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Thanksgiving Week Kicks off the Holidays in Northern Michigan

Thanksgiving is a busy weekend in Northern Michigan as several special events kick off the holiday season in style. While Black Friday is busy everywhere, in Northern Michigan it is more personal with shopkeepers greeting you to announce their specials.

Most events are held on the Saturday after Thanksgiving Day, unless otherwise noted.

Here's a list of events that typically take place:

Walloon Lake Village Lighting

Christmas in Indian River

  • 9am-4pm – Shop unique, hand-made gifts from more than 100 vendors at the annual Christmas Craft Show at Inland Lakes School- 4363 S Straits Hwy, Indian River. For an application, visit irchamber.com.
  • 5pm – Parade starts at Modern Pharmacy and ends at S. Straits Hwy and River St.
  • Following the Parade – Santa lights the Community Christmas tree.

Holly Jolly Boyne

  • Boyne City’s downtown sparkles for this family fun event. Businesses stay open, and the parade begins at 6 pm. Join Santa as he travels to the tree lighting in Old City Park.

Holiday Parade & Tree Lighting in Charlevoix

  • Charlevoix kicks off the holiday season on the Friday after Thanksgiving with Children’s activities, Christmas parade at 5:30pm, and tree lighting at 6pm.

Harbor Springs Christmas Tree Lighting

  • Announcement of winners of the Holiday Decorating Contest
  • Santa meet and greet outside the Lyric Theatre- 275 E. Main St., Harbor Springs
  • Mailbox to Santa will also be located at the Lyric Threatre At 6pm, Celebrate a magical tradition in downtown Harbor Springs at the Christmas Tree Lighting
  • Following the parade, an ecumenical chili dinner will be held in the Holy Childhood Parish Hall- 150 W. Main Street. Homemade cookies and hot cocoa will also be available, courtesy of the American Legion Auxiliary and their sponsor, First Community Bank

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