Celebrate the Spirit of the Season in Downtown Traverse City

Updated Nov 2025

There’s nothing quite like strolling the streets of Downtown, popping in and out of shops while snowflakes drift to the ground. With Thanksgiving and Christmas just around the corner, there’s no better time for holiday shopping. Downtown Traverse City wants to make sure you enjoy the holidays, so they’re getting ready to kick off the season with the Arrival of Santa, followed by special shopping nights and festive events all season long.

Here are all the details you’ll need to enjoy a festive holiday season in Downtown Traverse City.

Merry Marketplace

November 8th – December 13th

Get into the holiday spirit at Crooked Tree Art Center on the historic Sixth Street in Downtown Traverse City! Their Merry Marketplace features unique gifts and art from artists across Michigan. It’s the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind holiday presents while supporting local. Explore more holiday events and plan your visit here.

Annual Tree Lighting with Santa and Light Parade

Saturday, November 22nd

Downtown Traverse City’s seasonal magic lights up on Saturday with the Tree Lighting, Santa’s Arrival, and the Light Parade. Bundle up, grab a warm drink, and join the community to celebrate the start of the holiday season downtown.

Santa’s House

Take your little ones to meet Santa this holiday season! He will be in his cozy house on City Center Plaza at the corner of State and Cass Street throughout the holiday season. Make sure to bring your letters for Santa and your sweet tooth when you visit. Check out the hours for Santa’s House here.

Black Friday & Small Business Saturday

November 28 & 29

Support local and enjoy seasonal savings! Shop great deals on Black Friday & Small Business Saturday in shops, restaurants, and more in downtown Traverse City. It’s the perfect chance to check off your holiday list, enjoy local dining, and make a positive impact by supporting the community.  

Ladies’ Shopping Night

Thursday, December 4th

Grab your friends and enjoy a festive night out at downtown Traverse City’s annual Ladies’ Night! From 5 to 9 pm, participating stores will offer exclusive specials to help you check off your holiday shopping list while supporting local businesses and celebrating the season with your girls.

Men’s Shopping Night

Thursday, December 11th

Gentlemen, the evening is yours! Celebrate and shop with friends during Men’s Night Downtown Traverse City from 5 to 9 pm.  The gents can enjoy exclusive holiday deals, check off your gift list, and support local businesses while enjoying a festive night out.

Wrap it Up Night

Thursday, December 18th

There’s a new shopping night in town! Bring the whole family to Wrap It Up Night for an evening of last-minute shopping and festive fun. Enjoy store specials, cocoa, and gift wrapping stations that support local nonprofits — all while soaking up the holiday magic of downtown.

Holiday Performances

The City Opera House has several festive performances. Kick things off on December 6th with ’tis the SEASON! City Opera House’s 2025 Gala. Keep the holiday spirit alive with The Bergamot: A South Shore Christmas and The Eagles Christmas Experience. Discover more events and book your tickets here. 

The Old Town Playhouse is bringing a classic to life this December with Matilda the Musical. It’s not your typical holiday show, but it’s the perfect outing to round out your festive season. Check out showtimes and grab your tickets here.

Enjoy festive music in a beautiful setting at The Alluvion. They have a calendar of events filled with heartwarming concerts. For tickets and more details, visit their events page. 

Where to Park or Catch a Ride

Getting around Downtown Traverse City should be hassle-free! For drivers, convenient metered parking is available throughout downtown, with options to pay by coins or phone with the ParkMobile app. If you don’t want to worry about running out of time, try parking at the Larry C. Hardy and Old Town Parking Decks.

Don’t want to pay for parking or riding? Catch a ride on the Bayline Bata bus which runs past Traverse City’s East Bay hotels into downtown Traverse City. Find their ride schedule here.  

Celebrate with Small Businesses this Holiday Season

From Christmas lights lining the streets to festive events for everyone, there’s so much to enjoy in Traverse City this time of year. With more than 200 merchants downtown, it’s easy to find something special—and support the local businesses that make our community shine.