Glen Arbor becomes a magical winter destination at Christmas time. Holiday lights and festive decorations make this charming Michigan town sparkle. The snow-blanketed streets create perfect settings for holiday memories, while the town’s shops and galleries radiate seasonal charm with warm hospitality.
Visitors will find unique holiday traditions in Glen Arbor, including the quirky PJ Party and Bed Parade. The town comes alive with traditional tree lighting ceremonies and cozy holiday markets. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy cross-country skiing and snowshoeing near Sleeping Bear Dunes. Adventures on Glen Lake and Lake Michigan make this holiday getaway complete.
Attend the Annual PJ Party and Bed Parade
Glen Arbor’s most predicted holiday events brings a unique twist to Black Friday shopping with its Annual PJ Party that starts early on November 29, 2024.
Shop in pajamas at local stores
The best deals await shoppers during 7-9 AM. Local merchants welcome customers with exclusive morning specials. Customers can browse their favorite stores while wearing comfortable pajamas. Many participating businesses provide exciting holiday discounts that include:
- One-time seasonal markdowns
- Early bird door prizes
- Holiday-themed treats
- Exclusive merchandise
Watch the quirky bed parade
The festivities change to a whimsical Bed Parade along Western Avenue at 9 AM. People gather enthusiastically on the streets to watch decorated beds roll from Pine Cone restaurant’s entrance to the Post Office. Teams of 5-8 participants wear creative costumes and push their holiday-themed beds through the route. Anyone can spontaneously join this delightful parade without registration.
Enjoy community bonding
Visitors and locals create lasting friendships during the morning events. People head to Leelanau Coffee Roasters or Art’s Tavern after the parade to enjoy warm drinks and breakfast treats. These local spots provide a perfect setting that fills with stories and laughter. The tradition brings everyone together in Glen Arbor’s special way.
The blend of relaxed shopping and fun entertainment makes this event special among the many things to do in Glen Arbor MI during holidays. Glen Arbor’s warm hospitality and playful spirit shine through the PJ Party and Bed Parade.
Experience the Tree Lighting and Caroling Tradition
Glen Arbor comes alive with holiday spirit when night settles in. The small town celebrates with festivities at the Town Hall.
Witness the magical tree lighting ceremony
The annual tree lighting ceremony brings visitors together outside the Town Hall at 6:15 PM. Excitement fills the air as neighbors and friends gather around. The magnificent Christmas tree waits to light up the winter night. A collective gasp of wonder echoes through the crowd at the time the lights spring to life.
Join community caroling
Glen Lake Church members lead crowds in beloved Christmas carols. Sweet cider and donut aromas drift from Art’s Tavern through the crisp evening air. Families gather close and sing traditional favorites together. Their voices blend harmoniously to create a heartwarming atmosphere.
Preview the Holiday Marketplace
The Town Hall comes alive with winter magic from 6:30 to 8:00 PM as the festivities move indoors. Early shoppers will find an amazing selection of handcrafted treasures in this winter wonderland of local artistry:
- Unique gifts from 25+ local artisans
- Hand-crafted holiday decorations
- Exclusive first-look opportunities
- Special preview party pricing
This Holiday Marketplace preview is a chance to kick off your seasonal shopping. Local artists display their best work in an intimate setting that makes the evening special. Visitors can take their time browsing while soaking in the festive atmosphere.
Our cherished tradition connects locals and visitors in a magical way. Holiday memories come alive through the blend of lights, music, and community spirit. Glen Arbor’s warm hospitality and creative talent shine brightly throughout the evening.
Shop at Festive Holiday Markets
Art enthusiasts and holiday shoppers will find a wealth of creativity at Glen Arbor’s holiday markets where the region’s finest artists showcase their talents.
Browse the Small Works Holiday Exhibition
The 2024 Small Works Holiday Exhibition welcomes art enthusiasts from November 1 through December 19. Art collectors can discover an impressive collection of over 100 original pieces, each available at $150 or less. The exhibition begins with an exclusive preview week from November 1-7. Art lovers can join the Grateful Gathering open house celebration on November 8 that features enchanting live harp performances by Sylvia Norris.
Explore the Glen Arbor Holiday Marketplace
Glen Arbor’s Town Hall comes alive as a bustling marketplace from 10 AM to 4 PM. Local artisans and craftspeople showcase unique creations at more than 25 different stalls. Families can create magical memories with Santa and Mrs. Claus at M22 Wine Patio’s special gathering from 11 AM to 1 PM.
Find unique local artisan gifts
The marketplace has an amazing selection of handcrafted treasures:
- Jewelry and pottery pieces
- Knit accessories and wool winter wear
- Holiday wreaths and fresh greenery
- Beeswax products and artisanal soaps
- Gourmet sauces and local maple syrup
- Photography and original paintings
- Reclaimed wood furniture and serving boards
Glen Lake Chamber of Commerce hosts the Holiday Marketplace tradition during Thanksgiving weekend. This free event lets local artisans show their creative spirit. Shoppers can get unique gifts and support their local artistic community at the same time.
Glen Arbor becomes a perfect spot to shop for holiday gifts with its Small Works Exhibition and Holiday Marketplace. These markets have something special for everyone’s taste and budget. Visitors can enjoy small-town hospitality while they find beautiful handcrafted treasures.
Enjoy Winter Wonderland Activities
Glen Arbor’s snowy landscapes beckon visitors as winter transforms this charming town into an outdoor playground that offers countless adventures.
Stroll through the Lights Festival
The Crystal River Outfitters Recreational District brings winter magic with their Strolling Lights Festival. Beautiful pre-lit trees illuminate the grounds from November through New Year’s, and local families and organizations add their personal touch by sponsoring uniquely decorated trees. This community celebration supports the Nicholas Wiesen Bentzien Musicianship Fund. Visitors can experience this striking display throughout the week, though the festival remains closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Go snowshoeing or skiing
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore has some amazing winter trails. Visitors will find untouched snowy landscapes that make outdoor exploration perfect. The area’s terrain varies for different skill levels:
- Challenging ascents with thrilling descents
- Gentle paths for beginners
- Scenic river and beach routes
- Groomed trails for classic and skate skiing
The Homestead Resort rents equipment and provides certified instruction. Trail maps can be picked up at the Phillip Hart Visitor Center in Empire. Winter adventurers of all abilities will enjoy the Heritage Trail. The Cyclery and other local outfitters sell fat tire bikes and snowshoes.
Try ice fishing on Glen Lake
Glen Lake transforms into an ice fisher’s paradise during winter. Anglers reel in impressive perch and lake trout at the time conditions are right. The local sportsmen keep everyone updated about ice safety and conditions. Both veteran fishers and curious first-timers flock to this exceptional spot. The lake’s recent success stories showcase Christmas Day catches and full-limit adventures.
The Homestead’s Winter Glide package makes the adventure even better. The deal has gear rentals and a National Park pass. Ranger-guided snowshoe hikes are a great way to get deeper insights into the area. Trail conditions stay current through the local system’s online reports.
Conclusion
Holiday magic fills Glen Arbor during the winter season. The town celebrates with unique local traditions such as the PJ Party and Bed Parade alongside classic festivities. Community spirit radiates through festive markets and caroling events that blend small-town hospitality with artistic excellence.
Glen Arbor’s Christmas appeal extends beyond celebrations to winter adventures. Outdoor enthusiasts of all skill levels can explore snow-covered trails throughout the area. The Strolling Lights Festival transforms evenings into enchanting experiences, making Glen Arbor an ideal destination for families who want to create magical holiday memories in northern Michigan.