Wander West Michigan

Wander West With These Michigan-Inspired Etsy Finds

Wander West Michigan is coming to you with all of the best West Michigan-inspired products! For today’s list, we have about 15 different unique items pulled from Etsy. From cozy crew necks for cool beach nights and warm campfires to decor and other keepsake items—whatever it is, I’m sure we have something to gift your west Michigan-loving friends and family. Keep reading below to see details and links about different products! Don’t forget to share this article with a fellow Michigan native or traveler.

DisclaimerAffiliate links are used which means if you purchase via my link I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you! I only recommend products I use and love!

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1. A Saginaw ’70s Vintage Tee

It’s no secret that vintage will never go out of style, and this ’70s tee is no exception! Enjoy a vintage-inspired look while representing your love of the state of Michigan. Perfect for a day at the beach over your swimsuit or even paired with your favorite retro jeans for a concert or night out. Show off your unique vintage style with this adorable and trendy Saginaw, Michigan, vintage tee.

2. Smells Like Michigan Win, Scented Candle

Re-create the atmosphere of Michigan wherever you are with this deliciously scented candle. With it’s beautifully elegant label and seven scents to choose from—like bergamot, sage, cedar, blackberry vanilla, and more—you won’t be disappointed. Be transported to the serenity of the calming outdoors of Michigan with this amazing Michigan-inspired scented candle.

3. Distressed Style Michigan Crewneck

This distressed-style crewneck comes in two variations, black and white, and both are just as cozy as the other. With a soft interior and simple but creative aesthetic, this is a great addition to any Michigan lover’s wardrobe. This item is under the $40 mark, making it totally affordable and ready for you to add to your cart any day! Click the link to check out this uniquely designed and comfortable crew neck today.

4. Layers of Michigan Print

At almost 14 thousand sales, BozzPrints is no stranger to making beautiful prints for home decor enjoyment. This particular print is one of many Michigan-inspired prints you can check out at this link, ranging from $15 to $75 and giving everyone a chance to have these great art prints in their home. Feel free to explore the Etsy link to buy this print or explore their other Michigan-inspired art pieces that you could even buy together to complete your Michigan-inspired home decor and more!

5. Decorative Michigan Wooden Wall Frames

These wooden wall frames are classically designed with the shape of Michigan and solid, pastel colors of your choice! With eight to 16 color block variations, you’re bound to find a combination that you like. If you buy several small pieces, they would look great grouped together on the wall in different colors! You could also purchase a larger print and have it as a statement piece in a bedroom, living space, or kitchen. Whatever you decide to do with it, these frames will look fantastic.

6. Michigan Flowers, Fine Art Print

This Michigan flowers print is another stunning piece of art that would make a great addition to any personal or professional space. This fine art print features a unique illustration of the state of Michigan made up of simple, delicate flowers—creating a calming design that is sure to catch the eye. The print itself is of high quality, the colors and details of the image are preserved and displayed in the most aesthetically pleasing way. You can find a frame for any print with your Etsy purchase or easily find one on your own. Don’t miss the opportunity to add this beautiful piece of art to your collection or gift it to someone else’s! This piece is great for anyone, but especially a friend or loved one who has a passion for Michigan and floral designs.

7. Michigan Mini-Gift Box

Are you needing a “just because” gift for your Michigan or gourmet snack-loving friends? Look no further than this Mini-Gift Box! Everything is Michigan-made with local honey, chocolate-covered blueberries, and an exquisite, handmade goat milk soap. It could be a great housewarming gift or just a thoughtful way to tell someone you care about them! Read below for details on the box’s ingredients, or click the link.

