When December arrives in Plymouth, Michigan, this charming downtown transforms into a winter celebration that brings neighbors together and creates memories worth cherishing. From twinkling lights along Main Street to carriage rides through decorated streets, Plymouth knows how to welcome the season with open arms.
Three Days of Holiday Joy
The main event arrives December 12 through 14, when Christmas in Plymouth and the Mistletoe Market take over downtown. This three-day celebration packs in enough activities to keep everyone entertained. Horse-drawn carriage rides carry up to six passengers through the decorated streets for $75 per carriage, while a 15-passenger wagon offers individual seats at $15 each. After 8 p.m. on Thursday, those wagon seats drop to $10 for budget-conscious revelers.
European Flair at the Market
The Mistletoe Market brings European-style holiday shopping to Plymouth’s Farmers’ Market. More than 55 artisans from across the Midwest showcase handcrafted goods perfect for gift giving. Browse through tables of unique jewelry, home décor, and specialty items while live music fills the air. Street performers, dance troupes from local studios, and all three Plymouth Canton Educational Park pom teams create an energetic atmosphere throughout downtown.
Kids’ Corner Creates Magic
At the corner of Ann Arbor Trail and Forest, Candy Cane Corner welcomes children into a heated tent full of activities. For $8 per child, kids can decorate cookies, write letters to Santa, make reindeer food, craft snowman centerpieces, create reindeer magnets, and enjoy complimentary hot cocoa. Meanwhile, parents can snap photos with the Grinch, Cindy Lou, Santa, elves, and other beloved holiday characters roaming downtown. Keep your eyes open for elves handing out surprise gift cards to random shoppers.
Music and Merriment
Live entertainment pulses through the streets all weekend. The Robert Burkhart Band, Caldarona Performance Studio, and Hayden Cusmano Group perform at various locations. Dance performances light up Kellogg Park courtesy of Synergy Dance Academy, Metro Dance Company, and Joanne’s Dance Extension. One of the Midwest’s most popular caricature artists, Bil Barrett, creates comical sketches throughout the weekend (free, but tips appreciated).
Giving Back Together
The holiday spirit in Plymouth extends beyond decorations and entertainment. Sun & Snow collects gifts and supplies for the Foster Closet of Michigan’s Plymouth branch throughout the Christmas in Plymouth event. The Salvation Army runs its Red Kettle Campaign with volunteer bell ringers at locations throughout the area, and their annual Toy Shop in mid-December provides toys and complete Christmas dinner boxes to families in need.
The Plymouth Community United Way organizes multiple donation drives during the season, collecting hygiene items, food, and winter clothing for local families. Their efforts have gathered thousands of items in recent years, directly supporting neighbors facing challenges.
Support Local, Build Community
Christmas in Plymouth reminds visitors why local businesses matter. Every dollar spent at downtown shops helps sustain the community that creates these traditions. The sidewalks stay dressed in holiday style, firepit warming stations offer respite from the cold, and dining specials at local restaurants keep everyone well fed throughout the festivities.
Ready to experience Plymouth’s holiday magic? Mark your calendar for the tree lighting on November 15, the parade on November 29, and Christmas in Plymouth December 12 through 14. Whether you’re shopping at the Mistletoe Market, riding in a horse-drawn carriage, or simply walking among the decorated trees in Kellogg Park, Plymouth’s December celebrations offer something special for everyone. Bundle up, bring your holiday spirit, and join this welcoming community as they ring in the season together.
Sources: christmasinplymouth.com, plymouthunitedway.org
Header Image Source: wrif.com
