Holiday Happenings in Grayling
Experience the magic of the holiday season in Grayling!
Whether you're shopping for the perfect gift, enjoying a cozy night out, or making memories with loved ones, Grayling is full of small-town holiday charm. Bundle up, gather your favorite people, and discover all the ways to celebrate the most wonderful time of the year!
Explore the holiday events below and make plans to experience the season in Grayling!
Downtown Grayling's Christmas Walk | November 21st, 2026
Experience the magic of the holiday season at Downtown Grayling's annual Christmas Walk! Join us for a festive day filled with holiday cheer, downtown shopping, family-friendly activities, and cherished Christmas traditions. Stroll through our charming downtown as businesses welcome you with holiday specials, festive displays, and unique gifts. Enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, visit Santa and Mrs. Claus, meet live reindeer, explore holiday vendors, and take part in the "Spend $10, Win Big" downtown shopping promotion!
Event Highli
ghts:
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Santa & Mrs. Claus: 3–8 PM at AuSable Artisan Village Performing Arts Center
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Live Reindeer: 3–6 PM at North Country Corner
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Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides: 3–8 PM along Michigan Avenue
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Holiday Shopping & Vendor Village: Explore local shops, festive vendors, and special promotions
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Light Parade: 7:30 PM along Michigan Avenue, followed by the Courthouse Tree Lighting
Whether you're starting your holiday shopping, making memories with family, or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, Christmas Walk is the perfect way to kick off the holiday season in Grayling!
Festival of Trees | November 13th-28th, 2026
Step into the holiday spirit at Grayling's Festival of Trees! Organized by Grayling Promotional Association and held at the Grayling Town Center, this beloved two-week holiday tradition brings the community together for a festive display of beautifully decorated Christmas trees, generously created by local businesses and organizations.
Stroll through a winter wonderland of uniquely themed trees, purchase raffle tickets for your favorites, and you could take home a fully decorated Christmas tree just in time for the holidays! Visitors can also enter to win a variety of festive raffle baskets filled with goodies and gifts.
Don't forget to browse the Barely Used Christmas Store, where you'll find gently loved holiday decorations and treasures ready for a new home.
Whether you're looking for holiday inspiration, hoping to win a tree, or simply enjoying the magic of the season, the Festival of Trees is a must-visit Grayling holiday tradition! You can even meet Santa when he stops by on November 28th!
Santa Train | December 5th, 2026
All aboard for a little holiday magic! The Lake State Railway Santa Train brings Christmas cheer to Grayling with a special visit from Santa Claus himself!
Watch as the festive train rolls into town, bringing excitement and holiday spirit for children and families alike.
This beloved holiday tradition is a wonderful opportunity to see Santa as he comes through town, experience the magic of the railroad, and make special memories with loved ones.
Bundle up, bring your holiday cheer, and don't miss this magical Christmas tradition in Grayling!
Light Up Your Life | December 6th-10th, 2026
Grayling is shining a little brighter this holiday season! The Grayling Promotional Association's Light Up Your Life House Decorating Contest brings festive cheer to neighborhoods throughout the community as residents deck their homes with twinkling lights, colorful displays, and creative Christmas decorations.
From classic holiday charm to dazzling light displays, this festive tradition is a wonderful way to spread Christmas cheer and celebrate the season. Take a drive around Grayling to admire the beautifully decorated homes, enjoy the holiday magic, and see how our community lights up for Christmas!
Whether you're decorating your own home or simply enjoying the sights, it's a fun way to experience the holiday spirit in Grayling!