In This Gift Box:

  • 12 ounces of Reid’s Raw Michigan Honey
  • 6 ounces of dark chocolate-covered blueberries (Michigan blueberries)
  • 3.5 ounces of goat milk soap made with Michigan honey

Available for Holland, MI area local delivery. Call or email to make arrangements. (michiganpantry@hotmail.com) 616.516.9953

8. Handmade Beach Stone Pendant

These necklaces are handpicked and handmade with stones from the shores of Michigan beaches. What a beautifully handcrafted item that would be perfect for someone who enjoys one-of-a-kind gifts, as none of the necklaces will be exactly alike since the stones are pulled naturally from beaches by the pendant maker. There are four different styles to choose from but all include a Leeland stone, Petoskey Stone, star charm, and an 18 inch thin silver chain. You can visit the link below to see more details about this lovely, keepsake necklace.

9. Original Michigan Beach Painting

Do you love supporting local art and also getting to experience the essence of the beach even when your at home? This beautiful piece of art will serve your home well as decor that not only looks great but honors the true beauty of West Michigan beaches.

10. Mini Petoskey Stone Beach Candle

If you’re a candle lover, you have to take a look at this adorable Mini Petoskey Stone Beach Candle. You can get it in the larger size, as well, but there’s something about the mini one that’s just so cute and decorative! You could buy a set and line them along some floating shelves in a cozy living space or simply buy one as a keepsake. Either way, the hand-poured love and detail-like shells, unique crystals, and clear, water-like candle wax is a work of art worth taking into your home!

11. Wood-Resin Michigan Charcuterie Board

Need something to serve up delicious snacks on during a West Michigan vacation? This cutting board could be the perfect solution! With it’s epoxy-resin art that looks like the beautiful waters of Michigan lakes, its finely carved Michigan shape, and the highest quality bamboo wood—this would make an amazing gift for any Michigan-lover or enthusiast. Check out the details at this link!

12. Michigan Kid Decorative Print

This classy piece of decor could be used in a kid’s room or even as a piece of nostalgia for a Michigander. The title reads “Michigan Kid,” in a stylish, bold typewriter font and continues that elegant style as it defines a Michigan Kid. The print is framed by lightwood. Read below for some details and click the link for even more information about buying this unique decorative piece.

  • Size: 15.5 inches by 15.5 inches (may vary within 0.5 inches)
  • Lettering: Black
  • Background: White
  • Stain: Warm Walnut

13. Vintage Michigan Stickers

Who doesn’t love stickers for their water bottles, laptop, and phone cases? These vintage-style, outdoors themed stickers are the perfect gift for your adventurous friends or Michiganders. With a pine tree and sunset graphic design, it’s sure to be eye-catching and a conversation started regardless of how you decide to display these fun and unique stickers!

14. That Michigan Life, a Car Decal

Continuing in the genre of stickers and such, next on our list in a great gift for Michigan and car enthusiasts alike! The decal reads, “living That Michigan life,” in a beautiful, cursive font arranged with an artistic flow that fits perfectly anywhere on your vehicle, tablet, or laptop. Wherever you decide to place it, you can make sure it matches because you also get to choose from a plethora of colors for the lettering design. Bonus: This business also does free shipping on all products!

Click the link below to see if you need this sticker decal in your life!

15. Michigan Native Decal

One more for the Michigan natives. If you’d like to show off how proud you are to be a Michigander, this is the perfect car decor for you! If you spend a lot of time traveling, having decals and vibes that match who you are is really important to feel comfy while exploring—or just to express yourself in a fun way. You can get this decal in different sizes for water bottles, cars, or anything else you might prefer! This decal is the word, “Native,” with the “a” and the “i” being in the shapes of the state of Michigan, as well as the lakes. Got to love such clever and artistic lettering! Check out the details at the link below.

Thanks for checking out these products! Feel free to share with a friend you think might like something on this list and, as always, thanks for Wandering West Michigan with us!

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Do more West Michigan shopping- here!

Hip Hop Nutcracker

Hip Hop Nutcracker is Coming to Town

The Hip Hop Nutcracker featuring Guest MC Kurtis Blow will make its triumphant return to the stage at DeVos Performance Hall on November 26, 2023, starting at 7:30 PM!

