Local Events - December 2024

Local Holiday Events in Rochester and Surrounding Communities

The holiday season is upon us, and our community is brimming with festive events for all ages! Whether you’re looking to experience stunning light displays, festive markets, or classic holiday traditions, there's something for everyone.

Rochester

November 22 - Light the Village: Join in the excitement as the Village of Rochester Hills is illuminated by 800,000 dazzling lights from 6-9pm. Experience an evening filled with live holiday music, entertainment, delicious food, and the magic of a spectacular fireworks display!

November 25 - December 4 - Holiday Window Contest: Vote for your favorite holiday window displays by texting the code displayed on participating business storefronts. Winners will be announced on stage at the Kris Kringle Market on December 6.

November 25 - January 19 - Big, Bright Light Show: Come see downtown Rochester sparkle with over 1 million points of festive light. The display will be illuminated every evening from 5:00 PM to Midnight, with most stores staying open until 9:00 PM.

November 29 – December 23 - Holiday Walk at Meadow Brook Hall : For over 50 years, Meadow Brook Hall has offered a breathtaking holiday experience. Walk through the historic mansion, marveling at over 50 trees, twinkling lights, and festive decorations inside the grand estate. Tickets: Holiday Walk Tickets

December 1 - December 31 - Snowman Stroll: Downtown Rochester will be lined with 5' snowmen, each uniquely designed for Snowman Stroll.

December 6 - December 7 - Kris Kringle Market: Inspired by European open-air Christmas markets, this event brings the magic of the season to downtown Rochester. Enjoy unique gifts, local food vendors, live music, festive activities, visits with Santa, story time with Santa, a gingerbread village, and a s'more station.

December 8 - Rochester Christmas Parade: Don’t miss Michigan's largest Christmas parade starting at 2pm! Watch over 100 floats, marching bands, and community groups make their way down Rochester Road in this festive tradition.

Lake Orion

Every weekend until the end of December - Canterbury Village Holiday Stroll: Enjoy the Holiday Stroll at Canterbury Village, where you’ll find holiday displays, live characters, musical light shows, and more. Visit Santa, the Grinch, Elsa, Buddy the Elf, and other beloved characters while enjoying seasonal treats and shopping at local boutiques. Tickets: Canterbury Village Holiday Stroll

November 26 – December 31 - Hometown Holidays Shopping Passport: Make your holiday shopping even more rewarding with the Hometown Holidays Shopping Passport! For every 8 validated receipts from local businesses, you’ll receive a $50 Downtown Dollar Gift Certificate and a limited edition Lake Orion Ornament. Shop local this season, support your community, and enjoy festive rewards!

December 7 -  Lighted Christmas Parade: The Orion Area Parade Group presents the Orion Lighted Christmas Parade starting at 6pm. Bundle up and enjoy a glowing parade, followed by complimentary professional photos with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Parade Route: From Blanche Sims Elementary to the Ehman Center For more information: Lake Orion Christmas Parade

December 14 - Polar Express: Hop aboard the Polar Express for a magical holiday experience! For more details, please visit: Polar Express Information

Auburn Hills

December 6 - Annual Tree Lighting: Come kick off the holiday season at Auburn Hills’ 31st Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony from 6-9pm, featuring Santa’s arrival, festive music, and the lighting of the downtown Christmas tree in Riverside Park.

December 14 - Breakfast with Santa: Join Santa for a festive breakfast at the Community Center! Have pancakes and hot cocoa while doing holiday crafts during a magical morning with the jolly old man himself. Tickets: Breakfast with Santa

December 20 - Winter Solstice Lantern Walk: Celebrate the winter solstice with a serene walk along lantern-lit trails from 6-9pm. Enjoy crafting winter-themed decorations, warming by the fire, and sipping hot drinks. Registration is required for this peaceful winter experience- buy your tickets online or in person at the Community Center.

Embrace the holiday season with these wonderful local events. From magical light displays and tree-lined streets to parades and festive markets, there’s no shortage of holiday cheer in our community. Happy holidays to all!