holiday charm.

Browse a delightful mix of art, crafts, jewelry, baked goods, and fresh local products including produce, eggs, cheese, and meats – all perfect for holiday meals or gifting. As you explore, enjoy the sounds of live local musicians and take part in vendor drawings for a chance to win goodies from your favorite makers. The Dexter Winter Farmers Market is more than a shopping experience – it’s a celebration of local talent and the simple joys of supporting your neighbors during the holiday season.

Holiday Art Fair 2025

Riverside Arts Center, 76 N Huron St, Ypsilanti
November 22nd, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. & November 23rd, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Get an early start on your holiday shopping at the Holiday Art Fair 2025, returning for its third year at the Riverside Arts Center on November 22nd from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and November 23rd from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. A $1 suggested donation supports the venue while you explore a festive weekend filled with creativity and community spirit.

This fair highlights handmade art, vintage goods, and self-care products, offering the perfect opportunity to find unique gifts for loved ones or to treat yourself. Whether you’re hunting for one-of-a-kind holiday presents, birthday surprises, or simply want to enjoy the charm of local artistry, Riverside Arts Center’s Holiday Art Fair provides a welcoming, festive space to kick off the winter season in style.

5th Annual Ypsi Artisan Holiday Market

Ypsilanti Freighthouse, 100 Market Pl, Ypsilanti
November 29th-30th & December 20th-21st, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Get into the holiday spirit at the 5th Annual Ypsi Artisan Holiday Market, held at the historic Ypsilanti Freighthouse on November 29th and 30th, and December 20th and 21st from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This beloved community event brings together more than 40 Ypsilanti-based small businesses, talented crafters, and local nonprofits for a festive weekend filled with creativity, connection, and cheer.

Stroll through rows of booths featuring handcrafted gifts, art, jewelry, home décor, and specialty goods, all made with care by local artisans. It’s the perfect place to find meaningful presents while supporting the Ypsilanti community. Beyond shopping, guests can enjoy live entertainment throughout the day, adding music and laughter to the warm, bustling atmosphere of the Freighthouse. Whether you’re hunting for that perfect handmade treasure or simply soaking in the holiday magic, the Ypsi Artisan Holiday Market is a must-visit event that celebrates the best of local talent and seasonal joy.

Midnight Madness

S Main Street, Ann Arbor
December 5th

Kick off the holiday season with Midnight Madness on December 5th in downtown Ann Arbor. This long-running tradition transforms downtown into a lively winter wonderland, offering festive fun for shoppers, families, and night owls alike.

Stores stay open late with special deals, holiday promotions, and seasonal treats, while the streets come alive with music, twinkling lights, and cheerful crowds. It’s the perfect opportunity to find unique gifts, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and experience the excitement of Ann Arbor’s vibrant downtown. Whether you’re strolling with friends, exploring local boutiques, or sipping on a warm beverage as you take in the lights, Midnight Madness is a spirited way to embrace the magic of the season.

Chelsea Hometown Holiday & Light Parade

The Parade runs along Chelsea’s Main Street from Old US 12 to E Middle St.
December 6th, 6 p.m.

Step into a storybook holiday scene at the Chelsea Hometown Holiday & Light Parade, taking place on December 6th at 6 p.m. along Chelsea’s Main Street, from Old US 12 to E Middle Street. This cherished annual celebration transforms downtown Chelsea into a sparkling winter wonderland, complete with glowing floats, festive music, and the joyful spirit of community togetherness.

Families and friends gather along the parade route to watch illuminated floats, marching bands, and costumed characters fill the night with holiday cheer. Local businesses deck their storefronts in twinkling lights, and the air buzzes with excitement as the parade makes its way through town, culminating in a special visit from Santa Claus himself. Whether you’re sipping hot cocoa curbside or joining in the carols, the Chelsea Hometown Holiday & Light Parade is the perfect way to kick off the season with small-town charm and big holiday heart.

Christmas on the Farm

Domino’s Petting Farm, 3001 Earhart Rd, Ann Arbor
December 7th & 13th

Celebrate the magic of the season at Christmas on the Farm at Domino’s Petting Farm on December 7th and 13th. This heartwarming event invites visitors of all ages to embrace the joy of winter with a festive farm experience surrounded by animals, nature, and holiday cheer.