Be sure not to miss this extraordinary holiday dance fusion that appeals to all ages! The show boasts a formidable ensemble of twelve superstar dancers, an on-stage DJ, and a talented electric violinist who gives a unique twist to the beloved Nutcracker score. This reimagined version of the timeless classic seamlessly melds hip hop dance with Tchaikovsky’s enduring music to create a heartwarming and inspiring holiday spectacle, celebrating themes of love, community, and the enchantment of the holiday season.

Just like the original, the story follows Maria-Clara and the Nutcracker Prince on a fantastical journey as they confront a horde of mice, explore the enchanting land of sweets, and absorb the lessons of the holiday season. Cutting-edge digital graffiti and visuals reimagine E.T.A. Hoffmann’s cherished tale, transitioning it from traditional 19th-century Germany to the vibrant and diverse tapestry of contemporary New York City. Through the lens of modern hip-hop culture, the dynamic performers of The Hip Hop Nutcracker pay homage to the magic of the entire holiday season, with a special focus on New Year’s Eve—a moment for fresh beginnings and inclusivity.

Photos with Santa Grand Rapids

Visit Santa in West Michigan

‘Tis the season to be merry! As the snowflakes gently descend and the twinkling lights adorn the streets of West Michigan, anticipation builds when everyone knows… Santa Claus is on his way! We’ve curated a list of the finest spots to catch a glimpse of Santa in the Grand Rapids region. Gather your loved ones, mark your calendars, and be sure to bring along your wish lists for these enchanting encounters with Santa Claus right here in West Michigan.

DisclaimerAffiliate links are used which means if you purchase via my link I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you! I only recommend products I use and love!

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Coopersville Santa Train

Hop aboard a holiday-decorated, vintage locomotive for a 90-minute round-trip ride from Coopersville to Marne and back.  While aboard the train, Santa will visit with each family while the children are able to tell him what they are wishing for this holiday season. The experience also features a storytelling princess that will read Christmas-themed books to the children in each train car.

Have little ones? No worries, the train has bathrooms and heat to keep you toasty regardless of how cold it is outside. The Santa train runs on Saturdays and Sundays Nov. 30 through Dec. 22.  Book your tickets early as they tend to sell out fast. For more information on ticket prices and to book your ride, head on over to their website.

*important info to note: Please arrive 30 minutes early for the boarding process. If you have your Car and Seat assignment proceed to the boarding platform. If not please see our ticket agent at 306 Main St. Coopersville, MI 49404

Spring Lake Sparkle Photos with Santa Claus

Head to the lakeshore and see Santa in downtown Spring Lake as part of the Spring Lake Sparkle. The Sparkle runs November 23 through January 1, but exact Santa dates have not yet been announced. While downtown in Spring Lake be sure to check out everything else the Spring Lake Sparkle has to offer as well as the local businesses that are staying open late on Fridays and Saturdays. This is a great spot to visit Santa in West Michigan!

From the website: “Visit Spring Lake from November 23, 2024, to January 1, 2025, to see the town sparkle with Christmas lights and displays. Epicurean Village will be ground zero for the duration of Sparkle – There you will find a community Christmas tree, Santa’s house with operating hours, a fireplace, and seating. This is part of the social district! Grab your favorite cocktail or cocoa and cozy up with us into the New Year.”

Santa Visits on the Lowell Showboat VI

Santa is back in Lowell on the Lowell Showboat VI! The man in red arrives on Saturday, December 7, and will be visiting with children on the showboat from 2 to 4 p.m. Make sure to stick around for the annual nighttime Santa parade starting at 6 p.m. Santa will also be at the showboat on Wednesdays from 4:30 to 7 p.m. until Dec. 18 and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. until Dec. 21. All visits include a free online photo, and a $2 donation is recommended. Cookies and hot cocoa are also provided free of charge! Lines are often long and there may be an outside line so be sure to dress accordingly.

