Holiday Hype: Local Destinations and Happenings

Throughout the holiday season there are many fun and exciting activities in and around Canton. With such a wide variety of options, there's something for everyone. Perhaps you are a fan of outdoor fun (make sure to dress warm!), or maybe you’d like to see amazing ice sculptures or beautiful lights. There are also opportunities to learn, volunteer and more. Whichever way you like to spend this time of year, here are some ideas on how you can celebrate locally.

Season of Giving

While it is always a great time to help each other out in our community, the winter holidays are a particularly prominent time of giving.

  • Did you know you can write a letter to Santa? USPS Operation Santa provides an address for children to send their thoughts and wishes to the North Pole. Once the letters are published, you can “adopt a letter” to respond to and send gifts on Santa’s behalf.
  • If you have new or gently used clothing, consider donating them to the VA Winter Clothing Drive for homeless veterans. There are several drop off locations that have partnered with the Plymouth-Canton chapter of Vietnam Veterans of America to collect donations.
  • Volunteer Michigan provides opportunities for you to help out in your local community. The website allows you to search by location and causes, so you can volunteer for the things that matter to you.

Ice Sculptures

Come see amazing art carved out of ice at the annual Plymouth Ice Festival or the Ice Garden in Royal Oak.

Lights and Trees

Enjoy beautiful lights and adorned trees at these various locations:

Multicultural Events

You can have a taste of multicultural and interfaith celebrations by checking out these local events.

  • If you are looking to enjoy music, Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra will host a Holiday Pops concert on December 16, 2023. 
  • The Cherry Hill Village Theater have several holiday-themed shows including Christmas with the Celts and the Canton Concert Band Christmas Concert.  Buy your tickets through their box office.     
  • The winter solstice is the first official day of winter. Many times, around the world, there are festivities for the change of seasons, such as this year’s Winter Solstice Celebration in Oakland County.
  • The Henry Ford Museum provides an opportunity to learn about a few ways different communities celebrate during this time of year. These events include:
    • A modern performance of the classic Christmastime favorite, The Nutcracker.
    • A winter solstice and astronomy lesson.
    • A fun, educational program on Hanukkah.
    • An afternoon of Kwanzaa storytelling.
    • A “Noon Year’s Eve Party” with fun crafts and storytime.

Gifts and Shopping

During this time, you can also get some holiday shopping done at a nearby Christmas market or local holiday craft fair. If you're looking for something with a personal touch, try a homemade project on Creativebug and browse dozens of cozy craft ideas that will make a perfect heartfelt gift for your loved one.

Outdoor Fun

Do you like outdoor winter activities and adventure? Borrow a sled at the Summit on the Park Sled Library for all sorts of fun in the snow. There are also many ice skating options in the area, as well as places you can go on a winter hike.

Too Much Holiday Hype?

While we hope you are excited for the hype of the holidays, know that there are resources available if you experience the winter blues. Sometimes, curling up with a good book or watching a movie is the best way to destress during this very busy time.