Take a leisurely walk through the farm’s winter wonderland, where you’ll meet friendly animals bundled up in their cozy coats – from gentle llamas and playful goats to curious cows and more. Guests can enjoy hands-on interactions, learn how the animals stay warm during the colder months, and snap picture-perfect photos amid the snowy landscape. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or little ones eager for a hands-on holiday adventure, Christmas on the Farm offers a charming and educational escape that captures the simple beauty of winter in the countryside.

World Ballet Company: The Nutcracker

Michigan Theater, 603 E Liberty St, Ann Arbor
December 16th, 7 p.m.

Experience the timeless magic of the holidays with the World Ballet Company’s performance of The Nutcracker at the Michigan Theater on December 16th at 7 p.m. This spectacular production, priced from $32-$95, is a must-see holiday tradition that enchants audiences with its beauty, grace, and wonder.

Follow Marie on her unforgettable Christmas Eve adventure as her beloved Nutcracker comes to life, leading her through a dazzling world of swirling snowflakes, mischievous mice, and the glittering Kingdom of Sweets. Featuring 40 world-class dancers, over 150 hand-sewn costumes, and breathtaking handcrafted sets, this performance is a feast for the senses and the soul. With a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes (including a 20-minute intermission), The Nutcracker is the perfect way to share the joy of the season and create cherished memories with family and friends as the magic of holiday storytelling comes alive on stage.

iBallet’s The Nutcracker

Power Center for the Performing Arts, 121 Fletcher St, Ann Arbor
December 19th-21st

A beloved holiday tradition returns to Ann Arbor as iBallet presents The Nutcracker at the Power Center for the Performing Arts from December 19th to 21st. With ticket prices ranging from $25 to $50, this production promises a truly magical experience for audiences of all ages.

This year’s performance features professional dancers from some of the world’s top ballet companies, bringing Clara’s whimsical journey to life with elegance and heart. And for the first time ever, audiences will be treated to the rich, live sounds of a 40-piece orchestra composed of University of Michigan musicians, performing Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. From the glimmering Kingdom of Sweets to the thrilling battle of the toy soldiers and the Mouse King, every scene is filled with wonder and artistry. iBallet’s The Nutcracker is more than just a performance – it’s a cherished celebration of music, movement, and holiday magic that continues to captivate hearts year after year.

Holiday Pops Concert

Hill Auditorium, 825 N University Ave, Ann Arbor
December 20th, 7 p.m.

Celebrate the season in grand style at the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra’s Holiday Pops Concert, taking place at Hill Auditorium on December 20th at 7 p.m. This beloved Southeast Michigan tradition fills the iconic venue with the warmth and wonder of the holidays, offering an unforgettable evening of music, lights, and festive joy.

Led by Earl Lee, the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra’s talented music director and conductor, the full A2SO orchestra will whisk audiences away on a magical journey to the North Pole, performing an exciting mix of holiday classics, new orchestral arrangements, and audience favorites. The concert features dazzling guest appearances, including vocalist Olivia Van Goor and the renowned men’s chorus Measure for Measure, adding even more brilliance to the night. From timeless carols to show-stopping symphonic moments, the Holiday Pops Concert is a heartwarming celebration that captures the true spirit of the season – making it a must-see event for families, music lovers, and holiday enthusiasts alike.

Beyond Christmas Concert

Frederic H. Pease Auditorium, 494 College Pl, Ypsilanti
December 20th, 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Let the sounds of the season fill your heart at the Beyond Christmas Concert, presented by Beyond Choir at Frederic H. Pease Auditorium on December 20th from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. General admission tickets are priced at $20 at the door, and you can purchase them online right now for $5 off using the promo code JOY5. This uplifting evening of music is the perfect way to celebrate the joy and wonder of the holidays. 

The concert blends beloved holiday carols with fresh, contemporary arrangements, creating a one-of-a-kind musical experience that’s both nostalgic and new. Beyond Choir’s powerful harmonies and creative interpretations promise to fill the auditorium with warmth, inspiration, and festive energy. Whether you’re drawn by the classics or eager to hear inventive new takes on seasonal favorites, Beyond Christmas offers an evening of song that beautifully captures the spirit of connection, hope, and celebration that defines the holiday season.

Celebrate the Season, Near and Far

From enchanting holiday markets and sparkling light parades to magical ballet performances and festive concerts, the Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti region offers something for everyone this season. Whether you’re shopping for one-of-a-kind gifts, enjoying live music, or creating family memories with seasonal activities, these events capture the warmth, creativity, and joy of the holidays. Bundle up, step out, and let the spirit of the season guide you through unforgettable celebrations.