If you are looking for more of an experience, check out “A Nite of Christmas Cheer” on Friday, December 13 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. for visits with Santa, hot cocoa, cookies, hot dogs, chestnuts, warming fires, and carriage rides.

Santa visit at Showboat

Santa & Mrs. Claus at Fredrick Meijer Gardens

Fredrick Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park is a great place to see Santa in Grand Rapids.  Santa and Mrs. Claus will be in a tropical conservatory on Tuesday evenings December 3, 10 & 17 from 5-8pm. A visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus is included when you purchase a general admission ticket to the gardens. For more information on hours and admission costs check out their website.  All ticket sales are done on-site. 

Rockford Santa Parade

Santa arrives in Rockford on December 7 at the Santa Parade! From at 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Santa will be visiting with children immediately after the parade in the Rotary Pavillion. Carriage rides will also be available from the pavilion through downtown Rockford. This Rockford event is a great place to see Santa in West Michigan! Click here for more details on the event.

Sparta Santa Visits

Starting December 7 th, Santa and Mrs. Clause will be in Mrs. Clauses’ bakery in Sparta at the Sparta Chamber Office. Santa’s schedule varies and can be found here. Be sure to take your own camera to capture that special moment with Santa as a photographer is not provided. If you are looking to add a little more fun to the day, there are a few dates that will offer a holiday hay ride as well!

The Santa Cabin at Bosch’s Countryview Nursery in Allendale

What’s better than picking out your live Christmas tree with the whole family? Visiting Santa while you’re at it of course! New to Bosch’s Countryview Nursery last year is their Santa Cabin experience. Starting November 23, on limited dates, grab a cup of hot cocoa as you board your horse/tractor-pulled wagon through the woods out to the Santa cabin where you will get to visit with Santa. You will also get a packet of S’mores to roast on the fire outside of the cabin. How cool is that? The price is $10 per person but hurry the last date for the season is Dec 21! This is a can’t miss spot to see Santa in West Michigan!

Get the pricing guide here.

Schedule:

  • Sunday-Friday 1 PM – Dark
  • Saturdays 9 AM – Dark
  • Santa Cabin & Horse-drawn wagon rides ($12/person)
  • Nov. 23: 10am – 4pm
  • Nov. 24: 1pm – 4pm
  • Nov. 29 & 30: 10am – 4pm
  • Dec. 1: 1pm – 4pm
  • Dec. 7: 10am – 4pm
  • Dec. 8: 1pm – 4pm
  • Hot Beverages and Snacks
  • Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

Full Time Santa’s Visit Locations

If you are looking to visit Santa in West Michigan with a more flexible schedule, make sure to check out some of the full-time Santas around the Grand Rapids area.

Rivertown Crossings Mall – Santa is available every day until Christmas Eve starting November 22. Take your fluffy friend on starting November 22 as well, and December 5 from 4 to 7 p.m. !  Reservations are encouraged but not required. A great option to see Santa in Grand Rapids.

Hours of Operation:

  • Friday, November 22: 2 pm to 7 pm
  • Saturday, November 23: 11 am to 7 pm
  • Sunday, November 24: 12 pm to 6 pm
  • Monday, November 25: 2 pm to 7 pm
  • Tuesday, November 26: 11 am to 7 pm
  • Thanksgiving Day November 27: CLOSED
  • Friday, November 29: 11 am to 7 pm
  • November 30 – December 22
  • Mondays – Saturdays: 11 am to 7 pm
  • Sundays: 11 am to 6 pm
  • Monday, December 23: 10 am to 7 pm
  • Christmas Eve December 24: 10 am to 5 pm

Santa does take a cookie break from 3:00 to 4:00 pm each day.

Woodland Mall – Santa is available every day from November 17 until Christmas Eve. Hours are Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, 12 to 6 p.m., with extended hours, December 9 through 24. Photos with furry friends start Nov 16 and go through Dec 24th. Make sure to check the website for scheduled breaks. Reservations are encouraged but not required.

