Southwest Michigan’s Holiday Light Display Bucket List
Most of us probably have fond childhood memories of driving around or walking to see beautiful holiday light displays. Taking in the seasonal sights can help warm even the grumpiest of grumps into spreading cheer. Here is a list of where to find the best light displays in Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, Portage, Three Rivers, Marshall and more.
Zoo Lights at Binder Park Zoo | 7400 Division Drive, Battle Creek | (269) 979-1351
Binder Park's Zoo Lights will continue through December 23. Take in the lights, decorations, winter animals, special entertainment and visit Santa. They also have unlimited carousel rides, animal meet and greets and holiday treats.
Battle Creek Winter Festival of Lights | Downtown Battle Creek (Mill Race Park, Friendship Park and along the river to Linear Park)
This is a great location to take a stroll. Activities include horse-drawn wagon rides, Santa’s Den, arts and crafts, music. Special events take place every Saturday through December 22.
Portage City Center
There lighted paths to walk near Portage City Hall and the Portage District Library.
Bronson Park and Downtown Kalamazoo | 200 South Rose Street, Kalamazoo
Downtown Kalamazoo offers a number of must-see Holiday displays including a walk through Candy Cane Lane. You can also get a picture next to the giant Santa near the Radisson hotel. Another option to take in the scenery is the Holly Jolly Trolley. Just don't forget to stop at Santa’s workshop.
River Lights of Wonder | Riverside Church, 207 E. Michigan, Three Rivers
The amazing Christmas display along the St. Joseph River has had many willing to make a road trip. The display guides visitors through the story of the first Christmas. The light show happens every Thursday through Sunday in December from 5:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Saturdays are walking only tours of the display.
Holiday House 5777 | 5777 Clovermeadows Avenue, Scotts
This is a residential home but with over 150 Christmas themed blowups. There paths to walk for a closer view. This display is up as weather conditions allow.
Gull Meadow Farms | 8544 Gull Road, Richland | (269) 629-4214
Over 50,000 and displays are up along the front of the farm along Gull Road.
Marshall’s Merry Mile | Calhoun County Fairgrounds, 720 Fair Street, Marshall
This display goes through December 30, Wednesday through Sunday 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. There are visits from Santa and other scheduled events through the season.
The animated drive-thru Christmas Lite Show is nearly 2 miles long. It is open until December 31, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. daily.
St. Joseph Lights up the Bluff | Lake Bluff Park and Lake Boulevard, St. Joseph
Over a million lights guide walkers through Lake Bluff Par. Kids can also enjoy a ride on the Silver Beach Carousel, decorated for the holidays.