It is freezing outside and you don’t feel any need to leave the house? We bet you will change your mind with our top picks for this December. Grab your winter jacket, go out and explore!


1. Downtown Detroit Winter Markets

Warm up in the small, heated huts of the various vendors at the Downtown Detroit Winter Markets. Once you have enough of looking for the perfect locally made gift, why not relax at one of the bonfire pits in Capitol Park? Or enjoy some hot drinks in nearby Cadillac Lodge.

When? Wednesday to Sunday until Jan 2, from 11 a.m.
Where? Cadillac Square
More information on www.downtowndetroitparks.com

2. Ice-skating at Campus Martius Park

If you’d like to get more active, why not try one of the classic American winter activities? Slide into the festive season on this traditional outdoor ice skating rink in the heart of Downtown Detroit. Whether you are a pro or an absolute beginner, there will be a spot for everyone. Don’t worry if you don’t have skates yet, you can rent them for a small fee of $5. The general admission fee is $10 per adult.

When? Open seven days a week until March 8, hours vary
Where? Campus Martius Park
More information on www.downtowndetroitparks.com

3. Noel Night

It feels good to get a bit of culture – and it feels even better when you get it for free! On December 7, for one night only, over 110 Detroit museums, galleries, and historical buildings will open their doors to the public. The Detroit Historical Museum, the Michigan Science Center and the Detroit Institute of Arts are just a few of them. There will also be free admission to various activities, such as horse-drawn carriage rides and music and dance performances. You haven’t done your Christmas shopping yet? Then you might also profit from various shopping opportunities.

When? Dec 7, from 1 p.m.
Where? Detroit’s Midtown district
More information on www.noelnight.org

4. Holiday Lights Cocktail Crawl

If you are a cocktail lover and you are looking for a different way to explore Downtown Detroit’s Winter Wonderland, this might be the perfect deal for you. The tour will not only take you to three of the coolest bars in town, but also help you to discover the city’s hotspots – all dressed up for you and the holidays. Requirements: you have to be 21 and pay an admission fee of $20.

When? Dec 20, 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Where? Downtown Detroit
More information and tickets on www.visitdetroit.com

5. Annual Lighting of the Menorah in the D

A lot of free entertainment, live music, activities and a variety of food trucks are waiting for you on this biggest Hanukkah Celebration in Detroit. Highlight of the day will be the lighting of the 26-foot tall menorah, accompanied by a fire show.

When? Dec 22, from 4.30 p.m.
Where? Campus Martius Park
More information on www.menorahinthed.com

You don’t feel like stepping out into the cold at all? Then just wrap up and go hide in one of the best coffee shops in Detroit – we are sure you will enjoy them a latte.