Santa Hours 

  • Monday – Thursday: 11am to 7pm (Santa break time: 3-4pm)
  • Friday & Saturday: 11am to 8pm (Santa break time: 3-4pm)
  • Sunday: Noon to 6pm (Santa break time: 3-3:30pm)
  • Extended Hours December 13-24
  • Monday – Thursday: 11am to 8pm (Santa break time: 3-4pm)
  • Friday & Saturday: 11am to 8pm (Santa break time: 3-4pm)
  • Sunday: 11am to 6pm (Santa break time: 3-3:30pm)
  • December 20 & 21: 10am to 8pm (Santa break time: 1-2pm & 5-6pm)
  • December 22nd: 10am to 6pm (Santa break time: 1-2pm)
  • December 23rd: 10am to 8pm (Santa break time: 1-2pm & 5-6pm)
  • December 24th: 10am-6pm (Santa break time: 1-1:45pm)

Family Pet Photos with Santa are every Monday, starting November 18th through December 16th. Learn more here!

Cabela’s Head to Cabela’s in Grandville to Santa’s Wonderland. The fun starts now through Dec 24.  All reservations come with one free photo with Santa, but you are also able to buy more if you wish. Reservations are required and can be booked here. After you visit Santa, make sure to check out the freshwater aquarium while you are there!

Looking for more Holiday fun in Grand Rapids? Make sure check out our post of more fun events!

Make it a full weekend of fun in West Michigan! Book a hotel in Grand Rapids or Grand Haven!

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Grand Rapids in Winter

Holiday Fun in Grand Rapids

There are many kinds of holidays to celebrate throughout the year, but there is just something about the winter season that, no matter what way you choose to celebrate, everyone can feel and enjoy the warmth of. Perhaps the warm mood of the season comes with it to counter the cold weather. But, with the cold weather comes many holidays, activities and events that you can’t do any other time of the year! To learn about the most known and new events in West Michigan this holiday season, keep reading below. We have everything from Drive-Thru Christmas Light shows, ballet performances, carriage rides, pictures with Santa and even more. 

Make sure to read the whole thing so you don’t miss out on any holiday fun in West Michigan and maybe even share with someone you want to do cozy things with.

Looking for even more winter fun in West Michigan? Check out some of the great winter festivals! Or these Winter Activities in West Michigan!

Disclaimer: Affiliate links are used which means if you purchase via my link I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you! I only recommend products I use and love!

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25th Annual Critter Barn & Nativity


2950 80th Avenue, Zeeland  
Bring the whole family to observe the beauty of Jesus’ birth at this annual nativity scene in Zeeland! Before the main event, enjoy a special program “Wander with Wise Men”. Stroll with your favorite types of adorable animals as you walk along the paths to the nativity. NEW this year is their livestock barn, featuring their popular Kitty Corral. So, go celebrate with the family for this special occasion, open Tuesdays through Saturdays. Make sure to check the website for hours!

Christmas Light Show -Lake Michigan Credit Union Ballpark

Enjoy Michigan’s largest light show at Lake Michigan Credit Union Ballpark. With over 50 animated displays the whole family will be entertained for the two-mile route. Worried about taking the family out in the cold for that long? Head over to their website, and learn more about how you view the whole show from the comfort of your car. The different light shows and events start November 23-24 (Winter Walk Through) and run through December 31, the cost for the show starts at $15 per car (Some events are $30+ depending on age and event type).

