Editor’s note: This article was published in Grand Traverse Scene magazine’s Holiday 2025 issue. Pick up a free copy at area hotels, visitor’s centers, chambers of commerce or at the Record-Eagle building on Front Street. Click here to read GT Scene in its entirety online.
CADILLAC
Saturday, Dec. 6, noon
Hosted by the Wexford County Historical Society (WCHS), Santa will greet families at the Wexford County Historical Society building at 127 Beech Street in Cadillac.
FRANKFORT
Saturday, Dec., 6, 7-8:30 p.m.
A community tree lighting is set for Rotary Park, where townsfolk and visitors can visit with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, as well as enjoy a sleigh ride through the downtown area while the Frankfort Elementary Choir sings Christmas carols.
MANISTEE
Friday, Dec. 5, 5:30 p.m.
Long recognized as one of the most popular Christmas festivals in all of Michigan that has drawn 10,000 people in the past, the four-day Victorian Sleighbell Parade and Old Christmas Weekend (Dec. 4-7) once again will feature its horse-drawn parade at 5:30 p.m., Friday, which will include the pulling of a 30-foot tall tree by a team of majestic horses through the center of town, and followed by the official arrival of Santa Claus.
PETOSKEY
Saturday, Dec. 13, noon to 3 p.m.
Santa will set up shop at the Emmet County Fairgrounds’ Community Building where children of all ages are invited to take a photo with merry master toymaker, as well as to make crafts and enjoy delicious cups of hot cocoa as well as cookies. Entry is free.
TRAVERSE CITY
Saturday, Nov. 22, 5:30-9 p.m.
Santa will triumphantly return to the Cherry Capital of the world to take part in a parade, tree lighting and of course, to meet with children in downtown Traverse City. Festivities will begin at 5:30 p.m. and continue throughout the evening, including holiday music with special guests at 5:30 p.m.; tree lighting with Santa at 6 p.m.; parade at 6:30 p.m. and visits to Santa’s house right after the parade through 9 p.m.