What better way to count down to the most splendid time of year than with 12 experiences to get you in the holiday spirit? Jackson, Michigan has dozens of ways to celebrate the season. From indoor to outdoor activities, it is sure to be fun for the whole family!
1. The Town of Christmas
Spend hours exploring this three-story Christmas extravaganza. While here you’ll see elves helping Santa, snowmen glistening in the snow, and you'll even be able to give Santa your Christmas list. Before leaving The Town of Christmas, don’t forget to stop by the movie theatre to enjoy a film in their comfy seats.
2. Drive Through Nite Lites
Surround yourself with millions of twinkling lights that have been meticulously shaped into favorite characters and holiday scenes as you drive through this five-mile holiday light display. Nite Lites is a time-honored tradition that has been embraced by families far and wide since its inception.
3. Christmas on the Farm
Partake in a recreation of holiday traditions from the 1800s at Christmas on the Farm. The 15-room farmhouse will be adorned in period-specific decorations and costumed guides will be available to take you around the preserved farmhouse to show you what pioneer life was like during the holiday times.
4. The Nutcracker Presented by Jackson Symphony Orchestra & Ballet Chelsea
Enjoy the 21st annual presentation of The Nutcracker featuring a live symphony orchestra accompaniment from the Jackson Symphony Orchestra. This magical show is a full-length, narrated ballet that has been drawing people from around Southern Michigan since it first began.
5. Winter trails
What better way to enjoy the winter weather than outside? Jackson has several winter trails for cross country skiing, snow shoeing, and fat tire biking. Pack up your gear and discover a trail that’s perfect for you.
6. Ice Skating at Optimist Ice Arena
Ice skating is a staple of the holidays. Whether it’s your first time or you have been ice skating for years, Optimist Ice Arena is a great spot to spend some time with the whole family making memories.
7. Ice Fishing
Try your hand at one of Michigan’s favorite winter pastimes – ice fishing! With more than 100 lakes in Jackson County, you are sure to reel in a big catch.
8. See a Holiday Movie at Michigan Theatre
Embrace the nostalgia of this time of year by seeing a Christmas movie in a historic movie theatre. Jackson Theatre will be showing several classics that are sure to get you in the Christmas spirit. This 1930’s theatre surely sets the stage for favorites like It’s a Wonderful Life.
9. Meet Santa and Reindeer at Winter Wonderland
The holiday season would be incomplete without a visit from Santa and his real live reindeer! Come to Winter Wonderland at Nite Lites to meet them all on December 7, 14, and 21 from 6pm to 9pm. In addition to Santa, there will be free train rides, crafts, and concessions.
10. EpIQ Escape
Enjoy some family bonding at EpIQ Escape. As a family you will enter one of the themed escape rooms and have 60 minutes to put your skills to the test to get out. This is the perfect way to spend time with the whole family during the busy holiday season.
11. See the Polar Express at Lost Railway Museum
Experience a holiday classic at the Lost Railway Museum. The perfect setting for this holiday classic, enjoy this movie that’s fun for the whole family while surrounded by real locomotives! The Lost Railway Museum pays tribute to the electric interurban railway that once traveled the streets of Grass Lake.
12. Jackson Candy & Fudge Factory
Sweets are an essential part of the holiday season, and Jackson has just the place to get exactly what you need. You’ll take a step back in time as you enter Jackson Candy & Fudge Factory. Modeled after an 1890’s candy shop, you can find homemade fudge, fine chocolates, saltwater taffy, caramel corn, locally made products and so much more. This is an experience the whole family will enjoy and is a wonderful way to commemorate the holidays.
Make Time for All 12 Experiences with a Weekend Stay
One day just isn’t enough time to get through all 12 of these magnificent holiday experiences, so stay for the weekend! With accommodations for every need, Jackson has just the hotel for you. Start planning your holiday trip today!