The Nutcracker at Devos Performance Hall

Enjoy this holiday tradition and classic this year from December 13th-15th at DeVos Performance Hall with The Nutcracker! Experience the ultimate holiday performance that’s perfect for the entire family! Be sure not to miss this electrifying performance featuring a stellar ensemble of twelve top-tier dancers, a live orchestra, and a mesmerizing director who reimagines the cherished Nutcracker score. This reinvigorated adaptation of the timeless tale seamlessly melds the modern take of a classic story with Tchaikovsky’s iconic music, resulting in a heartwarming and inspiring holiday spectacle that transports the audience on a journey celebrating love, community, and the enchantment of the season. True to the original narrative, Maria-Clara and the Nutcracker Prince embark on a dreamlike escapade, facing off against a group of mice, venturing into the land of sweets, and imbibing the holiday’s invaluable lessons.

Ticket prices vary from $35-$65+ and can be purchased here on at the box office.

Frederik Meijer Gardens and Sculpture Park – Nov 27 2024 – Jan 4th 2025

Want more Christmas lights in Grand Rapids? Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park begin their spectacular Santa Visits on November 27 and run through January 4. Over 350,000 lights illuminate the park, filling 46 exhibits with holiday cheer and helping celebrate the ways different cultures ring in the holidays across the world. New this year is added indoor lighting as well as a new UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN HEALTH-WEST: CHRISTMAS & HOLIDAY TRADITIONS! While there are no updates on the light show, please check back to see if they add one closer to the christmas season.

The new experience, Englighten, can be seen on select evenings now through Jan. 4th!

West Holiday Pops

Join the Grand Rapids Symphony for a performance of pop holiday music you don’t want to miss. Join us for this long-standing holiday tradition with Bob Bernhardt the Grand Rapids Symphony, the Grand Rapids Symphony Chorus, the Grand Rapids Youth Chorus, Embellish Handbell Ensemble, and frequent GRS soloist Shayna Steele! Hear your seasonal favorites including “Joy to the World,” “O Come All Ye Faithful,” John Williams’ selections from the movie Home Alone, a “Christmas Sing-Along,” and the “Hallelujah” Chorus from The Messiah.Plus—a surprise visit all the way from the North Pole! Performances run December 21 through 23 at Devos Performance Hall. Check out performance times and grab your tickets here, and don’t forget to take the kids along – rumor has it that a special guest from the North Pole will be stopping by!

Carriage Rides

Take in all of the holiday wonders in downtown Grand Rapids with a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city. With your choice of ½ hour or hour rides, you can enjoy the downtown in a new way. Bring your significant other for a romantic stroll or bring your children and watch their eyes light up as they enjoy this unique experience. Rides are available on Friday and Saturday evenings beginning at 7 p.m. for reservation or walk-up. Per their website, walk-up rides are available based on availability and are priced at $50/half hour or $80/hour (Prices go up $10 for Winter Season, starting December 1). Looking to ride another evening? Other days and times are available by appointment, just visit their website or give them a call!

Christmas Pub Crawl Event

Join the lucky number 8th annual 12 Bars of Christmas Grand Rapids Bar Crawl! This is an adults-only 21+ celebration you won’t want to miss. Taking place on December 14 from 12 to 8 p.m., put on your best holiday onesie, Santa suit, or ugly sweater for the most wonderful crawl of the year. Start out at The Tin Can, then explore the following bars and enjoy specials at each location as part of the event; The Bob, Gilly’s, Bobarino’s, Flanagan’s, Uccello’s, and more. Check out their Eventbrite page, for more information and updates on the event. Ticket sales end soon, so make sure to grab your spot. Grab your partner or friends and get ready to have an amazing evening full of laughter, cheer and adventure.

Trans Siberian Orchestra

The feeling one gets listening to TSO is unforgettable and without a doubt one of the best parts of the holiday spirit. With more than 10 million albums sold these rock opera musicians combine holiday music with rock and roll. Incorporating lights, lasers, and fog machines into their elaborate performances, this band is not only ranked one of the highest-selling bands, but also one of the top 25 touring artists in the past decade. Enjoy their yearly visit to Grand Rapids at Van Andel Arena on Sunday, December 8, with only two showtimes, 3:00 pm, and 7:30 pm, make sure to get your tickets early.

