We never know what the weather’s going to be like in Michigan, but we always expect a long winter. Detroit has winter activities to keep the fun and festive cheer going. The city is full of people down for a wholesome time. Winter is an excellent time to cozy up with family and a supportive community, whether it’s in a lit-up downtown area, in a park, or anywhere else where wildlife can be spotted.
Detroitisit rounded up a list of popular winter events in Detroit and activities for all ages that’ll make winter nights just as dazzling as the daytime.
LIGHT UP BEACON PARK
LIGHT UP BEACON PARK, PHOTO BEACON PARK DETROIT
When and Where: Friday, November 18 through “Mid January”
Location: 1901 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI
Winter activities in Detroit this year include the exuberant gift of Christmas events through January. This one is perfect for the family. Children of all ages get to experience“Toyland”. You’ll want to capture their reaction to larger-than-life light features, including a Choo-Choo Train, to name a few. These new and returning interactive lighting features, totaling more than 125,000 twinkling LED lights will illuminate Beacon Park. Hosted by the Downton Detroit Partnership. Click HERE to learn more.
LET IT GLOW WILD LIGHTS. PHOTO DETROIT ZOO / FACEBOOK
ZOO LIGHTS
When & Where: Nov. 19, 2022-Jan 8.,2023, on select weeknights and most Sundays from 5 to 9 p.m. Most Fridays and Saturdays, the event will take place from 5 to 10:30 p.m.
Location: 8450 W 10 Mile Rd, Royal Oak, MI
Looking for another bright night stroll? Luckily for Detroiters, the wondrous event has returned. Take a magical trip to the Detroit Zoo. Some creatures love the cold! Have a look into the cold-weather exhibits, which include the Polk Penguin Conservation Center and an Arctic Ring of Life if you’re just going for a regular visit this winter. Click HERE for more info. Purchase tickets in advance online or at the Detroit Zoo during daytime hours.
CAMPUS MARTIUS PARK-ICE SKATING
CAMPUS MARTIUS PARK. PHOTO JPFRAMER / PINTEREST
This list wouldn’t seem right Detroit winter events wouldn’t be complete without the timeless joy of visiting the award-winning Campus Martius Park. Locals and visitors can expect a list of winter activities each year. Though, it wouldn’t be complete without ice skating. In fact, The Rink at Campus Martius is considered to be one of the best outdoor ice skating rinks in Michigan. Share the rink with visitors, but there are also plenty of other activities happening on the scene. Check out the ice sculptures, local musicians, and marshmallow roasting throughout the winter months. Detroit’s massive, glittering Christmas Tree sets the giddy atmosphere. Not to mention, the half a million lights all around!
Location: 800 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI
CAMPUS MARTIUS PARK-CARRIAGE RIDES
You could watch a Christmas movie with a horse-drawn carriage and then experience the ride for yourself! Winter activities in Detroit are enchanting in the heart of Downtown Detroit. Carriage rides take off from the Woodward Esplanade, directly south of Campus Martius Park. Rides are $10 per person and last about 15 to 20 minutes. Click HERE for more info.
Location: 800 Woodward Ave, Detroit, Michigan
NOEL NIGHT 2022
NOEL NIGHT 2022 PHOTO MIDTOWN DETROIT, INC / FACEBOOK
When and Where:
Saturday, December 3, 2022, from 5p-9p North of Warren 5p-10p South of Warren
The Christmas season is warming the Motor City up with love. Join in on this free, walkable holiday celebration at Midtown Detroit’s Cultural Center Area. Expect over 90 participating venues, featuring free indoor and outdoor programming, holiday shopping, stunning outdoor art installations, yuletide treats, caroling, family craft activities, artist demonstrations, and performances by local and national artists. Click HERE for more info.
Location: Midtown Detroit’s Cultural Center Area (between Cass and John R and Kirby and Willis)
WINTER BLAST 2023
Slide into another Detroit winter with this event taking place in February at Campus Martius Park, 800 Woodward Ave.
As always, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates on all things Detroit and more.
