There is much to do in celebration of the holidays in Detroit, Michigan; but it helps to have all of the information regarding shows, concerts, displays, shopping opportunities and gift ideas all in one place. The 2011 Detroit Christmas Guide will help keep you organized and prepared as you head out to face the holidays.
Restaurants Open on Christmas
There are lots of options throughout the Metro-Detroit area if you choose to let someone else do the cooking on Christmas Day. Some of the options include buffets, family-style meals and traditional dinners with all the trimmings.
Take-Out Options for Christmas Dinner
A catered holiday dinner is easier than ever. There are several options throughout the Metro-Detroit area for a take-out dinner on the holiday, from prepared feasts to a-la-carte turkeys or hams.
Holiday-Related Shows and Events
A lot of holiday-related shows and short-term events dot the Metro-Detroit area in November and December.
Christmas and Holiday Parades
Santa makes a big entrance in several communities and cities in the Metro-Detroit area. In fact, he often arrives in a sleigh to the music of marching bands, the dazzle of Christmas lights and the pageantry of floats.
2011 Holiday Shopping Guide
Whether it is Detroit-related gift idea, cost-saving tip or information about a Detroit store or mall, there is much to know and process before heading out the door with a shopping list in hand.
Family Christmas Activities: Displays and Events
Admittedly, Christmas activities seem to start earlier and earlier, but that's okay because they are fun and magical and distract us as we slip into a Michigan winter. There is plenty to do from now until the New Year; so take a step back in time, marvel at lighted displays and pet a reindeer.
Community Tree-Lighting Ceremonies
Let the holiday season officially begin! The holiday spirit really soars when communities and cities all across the Metro-Detroit area have their Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremonies. And as long as there is a big crowd gathered...let’s have some fun!
Detroit New Year's Eve Parties
There's plenty to do throughout the Metro-Detroit area on New Year's Eve. Whether it is a family show, concert, or huge dance party, Detroiters know how to usher in the New Year.
Detroit Christmas Tree Farms and Lots
Whether you want a 10-foot Scotch Pine or a 25-foot Concolor Fir, a Detroit Christmas Tree Farm or Lot will help you find it. Of course, you may have to cut it yourself. In some cases, you'll find even more than trees: Santa, reindeer, hayrides and hot cider.
History of Detroit Holiday Traditions
In addition to hosting one of the biggest, most-respected Thanksgiving parades in the nation, Detroit is remembered for special-holiday displays at the Hudson's Department Store and the Ford Rotunda.
Drop-Off Locations for Toys-for-Tots
If you want to spread some holiday cheer in 2011, buy a toy and the U.S. Marine's Toys-for-Tots program will make sure it gets to a child in need.
Michigan's Blue Law: Alcohol on Christmas
Once upon a time, Michigan's Blue Law banned alcohol on Christmas Eve from 9 PM until 7 AM on December 26th. In recent years, the state loosened the time restrictions around which alcohol can be sold.

