Kick start the season with these fun and festive Northern Michigan holiday events for kids! Find even more events in the MyNorth Calendar.


December 2: Annual Children’s Christmas Party in Interlochen Cookie makers, crafts and events. 5–8 p.m. at Interlochen’s Golden Fellowship Hall. 231.276.6767. Visit tadl.org for a list of events and a library near you!

December 3 & 4: Santa’s Train Wonderland Castle Farms is transformed into a train wonderland. Visit the Castle between10 a.m.–3 p.m. for holiday fun with your entire family. Unlimited access to the extravaganza of model and interactive train displays. Special Santa appearances; bring your camera for photo opportunities! Check the website for ticket prices and options. Charlevoix, 231.237.0884.

December 10: Handmade Holidays All-Day Camp for Kids Kids create unique and special holiday gifts, listen to holiday stories from around the world and enjoy a hot cocoa bar to keep them going. 9 a.m.–4 p.m. at Blackbird Arts in Traverse City. Cost $85. 231.421.8085

December 10:  Winter Hike at Boardman River Nature Center A fun-filled winter day from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. At 10:30 a.m., take part in the “Food for a Bear” activity and discussion about hibernation. From 1:30–2:30 p.m., participate in a winter hike. Make sure to dress for the weather! 231.941.0960 x24.

December 12: Rooftops Landing Reindeer Meet a real, live reindeer! Pet them, snap a picture and then warm up in the community room with some hot chocolate. Cadillac Library from 4–7 p.m. 231.775.6541.

December 15: Upcycled Art For Kids — A different art lesson/reuse craft each time. $5 per child and half price for siblings. All ages welcome; preregistration is not required. Scrap TC, Traverse City. 231.486.6050.

Thru December 24: Gingerbread Decorating at Moomers — Moomers is offering gingerbread houses, gingerbread sleighs and gingerbread boys and girls for decorating. $25 per house, $30 per sleigh and $15 for a gingerbread boy or girl. They provide everything you need and clean up the mess! Reservations are required, call 231.941.4122. (Try their holiday ice cream flavors while you’re there!)


More Northern Michigan Holiday Ideas for Kids:

Photo(s) by Carly Simpson