![](https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/monroe-street-midway-courtesy-of-decked-out-detroit-3.webp?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=320&q=80&w=320&s=6f3bd3074da190ff2bf24729f613acfb 320w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/monroe-street-midway-courtesy-of-decked-out-detroit-3.webp?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=540&q=80&w=540&s=2402f1a492c1227bc96e2841210acd59 540w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/monroe-street-midway-courtesy-of-decked-out-detroit-3.webp?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=768&q=80&w=768&s=21df6a8356d64dfe3e6b1c743cb535b5 768w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/monroe-street-midway-courtesy-of-decked-out-detroit-3.webp?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=1024&q=80&w=1024&s=69e175aeafdf3d1d9fa4dbc830b6b62e 1024w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/monroe-street-midway-courtesy-of-decked-out-detroit-3.webp?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=1200&q=80&w=1200&s=bd87bb93ef962dfdad2fdeecc0672f48 1200w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/monroe-street-midway-courtesy-of-decked-out-detroit-3.webp?auto=compress%2Cformat&crop=focalpoint&fit=min&fp-x=0.5&fp-y=0.5&h=1440&q=80&w=1440&s=29ba65ac1a2bf57bea352fa8b94bd1dc 1366w)
Things To Do in Detroit in December
Story By: Amelia Ritter
December in Detroit sets the stage for holiday fun! Embrace the festive spirit as the city comes alive for the season. Whether you're cheering on your favorite teams, enjoying holiday performances, or immersing yourself in the joyful atmosphere downtown, this month is a perfect blend of holiday cheer, entertainment, and sports excitement. Grab your calendar and make sure not to miss out on the December festivities—it's the season for holiday magic and thrilling moments!
Celebrate the Holiday Season
When you visit Detroit in December, make sure that you're ready to celebrate! If you're ready to dive headfirst into a winter wonderland, mark your calendar with these festive events.
Observe Winter Holidays in the D
All month long, you can enjoy the beautiful lights on Detroit's Christmas tree at Campus Martius Park. On December 7, the Menorah in the D will be lit to observe the first night of Hanukkah and will stand tall in Cadillac Square for eight nights. On December 26, the Kwanzaa Kinara will be lit. The 30-foot-tall monument brings a celebration of African-American life, community, and culture to Campus Martius Park.
Monroe Street Midway - all month long
Through January 7, experience a world of winter fun at the Monroe Street Midway with an arctic sled slide, bumper cars, an indoor arcade, puck-putt, and more! This winter season, the Midway will feature new interactive art activations in addition to the amazing original artwork that decks out the space.
Detroit Winter Markets - all month long
While the kids play at the Midway, you can enjoy holiday shopping at the Downtown Detroit Markers at Cadillac Square. With more than a dozen local vendors present, the markets bring a wide variety of family-friendly activities, promotions, and engagements for visitors all season long.
The Rink at Campus Martius Park - all month long
The Rink at Campus Martius Park presented by Visit Detroit is open seven days a week, including holidays, until March 3. Rent skates at the rink or bring your own and enjoy the crisp winter air while taking in the stunning downtown Detroit views.
1001 Winter Wonders - through December 24
You know him and you love him! The jolly man in the red suit is back and waiting for your visit this holiday season at 1001 Woodward. Santa will be available for free first come, first served photos through December 24.
Skating downtown, award-winning holiday lighting, shopping with local pop-up retailers, and enjoying the best of Detroit's restaurants should all be on your list for a visit this December. Before you head out, be sure to double-check the hours of the spots on your list, as some may be closed on certain days throughout the season.
![](https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/TreeLighting-20181116-066.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=b6b55b290d0b6b61982e39d775f83bf2 320w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/TreeLighting-20181116-066.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=88bc053b53c444a6d566b9a0de44b948 540w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/TreeLighting-20181116-066.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=376f0ab47b07105eab6ba00618d2a35e 768w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/TreeLighting-20181116-066.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=68a3912ee5459acd7a9ae1a342631cf5 1024w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/TreeLighting-20181116-066.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=de8eb18fb86b11ba5e93d063eb1ac224 1200w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/TreeLighting-20181116-066.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=7aae092db19957d9ecf81bd352b6d9e7 1300w)
Light Up the Night
Detroit's metro area is decked out with holiday light displays and spectacles. Make your list, check it twice, and find out which of these activations makes it to the top of your Detroit itinerary!
Wayne County Lightfest at Hines Park - through December 24
Holiday Nights at Greenfield Village - through December 28
Magic of Lights at Pine Knob - through December 30
Aurora at Glenlore Trails - through December 30
Home for the Holidays at the Ford House - through December 30
Winter Wonder Lights at Meadow Brook Hall - through December 30 (You can also enjoy Holiday Tea and a Holiday Walk at Meadow Brook this season)
The Big, Bright Light Show in Downtown Rochester - all month long
Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo - all month long
![child enjoying christmas lights](https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/searraliggett-Instagram-3555-ig-17892196835528810.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=5dcc6e9121621e985be8dc5665decac5 320w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/searraliggett-Instagram-3555-ig-17892196835528810.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=633225e73255ed7d8d28ba1b4000fbf4 540w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/searraliggett-Instagram-3555-ig-17892196835528810.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=5a900bdcfb234bb802a70596f08a4225 768w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/searraliggett-Instagram-3555-ig-17892196835528810.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=ca21671bddde543461abb23ec49f534f 1024w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/searraliggett-Instagram-3555-ig-17892196835528810.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=f2b99f78ba94cdc156f72f398265680c 1080w)
Dazzling Live Performances
Boost your festive spirit with stage performances that blend timeless traditions and memorable new experiences.