Pictures with Santa

Woodland Mall

Take your kids or pets to get photos with Santa at the Woodland Mall. Reservations are encouraged but not required. Stop in between your holiday shopping beginning November 18 and going through December 24 (Pet Family photos stop on December 16th). Hours are Monday- Friday 11 a.m.-8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.- 8 p.m., and Sunday 12 p.m.- 6 p.m. Make sure to check their website here for classic family photos and check here for the pet friendly photo option and to get more information on Santa’s break times and how you can reserve your spot!

Frederik Meijer Gardens

Santa will also be making stops throughout the end of November into December for photos with your kids. Santa will be in the tropical conservatory for a setting like no other. Photo opportunities are limited so head over to their site for more information.

RiverTown Mall

If you are down in the Grandville area you can take your family to the lower level, east wing of the RiverTown Mall to add some magic to their holiday season. Santa will be available for pictures beginning November 22 and will run daily through December 24. Head over to their website, as reservations are encouraged, but not required.

Other dates to mark on your calendar are Santa Cares Day, a day for your sensory-sensitive friends and family to enjoy the time-honored tradition of a visit with Santa. Donations will be collected for Autism Speaks. Mark your calendar for this is only available on Sunday, December 8.

Furry pet friends are welcome on Monday, November 11, and December 5 to capture a photo with the Big Guy and your whole family, fur babies included. Be sure to check their website for availability as times are limited.

What to Expect:

  • Professional photography to ensure high-quality keepsakes
  • Multiple photo package options to suit every budget
  • Friendly elves to assist with the experience and keep the line moving smoothly
  • Digital downloads for easy sharing with friends and family

Special Features:

  • Sensory-friendly sessions on Sunday, December 8 for children with disabilities
  • Surprise gift for every child from Santa’s workshop

Hours of Operation: 

  • Friday, November 22: 2 pm to 7 pm
  • Saturday, November 23: 11 am to 7 pm
  • Sunday, November 24: 12 pm to 6 pm
  • Monday, November 25: 2 pm to 7 pm
  • Tuesday, November 26: 11 am to 7 pm
  • Thanksgiving Day November 27: CLOSED
  • Friday, November 29: 11 am to 7 pm
  • November 30 – December 22
  • Mondays – Saturdays: 11 am to 7 pm
  • Sundays: 11 am to 6 pm
  • Monday, December 23: 10 am to 7 pm
  • Christmas Eve December 24: 10 am to 5 pm

*NOTE: Santa does take a cookie break from 3:00 to 4:00 pm each day.

Cabela’s

The magic has already begun at Cabela’s Santa Wonderland. Reservations are required here but are free. Each trip comes with a free 4×6 photo. Each session gets a 15 minute time slot, so be prepared for that!

Additional packages can also be purchased. After visiting with Santa, little ones will enjoy free activities and will be able to mail a letter to the North Pole! Head over to Santa’s Wonderland to capture the holiday magic for you and your family.

Check out the full list of Places to See Santa- here!

Grand Rapids Public Museum

The Grand Rapids Public Museum offers a couple of fun holiday events for your whole family to enjoy. This year, the museum features 5 holiday themed exhibits and events: 

