It’s hard to believe, but the holiday season is nearly upon us here in the Great Lakes State. This special time of years brings plenty of chances to appreciate the joys of the season, and Christmas in Michigan offers no shortage of ways to get into the holiday spirit. There’s one village here in our state that continually charms visitors and locals alike with its Christmas celebrations — you’ll want to experience Ashley, Michigan for yourself.
The charming Michigan village of Ashley is located in Gratiot County.
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This tiny community is lovely year-round, but it truly comes to life each holiday season with its one-of-a-kind “Village of Ashley Country Christmas” event.
Facebook/SRI/Matt Churcott
Beginning the weekend before Thanksgiving and continuing through the holidays, this event transforms Ashley into a magical Christmas wonderland.
Facebook/SRI/Matt Churcott
The decor at Ashley’s Country Christmas is decidedly vintage — you might wonder if you’ve stepped back in time to a 1940s Christmastime celebration.
Facebook/SRI/Matt Churcott
No matter what your age, you’ll be charmed by this joyful village. From horse-drawn carriages to a massive Christmas tree, there’s always something to see.
Facebook/SRI/Matt Churcott
As if that weren’t enough, visitors can even watch as the North Pole Express, a real steam engine from the Steam Railroading Institute, makes its way into town.
Facebook/SRI/Matt Churcott
Hungry? You’re in luck. Grab a quick bite at the Burger Barn or enjoy a full Christmas dinner at one of the village’s many delicious little dining spots.
Facebook/SRI/Matt Churcott
If you’re behind on your holiday shopping, Ashley has you covered. During its Country Christmas event, you’ll find everything from crafts to unique gifts.
Facebook/SRI/Matt Churcott
Visit with Santa’s reindeer, catch a glimpse of the man in red himself, or make your very own wooden toy in the workshop. Is there anything not to love?
Facebook/Village of Ashley Country Christmas
The attractions and delights are seemingly endless at Ashley’s Country Christmas celebration — and you might just find yourself returning for more.
Facebook/Village of Ashley Country Christmas
For further information about the Village of Ashley Country Christmas, visit their website. Have you explored this fantastic little community in years past? We’d love to hear your stories and memories in the comment section below. If you want to make the most of your Christmas in Michigan we recommend the annual St Josephs luminary festival.
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Facebook/SRI/Matt Churcott
Facebook/Village of Ashley Country Christmas
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The OIYS Visitor Center
Holiday Fun In Michigan November 05, 2022 Sara Dager What are the best wintertime hikes in Michigan?
You can find a bunch of awesome hikes in Michigan to take during the winter months! As always we caution you to research the weather and trail conditions before lacing up your boots to make sure you have a fun and safe experience, but once you’re educated, there’s so many options! For something nice and easy, you can hike just a scant half mile up the Pyramid Point Trail at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The views of lake Michigan from the top of trail will take your breath away. You’ll feel like you’ve climbed to the top of the earth as you see the state spread out in front of you! If you prefer your hikes a little more rigorous, you may enjoy stepping out on the Pine Baron Pathway in Gaylord. With over nine miles of interconnected trail loops and a multitude of ways to traverse this terrain (walking, skiing, even snowshoeing,) you won’t soon tire of this stunning location. Which Christmas lights in Michigan are the most fun? We have a couple of must do’s when it comes to Christmas lights displays in Michigan. First head over to Lansing for Silver Lights in the City, this massive Christmas parade and tree lighting ceremony are like nothing you’ve ever seen before. There are even fireworks displays! Another unique experience are the Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo. All of the paths and trees are beautifully lit and you can expect to encounter tons of lighted animal sculptures as well as massive light arches. This is a charming way to spend an evening during the holiday with a date or the whole family. Does Michigan have any Christmas trains? There are a couple of Christmas trains in Michigan. The Steam Railroading Institute offers a North Pole express aboard a phenomenal antique steam train that looks straight out of the Polar Express. On board there is live entertainment appropriate for the 1950’s era train cars you will be sitting on, and if you join the Clause Club you could be drinking unlimited hot chocolate your entire ride! Also available is the Santa Express by Southern Michigan Railroad. You will go all the way to the Santa’s Workshop on this ride, with the company of costumed elf staff members, the kids will get to step off the train and spend some time with Santa telling him what they want for Christmas.
