Winter in Kalamazoo: Discover the Magic of the Season
Whether you’re visiting Kalamazoo for business, pleasure, or a little of both, you’ll quickly discover there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy our vibrant city this winter. From captivating art and cultural experiences to cozy theaters, fascinating museums, and lively seasonal events, Kalamazoo shines year-round—and winter adds its own special charm.
We’ve gathered some of our favorite winter happenings and annual must-do experiences to help you plan your next visit. Bundle up, grab a warm drink, and get ready to explore everything that makes Kalamazoo such a memorable destination.
And when it’s time to relax, there’s no better place to stay than our top-rated Bed & Breakfast. Enjoy beautifully appointed historic guest rooms, warm hospitality, and a delicious gourmet breakfast each morning. You’ll love our thoughtful amenities—and our unbeatable downtown location puts you just a short stroll from shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
There’s a reason our guests rave about their stays. Book your room today and experience the best of Kalamazoo this winter!
Top Winter Events & Festivities in Kalamazoo (2025)
Here are some of the best seasonal winter festivities and events around Kalamazoo to watch for (and to include in your 2025 calendar). As always, you’ll want to confirm dates closer to your visit—many celebrations shift slightly each year:
1. Gilmore Car Museum’s Winter Wonderland
Drive through beautifully lit grounds, view holiday-themed exhibits (including a “Christmas Through the Decades” display), take part in festive indoor happenings, and snap a photo with Santa. It’s one of the most beloved seasonal events in the region.
2. Gull Meadow Farms’ Walk Through the Lights
Transforming its greenhouse and outdoor display areas into a glowing holiday spectacle, Gull Meadow invites visitors to meander through tunnels of lights and seasonal décor. A cozy, magical experience.
3. Bronson Park Lights & Candy Cane Lane
Downtown Kalamazoo offers a lovely nighttime stroll under oversized candy cane decorations, twinkling lights, and holiday installations. Pair it with a downtown shopping or dinner outing.
4. Lights on the Kalamazoo Mall
Walk beneath the icicle-style lighting draped across the Mall. Shop and support our local retailers, you’re bound to find unique gifts.
5. Holly Jolly Trolley (Downtown Kalamazoo)
Want to get around downtown(s) in the cold without walking? The Holly Jolly Trolley makes rounds during the holiday season, offering a warm, festive ride between shopping areas, restaurants, and parking lots.
6. Tree Lighting Ceremony (Bronson Park)
A classic kick-off to the holiday season. Gather with friends and family in Bronson Park at nightfall to watch the tree lighting. Enjoy live music and performances, and soak in the holiday spirit.
7. Holiday & Seasonal Theater Productions
Kalamazoo’s theaters typically host seasonal favorites such as A Very Kalamazoo Christmas, The Nutcracker, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, or other holiday musicals and performances. A great way to combine culture and festive feeling.
8. Christmas Markets & Holiday Fairs
Local craft and art fairs and holiday markets pop up around Kalamazoo during November and December, offering artisan goods, festive décor, and local treats. Examples include The Holiday Craft Show and Kalamazoo Institute Art’s 2025 Art Hops – Craft Show.