  • Santa and Elf Hunt 
    • “Riddles will help visitors find 15 historic Santas from around the world in the Streets of Old Grand Rapids exhibit and learn about the traditions of each culture around Saint Nick. Then, visitors will follow clues to try to find all 12 elves hidden throughout the three floors of the Museum. Each year the elves change their hiding spots. The Santa & Elf Hunt is available in English and Spanish, is included with general admission, and can be picked up in the Museum’s front lobby.”
  • Let it Snow Planetarium Show (Nov. 26 – Jan. 2)
    • Let it Snow features a new variety of festive classics from Frank Sinatra and Chuck Berry to Burl Ives and Brenda Lee, and includes a stunning multimedia finale by the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. The soundtrack is visually enhanced with thematic animation, laser imagery and special effects. Tickets are $4 each with general admission to the Museum, $2 for Museum members and $5 each for planetarium-only tickets. Let it Snow will play November 26 through January 2.
  • Historic LEGO® Display
    • See historic Grand Rapids like never before, built from LEGO® bricks! The 1925-era display, complete with operating trams, gives an up-close view of old-time Grand Rapids with historic buildings built to scale, along with a fun search-and-find activity for all ages. Viewing of this display is included with general admission. This exhibit is built by the West Michigan LEGO® Train Club.
  • December Mighty Wurlitzer Theater Organ Concert: Holiday Classics 
    • “Deck the halls this season by enjoying cheerful holiday songs on the GRPM’s 1928 Mighty Wurlitzer Theater Organ and classics such as Jingle Bells, Silent Night, The First Noel, and more. In-person tickets are $20, with a discounted price of $16 for Museum members. 

Kent County residents receive reduced admission every day and Kent County children 17 and under enjoy FREE general admission. For pricing and tickets, please visit tickets.grpm.org.” 

  • Tuba Christmas Performance: Snowflake Break 2024 
    • December 15th @3pm, free with admission

      Tuba Christmas was conceived in 1974 by Harvey Phillips as a tribute to his teacher and mentor William J. Bell, born on Christmas Day, 1902. Through this event, a collection of musicians from across the country pay homage to the heritage and honor all great artists/teachers whose legacy has given high performance standards. 

The concert consists of musicians playing the brass instruments found in the back row of the band: tubas, euphoniums, baritone horns, and sousaphones. Any musician with one of these instruments is welcome to play: home-schoolers, middle & high schoolers, college musicians and community bands. Many players decorate their horns and themselves to create a festive atmosphere.

Don’t miss out on these fantastic Christmas classics, great to lift the spirits of your whole family for this joyous holiday season in West Michigan.

BYOB Holiday Lights Trolley

Tickets are selling fast NOW through December 30, so grab your 21+ friends and family, your beverage of choice, and your holiday spirit. Travel around Grand Rapids on the BYOB trolley and see some of GR’s best holiday spots, including the 47-foot Christmas Tree at Rosa Parks Circle. Also, enjoy a free snack at Founders before departure and a souvenir gift with your purchase of a ticket.

Ticket Includes:

  • BYOB for a festive and fun trolley ride to take in some of Grand Rapids’ best holiday spots!
  • Complimentary snack before trolley departs
  • 3 hour trolley ride with driver and tour guide
  • Lights and Holiday Decor on your trolley ride
  • Souvenir Gift
  • Admission to The Christmas Lite Show at Fifth Third Park
  • BYOB, 21+ trolley

Music, Fun, Trivia and Prizes on the Trolley!

*Trolley Tour Route is subject to change based on dates and venue availability. Possible stops or sights on the tour include: The Grand Rapids Christkindl Markt at the Downtown Market, The Christmas Lite Show at LMCU  Ballpark, residential displays in surrounding areas, East Grand Rapids Christmas Tree and light displays, Rosa Parks Circle and the Grand Rapids Christmas Tree.

Rosa Park Circle Ice Skating

One of the local’s favorite holiday activities in Grand Rapids is ice skating in Rosa Park Circle. The rink is open for skating from late November (whenever it’s cold enough to keep the ice) through February 26. Adults skate for $4 and under 18 skate for $2 with punch cards also available for the 23/24 season. Skating is weather dependent so be sure to keep an eye on their Facebook or their page on the official Grand Rapids site for updates. This is a classic Grand Rapids Christmas tradition you will want to make sure to add to your list!

Don’t miss the Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at Rosa Parks Circle on December 2 beginning at 5 p.m.

Make sure to get your Michigan-inspired holiday gifts- here!

Book your holiday stay in Grand Rapids- here!

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Make sure to dress for the weather!