Mariah Carey - Merry Christmas One And All at Little Caesars Arena - December 1
Cirque Dreams Holidaze at the Fox Theatre - December 1-3
Million Dollar Quartet Christmas at the Fisher Theatre - December 2-3
Celtic Woman Christmas Symphony at Hollywood Casino at Greektown - December 3
One Sleepy Night - An Original Musical with a Detroit Vibe at the Garden Theater - December 6-9
The Hip Hop Nutcracker at the Fisher Theatre - December 9
Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet at the Fox Theatre - December 10
Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer - The Musical at the Fisher Theatre - December 15-16
Holiday Cabaret at the Detroit Public Theatre - through December 17
Disney's Frozen at the Detroit Opera House - through December 17
Manheim Steamroller Christmas at the Fox Theatre - December 17
The Illusionist Magic of the Holidays at the Fox Theatre - December 21-23
Trans-Siberian Orchestra at Little Caesars Arena - December 23
For more on-stage holiday fun, check out our full calendar of events.
![](https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/main-images/fox-theatre-detroit-stage_2023-04-11-163047_ejtn.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=da30dcb45d10c1dda708f65c494fb95a 320w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/main-images/fox-theatre-detroit-stage_2023-04-11-163047_ejtn.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=26af0320cb5bffb0048a4121bd7cf016 540w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/main-images/fox-theatre-detroit-stage_2023-04-11-163047_ejtn.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=7664a1413238d1b4a70fa036d5ad739f 768w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/main-images/fox-theatre-detroit-stage_2023-04-11-163047_ejtn.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=837947217b45c87ebb16d5e8ca972f6a 1024w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/main-images/fox-theatre-detroit-stage_2023-04-11-163047_ejtn.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=c93dd13af17e43d561a748368211a9b7 1200w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/main-images/fox-theatre-detroit-stage_2023-04-11-163047_ejtn.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=a1ccacc1f5c4061b2d729c1c30696d39 1440w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/main-images/fox-theatre-detroit-stage_2023-04-11-163047_ejtn.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1920&s=13192bc2346971e670204d9e68253109 1920w)
Sporting Events
While the holidays are a highlight, there's also tons of fun to be had rooting on your favorite team at sporting events in December.
2023 Continental Tire Motor City Invitational - Michigan State vs. Baylor at Little Caesars Arena - December 16
2023 Quick Lane Bowl at Ford Field - December 26
Plus, you can cheer on the Red Wings, Pistons, and the Lions and experience all of the excitement of game day in downtown Detroit.
![detroit red wings fans](https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/101423-AMF-1914-Enhanced-NR-medium-1.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=1245abf5a71bb105856513e5248010bc 320w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/101423-AMF-1914-Enhanced-NR-medium-1.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=1b72197bbd975886de24fcfc77d60fd6 540w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/101423-AMF-1914-Enhanced-NR-medium-1.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=69e3f6f823a681e6e80b96ce4b9b4e5e 768w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/101423-AMF-1914-Enhanced-NR-medium-1.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=0e6c395436bf8fc49109ec9a432b866b 1024w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/101423-AMF-1914-Enhanced-NR-medium-1.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=7bc1a3b9cae6738a5ef6ebba0d96e0a3 1200w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/101423-AMF-1914-Enhanced-NR-medium-1.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=d78b59dcf2e64ced5a5024820939f8bd 1280w)
Family Fun
Get all of your holiday shopping done at the Downtown Detroit Markets, Eastern Market, downtown shops, and metro area malls.
It's also the perfect time to sign up for any of our digital passes to save money and earn prizes while you're out and about in Detroit. You can use your Explore Detroit Pass to check out exhibits like Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History or Mandela: The Official Exhibition at the Henry Ford Museum for American Innovation. You can also use the Detroit Brew Trail and Detroit Pizza Pass to explore exciting and delicious new food and drink options in Detroit.
![Detroit Holiday Markets](https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/BR6_7468.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=320&s=bc3feb7533402df0de44825b6fa038de 320w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/BR6_7468.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=540&s=671b9f3b4c2c014abba388b9da909cc8 540w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/BR6_7468.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=768&s=140a9f9489f3f63300147036f6434ca9 768w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/BR6_7468.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1024&s=5f61f8e13e1ad9db2365435e244e1517 1024w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/BR6_7468.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1200&s=1ff236afcad15998b03f1a872dbfff01 1200w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/BR6_7468.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1440&s=4ace7c467680f8326c4ffd85c81c2e85 1440w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/BR6_7468.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=1920&s=f33f328e75a1cdf02b1ba89f50aeab76 1920w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/BR6_7468.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=2560&s=e162be909c11f5b70cd423dc87eed802 2560w, https://visit-detroit.imgix.net/images/BR6_7468.jpg?auto=compress%2Cformat&fit=max&position=50%2050&q=80&w=3840&s=4a5f3d01459a072938ab75c386cc76b4 3840w)
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