Fun holiday events set in Washtenaw County

Events to be held in Ann Arbor, Ypsilanti, Dexter

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Looking for some fun holiday events near you? Look no further, because ClickOnDetroit has your back. Below you’ll find a number of fun, festive, or unique things to do with friends or family this holiday season. 

Ann Arbor

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Pet Photo Night

Dec. 10, 6:30-7:30 p.m.

Bring your pet to the Briarwood Mall in Ann Arbor to get a pet photo with Santa, who will be waiting for his furry fans in the Von Maur Court.

The Winter Art Tour

Dec. 8-10

The Winter Art Tour will take you on a tour of 10 art shows across Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti featuring over 300 local artists on the second weekend of December. 

Midnight Madness

Dec. 2, 6 p.m. to midnight

Expect a fun-filled evening of shopping and dining at Midnight Madness, with great holiday sales throughout the locally-owned stores. Enjoy live music in Kerrytown Shops, visit with Santa as he strolls the neighborhood, grab great holiday discounts and sales at participating merchants, enjoy KindleFest in the farmers market and so much more! 

Ann Arbor Turkey Trot

Thanksgiving Day, 8:30 a.m.

This year's 5k event supports the ChadTough Foundation. In addition to the hot chocolate at the finish line and pictures with Santa, there will be contests dedicated to the ugliest sweaters and the best holiday costumes. Registration is $50 and is expected to sell out. 

Ypsilanti Choir Annual Holiday Concert

Dec. 7, 7:30 to 8:30 p.m.

The Ypsilanti Community Choir performs their annual Holiday Concert at the Towsley Auditorium at Washtenaw Community College. They are continuing to deliver holiday music for the local community in this free event.The choir will be singing a variety of sacred and popular songs to celebrate the holiday season.

Handel's "Messiah"

Dec. 2 & 3, 8 to 10 p.m.

Nearly 300 years later after it was composed, Handel’s "Messiah" still provokes joy. University of Michigan's 139th year of presenting the oratorio fills audiences with emotion for both the beauty of the piece and the pride. Music director Scott Hanoian conducts the UMS Choral Union and the Ann Arbor Symphony in this annual community tradition.

Ypsilanti

21st Annual Holiday Tour & Taste of Ypsilanti

Dec. 2, 5 to 10 p.m.

The tour will include three private homes, as well as the Queen’s Residence and the Ypsilanti Automotive Heritage Museum. Beverages, appetizers and desserts will be on the menu from many great Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor area restaurants, with a few stops including live musical entertainment. Tickets are $50.

Dexter

Holiday Hustle

Dec. 9, 4 p.m.

This charity event donates $5 of your entry fee to local Dexter charities. Bring canned or non-perishable food items for the needy and get a raffle ticket for each item. A raffle offers the chance at winning prizes. 

Registration prices vary. Those who register for the one-mile race before noon on Dec. 7 will see prices of $19 for children and $29 for adults. The 5k will cost $34 during this period. After then, the children's tickets are $25 and $35 for adults, with the 5k being $40.

Christmas at the Mansion

Dec. 2, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Visit this wonderful, historic home, that has been beautifully decorated for the holidays. This year, the decorations feature the Christmas Village Collection, a magical display of Milt Campbell’s huge collection of Department 56 villages. This collection was traditionally seen in the windows of Huron Camera in downtown Dexter throughout the holiday season, and was a favorite destination for families. After a visit with Santa, children can make a gingerbread house to take home. While the event is free, there is a suggested donation of $5.