The OIYS Visitor Center
Holiday Fun In Michigan
November 05, 2022
Sara Dager
What are the best wintertime hikes in Michigan?
You can find a bunch of awesome hikes in Michigan to take during the winter months! As always we caution you to research the weather and trail conditions before lacing up your boots to make sure you have a fun and safe experience, but once you’re educated, there’s so many options! For something nice and easy, you can hike just a scant half mile up the Pyramid Point Trail at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The views of lake Michigan from the top of trail will take your breath away. You’ll feel like you’ve climbed to the top of the earth as you see the state spread out in front of you! If you prefer your hikes a little more rigorous, you may enjoy stepping out on the Pine Baron Pathway in Gaylord. With over nine miles of interconnected trail loops and a multitude of ways to traverse this terrain (walking, skiing, even snowshoeing,) you won’t soon tire of this stunning location. Which Christmas lights in Michigan are the most fun? We have a couple of must do’s when it comes to Christmas lights displays in Michigan. First head over to Lansing for Silver Lights in the City, this massive Christmas parade and tree lighting ceremony are like nothing you’ve ever seen before. There are even fireworks displays! Another unique experience are the Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo. All of the paths and trees are beautifully lit and you can expect to encounter tons of lighted animal sculptures as well as massive light arches. This is a charming way to spend an evening during the holiday with a date or the whole family. Does Michigan have any Christmas trains? There are a couple of Christmas trains in Michigan. The Steam Railroading Institute offers a North Pole express aboard a phenomenal antique steam train that looks straight out of the Polar Express. On board there is live entertainment appropriate for the 1950’s era train cars you will be sitting on, and if you join the Clause Club you could be drinking unlimited hot chocolate your entire ride! Also available is the Santa Express by Southern Michigan Railroad. You will go all the way to the Santa’s Workshop on this ride, with the company of costumed elf staff members, the kids will get to step off the train and spend some time with Santa telling him what they want for Christmas.
The OIYS Visitor Center
The OIYS Visitor Center
You can find a bunch of awesome hikes in Michigan to take during the winter months! As always we caution you to research the weather and trail conditions before lacing up your boots to make sure you have a fun and safe experience, but once you’re educated, there’s so many options! For something nice and easy, you can hike just a scant half mile up the Pyramid Point Trail at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The views of lake Michigan from the top of trail will take your breath away. You’ll feel like you’ve climbed to the top of the earth as you see the state spread out in front of you! If you prefer your hikes a little more rigorous, you may enjoy stepping out on the Pine Baron Pathway in Gaylord. With over nine miles of interconnected trail loops and a multitude of ways to traverse this terrain (walking, skiing, even snowshoeing,) you won’t soon tire of this stunning location.
Which Christmas lights in Michigan are the most fun?
We have a couple of must do’s when it comes to Christmas lights displays in Michigan. First head over to Lansing for Silver Lights in the City, this massive Christmas parade and tree lighting ceremony are like nothing you’ve ever seen before. There are even fireworks displays! Another unique experience are the Wild Lights at the Detroit Zoo. All of the paths and trees are beautifully lit and you can expect to encounter tons of lighted animal sculptures as well as massive light arches. This is a charming way to spend an evening during the holiday with a date or the whole family.
Does Michigan have any Christmas trains?
There are a couple of Christmas trains in Michigan. The Steam Railroading Institute offers a North Pole express aboard a phenomenal antique steam train that looks straight out of the Polar Express. On board there is live entertainment appropriate for the 1950’s era train cars you will be sitting on, and if you join the Clause Club you could be drinking unlimited hot chocolate your entire ride! Also available is the Santa Express by Southern Michigan Railroad. You will go all the way to the Santa’s Workshop on this ride, with the company of costumed elf staff members, the kids will get to step off the train and spend some time with Santa telling him what they want for Christmas.
