Every holiday season, homes, bars, and offices across the globe light up with the garish charm of ugly sweater parties. These festive gatherings—filled with retro knitwear adorned with reindeer, Santa Claus, and other whimsical designs—have become a staple of the season. While many attribute the origin of this playful tradition to a Vancouver gathering in 2002, a group of Western Michigan University alumni from Kalamazoo, Michigan, passionately disputes that claim. Armed with proof and nearly a decade of hosting memorable sweater-clad soirées, these Michigan pioneers are setting the record straight.

Where It All Began: A Humble Gathering in Kalamazoo

The story of the ugly sweater party begins not in a posh Canadian venue but in a modest student…

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Crisscrossing strands of warm, glowing lights illuminate rustic wooden stalls, their surfaces brimming with artisan crafts and culinary treasures. The sweet and savory aromas of warm raclette and mulled wine linger in the crisp air, captivating visitors as they weave through Michigan's European-inspired Christmas markets. While the Great Lakes State may be thousands of miles from the snowy landscapes of Nuremberg or Dresden, the holiday spirit that fuels these traditional markets has found a vibrant home in the Midwest.

For Grand Rapids, the Christkindl Markt outside the Downtown Market has quickly emerged as the crown jewel of this burgeoning trend. In just over a year, it has transformed from a hopeful experiment to a centerpiece of the city’s…

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Michigan, affectionately known as the "Water-Winter Wonderland," transforms into a breathtakingly picturesque landscape during the colder months, making it an ideal backdrop for heartwarming holiday films. Surrounded by four of the five Great Lakes—Michigan, Erie, Superior, and Huron—the state offers a unique blend of small-town charm and stunning natural beauty that has inspired filmmakers to set their stories here. Whether you're living in Michigan or considering moving to Michigan, these holiday movies not only capture the essence of the season but also highlight the state's rich cultural and scenic appeal. From stories rooted in community spirit to heartfelt tales of love and redemption, these Michigan holiday films are perfect for adding a little…

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For over a decade, the Detroit Zoo’s Wild Lights has been a cherished tradition, captivating visitors with its dazzling display of holiday magic in Royal Oak. Now, the event has reached new heights of recognition, earning its place as #9 on USA Today’s 10 Best Zoo Lights list—an achievement driven by enthusiastic public support and the tireless efforts of the zoo team.

For families and holiday enthusiasts across metro Detroit, this is not merely an annual outing but a signature experience that symbolizes the season itself. This year’s edition raises the bar once again, combining immersive lighting installations, interactive features, and thoughtful touches designed to warm hearts and combat winter chills.

Detroit Zoo, Facebook

From Local Favorite…

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When it comes to the holiday season, nothing blends nostalgia and humor quite like National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. This year, in downtown Ann Arbor, The Pretzel Bell has turned its basement bar into a whimsical, immersive holiday destination celebrating the chaos and charm of the Griswold family. From twinkling lights to themed drinks, this pop-up bar has become the talk of the town, drawing fans of all ages eager to relive their favorite holiday moments.

The Pretzel Bell, Facebook

Step into the Griswolds' World

The Griswold-themed bar opened its doors on November 29 and will run through January 4, offering Ann Arbor residents and visitors a festive escape inspired by the beloved 1989 film. As guests descend into The Down Bar, they’re…

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Few traditions capture the magic of the holidays like a festive stroll through a winter wonderland, and Canterbury Village delivers this enchantment in spades with its annual Holiday Stroll. Nestled in the picturesque setting of Lake Orion, Michigan, Canterbury Village transforms each winter into a dazzling display of lights, music, and interactive holiday experiences. This event is designed to delight visitors of all ages, making it a perfect way to immerse in the joy and magic of the season.

Canterbury Village, Facebook

The Magic of Canterbury Village

At the heart of the event lies Canterbury Village itself—a charming, historic locale that offers a perfect backdrop for holiday festivities. Located at 2359 Joslyn Court in Orion Township, the…

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The Detroit Lions faced off against the Buffalo Bills in an electrifying Week 15 matchup at Ford Field. The game, a clash between two of the NFL’s best teams, ended with the Bills narrowly defeating the Lions 48-42 in what became the highest-scoring game of the season. Despite the loss, Detroit remains in a strong position, tied for the top spot in the NFC with the Philadelphia Eagles. Here’s a breakdown of the game, quarter by quarter, along with an analysis of injuries, Super Bowl hopes, and what’s at stake in the Lions’ final three games.

detroitlionsnfl, instagram

First Quarter: A Rough Start for Detroit

The game began with Buffalo setting the tone early. Detroit’s first drive resulted in a quick three-and-out, while the Bills capitalized…

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Michigan is a winter paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an array of ski resorts that cater to families and thrill-seekers alike. Whether you’re living in Michigan or moving to Michigan, you’ll find countless opportunities to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing across the state’s diverse terrain. From the challenging slopes of Mount Bohemia in the Upper Peninsula to the family-friendly trails of Pine Knob in Clarkston, Michigan’s resorts boast world-class facilities, picturesque scenery, and activities for all ages and skill levels. With options like tubing hills, terrain parks, cross-country trails, and even Michigan’s only Alpine slide, these resorts make winter an exciting season to explore the state’s natural beauty.

Upper Peninsula
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Michigan transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering a treasure trove of unique destinations that capture the magic of the season. Whether you’re living in Michigan or considering moving to Michigan, the state’s hidden holiday gems are sure to enchant you. From the snow-dusted shores of Lake Superior in Marquette to the festive glow of Petoskey’s Gaslight District, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy lighted parades, Victorian splendor, cozy wine-tasting tours, and more as you explore these unforgettable locations. Each destination offers a unique blend of charm, tradition, and seasonal cheer, making Michigan the perfect place to celebrate the holidays.

Visit Alpena: Sanctuary of the Great Lakes, Facebook

A Waterfront…

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As the festive season approaches, Meadow Brook Hall transforms into a luminous haven of holiday magic, drawing visitors from across Michigan and beyond. Nestled in Rochester, this historic estate combines architectural grandeur with timeless traditions, creating an enchanting experience that captures the essence of the holidays. With an array of events ranging from the celebrated Holiday Walk to the dazzling Winter Wonder Lights, Meadow Brook Hall offers a unique blend of history, elegance, and seasonal charm.

Meadow Brook Hall, Facebook

A Historic Masterpiece

Meadow Brook Hall, built between 1926 and 1929 by Matilda Dodge Wilson and her second husband, Alfred Wilson, is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and design. Once the center of a sprawling…

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