Downtown Detroit Shines with Holiday Magic: Spectacular Tree Lighting Ceremony and Festivities rival NYC and Chicago
Detroit, MI – The heart of downtown Detroit is now aglow with the enchantment of the holiday season, offering a Christmas atmosphere and activities that can rival the likes of New York City’s Rockefeller Center and Chicago’s Millennium Park.
On Friday night, Santa Claus himself brought the magic to life as he flipped the switch, illuminating the majestic 64-foot Northway spruce from Kingsley in Northern Michigan. The Christmas tree, standing tall at Campus Martius Park, is bedecked with delightful ornaments and adorned with more than 25,000 LED multi-colored lights, casting a spellbinding glow over the city.
A multitude of cheer-filled individuals gathered around the park’s ice skating rink, eagerly anticipating the festivities of the 20th Detroit Tree Lighting Ceremony. The evening was filled with exceptional performances by esteemed figures such as gold medal Olympic figure skater Nathan Chen, talented country music artist Miko Marks hailing from Flint, and the captivating singer Paul Russell, among others.
The holiday spirit in downtown Detroit extends beyond the tree lighting ceremony; it encompasses a breathtaking array of lights enveloping the ice skating rink. Just a stone’s throw away, visitors can revel in the joys of local holiday markets, cozy lodge experiences, and an outdoor midway where rides and games await to delight individuals of all ages.
David Cowan, the Chief Public Spaces Officer at the Downtown Detroit Partnership, expressed his jubilation, stating, There’s no better way to kick off the holiday season than gathering together to celebrate the milestone 20th annual Detroit Tree Lighting in the award-winning Campus Martius Park. With a diverse showcase of local and national talent on the stage and ice, plus the Michigan-grown Norway spruce at the center of it all, the festive atmosphere in Detroit’s gathering place is unmatched.
As a delightful addition to the holiday festivities, visitors can also indulge in carriage rides every Friday and Saturday from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. until December 31st. For a nominal fee of $10 per person, these enchanting rides offer a delightful way to explore the surrounding area of downtown Detroit, spreading the joy and spirit of the season.
Just a few blocks away, Beacon Park at Grand River between 1st and Cass is another marvelous destination to immerse oneself in the holiday celebrations. Festivities at Beacon Park revolve around a stunning, Michigan-grown 20-foot tree adorned with ornaments lovingly crafted by local children. Furthermore, the park boasts a captivating Northern Lights theme display, showcasing marvelous, custom-fabricated light installations, including a magnificent three-dimensional infinity snow globe towering 15-feet tall. Visitors to Beacon Park have until January 16 to experience this mesmerizing winter wonderland.
Experience the magic of Detroit this holiday season; a hidden gem that rivals the grandeur of New York City and Chicago. Immerse yourself in the captivating festivities, witness the majestic tree lighting ceremony, and create cherished memories with loved ones in the heart of downtown Detroit.