Winter in Grand Rapids doesn’t really kick in until people start wobbling around Rosa Parks Circle. Show up after dark when the downtown lights are twinkling and the rink feels like something out of a Hallmark movie.

Rosa Parks Circle runs daily sessions throughout the winter, and the best part? Skate rental is baked right into the admission price ($6 for adults, $3 for youth 17 and under). Sessions run about 90 minutes, which is just enough time to find your ice legs, show off a little, and warm up with hot chocolate when you’re done.

If you want to switch things up, the Holland Ice Park is brand new this year and is just steps away from downtown. Tickets are $10 per person with skates included, but you do need to reserve online.

A ticket to Meijer Gardens during the holidays unlocks festive photo ops and experiences you won’t find anywhere else in Grand Rapids. Plan to spend a few hours soaking it all in.

Inside, you’ll find holiday displays from around the world, anchored by some seriously impressive Christmas trees. The train garden is a must. Model trains weave through detailed scenes inspired by West Michigan landmarks, and it’s just as fun for adults as it is for kids.

• The Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibit runs November 26, 2025 through January 4, 2026.

ENLIGHTEN layers on even more magic after dark. This nighttime light show experience transforms the gardens into something that feels almost unreal. ENLIGHTEN requires a separate timed ticket, but it includes access to the Christmas & Holiday Traditions exhibit, which makes it easy to turn the whole thing into a great night out.

• ENLIGHTEN runs November 24, 2025 through January 3, 2026

Some of us have very strong opinions about Christmas lights. If you’re the type who slows down for every inflatable snowman and synchronized light display, Grand Rapids delivers.

GRKIDS puts together several curated Christmas lights route every year, mapping out the best neighborhood displays so you can follow a local driving tour. Pack some snacks, queue up the Christmas playlist, and let the kids stay in their pajamas. It’s pretty perfect.

For something more over-the-top, the Christmas Lite Show at LMCU Ballpark lets you drive through nearly two miles of lights, tunnels, and animated displays without ever leaving your car.

• Family Vehicle Tickets are $30 online ($35 at the gate) for a regular vehicle.
• The show runs Sunday through Thursday from 5:30 to 9 PM and Friday through Saturday from 5:30 to 10 PM.
• Runs November 26, 2025 through January 3, 2026.

The Grand Rapids Christkindl Markt is back for its third year, and it’s officially the biggest traditional European Christmas market in West Michigan.

Browse the wooden huts for handcrafted gifts under the glowing lights, duck into an Alpenglobe to warm up, or even try curling.

New this year, Holiday Party Packages make it possible to book private gatherings right at the market. It works just as well for a cozy date night as it does for rounding up a whole group.

• Runs November 19 through December 23, 2025 at the Downtown Market.

Over the years, we’ve sampled Christmas tree farms like some people sample coffee shops. Every mom-and-pop farm has its own personality, and there’s something deeply satisfying about supporting a local family farm.

If you’re chasing the full experience (wagon rides, hot cocoa, a place to bring the dog while you debate between Fraser and Douglas fir), check out the GRKIDS guide to cut-your-own Christmas tree farms. We’ve been to most of them and can vouch: they’re good.

Pro tip: Call ahead or check socials before you go. Field availability and hours change quickly once the season heats up.

The Grand Rapids Ballet’s Nutcracker is a classic for a reason. The costumes, the music, the dancing, the look on a kid’s face when the tree grows to the ceiling. It’s a holiday tradition that holds up year after year.

• 2025 performances: December 12-14 and December 19-21 at DeVos Performance Hall in downtown Grand Rapids.
• Tickets are available through the Grand Rapids Ballet box office or Ticketmaster.

There’s something about seeing downtown from a carriage that slows everything down.

The lights feel closer. The noise fades. It’s romantic if you want it to be, and just plain fun if you’re bringing kids along.

In Grand Rapids, operators like Classic Carriage and Common Gentry offer holiday rides on select evenings, usually on weekends. These are paid rides and tend to fill up quickly, so planning ahead helps.