Whether you’re coming to town for business, pleasure, or something else entirely, you’ll find no shortage of great things to do. Kalamazoo is filled with art, culture, museums, theatres, various festivals, events, and all the things that come along with a city this size.
We’ve compiled a list of some fall and annual favorites things to do in Kalamazoo to help you start planning your upcoming adventures.
When you stay with us at our top-rated Bed and Breakfast, you’ll receive an unforgettable lodging experience complete with charming, historic guest rooms, exceptional hospitality, a delicious breakfast, various complimentary amenities. Plus, we’re an easy and short walk into downtown. There’s a reason our guests keep leaving us such great reviews! Book your room today and see for yourself.Â
The Best Things to do in Kalamazoo, October
Get ready to immerse yourself in the Halloween spirit as a variety of engaging experiences for everyone. From pumpkin carving contests to haunted house tours, there’s something for all ages to enjoy. Don’t miss out on the chance to create lasting memories and embrace the eerie atmosphere.Â
- Do you love the spooky and silliness of Halloween? Downtown Kalamazoo Skeletour, come check out over 40 themed decorated skeletons placed throughout downtown Kalamazoo. Each skeleton is sponsored by businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations. Also, consider doing the Skeletour Bar Crawl.
- Another favorite for the adventure is The Halloween Bar Crawl. Join the fun with a cash prize costume contest, food and exclusive drink specials, and much more. A 2-day experience not for the weak of heart.Â
- Music and beer, two favorites in Kalamazoo and no better place to enjoy them both than at Bell’s Brewery.Â
- Into plays and shows? Kalamazoo has you covered from Miller Auditorium’s plays to Kalamazoo State Theatre’s shows and concerts to The Barn Theatre’s musical productions.
- Who can resist good ole haunted tours? Here are 2 must see, if you dare, Psycho Ward and Nightmare Realm.Â
- How about some unique and great shopping finds? If so, then head downtown to the historic Kalamazoo Mall, which was built in 1959 as the country’s first outdoor pedestrian shopping mall.
- Last, but not least, the Pumpkin Picking Gene The Pumpkin Man. He has a long standing tradition with folks in this area. Check out Gull Meadow Farms, pumpkin, apples, cider, and more.
The Best Things to do in Kalamazoo, November
Get ready to experience the ultimate November vibes in Kalamazoo
- For the runners who can’t get enough, join in the Annual WMU Turkey Trot.
- For bird enthusiast, W.E. Kellogg Manor Bird Sanctuary is for you.Â
- Love a good craft shows? The Holiday Craft Show has over 300 amazing vendors, you’ll have a fun-filled day getting ahead on your gift buying this season.
- Maple Hill Holiday Parade Kalamazoo. Maple Hill Auto Group was asked to “save” Kalamazoo Holiday Parade back in 1998. Since then, it’s our local annual Kick-Off to the holidays.
- Come enjoy the City of Kalamazoo’s Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony. Held yearly on the Friday after Thanksgiving Day. Gather with friends and family to enjoy music, coco, and a visit from good ole Saint Nick.
- Want some inspiration to decorate your home for the holidays? We, The Kalamazoo House, will be all trimmed for the holiday before Thanksgiving. From twinkling and dancing light display outside to the warm and fully decorated inside. Enjoy the expansive display of Department 56 Dickens Village and a vast array of themed trees throughout the inn with each room pleasantly filled with holiday spirit. Book your stay and take in all the holiday happiness.
Mark your calendars and get ready to make lasting memories in Kalamazoo this November. We can’t wait to welcome you!
The Best Things to do in Kalamazoo, December
Experience the joy of live performances by talented artists who will captivate you with their enchanting melodies and heartwarming tunes. Our lineup features a diverse range of musical acts, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
- The Holly Jolly Trolley, sponsored by Drive and Shine, runs their traditional route through Downtown Kalamazoo Friday of Kalamazoo’s Tree Lighting Ceremony through Dec. 24 and on Dec. 31 for New Year’s Eve. With nine stops throughout the Downtown, the route includes stops at City Hall, along the Kalamazoo Mall, Portage Street, and Michigan Avenue. The trolley will leave City Hall at the top and bottom of every hour.Â
- Gilmore Car Museum’s Winter Wonderland experience is a holiday event like no other, enjoy a drive through the lighted grounds surrounded by festive music, decorations, lighted historic barns, picturesque vintage-era cars.
- Gull Meadow Farm’s Walk Through The Lights. Walk through their transformed greenhouse and get lost in a magical Christmas wonderland!Â
- The unbelievable beauty of Frederik Meijer Gardens at Christmas time is sure to take your breath away with more than 40 unique displays depicting facts and folklore from past to present.
- The most beloved Christmas ballet preformed by Ballet Kalamazoo. A magical stroll through Kalamazoo’s renowned Candy Cane Lane, circa 1865, follow Hattie’s magical journey with her Nutcracker Prince after her family’s first-holiday party at the Kalamazoo House in Downtown Kalamazoo!
- The Barn Theatre’s Christmas Cabaret is a wonderful show to add to your annual “must sees” event. Gather special someone and have a fun, festive night out in the Rehearsal Shed as they celebrate the Christmas season with all of their favorite carols and holiday songs.Â
At the Kalamazoo House Bed and Breakfast, we strive to create a cozy and intimate atmosphere, perfect for celebrating the magic of Christmas. So gather your loved ones and revel in the holiday spirit as we bring you a memorable experience.Â
